crzndeb

I hadn’t been in years, but decided to go on the Ovation in May. It was at 10am, so I decided to check it out. The Captain wasn’t there, and I still don’t know who the Captain was or what he looked like. The Hotel Director spoke, and a few others. To much time spent on Pinns. Didn’t have anything to drink, since I’m not usually a morning drinker, so won’t be attending in the near future. Some people really enjoy them, and that’s fine for them.

I’m 71, and have used the Emed tests 3 times. They are very easy to do, but I understand the stress the first time using them. I used my laptop, because it was easier to position correctly, and I live alone. if you are cruising with someone, they can hold your phone while you are testing. If I still have to test in Oct., I will have to take a test with me, and use my Iphone. Many have just found ways to prop their phones, and it has worked perfectly.

It can be stressful, but look on the bright side. You’re driving and you will still be in the US. Like John, I’m flying to Barcelona in Oct. and am taking a test with me. I’m hoping I won’t have to pre cruise test. I have 1 Emed test left and it’s going with me. So far, after 3 Emed test, they have all been fine. I’m going to stay positive and keep my glass half full.

It may be hard for them to use in stores, when they shop for items. I know many of us use debit cards, but how many times have you gotten a $2 in change when using cash? If they go to a bank, then they can exchange them, but they probably don’t normally do that. Maybe the ones that enjoyed them, were able to exchange easily, but I don’t think that’s the norm. But, you do you.

My TA is also my friend, and works in a brick and mortar with 2 people. 20 yrs ago when the business was larger and booming, they would give little gifts for booking. I don’t get anything from her now, but I can pretty much text her at anytime, and the hold times on line is something I would prefer not to do. Many cruises, I just book on my own, but I will still use her for long, unique, international bookings, that may require getting visas. And remember, any perks you might get from a TA, usually comes out of their commission, so the larger the agency, and the more bookings they do, you are more likely to get some perks.

I think for those that like to drink a lot in a 2-3 hour time period, it’s a downgrade. For those that just like 1 or 2 around dinner, and have some left to drink during the day, if they choose, it’s an improvement. I like martinis. No way I’m slamming those back with cheap gin.

When did you book the cruise, and when do you sail? Biker19 is correct, unless you booked cruise before 9/30/21, and sail by 12/31/22. Solo’s normally get 2 pts per night, in all categories below suites. I had a B2B last Oct. on Ovation. One they got correct points, one they did not, and I had to call.

Hey, I was just excited you used the the correct abbreviation for daylight savings time. It’s the little things for me 😂😂😂

Sailing to Alaska is a whole different ballgame.

For me, getting older, traveling solo, and 40+ years of cruising, my excitement is more anxiety as it gets closer. My excitement starts after flights (most long), handing luggage to port workers, and finally stepping on the ship. Then I can totally relax and let it all go. 😉

I doubt very highly, the top 3 will ever see your letter. They have assistants that do all that work. Although you’re not seeking compensation, you will probably receive something, since that is usually the norm. I eat dinner a lot in the Windjammer, and I could have made a much better Charcuterie Board, with the breads, meat and cheeses they have there. The one you received was very sad.

Maybe buying the Deluxe Beverage Package would be a good fit for you. I don’t even go through the 5 vouchers I get (for alcoholic drinks). Most people like the new voucher system. Being able to select an upper shelf liquor for my martini’s works for me. Since we can share the vouchers, my daughter’s will be pleased on our New Years cruise.

Your 2 posts contradicted each other, but it looks like you did reach Diamond on the Adventure. I think it was just confusing. Personally, I would give the Anthem a try and enjoy your Diamond benefits.

You turn Diamond on the Anthem cruise, or will be your first cruise after turning Diamond? Personally, I love the Quantum class ships, and Diamond benefits, but that’s just me. I travel solo, so never eat in MDR or speciality. I am more of a snacker, than a big meal person. 😂

If you really need a PVP (Personal Vacation Planner), call the main number and tell them you would like one. Or ask somebody here that has a good one to email you, but that entails leaving you email address here. Others have done that.

When you see a lower price, take a screenshot of that price.

I like other sandwiches more, but I still get one on my cruises. It really depends on the slice of beef. Sometimes it can be fatty and have gristle. I like the bun, but it can be pretty hard, so bite with caution 😂. I do like mine with horseradish and mustard.

I added to my post, that what Royal “recommends” and each country “requires” can be 2 different things. I sail from Barcelona in Oct. and as of Mar/2022, Spain requires a booster if original vaccines are over 270 days, but when you pick Barcelona on Royal site, it just highly recommends….UGH

Can you point me where it says that? I think the majority of people got their vaccines in the early part of 2021, which makes them well over a year now. So if you are talking about recent boosters, all I see on Royal’s website is “highly recommended”, not required. The wording can be very confusing. Unfortunately, what Royal posts on their website, and what certain European countries “require” are 2 different things. It’s hard to keep up.

I take advantage of the BOGO sales that Alaska Air runs, and use their Credit Card for most purchases. I have 4 international flights coming up between Oct/2022 and Mar/2024. Most of my domestic flights, I try to fly on Alaska, since I can get more nonstops, and they partner with several international airlines, which I always try to fly on international flights. They are far superior to domestic airlines, IMHO. I will fly SW when needed, but they seriously lack nonstops for my area. I do have a $250 voucher with them, but looking at prices to Seattle from Orlando after Wonder TA, I will still need to pay out of pocket. I won’t use my airmiles for domestic flights, so I just keep an eye on prices.

Was the cruise booked prior to Sept 30 2021?

They could have known somebody that had been invited, and those friends told them to just come by. Nobody will know the difference. I have a feeling, although the bride and groom didn’t know them, somebody may have.

I totally agree. Oh look, it’s one of those theme parties. I wonder why it didn’t show in our app?

I was on the Panorama in Dec. and they did have Creme de Violette in storage. Aladin went down to get it for my Aviation.(also the Maraschino liqueur).

He was Diamond Lounge Concierge on the Ovation in May, and stated he would be on there through the Alaska season.