ChinaShrek

The problem is when there is a price drop. My cruise dropped in price more than $1000 a couple of months ago (after originally booking 18 months ago). In order to get the lower price, I had to get the HIA package that was running when I made the new booking. This means I lost gratuities, the premium WiFi, and the Elite Beverage Package. I received the Surf WiFi instead and the Signature Beverage Package.

I was told by my TA that a FCD make a non-refundable reservation refundable and that's why people use them. But again, I wasn't canceling outright. I just made a new reservation for the exact same cruise.

That's good to know actually.

Obviously, you have cruised a lot more than me but I booked a cruise with a FCD in December 2022 and then the price dropped in October 2023. It was a nonrefundable rate. The price dropped by more than $1000. I was able to cancel the original cruise, get the new (lower) price, and use the original FCD for the new booking.

I think WiFi calling needs Premium.

You could always take the chance and drive down a day earlier and "assume" you will get a cabin. I wonder what percentage get a cabin?

It was two years for Europe. The 2025 Europe cruises were released in August 2023. Maybe that was earlier than usual?

Are I reading the Silver deal correctly? I spend $1500 andI receive $2000 OBC PLUS $500 for the Effy Boutique? Can the $2000 be spent on anything on the ship?

Yeah, you're right. I'm not really poor if I can go on a cruise.

I just checked Royal for August and the cheapest rate $1100 plus taxes for an interior. Again, $350 for a solo is a steal. I can't even eat out around here for 7 days for under $350. The HAL standby program is a decent option for poor but flexible people.

They could also go up on the price for CFAR insurance or increase the penalty.

If I lived in Fort Lauderdale, had nothing going on, and could get on a Holland America cruise for $49/day, I would jump at the chance. I live in Maine. If they offered me a cruise out of Boston in August (when I am on summer vacation) for $49/day, I'd go in a heartbeat. Not only is that dirt cheap but it could be a fun adventure. Plenty of people do not want to plan their lives months or years in advance.

I actually agree with you. I can't imagine who would want to pay for parking at the terminal just to wait around and see if they get a berth.

I really didn't like the barramundi. Is it a popular fish? I never see it on a menu in Maine. I would prefer swordfish, salmon, haddock, and cod.

Gift cards are great if you don't cancel the cruise. When you cancel it is difficult to figure out if the gift card amount goes back to the original gift card or if HAL issues a new one. If a new one, it may take you months to get it.

I guess HAL really wants cruising to be like flying. Many people fly standby for an earlier flight and arrive at the airport just to hangout and see if they get the flight. People could start doing that at cruise terminals now.

No, thank you for the heads up. I did some research and it is not the best time of year to go to Indonesia.

Wow. I didn't even realize that. I have been to Vietnam and Thailand in December and thought the weather would be similar.

I wonder if there are too many points to enjoy them all on this cruise but you have me excited about Borobudur and Bali.

Your room key can work to verify your identity for a tour.

I am thinking of booking the Indonesian Discovery or Holiday cruise. This is a 14 or 15 night cruise that leaves out of Singapore and goes to Malaysia and Indonesia. This would be a bucket list cruise but I have some questions before I book it. If you have been on this cruise, how was it? Is is worth flying to Singapore just to take this cruise? I am a history teacher, so I am thinking of sailing around around Christmas when i have two weeks off. How are the ports? I like history, different food, and Komodo Dragons. Will I see all of this? I look forward to all of your comments.

Many cruises are delayed a day or two returning to port and thus may leave a day or two later than originally scheduled. I always prepare for this eventuality.

Then the terrorists win! We must all do our part to have a free world. During World War One people sailed the Lusitania knowing there was a chance they it could be attacked. The cruise ship was attacked and sank to the bottom of the sea BUT it helped bring about American entry into the war.

I decided to cancel a shore excursion that I had originally paid with a HAL gift card. What is the consensus concerning the form I will get my refund in? Will it go back to the original gift card or will I receive a new gift card?

I cruise assuming that the cruise may or may not even sail and that the itinerary isn't really ever "set." Live dangerously!