Cruise, J.D.

I like the $25 free play better.

That's unfortunate. It's always a crapshoot when you dine with strangers. Not my cup of tea.

If you offer late night drinking venues, you should offer some easy late night food options.

That looks like a fun excursion!

Our first cruise was in 2005 and that it is when I started reading Cruise Critic, so your post was a trip down memory lane!

Most hotel doors are set up to "slam" on their own. My practice is to avoid this during early mornings and at night, whether on a ship or a land-based hotel.

We really like oceanview cabins. The price is usually not much more than an inside and you get some sunlight and visual interest from the window. The price jump from oceanview to balcony tends to be more substantial. A balcony is nice, but usually not worth the extra cost for us.

I emailed the Hilton La Romana inquiring about day passes for cruise visitors and received the following response: Please receive a very warm greeting from Hilton La Romana. It will be my pleasure to assist you. In regard to your inquiry, we do have and will have day passes available . The cost is US$85.00 per adult and children between 3 to 13 is 50% off from 10:30AM to 05:00PM, ID is mandatory and payment could be done at the Reception via credit card or cash. Note: This is all-Inclusive Package. however, Day Pass does not include room, Club Preferred Area nor Transportation. If you need any additional information or if I can be of any assistance please feel free to contact me. Best regards, Es un placer! Carlos King Concierge carlos.king@playaresorts.com