amygutman

We are boarding the Allure on Friday for my son's 15th birthday (whooo!!!). I know it's not the Harmony but as a similar Oasis class ship we chose the 2 bedroom Aqua Theater Suite 10th floor Star class both for the Genie and view of the Aqua shows. Honestly, I love a good balcony no matter where I am on the ship, but the opportunity to have one view of the ocean and one view of a cool show is a huge bonus to us. Plus, my family can cheer me on when I climb the rock wall right next to the balcony! It's been almost years since we were last on Royal on the Anthem and cannot wait to try out this class of ship (and have kiddo spoiled for his birthday). Warmest Amy

@Denversail and @Mr. IT Thanks for bringing us along on such a fantastically entertaining Live Review. So glad you had a nice time in Winter Park - we've lived here for 2 years and it's just such a wonderful place (and bougie-people watching is the best entertainment). 7 days until we board for kiddo's 15th birthday. Can't wait to experience the Allure for ourselves and crossing our fingers for smooth seas for the aqua shows as we are in an aqua suite! Glad you made it back safe, and again, thank you for a fun read. Warmest Amy

@puckliny Curious about this myself so checked online: According the the US State Department website: (https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-with-special-considerations/cruise-ship-passengers.html) Apply early for your passport, or make sure your current one will be valid at least six months beyond your travel dates and has two or more blank pages. Your cruise company may also require you to have a passport even if U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or foreign port of entry does not. Looked at the Royal Caribbean website as well it follows the State Department rules. I know it's not the news you want, but hope it's helpful. Warmest Amy

@ninjacat123 Thank you so much for the advice on both the cruise and on the cellphone. It wasn't a "live" review so I unfortunately couldn't be as dextrous as I wanted with the cellphone. And honestly, as much of a perfectionist as I am, after hour THREE of trying to make the perfect post, I threw up my hands and did the best I could. I was just happy that I could post the actual video as my travel agent was very much looking forward to an updated room tour (not too many on the internet, and none recent). Appreciate the MG advice - and yes, I really enjoy posting. Considering how much great information I get from CC, if something I enjoy doing can help someone else, then that's great karma + great fun! Warmest Amy

@jimbo5544 I love good cruise memories - thank you for sharing!

@apugeau I may be biased, but I do think our kiddo is fabulously cute too!!! Thank you!

Have to say this is the most fun-and-drama filled review I've read ever. I am having so much fun with my figurative popcorn in hand. Honestly , the ship is not the main character here - it's you!!! Can't wait to hear more; warmest Amy

@klb1978 We live in Orlando as well, and no matter how many times we see a launch (great view from our condo's parking lot), it still gives me a thrill! Our last sailing we were so excited as there was a launch scheduled but scrubbed at the last minute. Crossing our fingers for our upcoming Allure the week of the 19th! Warmest Amy

@A&L_Ont ARE YOU KIDDING ME? This is the coolest thing - a private concert? Holy moley. I would be in heaven. I asked our Genie if he could possible arrange a dance / singing lesson for our son's birthday. He loves performing but is super socially shy and hoping to get him to at least try sharing interest. If our Genie comes through like yours did, I think I would just start crying mom tears. Thank you so much for sharing! Warmest Amy

OH MY G-D!!! This is EXACTLY what we were hoping for. Kiddo is going to be so happy (as are we). Cannot thank you enough for the photos @RobInMN! Warmest Amy

@Denversail Remember that it's Spring Break / Easter here in Orlando - it has been EPICALLY crazy at the airports and all of the theme parks. The pictures posted out of Disney Springs over the past few weeks has looked like cattle being (angrily) herded. As some of the Northern states still are on their Easter breaks (Florida schools are mostly back in session) you may run into some serious crowds. If I may suggest a nicer quiet town with awesome shopping and restaurants (plus, only about 20-30 mins from the airport depending on traffic), try Winter Park. We live here and it's paradise on earth. A cute little town that yes, has some tourist crowds but is charming, good parking (use the garages), and outstanding small-town vibe. Warmest Amy

@Denversail Am following along eagerly - we board the Allure on the 19th so excited to (metaphorically) travel with you a few weeks early! Warmest Amy

@LittleMissMagic Thank you for the lovely review! What a great way to spend the bachelorette party and what an amazing room! You should be an ambassador for the Star Class! Warmest Amy

@irishgal432 Makes a lot of sense. Actually, I think it's crazy that the Wonder and the Allure and so many other of the very large (>5000 passenger) ships have such short itineraries. Talk about crew exhaustion. Embarkation day is just crazy for them and cannot imagine doing it twice weekly. Definitely my stress about the "perfect birthday" for kiddo is a first world problem, so thank you for putting my anxiety into perspective. It's going to be a lovely cruise! Warmest amy

@cured Wow...that's high praise! I am so excited to hear you had a great experience. warmest Amy