I am so enjoying following this thread. Like others here, I'm a bit disappointed at some of the changes in entertainment offerings - my favourite thing on a HAL cruise was Phil in the piano bar on the Noordam a few years back, so it's shame that has gone by the wayside. Ditto the shows, which were usually fantastic, but I know we'll have a great time anyway in the Rolling Stones Lounge and with the new jazz group.
I do have a question for Hank, or others onboard who are also following this fantastic thread. We join the vessel on the 24th and are super excited about our trip. I notice that guests are allowed to bring a "reasonable" (whatever that means) amount of wine onboard and will be charged $20 per bottle irrespective of where it's drunk. I have read on a couple of sites that alcohol in Japan is extremely cheap. Having looked at what HAL charge for wine, I'm inclined to pick up a few bottles in Japan to take on board with us. I can't believe the mark-up on Australian and New Zealand wines, and I imagine it's the same with those from the US. Have others here who are onboard at the moment, or been on one of the recent cruises, bought wine onboard that they purchased in Japan? We're staying in Yokohama for a few days pre-cruise, so have ample opportunity to try and buy beforehand.
And thanks so much, Hank, for starting this - every morning when I check my phone I am delighted to find a whole heap of new posts to read.