mfs2k

agree. More likely the algorithm is simply generating more offers for you and you're equating it to PVP control. Kind of like banging on the slot machine. When one bangs and gets a jackpot, one is inclined to assume banging had something to do with it.

I don't remember

You're missing the point. I'm not comparing costs. I'm comparing every consumer's vacation options.

Hamburger ($28) and 2 beers ($12 ea) in Midtown Manhattan is $67 including tax ($4.60) and 20% tip ($10.40).

There's a huge difference between the cost of the included drinks vs the revenue the cruise line would receive if guests purchased drinks. The cost per drink is nominal ($1 to $3), whereas the top-line revenue they are giving up when they include beverages can be $12-$20 per drink. There's a lot of cost/benefit analysis which they would have to take into consideration when making these decisions.

Well, yeah... It's a vacation. Cruiselines don't just compete with other cruise lines. They compete with all other vacation options. I hear some people actually do something called a land vacation. The all-inclusives I've stayed at in the past 15 years (Secrets Resorts) had free wifi and free beverages. It's pretty costly to populate a large resort with wireless access points and provide the wifi backbone and high speed internet from an ISP. Yet these resorts include wifi and it's an attractive amenity. I'm curious why there are so many here who defend vigorously the practice of selling low priced cabins then tack on high priced add-ons. For those of us who want premium wifi, a beverage package, and specialty restaurant experiences, it's not a cheap vacation. I guess for those who don't drink, don't want wifi, and are satisfied with main dining, and perhaps a cabin without a view, they can have that too, but it seems like a 2nd class experience to me. To each his own.

It’s evolutionary and competitive. What was included yesterday may not be included tomorrow. And vice-versa. Carnival didn’t charge for internet on my 1980’s cruises and calling home on the ship-to-shore phone was super expensive. Skeet shooting off the ship stern was costly.

I used to carry down a lounger from the pool deck to my regular balcony cabin on the first morning of the cruise and I'd keep it there all week. I got a few strange looks, but no one took it away or locked me up in a naughty room.

Personally, I think my work and home life would be a nightmare without electricity, internet access, winter heat, cell service, gas for my car, or fresh water supply for more than 3 days. Would I survive? Sure. Would I be unhappy? Yep. I do believe internet in 2024 belongs with the other utilities. It's not a luxury for me anymore. It's necessary for me. If you want your cruise to be a camping experience, enjoy.

Agree. I made Platinum in 2013 and only now returning to Carnival for a September 2024 cruise. The status and perks didn't get me to rebook sooner. In the past 11 years we've done all inclusive land-based vacations, and cruises on Celebrity and Virgin. What brought me back to Carnival this year was the price and European itinerary.

I love how people complain about free benefits. Loyalty programs are designed to keep passengers loyal to the brand at an affordable cost. It’s all about cost/benefit. When the ratio is broken they make adjustments. It’s a risky move to take away benefits from those who already have them. I don’t think we’ll see much of that. But I do see a change where there’s a renewal requirement to hold on to benefits.

Is electricity free to them? NO Is water free to them? NO Is the internet an essential utility in 2024 to most people ? YES Can most people live without internet for a week? YES. And most can live without electricity for a week too. What’s your point? Mine is that internet access is an essential utility in 2024 and no longer a luxury.

I'll be on a Med cruise on Legend in September with the Cheers package. I usually drink Bourbon on the rocks. Hopefully there will be Bulleit, Woodford, Basil Hayden or Blanton. I'll drink BT or Makers if nothing else is available..Not a fan of Jim Beam. I used to be happy with Jack D. PS: I just learned in 2021 Basil Hayden changed their brand name from Basil Hayden's. I thought I noticed the change on labels but never checked online until now..

It seems there's an easy solution that poker players figured out a long time ago.. Sell poker chips privately, play with those on the Lido deck, then cash out the winner's poker chips privately. No visible money.

if you still have a gift card balance, it wasn't saved in the Carnival app and you should do it again.