Eddie4Paws

I worked in law enforcement for 29 years, 27 as a CSI. I have been robbed in Costa Rica with the loss being dime sized inexpensive gold hoop earrings being yanked out of my lobes. So, here’s a couple of my solo travel tips that can apply on land as well as sea.

1. I wear no jewelry. On ship, costume jewelry only. No need to advertise to anyone that I have valuables with me.

2. Princess has a name plate outside the cabin that shows everyone that it is a single occupancy cabin. Day 1 I remove that sign.

3. Just because I’m an “older” traveler in my 50’s doesn’t mean that I cannot be physically violated. Assault has nothing to do with physical attractiveness- it’s solely about power & control.

4. Make copies of all your credit cards, health insurance and travel documents and upload them and email to yourself. If you have someone you trust, email them as well as your complete travel itinerary including travel companies/hotel accommodations pre & post cruise.

5. Don’t pack esssntials- medications, travel papers and valuables like cameras, fine jewelry , etc. Keep all this as carry on.

6. Be aware of your surroundings when you’re outside your cabin.

7. Please try to not have so much to drink that you are not in control. This could make you an easy victim.

8. All of these apply to men as well as women.

9. Don’t overpack and be bogged down with ‘stuff’. You don’t need a laptop, ipad and cell phone. Don’t let your possessions possess you!

10. Have a relaxing, incredible cruise!!

This thread is really making me think maybe I should switch from traditional to anytime dining for my 1st solo cruise on Princess in December. I had originally selected traditional late dining with a larger table of 8 but based on some of the past experiences of others I'm not sure I would like it if I end up with a large family.

As a single female on my first solo princess cruise I took fixed seating. I had a table for 8 with a lovely family from Australia. This was a 10 night cruise and many evenings I sat alone at the large table as the family opted for the other available venues. After that experience I’ve gone Anytime and haven’t looked back. I ask for larger tables and each night I get to engage with new folks. There’s always someone willing to be nice. I haven’t run into many grumpy travelers. Switch to anytime and you won’t regret it. There are no promises to be fulfilled. You can plan to meet later in the cruise with the positive connections or end the meal with “Lovely to meet you. Enjoy the rest of your vacation “. Definitely do it!

Hello. I've sailed Princess before however this is my first balcony cabin and it is located at my favorite place on a ship- facing aft.

I'm wondering if a Caribe Aft balcony cabin has any shade or is it directly underneath the deck above? I really intend to use the balcony to its fullest however if it is in direct sunlight at times where the ship provides no shade from the sun then I'll need to move. I suppose my next question is which Aft Decks do have some shade from the deck overhead? Thanks!

I found my current agent by using a travel website. He is the best! On my first cruise we got all kinds of goodies: bottles of wine, on-board credits, travel totes, and Princess coupon books. When I call him, he is always there for me and follows through with everything that I need to insure that my cruise is wonderful. Not to mention that he will move mountains to get me the best fare. Not only that, he is now a dear FRIEND. We talk and laugh on the telephone for hours. He is in the mid-west and I've yet to meet him. We keep trying to get together whenever he gets to the Ft. Lauderdale area, but something always comes up. Its such a shame that we can't post t/a names, because he is AWESOME!