WoodstockGirl

Revert back to how cruising was 20 years ago! I loved Princess then!

How was cruising 20 years ago....?

Have lately been "analyzing" the whole cruising dynamic with family members.  DH and I often tell people we have "two categories of cruises": 1. Caribbean and 2. Everywhere Else. A Caribbean cruise is simply to get away during the winter, to relax, be pampered, be warm, be entertained, let someone else cook (and serve and clean up), etc.  Whereas the "Everywhere Else" cruises are to actually get off the ship in various locations, tour around and sight see.  Two different motivations and purposes.  Another family member says he prefers making his own itinerary and plans when touring other lands, and not have to conform to the itinerary of the cruise, so he isn't attracted to cruising for that reason. I started wondering about many of you here - especially those who've cruised dozens (hundreds!) of times, all over the world, sometimes repeating the same cruises.  What is it that keeps you coming back to cruising over and over again as your preferred style of travel? 

Hello Friends,

I know this must be well addressed here in another posting(s), but are there distinct advantages or perks to booking a future cruise while on a cruise? Not making a future cruise deposit, which we always do, but actually booking our future cruise of choice.

And... yes... we do have a TA we normally use.  I've gathered from reading here that I can transfer the booking to her....?

Thank You!

On 8/22/2019 at 11:52 PM, AdventureTwins said:

No AC? Yikes and we will be there in August!

When you are picking a hotel, check the amenities for A/C or no A/C.  Premiere Inns usually mentions that.  Don't know about the others.  Historically in the past, London doesn't typically need A/C in summer.

My understanding is that it's not simply a difference between using a card or a medallion, but when/if you are using the medallion you are also using your smartphone.  That you have to download apps (more than 1?).... ? That the process is cumbersome if you don't like that sort of thing.....? And not everyone has a smartphone.  Just looking for clarification.  

If I may add my little two cents worth to the hotel aspect of this discussion. I too highly recommend one of the very affordable Premiere Inns.  Their niche is to be very clean, minimalist, efficient hotels. High quality bed mattresses and linens, but save with smaller room sizes, and fewer frills. The one we stayed in in London is right by the London Eye, the Westminster Bridge and around the corner from a major train station. Across the street is a large court, with little restaurants and stores all lined up on the edge. Also a Starbucks!  Very convenient for grabbing a bite.

We compared prices of several throughout key spots in London before settling on this one.  One key reason? Besides the location, it has Air Conditioning! Not all the hotels and Inns in London do. On a hot day, air Conditioning is not an option for me; it's a must.

QUESTION:

I see you are having your laundry done for you (I await that standing with Princess!), but I am wondering if the self service laundry on this ship (esp since the renovation) uses old fashioned quarters, or if you swipe your card for tokens?

Thanks for info - esp for dinner food reviews. We sail upon your return. We are your replacements!