lazyirishchic

Its an interesting thread because a first time cruiser will book a cruise because of stories they hear about the way it used to be. Long time cruisers like to say you are lucky to be able to cruise but in fact a cruise has become the cheapest vacation. So we take the cheapest vacation then complain about the low quality. I don't exclude myself, i was under the impression that by booking a balcony or suite I turned the motel 8 into the ritz carlton. I forgot that its the same employees at the motel 8 as the ritz

Just a mention here of how some suite people monopolize their butler's time without any consideration for the other guests. Its just common courtesy and common sense. On one of our trips there was a family in a suite who demanded a full breakfast every morning served in their suite. Which yes, they are entitled to it, but they also had other family members join them from their regular rooms (they constantly bragged about it, that's how we know). (& I've seen here on cruise critic how people say to have the meals served in your suite because other family members who are not eligible to eat at Cagney's for breakfast & lunch, can then join them.) Our butler was just frantic that whole week and kept apologizing to us. We are not that needy so it wasn't a big deal. Its just a sad situation when people have that entitlement mentality.

We usually tell our butler at the beginning of the week what our plans will probably be and sometimes our plans have changed. And I've gotten the comment that its not necessary and also I've been told it was much appreciated while he was writing it down in his little planner. Having dinner served in your suite is a great treat, you do want to take advantage of that perk. Its also nice if you're going on an excursion and get back mid afternoon. Then your butler can get your lunch which also depends on if all his other suite guests don't have the same idea. Depending on the ship you're on, for late night snacks, I think its a lot faster just to go get something yourself.

Attitude is everything. If you treat your butler with the respect he deserves, your vacation will be that much happier.

This was very helpful. Can you tell me what meals they prepared for you? This is our first cruise with a butler. We have a three year old and thought dinner one night in the suite would be nice. Is it included or an extra cost? Do they need advance notice? Can you simplely call him for drinks if say you have a three year old napping?

We don't want to be a needy family but not 100% sure why we should and should not be asking.