Liberty of the Seas 1/31 to 2/7/09 Review with pics

[TFlo]

 

It was really amazing to watch these artisans at work. They really do an astounding job!!

[Tyler80]

Wonderful Review! I got married on Liberty of the Seas July 19, 2008 and have shared many experiences and memories that you have. A cruise onboard Liberty of the Seas truly is an amazing experience.

[TFlo]

We went back to our cabin to start to pack up a little bit -- I really hate this part of the cruise, and not so much the packing, it's the fact that it's really coming to an end and I have to go back to work.

 

We like to pack up most of it early so we don't have to do it all just before bed.

 

We got a lot of the packing done and took a nap on the balcony for the last time before we got ready for dinner.

 

We had received our tip vouchers and tip envelops earlier in the day and we divvied them up and added some extra cash for those we thought deserved it, which was almost everybody, and got ready for our last dinner in the main dining room.

 

We headed off the the dining room and we humbly and gratefully gave Rex and Diego their envelopes, I shook hands with them both and Sally gave hugs all around and we let them know how special they made our vacation and that it was folks like them that brought vacationers back again and again.

 

We, the Cruise Critic group, had decided to so what was called a 10 @ 10, which was at 10:00 p.m. we would all gather in the casino and each put $10 into a machine and play. If we won we would split it. We did that for the first time on Sunday evening and had a good time, though last all the money in a very short time.

 

Well, there was another one planned for tonight so we though we should go, mostly to be able to say good-bye to our new friends.

 

Sally and I had decided we'd like to go into the hot tub one last time and relax a little before the hectic disembarkation day that we knew was ahead of us, so we changed into our suits and finished our packing and put out suitcases out in the hall.

 

At that time Jimmy was out in the hall and we went out and gave him his well-deserved envelope and thanked him for all that he did for us, and again, what an important role he played in making our cruise special. He was very gracious and we talked for quite a bit with him. Learned a little more about him and his family. What a nice man!

 

Then off we went for the biggest good-bye of all -- our Cruise Critic friends.

 

When we got to the casino there was only a couple people there and then they started filtering in. We eventually had a group of 12 of us playing. We each gave $10 for a total of $120 to play. It was put into a $1 Wheel of Fortune machine and we all started taking turns pulling the handle, so to speak.

 

 

 

 

 

We spun and spun and nothing. Then FINALLY . . .

[TFlo]

 

We were hoopin' and hollerin' so loud that quite the crowd gathered. You would have thought we hit the jackpot. But, alas . . .

 

 

We only hit for 40.

 

Well, we continued on and at one point were up to, I think, $450. We had so much fun! Eventually, though, our winning streak ended and we lost it all.

 

Instead of being rich in cash, we had to settle for walking away rich in friends instead, and that's fine by me!!!

 

I asked a gentleman standing near us if you would take a group photo:

 

 

We all said our good-byes, everybody was hugging everybody and then we were off to the hot tub for one last time.

 

When we got back to our room we saw that our luggage was still there -- this was about midnight now -- and we put our wet clothes into the luggage so as not to have to take it with us in our carry-on. And then off to bed. We had a long day ahead of us.

[TFlo]

Disembarkation: (Gettin' off the ship)

 

I really dread this day for 2 reasons: 1. The obvious, I have to get off the ship and my vacation is over, and 2. I know what work it is schlepping luggage from place to place and sitting on an airplane.

 

I was really worried this trip about our luggage being misplaced, you know, not getting to where we are, and I was particularly worried about going home in that it has to get from my room to the luggage carousel in the port to a cab to a plane to my final destination city.

 

I have to tell you, I didn't need to worry!!!

 

Since our flight wasn't until 1:20, we were able to enjoy a leisurely breakfast in the Windjammer with our friends. Once we were done we decided to make our way off the ship. We had no problems. The line when quickly and efficiently.

 

Once we put our SeaPass in the machine one last time, off the ship we went. We got down to the baggage area and I saw our luggage, a porter was right there to help me. He was a super nice and helpful guy, took all our luggage and carry-ons and led us right up to the customs agent. After clearing customs the porter walked us right to the street to hail a cab, which were lined up for miles. We gave him a 20 for his troubles and he was off for his next group.

 

We waited at the curb for about 10 minutes for our friends and their luggage to make it to the curb. Once they were there, we grabbed a van cab. The cabbie fit all our luggage into the back and off we went to the airport.

 

Now, I swear on 2 of the turns he made we were only on 2 wheels -- seriously -- and at one point some kids crossed the street in front of us and I think the cabbie actually sped up!!

 

Safely to the airport, after kissing the ground, we turned our luggage right over to the curbside check-in guy, who weighed our luggage, tagged it and took it in to the counter. We tipped him and off to the gate. Going through security was easy, relatively speaking, and then the flight home was the smoothest flight I have ever been on. There was absolutely no turbulance!!

 

Finally, home and in my own bed!!

[TFlo]

In conclusion:

 

1. The ship is great!

 

2. Weather could have been better.

 

3. Weather could have been worse, so forget number 2.

 

4. Crew was excellent all over the ship!

 

5. Food was good to excellent all over the ship!

 

6. Windjammer seemed -- what word am I looking for? -- frantic. It was like someone said, "This is all the food we have left. Get what you can!" That's the only place that passengers seemed not friendly, like they would knock you over just to grab a raspberry danish. Getting a seat wasn't horrible, but you had to look for a while sometimes.

 

7. See the ice show.

 

8. Relax! You're on vacation and not at work!!

 

9. Join the Roll Call for your particular sailing and be active in it. There are tons of great folks that will be on your sailing and you should get to know them.

 

10. Sign up for and go to the Meet & Mingle! The best part of the cruise was all the friends we made!

 

Thanks so much for reading and if you're booked to sail on the beautiful Liberty of the Seas, you're really in for a treat; if you're not booked on her, you should be.

 

And I'd like to send a very special thank you out to all of you Cruise Critics who I talked to online beforehand and/or met on the ship. You're really a great group of people and you made our great trip perfect!

Talk to you soon,

 

Tim

[TFlo]

Wonderful Review! I got married on Liberty of the Seas July 19, 2008 and have shared many experiences and memories that you have. A cruise onboard Liberty of the Seas truly is an amazing experience.

 

Tyler80, how lucky for you to have been married on this beautiful ship! I really wish we had done something like that, but it took us till our 20th wedding anniversary to get on a cruise ship. Better late than never, right?

 

Tim

[gatorbaby1]

I think that might have been the best review I have ever read.:)

[gardener718]

I am soooooooooooooo glad I met you Tim and Sally.:) After reading how wonderful my cruise was,:D I think I may be visiting you,;) cause I know you would both make sure I had a wonderful time.

Just let me know when would be a good time. lol

I will post an emotion for you!!:eek:

 

Thanks again for the wonderful review and the wonderful pictures. (I can't believe they were not professionally done.

 

Marianne

[Jenner9]

Thank you so much for taking the time to write this awesome review. I really enjoyed it!!! I love reading reviews and I especially love the ones with pictures. You did a fine job.

 

Thanks again!!

[SAAdds1]

We are also going on the Liberty later this year and I'm so enjoying your review. You seem to be so upbeat. Thanks

 

 

I totally agree, Lori. And, they look like such a fun couple!

[monkeyinhat]

Really great review. The pix were great LOVE the Miami sunset picture.

Thank you for warming up our cabin for us

I like a lot of sun, was there sun on the balcony or mostly shade. Looks like a lot of shade. Plan on lots of time spent reading and lounging on that balcony.

[cruzfitter]

 

 

We, the Cruise Critic group, had decided to so what was called a 10 @ 10, which was at 10:00 p.m. we would all gather in the casino and each put $10 into a machine and play. If we won we would split it. We did that for the first time on Sunday evening and had a good time, though last all the money in a very short time.

 

 

 

Tim, you forgot to mention how dangerous 10 @ 10 can be. I ended up with a headache and a bruise on my forehead. Those slot machines put up quite a fight. Dennis

[justustoo]

Well Hello, another Michigander here, Southgate, downriver.

 

We thoroughly enjoyed following your entire trip. Great Job.

 

I see alot of Michiganders in here. Nice!

 

We are NEWBIES, celebrating our 30th anniversary on the Oasis of the Seas. In a Jr suite, still might upgrade.

I'm reading everything and everyone with reports. Really loved yours.

 

We usually go to Vegas 2-4 per year, and after having a big win, never seemed to get past it.

 

But, we're ready now lol. Great stories!

 

Any help for this newbie is welcome.

 

TFlo, will be contacting you with gmail about some port excursions.

Thanks again

Dan

[chickadee12]

Just wanted to say how much I enjoyed your review. It was the best I have ever viewed.

 

Great photos and very uplifting.

 

Look forward to future ones from you.

[crisndeefromde]

We are on the Liberty the 28th with two first time cruisers! We love the Explorer of the Seas but the Liberty looks so wonderful!

 

As we are doing the same ports as the OP thanks for sharing pictures and details that I can share with our buddies.

 

Happy Cruising!

[kkpcruiser]

In conclusion:

 

1. The ship is great!

 

2. Weather could have been better.

 

3. Weather could have been worse, so forget number 2.

 

4. Crew was excellent all over the ship!

 

5. Food was good to excellent all over the ship!

 

6. Windjammer seemed -- what word am I looking for? -- frantic. It was like someone said, "This is all the food we have left. Get what you can!" That's the only place that passengers seemed not friendly, like they would knock you over just to grab a raspberry danish. Getting a seat wasn't horrible, but you had to look for a while sometimes.

 

7. See the ice show.

 

8. Relax! You're on vacation and not at work!!

 

9. Join the Roll Call for your particular sailing and be active in it. There are tons of great folks that will be on your sailing and you should get to know them.

 

10. Sign up for and go to the Meet & Mingle! The best part of the cruise was all the friends we made!

 

Thanks so much for reading and if you're booked to sail on the beautiful Liberty of the Seas, you're really in for a treat; if you're not booked on her, you should be.

 

And I'd like to send a very special thank you out to all of you Cruise Critics who I talked to online beforehand and/or met on the ship. You're really a great group of people and you made our great trip perfect!

 

Talk to you soon,

 

Tim

 

Tim

Thanks for the superb LOS review and the included pics. My daughter and friend are on the LIBERTY right now!! We have cruised several times but this is her first "i paid for it all myself now that I have a job" vacation and although she is in a cabin i can't even fathom( inside, deck2) she got a great price and plans to spend little time other than sleeping /showering in there!

 

You did, as many have mentioned, have a perfectly positive attitude....how about you sail on the Caribbean Princess next and change all the negative vibes going on with it since that ship has emerged from drydock?? :rolleyes:

 

Thanks again!

[mathfanjan]

What a great review! I'll have to keep rereading it for the next 4 weeks, until we're actually on Liberty for real. I especially enjoyed the pictures of the Segway tour in San Juan since we have that booked. I can't wait, but reading your review will make it a little bit easier.

I also thought the photo of the sunset as you were leaving Miami was spectacular.

 

Jan

[ArkieCruisin]

Thanks so much for your awesome review. Was one of the best I have read and the pictures were great. Glad you shared your trip with us.

[demodawn]

We loved the Liberty and DH didnt want to go as he thought it was too big and now its his favorite ship( sorry explorer!) We will be on her again!

 

Question: what great pics can I ask what kind of camera you used?

[Cruiselady1229]

Tim, thank you for the great review and the pictures. We will be taking the same cruise in a few months and I can't wait. I can just tell in the way you were telling about your cruise that you and your wife really enjoyed yourself..I love cruising myself and love to hear about everybody's experience when they cruise. I get real excited when I talk to people that have never cruised before..what they are missing. This time we will be taking my brother and sister-in-law with us..and this will be their first cruise. I just can't wait to see their faces when they see the ship in person. Also, have never been to San Juan before so that will be a great experience for us.

 

How did you go about booking the segway's in San Juan? Looked like alot of fun.

 

Thanks again for the review and the beautiful pictures.

 

Sheila

[drdaddy]

Tim, you really opened up a can of worms with this one!

 

GREAT REVIEW :) But now, you HAVE to answer questions.

 

1) Don't you have the Compass and Menus to share? Please, Please?

 

2) If you don't have the menus, I must ask you to rach in there and think about the meals in the dining room. You chose Thursday to go to Portofino's.

- Why did you choose that night?

- Is there another night you would have preferred?

- Generally, which night seems the LEAST inspiring in the Main Dining Room to choose either Chops or Portinfino's, regardless of whether or not you would go back or not?

 

3) How many guys were in Tuxedos for the Formal Nights? (We HATE the idea of this casual, my vacation and who cares what you want trend, in crusing at least. This is NOT DisneyWorld)

 

4) Is it true that there is also an option for any time dining you want?

 

5) And, is it also true that the Skating show no longer requires tickets?

 

The idea of the Cabin crawl sounds really cool. We had the deck 10 aft corner on Explorer of the Seas. Unbelievable in both the cabin and the balcony. Now we just have a lowly D2 (great deal for April).

 

Thanks. Really. A great review, not even "half full" but just full of only good thoughts.

[TFlo]

I think that might have been the best review I have ever read.:)

 

What do you mean might?!? Just kidding!

 

Thank you so much for the compliment.

 

Tim

[TFlo]

I am soooooooooooooo glad I met you Tim and Sally.:) After reading how wonderful my cruise was,:D I think I may be visiting you,;) cause I know you would both make sure I had a wonderful time.

Just let me know when would be a good time. lol

I will post an emotion for you!!:eek:

 

Thanks again for the wonderful review and the wonderful pictures. (I can't believe they were not professionally done.

 

Marianne

 

Marianne, Thanks and you are welcome here anytime! Can't promise towel animals but Sally makes a mean meatloaf!

 

Tim

[TFlo]

Really great review. The pix were great LOVE the Miami sunset picture.

Thank you for warming up our cabin for us

I like a lot of sun, was there sun on the balcony or mostly shade. Looks like a lot of shade. Plan on lots of time spent reading and lounging on that balcony.

 

Thanks for the nice words.

 

You're in the same cabin? Nice!! I'm jealous for sure.

 

Yeah, there was lots of sun on the deck: In the morning on the way down and in the afternoon on the way back, if I remember. I laid out on the deck several time in the sun and napped. It was heaven!

 

Tim