Airbear232

Just off AoS for Xmas cruise. The Voom internet is Starlink. Our experience in main areas of the ship was that it was excellent. In cabin (at least ours), it was very subpar. So, if they use it in common areas there should be no issues, in cabin may be another matter.

Just off AoS too and DW had no issues with hers. Have a great trip.

I’m on Adventure now. The “track” s small and difficult to use when many people are up and about through the day. Easier to just walk all about the ship and set a time limit. I love the Oasis ships for their track. I wonder if they’re keeping this on Icon?

Beautiful review and pictures, have a wonderful trip. I’m looking forward to reading about your excursion in Phuket!

Oh my, touchy touchy!

Cruises are mostly where DW wears her jewelry. In port, we’re more cautious with jewelry and watch choices but on ship, not at all.

I really go back and forth on this in my mind constantly. We have always kept gratuities and then given more to specific crew members who make our cruise better. Honestly, I’d prefer it if they bumped the fare and paid people properly and we then just tipped those who were extraordinary. I’m a little frustrated as I believe Royal has taken advantage of both customers and crew with all of the cut backs in staff and services and nickel and diming customers for insignificant things. I prefer Royal’s ships but are considering other options for better food and services.

Sorry, what does D+ have to do with passing through security? I just don’t get the logic.

We didn’t either and are approaching our second next year.

You did the first thing, which is alert them. My DW, has real extreme allergies, she’ll die if she eats nuts. Royal is excellent no matter your food requirements. Book traditional dining. We request our own table as we can control what’s on the table. The head waiter takes her order each night for the following day. All the food is prepared in a special area. Pretty easy. You’ll have a great cruise!

There will be people in late days Ning who choose a specialty restaurant on Xmas Eve. So, you could potentially get a table later that night. Just speak with Maître de when on board.

Book as early as possible and if it changes you get the reduction.

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!