Conversation openers for first meal aboard?

[pontac]

I'm with @franski  River cruisers are often thinking about where to go next and if someone at the table has been on a route you're thinking about, then you can ask them questions about it.

 

We're not big conversationists and are happy to listen to others talk, but will happily answer or ask questions. If it's someone's first time on this cruise line but they've been on others, how are they finding the two compare.

Edited March 5 by pontac

[Canal archive]

Good old spag bog to the rescue!

[kayakcove]

As others have said they use these converstions as a learning experience. I will often ask what has been your favorite trip, not just cruising. I explain I am looking for new ideas. The vast majority of our trips since retirement have been cruises. But that question led us to our current all time favorite trip, in central and south Africa and 3 different safari camps. 

Edited March 6 by kayakcove

[Canal archive]

I’d return to ‘Harry’s Camp South Africa again and again. Wonderful country, people and of course absolutely superb animals.

[red zebra]

With a name like @Nippy Sweetie I couldn't pass this thread without reading it. Obviously you will know not to ask if they support Rangers or Celtic 😄 but as others have said, keep it simple have you been on a river cruise before (beware the braggers), did you enjoy your day ashore (beware the moaners) and if anyone starts on about politics or religion just say that you are holiday and as chief rabbi to the socialist workers party you don't want to talk shop.

[trtog7]

On 3/3/2024 at 4:40 PM, Kristelle said:

I don't think general conversation about cruise or travel history are off limits or boasting at all - and that is coming from me who has not done as much as some other people

 

Have you been on a cruise before/ to wherever we are before/ where are you from/ did you enjoy whatever activity we did today - they all seem good starters to me - and Ive not encountered anyone who then launches into boast-listing all their travels and their top level suites.

and  I care - or at least am interested in discussing - where other people have been and what holidays they enjoyed.  I don't see that as a 'nobody else cares' topic the way eg discussing your medical history might be.,

These common starters were usually the type other people used too  and they probably work for any setting - cruising. land tours etc

 

I like to ask what cruises they have been on as I always come up with a new idea of where to travel next