teecee46

I wish I'd known that I don't have to do it all on one cruise, that there will be others.

Having read this thread, that certainly does seem to be the outcome - once you've done one cruise, you want another!

I've read up on the formal nights but I'm still not sure! Don't fancy the tux and ballgown shenanigans but we also wouldn't attend wearing shorts & flip flops - the jury's still out on our doing the "formal" bit!

What ports did you travel to? We are docking at Civitavecchia for Rome and we're not sure whether to go on an excursion (3 hours round trip) as we intend to travel to Rome for a 4 or 5 day city break in the next 6-8 months but maybe would be worth getting a quick overview of the city - really torn on this one! :confused:

We have just booked our first ever cruise - and I have spent the weekend reading all the posts - what an amazing thread! We booked a balcony stateroom for a few reasons -

1) first ever cruise and a special occasion for us

2) I am very prone to travel sickness and being able to access fresh air instantly was a big bonus

3) We're suckers for glorious sunrises & sunsets (don't get them too often in Ireland :o)

I am the world's worst packer 'cos I always pack too much - but when you live and travel round Ireland you have to be prepared to dress for 4 seasons in one day! :D This will be one of my major challenges!!

There are some brilliant suggestions & tips here - as I read through I've been copying and pasting the things that caught my eye (don't think I could read the whole thread again! :eek: ) but now that I'm up to date I'll be visiting regularly to check out any new posts!

I now feel more prepared - and definitely excited!

The insulated cups and remembering to bring the binoculars were 2 things that I have particularly noted!

Thanks everyone for taking the time to share all your experiences (I was fascinated by the duct tape and the myriad of uses!)