seacrystal

Hi Kathy,

How are you doing ? Any upcoming cruises ? I am going with my Regal Princess Inaugural group Nov.9th on the Royal Princess to the ABC islands again. Sandi and Rich have joined our roll call. Our group keeps on having reunion cruises. I am also booked for the Sky Inaugurals Dec.4and Dec. 7 2019.

Sali

Hello Zumba Queen!

We are fine. We are sailing our first Christmas/New Year's Eve cruise on the Pacific Princess this year. We have wanted to try the "little girl" for a long time and this was the perfect cruise. We are taking our first Celebrity cruise next April. Happy to hear the old gang is still cruising!(y) We will see Sandi & Rich in January after we complete our Xmas cruise.

Stay well!!

Hi Sali,

This was on my Twitter feed today. https://twitter.com/hashtag/SkyPrincess?src=hash

We did the cruise with most of the above people last October. We loved the Emerald! We had a wonderful roll call group and we had so many participants for various card games and meetings, we were switched from a conference room to our own section of the back of the dining room during the day.

I agree with everything mentioned above regarding the sea days. They were relaxing for some and filled with adventure for many others who enjoyed the onboard activities.

The only thing I would recommend would be to take the October cruise. March is much more humid than October.

Whichever month you decide to cruise, enjoy French Polynesia! It is a cruise of a lifetime.;)

We ate lunch the first day of our cruise last month on the Caribbean Princess with a couple who were new to Princess. They went to the "New Cruiser Welcome Event" on the second afternoon and won the prize of being upgraded to Elite for the entire cruise. It included the mini bar setup, priority tendering, free laundry, and internet minutes. I think it's a terrific prize. We frequently ran into them around the ship and talked about how they were enjoying it.

Great marketing scheme for Princess. Get the newbies used to all the Elite amenities and they can't wait for the second cruise on their way to Elite. Once they are on their second cruise, they will wonder where all the goodies went!

Looks to be a mini-suite right by the elevator. We like that location, some don't though. A mini-suite is a glorified balcony cabin. It is NOT a suite and does NOT get the suite perks.

I am familiar with minis because we like a tub. I was assuming that from the spec of the elevators, they would each open to the inside of the ship. Hence, we would be behind the back of the elevators.

Mini suite (no suite perks), a deluxe balcony would be a more rightful category name, on the hump. Cabins above and below, bed by the balcony setup.

 

Hi FreestyleNovice!

Thank you so much for taking the time to do this for me. Now I have something to think about EVERY day until March.;p How can you tell the bed is by the balcony? The NCL pic shows it next to the sink which is such a dreadful design. What were those Norwegians thinking!!

While we have sailed many times on Princess, we are trying something new by sailing on our first NCL cruise. I hope I made the right cabin choice. Any pics of 10096 on the Epic?

The ridge serves as a good reminder to bed hogs to stay on their side of the bed! ;) :p :D

Total crackup! I hear ya on this one!!!!!!!;p

My husband and I are booked on the October 5 night Canada cruise on the Regal for our anniversary. It is our first cruise with Princess and 4th cruise overall (not counting Gateway Clipper or Maid of the Mist).

 

We are considering trying either the Chef's Table or Wine Maker's Table. The Chef's Table looks like significantly more food and a bigger "experience," but at less than half the cost the Wine Maker's Table appeals too;).

 

From those with past experience:

Is Wine Maker's Table a full meal, or are you mostly paying for the wine? You absolutely have an EXCELLENT full meal. Each course has its own wine to compliment the setting. You usually start out with a white and it progresses from there. The maitre'd tells you about each wine and what hints of flavor to pick up.

 

Am I correct that it is offered during evening (versus lunch/afternoon)? Yes, it is only in the evening BUT be sure to call for a reservation as soon as you get on the ship. The seating goes fast because of its excellent reputation.

 

Is Chef's Table that much better? While I enjoyed both dinners, my preference is to only select the Winemaker's Dinner from now on. I felt it was more personal and private. Chef's Table is a great option if you would love to include a tour of the galley.

 

Since it is only a 5 night cruise we would like to keep to only one specialty meal. We have eaten at the steakhouse on RCCL Grandeur (Cagney's?) and the Brazilian BBQ on NCL Breakaway (forget the name), and were not impressed enough with either over MDR to want to try either Sabatini's or Crown Grill. We have done both and LOVED each. Crown Grill is our "go to."

 

Thanks for your input!

See my opinions above. Have a wonderful cruise. No matter which you choose you will have an unforgettable meal.;)

We customized........

We ended up using a smaller 4 seater plane for a more private tour with my son and FIL.

Went to the same places. Landed on a small lake and we were the only ones there. Saw bear/moose etc from the air.

They do the same tour as Princess as well with the bigger plane.

It was a tad cheaper. Not much though.

Another vote for Island Wings. This was an awesome adventure with Michelle. You cannot go wrong on this one. Best excursion possible in Ketchikan. When we landed on the lake and exited the plane, there was not a sound anywhere. A very humbling experience. Go for it!;)

No. It is a way of giving the info out with out waiting for everything to be released for the atlas.

Thanks, Coral. I would really miss sitting at my kitchen table with a cup of coffee for a couple of hours and planning future cruises with my Cruise Atlas.:D

Do all these new mini-brochures mean that Princess has discontinued the Cruise Atlas? I have always looked forward to receiving a hard copy.

Is this the same Edinburgh??? :). :). :)

 

 

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Yes. Edinburgh Castle is where the Military Tattoo is held each August.

Hi all. Fantastic show. I have been 4/5 times, only that was 50 years ago. :). From what I understand it has not changed that much. You most certainly need wet weather gear and warm clothing. I think they still rent out cushions for you to sit on as most of the seating is on benches. Make sure you have a clear idea where you are going when you leave as everyone has to leave the venue going in one direction.

 

 

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As as added note to my post above, 2015 was the hottest day Edinburgh had in a long time. We brought jackets and the evening was uncomfortably warm in sweaters. You never know!

In 2013 Tattoo night was when we were docked in Greenock. A member of our roll call arranged all transportation, including a full day tour of Scotland (visiting Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle, etc.) with Timberbush Tours en route to Edinburg. We arrived in Edinburg around 4 pm and had a couple of hours on our own and then had a group dinner - arranged by another roll call member - at a restaurant near the entrance to the Tattoo. Each of us had purchased our own tickets through the official website and met at a pre-arranged location for the return trip to the ship. Our van arrived back in port way ahead of any of the Princess busses. I don't remember the total price but it was much less than the Princess excursion.

We did this EXACT arrangement in 2015. One member of our private tour joined the Friends of the Tattoo so that he would have access to tickets earlier than the general public. We were able to choose which seats we wanted. We sat on the left as you enter the Castle (Section 12, Row M, Seats 19-26) and we were very happy. The location was only a little right of center and we had an easy exit. We also hired Timberbush for transportation. They offer a fantastic tour prior to drop-off on the Miracle Mile (the same as above). We had a prior reservation at Howie’s Victoria Restaurant and it couldn’t have been easier. It was an easy walk up to the Castle from the restaurant.

We had a prior meeting place for pickup by Timberbush to take us back to the ship with a different driver. We even beat the Princess bus back. Timberbush is truly professional and know their business would suffer if they did not make it back in time. It was a long day but one I would do again in a HEARTBEAT!!!!!

I agree with using Uber for around $10 total.

 

If at Pier #2 we were able to handle our luggage and have walked several times.

We walked to the ship 2 weeks ago since Embassy Suites is so close and the ship was at Pier 2. Wheeled luggage is a blessing. Took us maybe 20 minutes at the most - I don't think it's more than a mile at most.

Colo Cruiser and Diver2014,

We usually stay at Embassy Suites and have always wondered about walking to the Pier 2. Can either of you tell me what route you took? I have no clue how we could safely walk with luggage.

Thanks!

Nice to see no lifeboat obstructions - full window views.:D

I wonder who the godmother will be?

The Long Road Home 14 December16

 

4:45am and the moon is still smiling at me. WOW. I don't know how I managed to get the suitcases closed, but I will hope they don't bust open at the seams when handled. I actually debated buying a piece of luggage. It's hard on the luggage to overstuff them as I do. I get four free checked bags, but I can't carry all of those bags.

 

Our bathing suits didn't dry, so PC gets the blow dryer out and starts drying. He is the best helper. I hate the smell of wet, mildew clothes.

 

I get in the shower and NO hot water! WTH? I paid good money for this hotel. After ten minutes, it maxed out at luke warm. I was freezing. Ok, this is going to be more drama. I immediately call the front desk to report and Put them on notice that I will expect compensation. They sent Mr. Ken, from maintenance, and he knew how to fix the problem in a nano second. Is this a conspiracy to conserve hot water? Meanwhile PC is standing naked in the bathroom waiting for Mr. Ken to get out of the shower. Horrible pressure for Mr. Ken because we had flight to catch.

 

I used all of my remaining Singapore dollars paying my hotel bill. Foreign currency all gone. I told the front desk guy that I wanted compensation for my drama in the shower and he offered me breakfast. That would have been fine if my luggage wasn't at the curb to get on the road. He comped our lunch from yesterday instead. That was the cheapest margarita ever! Very nice and very appreciated.

 

If you haven't figured it out by now, I am quite a force. In the best possible way. I have many impressive skills (including plumbing) and can wear many hats. I became an attorney and negotiated my settlement with the taxi company for the door incident. Are you ready for the settlement? A free ride to the airport! But they didn't send a limo. A little disappointed by that. I am happy with my settlement and I am on my way.

 

United Airlines doesn't staff their check-in/gates at Changi. They contract with another company. They only run a couple of flights a day - SFO, HKG, maybe Tokyo. Not sure. We got a free club pass, but didn't clear the business upgrade list. I will be traumatized for weeks and need therapy. I will make peace with premium economy, plus I saved PC more money. I mentioned earlier that I book the aisle and window seats when traveling with PC hoping the middle seat stays empty. Middle seat was occupied by a gentleman who could not get his head around the fact that PC wants the aisle and I want the window for a long haul flight and that would trump sitting side by side. He was just wanting the aisle.

 

We are securely in our seats, seat belts fastened, and I am eagerly awaiting my plastic ware lunch. No salt and pepper shakers either. Life is not fair.

 

On with my international films. I read sub-titles all the way home.

 

Food was underwhelming. Almost gross for the amount of money you spend on the flight. I can see why foreign carriers get better reviews than US airlines for premium economy service.

 

I bought the internet package for the entire flight - $24. It helps to the pass the time, but it is not reliable. I was fine till about the 2:45 mark. I was uncomfortable and exhausted. Dig deep and push through.

 

We made it to US soil. Praise Jesus. I need a taco in the worst way. I never want to see or smell Asian food again. PC says you've seen one Chinatown and temple, you've seen them all!

 

The only thing I could think of satisfying to eat at 9am besides a taco, was a bowl of clam chowder at Yankee Pier. It will tide me over till I get the taco. Oh, how I miss Mexican food when I travel abroad.

 

Spent a few hours at the United club at SFO waiting for our connection. We are off now on the final leg of a wonderful journey. Yes, Princess is up front on this flight. Two flights in a row in economy would cause a breakdown of some sorts. I get to sleep in my own bed with my fur babies tonight. I love to travel, but there is no place like home.

 

I still have more to say about the cruise and some questions to answer. I will see you after I get some much needed sleep. Again, thanks for your concern and positive comments.

 

Cheers, Sungirl

Hi Paige!

What a blogger you are. I have followed you for a couple of years and am so disappointed this year's event has come to an end. What am I supposed to do now? Please find a new destination to keep me happy!;)

I hope your hand continues to improve and the rest of you stays intact until your next adventure. Enjoy your holidays with your kitties!:D

Your constant admirer,

. . . . As I was getting out of the cab I put my hand on the door frame for leverage. The driver didn't see that and slammed the door shut and locked on my fingers. I scream and it is only the second time in my 29 year marriage I have seen PC turn green. The first time was in Queenstown, NZ when I fell off a bench at a sheep show. I was the star. I was in shock and the driver was in shock. I told PC to go get security immediately. I couldn't feel anything, just swelling. I was bleeding a little. Security brought ice and first aid and whisked me away to their private lounge. What an entrance I made!

Hi Paige, this is so sad after having such a mind-blowing vacation. I do see, however, it did not diminish your great sense of humor. Stray strong and carry on!!!:D

. . . . I am sunburned and have thigh burn, but other than that, everything is over the top perfect. Nothing a little Aloe Vera can't take care of. I guess you decided to pop for the $15 tube LOL.

. . . .

When we get on the plane PC starts laughing and says he can tell me something now that we are departing. Tell me what? Yesterday when he went for his open water swim, he swam back to the villa, up the stairs to the pool/deck. He takes his bathing suit off and jumps in the pool. He is waiting patiently for me to come outside. I am not appearing so he gets out of the water, naked, and goes to the door. He was in someone else's villa and didn't realize it. OMG. He grabs his suit and jumps down the stairs before they see him. He would have gone to jail for flashing in a Muslim country. 😂 Funniest story ever! Very brave to tell you. Of course, he didn't know you were going to tell the world!;)

Keep'em comin'!

The employees are fascinated with us. I would like to think it's because they think I am Christie Brinkley, but the truth is they see so few Americans. We are a novelty act. They all want to know about our election. We tell them we had to flee the regime.

This is why I LOVE your blogs. You have such a great sense of humor and I never know what to expect. Get your sleep and stay healthy!:D

YAY - you're back. Your blogs are always such a kick!!:D

Looking forward to another one of your fantastic and hilarious episodes.

Kathy- What a pleasant surprise to see your post ! I see you tried the Allure. How did you find such a large ship ?

I have been on the Regal 4 times and really enjoy it. I don't know if you still keep in touch with Fred, Lourdes and group. We without knowledge of each other's trip plans have landed on a few cruises together.

Actually Fred,Lourdes,Linda and Ron are on the Carib Prin 8 days to the ABC islands right now. I am going to be on the ship Dec. 3rd.

Glad I saw your post !

Sali

Hi Sali!

I don't want to wander away from the importance of this thread. We can catch up if you email me at mzlegalgalatgmaildotcom.

Thank you to all the military men and women who have served our country !!!!!!

Sali

Hi Sali!

It's great of you to start this thread for such an important occasion. As the daughter of a WWII veteran, a sister of a Vietnam era Marine, and mother of a Navy sailor and an Army Sergeant Major, this is a very important holiday for our family. THANK YOU for your service to all past and present service members.

Check out Resorts for a day! I believe they offer the Rui. We are doing the Rui in Cabo.

Do you actually have a reservation for 2016 through Resorts for a Day? I tried to get one in Cabo for our Sept. 25 cruise and it showed that it was unavailable. I decided to contact the Riu directly and was told via email by a representative that I could not make a reservation due to refurbishing from August through Dec. 15. Needless to say, I was very disappointed.:(