shipgeeks

It does, thank you!

Does it last long enough for a 10-night cruise? Will it rub off on clothing, shoes and towels?

I've only done self-tanners, which do come off on clothing. Would a spray tan be a good choice?

I don't tan, and won't be trying to. Just want to cover up some spider veins and other imperfections.

Thanks!

I would suggest also posting your question on the East Coast Departures board. Lots of people there with knowledge of the area.

We've seen Megabuses go past the port itself, but no indication of where they actually drop off or pick up.

Enjoy your Grandeur cruise!

Trainman, thank you for the photo. That is a beautiful ship!

We had a balcony on our AK cruise, and we only used it for a couple of hours the entire 11 days. The views are 100% better on the open decks, both for scenery and for wildlife sightings. Go with inside or oceanview.

Thank you, Clarea.

Oceanview cabin. The best views, by far, are from the open decks, not balconies.

Is there still a sushi bar?

Are there two or three formal nights on a 10-night cruise?

Where are the Diamond coffee and cocktail events held?

Are there any theme nights that are fun to take part in?

Thank you!

We were upgraded to a balcony once. It did not spoil us for balconies at all; in fact, we chose oceanview for our last cruise even though balcony was cheaper. We feel that we get more sunlight through the window than through a balcony with an overhang, and we love being on a lower deck, closer to the ocean.

Whatever you choose, though, a cruise is special and wonderful!

I would definitely stick with an inside cabin or cabins, whatever ship and itinerary you choose. The views from the open decks are 100x better than what you would see from a balcony, and to us, those views were the primary joy of Alaska (ahead of shore excursions).

Apart from that, I agree that looking at all the different lines and their itineraries and onboard facilities is worth the effort. You won't go wrong regardless, but it will help you make the best personal decision.

I would like to confirm what a poster said above: A balcony cabin might not be worth it, if there is any budget involved. The view from a balcony is tiny compared to what you see from the open decks. An inside or oceanview cabin is just fine.

Thank you for taking the time to post the picture. Beautiful dress, and looks like a perfect fit. Have a wonderful Christmas, and a very happy cruise.

I found a beautiful Hawaiian print (big hibiscus flowers) longish dress at a thrift store years ago; took it on our Hawaii cruise and wore it a lot. It felt perfect for many onboard occasions. The dresses at Hilo Hatties were beautiful but expensive. I see some of them on ebay now. I just love all those fabrics!

IMO, balconies are highly overrated. Much nicer being out on the open decks, or in the case of less-than-ideal temps, in a public room with a view (or in a snug cabin).

Our Alaska cruise was on Princess, and we loved it.

We had a balcony, but only used it a total of two hours the entire 10 days. We spent all day, every day, on the open decks. We'd go for an inside next time, for sure.

Our cruise was round-trip from San Francisco. I believe Princess will offer that option in future seasons, as will a couple of other lines. It made the flying, and the cost, much easier.

We wear Aqua Boxes that hold a bit of cash, photocopy of passport, and our room cards. IMO, no need to take anything else ashore. Even though I shun fanny packs as a rule, when I wear my Aqua Box I pretend I'm Ursula Andress coming out of the surf in "Dr. No".

All of the above, plus getting up at 3am to get to the airport -- and tossing and turning for those few hours, fearing that the alarm clocks won't ring.

Actually, packing under 50 pounds has never been a problem, as we don't take any electronics. Even with 12 pairs of shoes, 14 dresses, etc. etc., I usually weigh in with about 32 pounds.

My two least favorite shipboard fashion observations:

The first lady was wearing a long, straight black gown and silver shoes. Nice. But when she sat down in the bar, the slit on her dress opened to blatantly reveal black knee-highs and bare knees.

The second was wearing a long slim red dress, which looked fine from the front, but after she passed me and I saw her back, there was a beat-up white bra completely exposed by the fact that her dress was backless.

Yes to boots. Dark colors are the most usual local dress. A scarf is a must.

I also like to dress to fit in with the locals. I've never worn things like white sneakers, and I've never been taken for a tourist.

Congratulations on winning the fight!

My thoughts: Get as dressed up as you like; you can do black pants any time.

Re ordering from China: Even though many have had good luck doing that, apart from a concern about fit, color, etc., I would be concerned about timely delivery. In September I purchased cheap earrings from three different online sellers in China and Hong Kong. Two pairs arrived, one a month later, and one two months later. The third pair has not yet arrived, and probably never will. Not worth the stress, if it's something you do hope to have and wear in January.

Most of my gown/cocktail dress shopping is done at thrift and resale shops, where there are so many different brands to check out. The dresses have usually been worn only once (or never), and I can get $300 dresses for $15. Always worth a look; if the store doesn't have fitting rooms, wear something sleek under your coat so you can try on.

Have a wonderful, happy cruise!

Baltimore has RCI (Grandeur) year-round, and Carnival (Pride) will resume there in early spring. Both have several different itineraries. It's a very nice departure port. Many people drive in the day before, stay at a motel that has shuttle service to the port, and leave their cars at the motel. There is also parking at the port if you prefer.

She should ask the waiter for the vegetarian menu. He/she might have to go to the Assistant Head Waiter for it. After that, it will be given to her each night, assuming you have traditional dining and the same wait staff. If you are doing select dining, it might be a little harder to get one from different waiters.

You are right, there is a vegetarian option in each category on the main menu, as well, and all are clearly marked.

I will look at Baltimore. Have only been thru their airport, which by the way is one of my favorite airports, but would like to see some of Baltimore. Definitely want to stick with Carnival though as we are platinum and I like the perks. (although we are booked on RCCL's Oasis for next April.

Oops, my mistake. Carnival does sail out of Baltimore, but I just checked next fall for Canada/NE, and I only see RCI doing that itinerary. Too bad; it's a nice departure port.

Have you also considered Baltimore as your departure port? There are a number of inexpensive hotels that provide shuttle service to the port.

Once again, the show will be replaced by football tomorrow night in Western PA. Boo hoo.