duckfans13

Reno3, I am traveling SW and understand your issue of checking in while on the ship. However I am on vacation and the stress of watching the clock for the exactly moment to check in or stressing out the the person I have trusted at home to do it for me will follow thru just seems too much. I do the early check in pay the $60. I just figure it is a part of the expense. So much worth it in my mind to not have to worry about it at the end of a wonderful stress free vacation.

I mailed my renewal in September 28. It came in the mail today October 14. Two weeks and 2 days! So impressed. Happy to have it back. We got an email saying it was delayed due to storms on the coast so wasn't expecting it so soon. Yay! I'm ready to travel another 10 years!

Shirley, thanks for the info. Will check out that site. I'm sure we will find alot to keep us busy.

As to my footnote on veterans - my son enlisted in the Navy submarine program 6 years ago. I ran across that quote and have never forgot it. I felt this was the place to put it so that every time I'm here planning a cruise it reminds me why I have that freedom and the people that lost their lives for us to have it.

Debbie

Thanks all for the info on the shuttle siteings. Guess we will pass and do something else. Maybe a trip to Epcot. We've been to Disneyland many times since we lived in CA. So, Disneyworld is a pass too. Is there anything to do near the port? We are there most of the day. Again, thanks for the info.

Not sure if this is where I should post this, but figure there is alot of locals on here that probably know the answer or can shed some light on my decision. My husband and I are arriving on Feb 21 on the Enchanment of the Seas. This is our first port stop. I was interest in seeing the Space Center. I realize that the Shuttle is expected to launch a few days later. What do you think are the possibilities of seeing the Shuttle on the launch or do you think with all the security and hype about it being the last one that they wouldn't take the tours anywhere near that area? Am I wasting my money and should I just plan another tour? Thanks for any help you locals can give.

Mom and I used to volunteer time in the Youth Center as counselors in return for a free cruise. Our rooms were down with the crew. I was very nervous about this at first, being two girls with all those guys. However, I will never forget those cruises. Yes, the rooms are small but there is no lack of fun down there. They open their doors and party in the halls. There is a mutual bathroom/showers that they all share. We did have our own bathroom/shower but our room was tiny. Only room to sleep and change. They all had their rooms cleaned with a stewart just like passengers do and they have to tip them too. This is the job for a couple of the crew. Their dinning rooms were buffet style and they try to have different foods for the different ethnic groups. They have a lounge just for them too. Beer and cigs are at a very reasonable rate. They have planned parties and activities. It is like a big family. I felt very safe and respected by all. The stories about their families and life are stories I could listen too forever. The volunteer program no longer exists but to this day when on a cruise, Mom and I will always befriend the working staff. In comparison to American wages, it is small but for most of them what they make is huge for their country. Next time on a cruise, take the time to get to know your waiters, room stewards, bar servers, etc. They are all truely wonderful people that LOVE to talk about their home life.