Mary229

You likely are sailing casino but in most cases the Grand Voyages are much more expensive per diem than regular cruises, as much as 2x higher.

I had coffee in the Pinnacle this week and was not charged.

If you are 4 or 5 star you also enjoy discounts on specialty coffee, specialty dining and perhaps internet so do your math

If your deposit is non refundable that is therefore an immediate cancellation penalty and HAL insurance is not then available. I have had this arise and you know what it was $1 non refundable deposit too! yes, HAL insurance is not age based and the reason is it is not a truly adequate medical plan for many people

If they are not through HAL you need to cover them. If they are not bought through HAL at time of insurance purchase they are not covered. They need to be included at time the insurance is purchased.

No but the ship laundry service is affordable

The cost is based on the cost of the trip, not timing. Also be aware if any portion of your trip, including deposit, is non-refundable you cannot buy this insurance after you make that deposit. . Your flights will need to be insured separately or be refundable fares.

I think the person is confused. It’s the internet, you can’t believe everything you read😁.

I have never had a charge and I often order Jasmine hot tea in the Tamarind and decaf coffee in Pinnacle (decaf tends to be nespresso and better flavor than the normal HAL swill)

I encountered this once and was warned by my TA and, at the time, confirmed with HAL. Things can and do change - YMMV

Indeed it does. You move the final payment date to the new date and are now passed final payment date and all it’s penalties

They have, for years, had the same scheme with grand voyages. Pay early and get 3% off and that is about 8 months early. I pay HAL only FCD of $100 to $300 to reserve and would rather keep my money earning interest until required. People may have gotten so used to 0% interest rates that they see no value in waiting.

I actually came back to say some OBC may not be used for gratuities so check to be sure. Yes and charity is always a good option too

Suggestion - when you have left over OBC how about adding to crew tip rather than HAL coffers

I did not get the offer but a friend did. The friend was only required to pay by October 30 with original final payment November 12. That is a no brainer. My savings account is now paying close to 5% so HAL will have to pay me 6% minimum for early payment

No. You should call the insurance company. I called mine. Insurance companies pay claims by check. When you buy insurance you buy for the full value of the travel, if you did your claims can be made up to that value. Be sure the value of your flights is covered also.

In another thread you mentioned you might drive. I know that the Best Western Yacht Harbor and Holiday Inn Airport both offer parking packages. I was quoted free 7 days with hotel stay and each additional day $5. That is quite an offer and worth considering. Many on my roll call give both hotels a passing to good grade. Both hotels say they offer a shuttle to airport but I have no experience

Insurance companies never refund back to the original payment, that would not be possible. They were not the original merchant and can’t reverse an action by another merchant. They would simply send a check for any successful claim.

No, with a solid backup plan you should be ok. Be sure to checkout all of your parking options just so you are familiar. San Diego has a few hotels that have decent rates but the port parking is expensive

Exactly. What you realize when you read these threads is that for years you have been paying for what others think is great not what you think is needed. I have been subsidizing all types of activities, foods and services I have no use for. Give me a base fare and a menu of options any time.

Download books on your reader. There are plenty of gamers onboard - besides bridge and other card games there are board and tile games. I joined a small community group at home which learns new games and puzzles weekly so i can participate onboard. I bring my own coloring sheets and pencils to idle away alone or even if I am visiting others, I spend a lot of time in the gym, spa or in physical recreation - swimming, tai chi, yoga, walking on the promenade. do get on your roll call and find out if anyone shares your hobby. For example on one of my recent cruises a group of ukulele players had found each other and practiced often together. There are usually a group of knitters/ crochet ears who gather to make a small article for charitable giving. blog your experiences here on cruise critic. We all enjoy reading the live threads.

They are well worth the upgrade. I buy a few pieces at the end of every season as needed

Usually I book the exact cabin I want but there are some exceptions. I book my airfare and any port hotels ASAP, refundable fares of course. I watch for price drops but knowing that is done certainly eases my mind. Those are the only things I consider necessary.

It will definitely be accepted. I am always surprised when I go to the Carnival website that they still recognize me as a repeat customer and it is well over 15 years.

I think this is doable for warm climes and with the right wardrobe. I have slowly migrated my wardrobe to those that can be rolled into a ball the size of my fist and still not wrinkle. 😉. For wet, windy, cold climes I like my bulky sweaters.