sisterSunshine

We visited Cuba on NCL's Sky in September 2017. We took a ship excursion called Ultimate Havana Bus Tour which was run through the government. It was an excellent overview of the people and places of Cuba. At the end we also had the option to be dropped off at the Market and walk back to the port or go directly to the port. We opted to be dropped off, then hired a driver at the Market to take us back to the ship $15 for 4 of us. We did not book any convertible rides through the ship as they were very expensive. We found out on arrival, however, that you can hire a driver anywhere in the city at extremely low rates to transport you almost anywhere. We went to the Tropicana, the John Lennon Statue, a tour of the neighborhoods, and a highly recommended Cuban restaurant on the roof of a building for $40 total (4 tourists). The locals were extremely helpful and eager to share their country. Hope your travels are great!!

Loved reading your Alaska post and seeing the beautiful pictures. We've done the Alaska cruise 2 times with NCL and are taking the kids & grandkids (18 total) this summer on the Carnival Legend. We can't wait!! I hope that I can share my adventures as eloquently and thoroughly as you did from the angle of traveling with a large family group of 5 to 65 year olds. I agree with you that everyone should go and see and experience Alaska. And when you do, you'll likely return bringing people that you love to experience the wonder of Alaska!

I'm going with a Yes!! We are Platinum on NCL and love using their free laundry service. Very convenient & excellent service.

Last year we received an upgrade just a few days before we traveled. We didn't realize that we were VIP until we got to the port in Seattle. As soon as we arrived they whisked us out of the regular line, gave us a VIP sign to carry, quickly ushered us to the VIP lounge for check in where refreshments and drinks were served, then private escort to Cagney's for lunch!!! As soon as lunch was over we were escorted to our lovely room, a 2 bedroom family suite with balcony. The entire week we were treated to our own concierge and butler, also complimentary champagne, chocolates, and other delectable treats!!! Congratulations to you on your VIP status!!! Go forth and enjoy!!!!

My family just sailed on the Dawn from April 13 -20 (2 weeks after the unfortunate murder, and 1 week after the ship decided not to stop there). The Dawn DID stop at Roatan. NCL issued verbal and written explanations about what had happened and to be alert and cautious. We had prebooked Maya Key Resort and it was wonderful. There was notable security at the port and we felt completely safe. The resort was Wonderful. It is a privately owned island and only available to cruise ship passengers and the staff that work there. We had a delicious lunch, snorkeled, swam, enjoyed the palm trees and the beautiful view. We could indeed see our ship from the island. The shoreline of the entire island can be walked in 10 minutes and was a delight for my grandchildren (ages 6, 7, and 3). We saw howler monkeys, spider monkeys, and a host of other wildlife being rehabilitated for various reasons. A lady dropped her sunglasses and a spider monkey (George) picked them up and wore them. I am so glad we had that opportunity to visit.

I think NCL made the right decision when they opted not to stop there immediately after the incident whether out of respect for the crew member or to have time to assess the safety of that port.