ReligBookFreak

16 minutes ago, newf2024 said:

For those who have had a cruise end in Trieste, what’s the earliest train from Trieste Centrale that you recommend?

Two hours after you disembark the ship, which varies from ship to ship. Just keep in mind that your hotel in Venice won't have your room available until after Noon sometime.

Alan

26 minutes ago, Gabs300 said:

Thank you Alan for checking. Even on July 5 and 6th, they did not have for 4 people, maybe if I booked 2 rooms but that would have been too much. I made a tentative booking in Hotel Messner for 3 nights and see if I can figure out the rest. Any tours to do for the 4 of us you can recommend will be great. I'm thinking of renting a car when we leave and heading to Florence on our way to the FCO Rome airport as now we would have time. If I can make this work, I'll be changing our flights tomorrow. 

If you like blown glass, I'd recommend taking the Vaporetto to Murano and going to a glass blowing demonstration. Also, if you like Prosecco, look for a tour to  Prosecco wineries. I would definitely go to St Mark's Square to see Doge's Palace, the Basilica, and the bell tower.

Some highly rated tour companies include:

• See Venice: https://www.seevenice.it/en/tours/
• Ways Tours: https://waystours.com/
• Taste Venice: https://www.tastevenice.it/my-product/patries-chocolate-and-tiramisu/
• Andrea Tour Guide: https://andreavenicetourguide.weebly.com/tours---english.html
• Venice Tours: https://www.venicetours.it/

Alan

36 minutes ago, Gabs300 said:

Hi again Alan, My head is spinning. Lol. There's an option to move our flights to leave 6 days after departing from FCO Rome airport. If we do this, we can stay longer in Venice, I'm thinking 3 nights. Would you recommend staying in any one of these? I'm not looking for fancy, just safe, clean, great location and reasonable. I'll have to decide by tomorrow if we are extending the dates. Would like to see if these reasonably priced hotels are a good option. 

Cannaregio - Venice Style Apartments

Hote Messner

Residenza La Campana

If we can stay longer at these reasonably priced hotels, it will not feel so rushed and we'll have time to see other cities on the way to the airport. Much appreciate your feedback. 

I cannot recommend those places. I searched the hotels I know, from July 3 to July 6 (3 nights), and unfortunately, they are all booked solid. If you stay one night in Trieste, and then go to Venice, you might have better luck. I highly recommend Hotel Al Codega. It's easy walking distance to Saint Mark's Square, plus it's hidden on a side street (away from all the noise). Also, it includes a wonderful buffet breakfast. They offer both VERY small rooms to a large Junior Suite (My wife and I booked the Deluxe room last year and it was VERY nice). Here is its website: https://book.hotelalcodega.com

Alan

35 minutes ago, Gabs300 said:

I booked the flight with points I transferred from Chase to Virgin Atlantic. I just called them again to see if I could leave from VCE but no availability with points and to change it was not an option. The cruise arrives on 7/3 early am to Trieste and we are flying back 7/5 morning from FCO Rome. Originally I had it flying back 7/4 but was worried I would not have time to get to FCO and they let me change it a day later. For the hotel in Venice, I think I'll stay close to the Santa Lucia station. A 30-minute walk is not bad. My mom is a senior but she's a good shape. I just want the piece of mind of having the train station we need to get to and leave from close to the hotel. I'm also budget conscious so this will be best. Do you recommend Hotel Principe? It's 340 euro and next to the NH Venezia Santa Lucia which is recommended as its close to the train station. Or, if staying close to the main attraction areas there's a hotel: San Moise- Piscina St. Moise 2036 at 310 Euros. Just not sure how difficult it would be to get to and from the train station, but it seems to be close to the main attractions. 

Hotel Principe might be the closest but its reviews on Trip Advisor are mediocre. Carnival Palace Hotel (https://www.venicecollection.com/carnival-palace/fr/?utm_source=tripadvisor&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=business_listing&utm_content=link) gets MUCH better reviews but it's a one-half mile walk to the train station, including some bridges.

Alan

16 hours ago, Gabs300 said:

We'll also be arriving from a cruise in early July to the Trieste port. We have a flight out of Rome FCO 2 days after arriving in Trieste.

So I plan to go from Trieste to Venice, stay in Venice one night and then go to Rome, thinking by train. There are 4 of us with Luggage and one of us is a Senior. I've not booked a hotel or any transportation as of yet. Reading this forum but still a bit confused on the transport company from Trieste to Venice, which hotel is best, and then transport, train to Rome? We'll be spending one night in Rome to make sure we don't miss our flight the next morning. 

For transport companies, I saw: Treviso, Flixbus, Blacklane, Viator... Which would be best from Trieste port to Venice and what area in Venice to choose a hotel?  Any hotel recommendations would be appreciated. Does not have to be fancy but safety is #1 priority.

Should I stay close to the Venicia Santa Lucia Railway Station? Is this area safe? I read somewhere it may not be. I think this station is probably the one that has the train to head to Rome airport. Will I easily be able to go from this area and visit the tourist areas in Venice like St. Mark's Square? I know its a lot, but I"m sure not the only one arriving from a cruise and leaving out of the Rome airport. I tried to get a booking from Venice airport but not such luck. Thanks in advance!   

You mentioned one person is a senior. Can that person walk to the Trieste Train Station? If not, you will need a taxi.

Have you traveled on European trains before? Are you physically able to lift your heavy luggage and place it in the storage rack above the seat, assuming it fits?

Venice is a wonderful city with LOTS to see. Staying just one night provides no opportunity to see everything. We were there 4 nights last year and still did not see everything.

Although staying near the Venice train station should be fine, I would NOT recommend staying near Termini (the Rome Train Station), unless you like lots of homeless people and prostitutes at night.

Alan

17 hours ago, JamieLogical said:

 

Depends on your cell service. I have Google Fi and international text and data rates are the same as in the US. Only change for me is the cents per minute with cell calls (not wifi calls). So it I am comfortable just having Internet and and contacting loved ones in port, then I have no need for the wifi plan. However I do like being able to surf the Internet while at sea and have to check in with work frequently, so for me, wifi is worthwhile.

We do a LOT of transatlantic cruises where we are in the ocean for 7 days straight. This, waiting until we are on port to make a call does NOT work for us.

Alan

5 hours ago, XBGuy said:

Here you go, @alwalaska

• Wi-Fi -- We are Captain's Circle Elite Level.  We also, really don't use internet access very much when we cruise.  So, a single-device plan works fine for us.  However, I know that Princess has increased the rate since I built this.  I think it doubled.

• If you require multi-device connectivity, then you would would have to update the Wi-Fi line.

You don't need to upgrade your Wifi if you use a Mobile Hotspot.

Alan

On 4/11/2024 at 2:07 PM, XBGuy said:

@Drew B 58, your new approach is completely reasonable.  Go for it.

 

I am also an analytical guy.  Some time ago I posted a comparison spreadsheet that pretty convincingly demonstrated that neither of the package plans "pencil out" for me.  However, what works for me has nothing to do with what works for somebody else.

 

I agree that a cruise should be a "splurge."  Don't deny yourself.

For me, gratuities and Wifi are an absolute must. Regarding Wifi, if you are sailing in Europe, Africa, or Asia and need to remain in contact with family, then purchasing Wifi is NOT an option but mandatory. Wifi Calling and Mobile Hotspots can be VERY useful if you don't want to purchase an international plan from your cell phone provider.

Alan

2 hours ago, MacMadame said:

This is definitely an issue for me when I am booking non-refundable travel very far in advance. But most cruises let you cancel with no penalty (except maybe a non-refundable deposit) pretty close to the cruise at least if you book in the US.

 

So cancelation clauses are less useful for cruises IMO. That said, I did get the Princess insurance when I booked because I didn't know any better and wanted to get the "cancel for any reason" insurance as I booked over a year in advance. If I had to do it all over again, I probably would have done a lot more research before doing that.

Keep in mind that Cancel for Any Reason refunds ONLY 50 to 75% of your money, depending on the policy. I just learned a trick from my broker, Steve, at TripInsuranceStore.com. If you make a cruise deposit well in advance of the cruise (for example, a year in advance), then purchase travel insurance within 14 days of your initial deposit so you can get the pre-existing conditions coverage. However, do NOT purchase enough insurance to cover your whole trip (for example, $40,000), but only enough to cover the deposit (for example $1,000). The cost of insurance to cover your cruise deposit should be minimal. After you make final payment (a year later), you then have 14 days to increase the amount of your insurance to cover the entire trip. (NOTE: If you make multiple payments -- not just the initial and final payment -- then you have to increase your insurance within 14 days of each payment to cover the additional payment.)

Doing it this way enables you to get the benefits of pre-existing medical conditions (which is really important as we get older) without requiring us to spend several thousand dollars on insurance a year before we depart. If you cancel the cruise for medical reasons, you get back your refundable deposit from the cruise line, PLUS the insurance company refunds whatever portion of your cruise deposit that was non-refundable.

Alan

1 hour ago, shipgeeks said:

I know that many non-US hospitals require payment upfront, often $$$. I always wonder if having evidence of travel insurance is sufficient in that position. Doesn't insurance always require that we pay for a service and then submit claims for reimbursement?

No. Some travel insurance policies are primary and others are secondary. You would need a policy that pays primary and then verify with the company that they pay the foreign doctor or hospital directly. Some insurance plans do this, including GeoBlue medical plans and other travel insurance plans, but many do not.

Alan

Do you have a Chinese VISA? If not, you will NOT be allowed to leave the ship.

On 12/24/2022 at 11:52 AM, BillB48 said:

From the contributions of posters, here is a little more complete list of Panamax ships.  A Panamax ship is a ship, due to its dimensions able to use the original locks at the Panama Canal.

 

 

Aida

 

Aura

Aaura

Acara

Mar

Stella

Bella

Diva

Mira

Blu

Luna

Sol

 

 

 

Azamara

 

Journey

Pursuit

Quest

 

 

 

Carnival

 

Legend

Luminosa

Miracle

Pride

Spirit

Elation

Paradise

 

 

 

Celebrity

 

Xploration

Flora

Xpedition

Summit

Infinity

Constellation

Millenium

 

 

 

Cunard

 

Queen Elizabeth

Queen Victoria

 

 

 

Costa

 

Deliziosa

Mediterrania

 

 

 

Disney

 

Wonder

 

Fred Olsen

 

All ships in the fleet may use original locks.

 

 

 

HAL

 

Eurodam

Zandam

Noordam

Volendam

Zuiderdam

Oosterdam

Westerdam

Nieuw Amsterdam

 

 

 

MSC

 

Armonia

Magnifica

Opera

Orchestra

Lirica

Musica

Poesia

Sinfonia

 

 

 

NCL

 

Jade

Gem

Pearl

Jewel

Dawn

Star

Pride of America

Sun

Sky

Spirit

 

Oceania

 

All ships in the fleet may use the original locks

 

 

 

P&O

 

Arcadia

Aurora

 

Princess

 

Coral

Island

 

Regent Seven Seas

 

All ships in the fleet may use the original locks.

 

 

 

RCL

 

Vision

Grandeur

Rhapsody

Radiance

Brilliance

Serenade

Jewel

 

Seabourne

 

Encore

Quest

Odysee

Sojurn

Ovation

 

Silver Sea

 

All ships in the fleet may use the original locks.

 

Viking Ocean

 

All ships in the fleet may use the original locks.

 

Windstar

 

All ships in the fleet may use the original locks.

I noticed that the Azamara Onward is not listed. It's the same size as the other R-class ships in Azamara's fleet, so I assume it can also use the original locks.

A previous poster mentioned Oceania's Insignia, Nautica, Regatta, Sirena, Marina, and Riviera. What about the Vista and Allura?

Alan

40 minutes ago, mtnhiker said:

We get Norwegian Essentials strictly for the medical coverage, it is not and never has been trip insurance.  Like some others here, we are aware of the risks of not having trip insurance and consciously make that choice. 

For medical coverage, you may want to check into GeoBlue's annual policy (Blue Cross' overseas medical insurance).

Alan

On 8/9/2023 at 7:25 PM, Mary229 said:

Annual medical insurance policies like Geoblue can be bought a mere 24 hours before leaving home.  For cruise cancellation policies there are different rules and to be safe you buy those as soon as you put any non-refundable money down on a cruise.  I use a Chase credit card for that portion. The Chase sapphire products have reputable trip insurance 

What if you need the pre-existing medical clause? Then you have to purchase insurance within 14 or 21 days of your initial deposit.

Alan

On 9/3/2023 at 7:39 AM, PJnVA said:

 

This looks very good.  I'll have to check it out.

 

I don't see anything on Trip Cancellation.

Alan

On 2/17/2024 at 11:36 AM, mtnhiker said:

We have only been on 10 cruises, most with Norwegian - we always get essentials insurance for each cruise.  Not that expensive and fairly good coverage.  When we start traveling more (after I retire) we will likely consider something like AIG travel insurance that SargassoPirate mentioned (above)

If you ever arrange hotel or airfare on your own (rather than through Norwegian), your Norwegian travel insurance will pay NOTHING towards the lost airfare and hotel costs.

Alan

On 7/21/2023 at 6:49 AM, SargassoPirate said:

She Who Must Be Obeyed and I have carried an annual travel policy with AIG for years.  It runs just over $500 per year and covers us for all travel - not just cruises - more than 150 miles from home.  Train trips, road trips, motorcycle trips, air travel, etc.

 

I figure the money we've save by not buying cruise line insurance over the years has been money best used elsewhere.

The reason AIG Travel Guard's annual insurance is so cheap is that it does NOT cover Trip Cancellation. If someone in your family gets sick or dies and you have to cancel the trip, your annual insurance plan pays NOTHING; you lose all the money you paid.

Alan

9 minutes ago, momphoto said:

Don’t mean to butt in, but we are looking at taking the flexi bus from Venice to Trieste.  There are 2 different pick up points to choose from.  One is Venice Mestre(stuzione) and the other is Tronchetto.  Which would be easier to get to from a hotel near st. Marks square.

With luggage, I would suggest the Vaporetto or private water taxi to the Train Station.

Alan

If you want a hotel easy walking to St Mark's Square and LOTS of shopping and restaurants, yet in a quiet area (with its own courtyard) and a great breakfast, I highly recommend Hotel Al Codega, a 4-star hotel. We stayed there last year. https://www.hotelalcodega.com/

Alan

4 hours ago, benel204 said:

Hello,

We have spent quite bit of time researching this same question (and have the same desire NOT to handle luggage too much) and here is what we are doing:

 

We have booked a private van through Viator to get from Trieste port to Venice. It is ~$415 for up to 7 people. As we get closer to our cruise date (in May) I will post on cruise critic and see if anyone else wants to join and spit the cost. 

 

The transport will take us to Venice central as far as a vehicle can go. One drop off option would be Piazzale Roma, and another drop off option is the  San Basilio Terminal.  I have tentatively booked 2 hotels, both of which are within 5 min walk of of those stops respectively (one walk would be without bridges).  One hotel has offered to arrange a porter to meet us and I believe the cost was EU10 per bag.  Both hotels are also nicely located to access the central part of Venice.

 

To get to the airport from the hotel after out stay in Venice, the options are to either take a taxi from Piazzle Roma or San Basilio Terminal (takes about 45-60 minutes we are told), or water taxi directly from the hotels ~EU130 (25-30 minutes). We will probably opt for the water taxi just for one last fun experience of Venice.

 

If you have difficulty walking, then you will probably have difficulty getting in and out of the private water taxi. My wife had great difficulty.

Alan

1 hour ago, luv2gonow said:

Dont mean to hijack following:-)

 

Also disembarking in Trieste.

Staying Venice Times Hotel.

3 adults and one senior with luggage.

 

Best transportation ?

Thanks

You have two choices:

1. Take the train from Trieste. Your hotel is just down the street from the Venice train station. This is the cheapest, BUT Italian trains are notorious for going on strike frequently.

2. Hire a transportation company (most use SUVs). This is expensive: 300 Euros to 500 Euros. If choosing this method, you may want to share the expense with one or two couples (just make sure that all your luggage will fit). You can use this link (Trip Advisor) to find a transportation company: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g187813-Activities-c59-t182-a_attractionType.SUPPLIERS-a_trating.40-Trieste_Province_of_Trieste_Friuli_Venezia_G.html

Alan

35 minutes ago, goldensand said:

So I don’t know if there is any chance they will cancel cruise but instead just miss a bunch of ports along the way. If a cruise changing itinerary majorly, do they have to compensate in some way or allow cancellation??

 

Sandy

If you examine the cruise contract that you are REQUIRED to sign in order to board the ship, every cruise line states that they can change the itinerary without compensating passengers. Having said that, frequently, cruise lines will indeed compensate passengers if they make major itinerary changes, but NOT if they have to skip a port or two because of weather, local uprisings (e.g., the one in Peru in December 2022), or other reasons.

Alan

6 minutes ago, cruiselover108 said:

Good luck!  Silverseas told us we could cancel but we would lose our $17,600 fare…

If you have NOT made final payment yet, then the most you could lose is your deposit -- depending upon whether it's refundable or not.

Alan

Oceania announced that it has canceled ALL cruise stops in Israel through the end of 2023.

Alan

On 8/28/2023 at 5:09 PM, pinotlover said:

Depends upon how you spend your money. One Adriatic cruise:

Athens - Venice. Along the way: Argostoli, Corfu, Kotor, Koper, Ravenna, Split, Dubrovnik, Zadar. Maybe not in order, but all on one cruise with a couple sea days thrown in. One cruise, one cost. On Oceania it would take at least 2 separate cruises, if not three, to see all those ports. That single Viking cruise cost us a lot less than multiples on Oceania.

Oceania Marina April 19, 2024: Barcelona to Venice -- Barcelona, Marseille, Monte Carlo, Civitavecchia, Amalfi, Taormina, Argostoli (Cephalonia), Igoumenitsa, Kotor, Split, Venice.

Alan