Airbear232

Yup

Good article, overall, looks more like limiting increased growth in passengers into Las Ramblas. Again I wouldn’t say it’s not welcoming but managing. I’d disagree Snr. Navarro. Many cruisers like me will stay in the city for many days before or after our trips, so I think we’re quality Tourists.

Barcelona not welcoming? I just came back, it’s pretty much my favourite city. Amazingly friendly people. Seriously, what Barcelona are you talking about?

I don't know, I generally find European, Asian and Middle Eastern cities to be very safe, and safer than most US cities. If I'm inclined to carry a lot of gear, I have a large Pacsafe bag. Given it's on my back, if I'm concerned about the area, I have the zips into the cameras and lenses locked. Also, a camera with lens is a pretty hefty thing to clock someone with if needed. 🙂 Have a great trip, I'm sure you'll be safe!

So does this finally confirm the head chef on Royal is Chef Boyardee!

Congratulations! It is something you love and the performers welcomed you on stage. Amazing experience and Happy Birthday! How you feel about Cats is how my DW feels about Mamma Mia, so I understand.

Have you been to either of these POC? What is your frame of reference? Crime in both is mostly petty with very low violent crime. They rank better than the majority of major US cities. Why the fear mongering?

I really find it’s more the aptitude of the chefs than the quality of the ingredients. Their chefs are no longer of the same standard they once were.

Adossat

Sounds like push pin vs poetry. We each have our own tastes.

Use the passport and leave as is. Unless she’s going to update all docs, then change.

Okay, I had some idle time and was thinking of embarcation ports and which is my favourite. For DW and I, it’s a tough choice between two: Barcelona and Istanbul. Both are amazingly walkable cities with the heart of the cities within easy walking distance from port. Both have tremendous architecture to enjoy as you walk about. Both have amazing cuisine to enjoy with family and friends. Both have vibrant market areas that you can get lost in for hours. Both are packed with history. Both have pleasant climates where you can enjoy the cities year round. And, both have amazing people who are welcoming. So, what are you favourite embarcation ports and why?

I know you’re right, but we can always hope!

DW and I have been discussing this. IMHO, the “gratuities” should be in the fare and you can tip extra who you like. We’ve generally done the recommended tips and then added more for special recognition. We’re considering now going forward to remove all daily gratuities and put our money to tip those who provided service directly to us. Some may agree or disagree with us, but we want the control back.

Hopefully, Royal follows suit before the end of the year.

Agree, stunning hotel!

Have fun, beautiful port and great local food.

Why would the whole region be impacted? Seriously! The Arabian Gulf ports are all stable (safer than US cities), clean and beautiful.

Not comfortable in Turkey? Current environment? Istanbul is one of the safest cities in the world. You’re far safer there than in most major US cities. Great people, food and sites.

DW and I have been on EOS five times. It’s a beautiful ship. I think Royal has been the most innovative when it comes to design. The Voyager class was the first with the Royal Promenade and Studio B. Compared to other cruise lines, not many ships measure up to Voyager Class. However, Royal’s newer classes all offer more in terms of onboard experiences. If you cruised on an Oasis or Quantum ship, you won’t have all of their amenities. Enjoy your trip.

Back in the day there were benefits and better OBC, but in recent years I think its honestly a disadvantage to book with Future Cruises.

Book in advance, we made the mistake last year of assuming we could get a deal at the pier but they were sold out. Have a great trip!

We’ve sailed many times out of Cape Liberty. Reality is sometimes you get rough seas especially off Cape Hatteras. Time of year also plays apart with Hurricane season. However, the Oasis class ships are the most stable. And, the month of May will hopefully be good weather for you. Your daughter, if she’s had a bad experience, may want to try scopolamine patches. Costco are usually very reasonable for them.

On shore, it’s seems they are often difficult to deal with. I’d maybe bring it up in the cruise with guest services. Show them the email showing original purchase and I’m sure they’ll accommodate. Good luck.

Unfortunately, it happens. I was once the other people and grabbed someone else’s bag. Same bag, tag and lock (so mea culpa, I didn’t read the tag). This turned out not to be bad. The people’s whose bag I picked up, saw only one bag left that looked like theirs with someone else’s name. They called my number. I was on the transfer bus for the airport. Good fortune, they were going to be on the same bus. Really nice people, I felt quite foolish.