KiwiGal117

You absolutely can prebook the DINING online before you leave. But if for some reason you don't like the times offered, our experience was that there was plenty of availability to switch once on board.

Sent from my iPhone using Forums

We had the beverage pkg last summer on our Harmony Med cruise. I am a wine drinker and had a good chat with the staff in Vintages regarding wine choices covered by the package. They recommended that some of the cheaper wines were better than the wines prices at close to the package limit. Worth dropping by and getting some recommendations.

Sent from my iPhone using Forums

Thanks Cinnamon for this review. I always enjoy your reviews and the details you provide! I was particularly delighted to see this one, as it's a consideration for us in the next couple of years.

To Idasaro who asked about Euros - you will need them in Europe. We usually get some before we leave so we're not racing around as soon as we arrive looking for a machine, but then use bank machines as and when needed. Just check with your bank to see which network you belong to. Much easier, and better rates.

Enjoying outdoor space with peace and quiet. I don't enjoy crowds (I'm not panicked by them, but like most people, don't love being swept up in them), but am an introvert, so the quiet space to myself is especially appreciated. And there is nothing like a little afternoon nap on your balcony to make you fully appreciate where you are!!!

We used a TA for our last cruise, as it was part of a larger trip to Europe, and we wanted help with other aspects of the trip. However, no perks, and I actually did all the leg work, found the flights, etc.

I'm a wannabe travel agent, so really enjoy the process. If I could find agencies in Canada that offered good perks, I might use them. However, for the next few cruises, I've booked them directly.

Interesting how subjective food is. I just finished reading another review of this same cruise and they were raving about the food! We also preferred 150 Central Park, and found all the food to be surprisingly good wherever we dined. But that was in the Med last summer so perhaps that is the difference.

Sent from my iPhone using Forums

We did Harmony last summer and loved it! The cabins are well designed, and there is lots to do! That said we are doing Freedom in March, 2018. I think all have good possibilities.

Sent from my iPhone using Forums

We were on Harmony in the Med last summer and that totally sold us on cruising. Had done two previously and liked it just fine but LOVED Harmony. We did the beverage plan and also ended up buying some of the specialty dining packages and thought the food was very good. One night at MDR and the food was very good. Only "meh" food we had was at the Mexican restaurant. We loved Grease. Try Symphony if you can! I think it will be great.

Sent from my iPhone using Forums

Well fingers crossed! We loved our Harmony med cruise last year and will be looking for something similar in 2019. If it were just hubs and I we'd be flexible on ship class. However, bringing the teenager. Given the success of Harmony, would rather have an Oasis class option. Honestly after two cruises on Legend and Splendour we were completely blown away by Harmony.

Sent from my iPhone using Forums

We enjoyed our location on Deck 10 on Harmony. If you want to be facing the port then choose a starboard cabin as they typically back the ships in.

Sent from my iPhone using Forums

We departed from Venice 4 years ago on Splendour- it truly was amazing. That said, we spent a few days in Venice last year before our Harmony cruise out of Rome and taking the local water bus through the canals is also very special.

Sent from my iPhone using Forums

We had all white (3 ppl) last summer - kind of a pain but GS wrote our initials on back in pen- lasted the duration

Sent from my iPhone using Forums

A few years ago we flew out of Toronto to Venice on a Friday night to pick up a cruise on Saturday (sound familiar?) no weather issues in T.O., but a storm over the Atlantic forced the flight to refuel in Shannon. We were two hours late landing in Venice (arrived at 11:30) and we were on board by 1:15. But I was panicking all night long!!! Won't do it again. OP awesome that you were able to get switched!

Sent from my iPhone using Forums

On the one hand, I thought OP's post was a little OTT. But, then I realized how terrible RCL is generally in explaining anything clearly. Last summer we traveled with friends. Because I learned so much on these boards, I had a leg up. They were completely mystified by so much. These boards are a require resource...

We arranged for a private excursion to Cinque Terre, I can't give you the website here (our agent booked it). I highly recommend it, and it was much cheaper than the ship excursion (though there were six of us). If you want to e-mail me at m2j.nardi@gmail.com I'll send you the info. It was AMAZING. My favourite excursion by far - I want to go back.

I should add that you can take a train from La Spezia to Cinque Terre and see it on your own. We didn't do that so can't comment. But it's a relatively short trip from La Spezia to the area.

Oh dear god... Years of Pride Day festivities in Toronto have not prepared me for the ALF...

Mmmm... wine....

Sent from my iPhone using Forums

Very nice! Congratulations!!! Maybe you could still keep it a surprise by just going along with the check in process and if anyone asks, just say I guess they changed things since last time. As you say you don't cruise all that often, you may be able to keep them in the dark by just playing dumb!!

What type of suite did you end up with??

Sent from my iPhone using Forums

I'm planning to do that this afternoon!! Note to self: buy RC glassware next cruise.

Sent from my iPhone using Forums

Try the port of call boards - you'll find lots of information there! Enjoy!!

Sent from my iPhone using Forums

Get the magnets with hooks. Great for holding papers to the wall but also hanging hats, wet bathing suits (put hook on ceiling), tote bags, etc.

Sent from my iPhone using Forums

We did this as well, and it was no trouble to change.

Sent from my iPhone using Forums

I was a through BCN a couple of weeks ago and had heard many cautionary tales about passport control. We departed out of the D gates of Terminal 1 and had no wait. However, a colleague flew out the day before and had a 1 hour wait.

Sent from my iPhone using Forums

I loved Harmony and I assume you mean 7 days on board. But i would do 11 days on Celebrity - more time cruising is all good.

Sent from my iPhone using Forums

Just a quick question:

 

Why no surge protector? Seems you would want that for your devices on a cruise ship??

 

Thanks!

See the links in poncho1973's post above. It explains the electrical issues

Sent from my iPhone using Forums