Texas Tillie

As is often noted here, choice is good. Why should Crystal embrace what other luxury lines do with respect to specialty dining or other matters?

That's the weekend of the Lone Star Motorcycle Rally, you aren't going to find hotels cheaper than that.

There's an interesting thread on the River Cruising page. It seems there are different options being offered by Riverside - cheaper with no excursions and no beverages and the option to add excursions and/or beverages.

There are only 6 Polaris Lounges with very limited access. Don't you think that makes a big difference? Patty

Yes, Ryndam's better half just loves beets!!😏 Patty

My question would be, why are they operating the ships with English as the primary language if they are using the German model on what's (not) included? Seems like they don't know what they want to be and wonder if they will ever be successful until they decide.

I totally disagree with several points posted by several people above (no names included). All this proves is you can't please all the people all the time. Be sure to make your opinions known to the cruise director. It might change things in the future or nothing may change as your opinion might not be widely held. We can always discuss beets on the menu!! Patty

There is absolutely no dress code for the white party - all white, some white, no white. It's always on an evening casual night, so long slacks and a collared shirt, but that's as far as a dress code. Also, not everyone participates at all.

When the new Crystal first came back many were surprised at the increased fares, but it seems that the "bean counters" were proactive on determining what it would cost to operate offering what guests had come to expect. Crystal has done a fabulous job in offering service, food, entertainment and enrichment that exceeds their competition.

Streaming on a phone or tablet is not comparable to the screen in the Hollywood. Sometimes new isn't better. Patty

And don't forget that the owners of Genting Hong Kong didn't suffer, just the employees, customers and vendors.

When the itinerary isn't selling well and it seems most Caribbeans are selling well. Patty

I checked with Beate when on in July and she verified all was good. I figure that following along here and Facebook, I'll know everything anyway. 😉 Patty

I am a single traveller but, as hard as I try, I can't get Crystal to send me either email or snail mail. Looked and this offer is on the website. It's a few Symphony cruises mostly Europe. Patty

I looked a one cruise and 2 lectuers were included under entertainment, haven't checked others, Patty

Staying at the Marriott at the airport might be the best choice. IAH isn't in the best neighborhood and as a local, I might walk between one of the motels and the fast food place next door, but only during daylight hours.

The Sapphire vs Aquamarine difference is very easy to explain, a 5 carat Sapphire costs more than a 5 carat Aquamarine!! Patty

You need to verify, as it may have changed, but they used to drop off at the back of a parking garage across the street from Faneuil Hall, Patty

Need to point out that Keith's post is about the Sapphire Ocean Views on Symphony and then there were photos of the Double/Single Ocean Views. People not familiar with Crystal might get confused. The discussion about privicy will be the same for all cabins on Symphony Deck 7, however. Having been in cabins on Symphony Deck 7 for around 15 cruises over the years, I can tell you from my perspective the only time I ever felt the need to have the drapes closed for privicy was getting ready in the evening if after dark. I never felt "exposed" during daylight no matter the number of lights on in the cabin. And, yes, more than once I checked on what you can see from outside looking in!! Patty

One "problem" I found with the 2018 Aquamarine on Serenity was that the bed is modern and is open underneath, no bed skirt. As someone who is used to putting luggage under the bed, my OCD would not allow it under those circumstances! 😮 Since I was a solo in the cabin, there was enough room in the closet for my luggage. Your butler would also take it away to store it. I agree that the originals on Serenity is best for storage. Patty

Silversea Air department is now operated by Royal Caribbean.

The singles are identical to the double ocean views and double verandas.

As to slippers, if you have petite feet, like me (6ish ladies), you'd trip over your own feet if you tried wearing what they provide. One size does not fit all. Patty

If you're going to compare Crystal's laundry to Silversea's, you should also point out that on most Silversea ships the laundry room is a walkin closet with one machine vs Crystal's spacious laundry rooms with 5 machines in each. Like many differences, it depends on the guest's priorities.

Perhaps they are planning on Beefbar being open by that time and will open up reservations when they know for sure. Patty