lindsers83

It seems to me the answer here lies in the ability one has to say "no" to something...or someone. I have no qualms about saying no to someone trying to get me to buy something, especially if they badger me about it. I like to plan ahead considering what things are going to cost up front so that I can plan accordingly. This has been great for that (FYI, getting ready for my first cruise here...). I already have my money figured for tips (onboard and for porters), calculated gas and parking already (driving with friends from NC to FL - huge savings for not flying), have my excursion in check, and as for drinks and anything else on board... Well, I would LOVE to have a massage, but do I HAVE to have one at sea...no. Might I have a drink or 2, sure, but that's $15 bucks or so I am already planning on. One photo perhaps, no more than one. A souvenir, sure, but nothing ridiculous and I've already put a spending cap on that for myself.

What can I say? I like my money budgeted and to know where it's headed so I can feel more freedom to truly RELAX. By relax I mean before, during and after the cruise - those who charge it up and don't pay attention...might not feel the "after vacation relaxation" when they see their bill. Don't have to spend the dough to have a heck of a good time!!

Who is on Monarch of the Seas right now? I'm very curious (and optimistically hopeful) to know who our cruise director will be and if they will make the 3 night cruise I'm going on with friends worth every penny since it's such a short trip. :)