CutieKakes

We have done this as well...I dont remember how long it took but we did it at a relatively leisurely pace, and had plenty of time/were not rushed. We drove to Emerald Lake first, and then made stops on the way back. Its a great drive - we saw so many bears on our trip!

It really depends on your travel personality. I dont get cold easily, and we have been to Alaska several times now (all in May). We are going again this coming May. 🤣. In June, you may want a pair of shorts! We have had days in the 60s in May. I always pack in a carry on only, and have no problem re-wearing things like jeans etc. I bring 1 sweatshirt, 1 thin jacket that I wear individually or together as needed. I am definitely "less is more" packer/traveler tho. I would say you dont need a formal dress. Some folks do dress up, but overall Alaskan cruises are more on the casual side. I usually bring 1 pair of black pants for dinners and a few silk blouses. Sometimes I wear dark rinse jeans. Ive never been cold on our cruises but it really depends on the person obviously. I bring items to layer, and if anything, Ive had to take off layers because I was warm. Also depends on your excursions. We bring single layer waterproof jackets (got then at Costco for $20) and theyve been great. Easy on/off, small to pack. We wear sneakers...havent had problems with them getting super wet (even in rainy weather). I bring gloves I wear for running because theyre small and easy to pack. But Ive never worn them. My husband has worn a knit hat on a few excursions...I never needed one myself. But those items are small, and its not a big deal if you dont use them.

We have been to Alaska quite a few times now (going in May again)...its definitely not formal in the dining room. Some folks dress up, but its not required. I typically bring a pair of black slacks and a few silk blouses. The blouses pack small and I dont have an issue rewearing them as needed over the course of the cruise. Ive also worn dark jeans. Just depends on your packing personality...I am a "carry on only" traveler, so it works for me.

I don't use eyeliner, but as far as mascara, I love Lancome "Big Monsieur" waterproof. Its the only mascara that Ive found to be truly smudge and flake free, as well as waterproof. It stays on until I take it off (I take it off with Lancome Bifacil Double Action Eye Makeup Remover and soft cotton pad, like Shiseido facial cotton). It is a volume mascara, but I just wipe the wand a little before applying 1 coat, and its perfect for me.

Im on the Jewel now, and yes, the pools are heated (dont what temp). My husband put his hand in the pool, and was surprised how warm it was. We haven't seen anyone swimming in the pools, but plenty of people using the hot tubs.

Im also one that wears black leggings or joggers...typically with a tucked white tank and then a long cardigan. I always fly with a lightweight cashmere wrap, so I can use it as a lap blanket if necessary - I tend to freeze on flights. I wear sneakers...had to run in December to catch our connection, so I like to be prepared. 😂

We also used Glacier Wind Charters...wonderful experience.

I have some Spanx and they work well enough, but they make my butt flat. I dont find them uncomfortable, but everyone is different obviously. I recently tried Skims (Nordstrom Sale), and so far I like them! I like the fabric better, no super compression, no flat butt. These garments can be difficult to size IMO. So I tend to buy a bunch of different sizes, see what works, and return the rest. Just what works for me personally. You could definitely try control top pantyhose...when I do that I cut the leg of the hose so that it ends above my knee. My friends and I used to call that "poor man spanx". Lol. Same effect, less money!

That's an old wives tale...shaving doesn't create/cause darker hairs. To the OP, you may want to talk to your doctor (dermatologist) about the skin discoloration/darkening in that area, there may be options for you. There is a cream that will, over time, stop the hair from growing (Vaniqa) - but of course, once you stop using it, the hair will grow back. I have a friend that uses it, and it works really well for her.