ssawjo

You would be surprised to hear/learn about what is happening on the cruise ship, especially longer cruises, while hanging out in the laundry room. I have seen fist fights, women accusing husbands of cheating on them, and other more mundane things. The knitting group, aka: Sitch and *****, is also enlightening as a crew member, usually one of the entertainers, runs the group and you ladies can get a lot of insight of the crew gossip. Or you can send your things out and be in the dark. LOL

We were on the same cruise and based on the canceled ports and, IMO, radical change of the itinerary, we canceled. Disappointed.

Just want to know if this statement is accurate. I will let my travel agent know about this before booking two cruises for 2024. OR should I wait until I am actually onboard before talking to the cruise consultant? Thanks.

Just received a new brochure from Oceania, "Discover the World, a Collection of Grand Voyages 2023-2024". At the bottom of each page of an advertised voyage, there is a notation that reads, "BOOK NOW! Fares Expire June 30, 2022". Does this mean that ALL fares are likely to increase that date? Or just for that voyage being advertised? I was hoping to book two 2024 cruises on my upcoming sailing in July 2022 and I don't want to have to pay an increased cost to what the fare is priced currently. Thanks to anyone who can provide some clarification. Bill

I agree totally with your comments. Wasted too much time already with covid.

Will do so this week, thanks for the email address.

YSOLE: FYI, we received our flights just yesterday for a cruise from Lisbon to Cape Town in November. Our routing is British Airways to LHR and BA to Lisbon. Our return is CPT to LHR via BA and then LHR to Phoenix via American, all four segments are non-stops. You can get anywhere in the world it seems from Heathrow via BA. My guess is your return itinerary will be basically the same, except a flight from BCN.

Thank you very much for your summary. We will be on our first Regent cruise in November on Voyager. Question: We both use CPAP machines. Should/can we order distilled water ahead of time via our travel agent or just ask our steward for a gallon or two when we get onboard? Thank you. Bill and Kathi

But then again, if someone loves cruising but wants to stay off of the sauce, then a Saudi cruise would be right up your alley. LOL

Not sure about this dining policy either. We are on a 46 day cruise, New York roundtrip, July/August/September 2022. This is on the Insignia and we are in a concierge level cabin. We are allowed to make seven (7) reservations in both Polo and Toscana. So, I think it depends on...well, actually I'm not sure. Luck of the draw? But I made reservations, 60 days out, at both but still have one left at Toscana. We like the MDR and Terrace for meals. But everything is subject to change. Just my two cents. Bill

Your response missed the point. If cruise ships go to designated ports, then you have to be very aware of the cultural aspects of Saudi Arabia if you decide to get off the ship and visit the area. They may not allow anyone with an Israeli stamp in their passport to visit. (I think the Israelis don't stamp passports for that reason.) Just because Arabs own a piece of a western corporation means nothing. Gates and the Prince don't give a hoot about alcohol or religion at a Four Seasons Resort in say Europe or the US. It is for profit only and booze is a big contributor to their profit margin.

You all do realize that you could never get to Mecca if you are not Muslim? Medina may be off limits also, not sure. Also, no alcohol at all and don't bring your bible or other religious symbols. Saudi Arabia, while fascinating, is very restrictive and very wary of outsiders, especially Christians and Jews. There are stories about Arabs on Saudi Airlines, especially women, that once the plane leaves Saudi air space, rush to the lavatories to change from their required garb to much more western attire. I doubt if alcohol is served on the planes. Another thing to consider is Ramadan. DON'T ever visit the Middle East during Ramadan. Restaurants are not open until sundown and then are very crowded. Most of this is from personal experience. There are or were direct flights from IAD to Riyadh. Not sure of their "luxury" aspects.