blag

We have done this a couple of times, but on each occasion included a visit to a local winery where a lunch was provided. We got to sample and choose the ingredients and wines for every course. Compared to the pricing of other excursions on the same days we considered this to be excellent value!

We had a similar problem in Copenhagen recently. Here are answers based on our experience there: 1) If your flights, are with the same airline - yes, your checked bags will not need collection at Melbourne. 2) We did an overnighter in a hotel near the airport. 3) if you already have boarding passes you go through security only - no need to check-in at the desk, but make sure you check-in online if necessary.

Good advice! Airlines do change/cancel itineraries, and/or change times etc. In these circumstances I think that all airlines will offer a refund.

Unfortunately these are poorly attended, and Azamara are taking these much less seriously. On the last of these that I attended, only Assistant Cruise Director was present and no Officers were introduced. To the very best of my recollection on at least one recent cruise the event (to me an indication that Azamara are trying to phase these meeting out) the event partially clashed with the General Safety muster! And, in the past invites/reminders were issued: the only notification these days is in the Insider. On my most recent cruise I did not attend because it clashed with sail-away. I was told that no-one else had attended!

I got caught in the same way for exactly this reason, when, for similar reasons, Azamara withdrew from the Black Sea. The Business-Class flights, with Turkish Airlines – however – were changeable. I found an alternative cruise (not Azamara) and was able to change my flights to suit the replacement cruise. But I had booked non-refundable pre-paid hotel accommodation and lost that money! I could not claim on my insurance, because the insurers maintained that I was choosing not to go on the completely-different Azamara cruise. If that cruise had been cancelled, however, they would have compensated me.

Some hotel chains - including one that I favour - do reserve the term 'suite' for accommodation that comprises more than one room.

And, of course, according to many dictionary definitions, most of the 'suites' on Azamara's ships are not suites at all - they are merely larger staterooms. But, I think Azamara are not alone in this.

See Post #5, in this thread.

Just as a matter of interest, how far in the future is this cruise, and at what stage are you in the payment process? Was this for Azamara OBC, TA-provided, or part from a purchased/included package?

If these minor items are not identified in Azamara's list of amenities etc. as included with your accommodation, I would advise you to assume that it is NOT included. Since you cannot consume these until you board, and they are hardly likely to change your booking decisions, why not wait until you are board to establish whether you will have to pay for them?

Wow!

Where did you read the contradictory information? I am not sure that you can necessarily rely on what is said in these boards, but by-and-large, what Azamara lists against suite amenities etc. is pretty accurate. You say 'some items change and change again', yet I don't see where you refer to 'change and change again'. As for the access to the spa deck, that seems to be moot at the moment. In these boards some occupants of CC suites say they were denied access, but on my recent cruises that wasn't the case. I must admit, I don't remember that two bottles of wine are included! Perhaps you might care to identify the source of this information.

Why not suspend the speculation until you hear from your TA? Responses here may not clarify, because there appears to be divergence in the opinions. Your TA should be able to confirm your options.

Who knows what the future might hold... But the consensus for the current situation seems to be that CC suites have access to the spa deck.

This matches my experience on the other ships. I prefer first-hand, fairly recent information. Others may repeat contradictory historical reports, so who knows?

I never liked the breakfast in Aqualina. Food invariably arrived tepid, and frequently the order was wrong or inadequate. I also didn't like the wait to be served: preferred the immediacy (and temperature) of the breakfast buffet in Windows. Each to his own

The Azamazing evening we had in Montevideo was one of the best we have ever experienced, anywhere. No food (as usual) but a 'welcome' drink.

With regard to access to spa deck - please see Post #5, above.

Long time to update! Irrespective of what you say, I have been on three Azamara cruises in the last 12 months. I was never denied access to this area.

I think you alone can decide what suits your budget and needs! (Pun intended)

What is EXMO? Your loyalty status may entitle you to more laundry.

I think the T&C's are quite specific and detailed. Here is some of the content: Cruise Privileges Program ("CPP") benefits are valid only for new CPP bookings made with participating cruise lines through American Express Travel. CPP benefits are valid only for eligible U.S. Consumer and Business Platinum and Centurion® Card Members (Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Card Members are not eligible). CPP bookings must be made using the eligible Card. CPP benefits are non-transferable. Participating cruise lines and program benefits are subject to change. The benefits of an onboard credit and amenity are valid for new CPP bookings of at least five nights and require double occupancy; the eligible Card Member must be traveling on the itinerary booked; the total cost of the CPP booking must be paid using an American Express® Card in the eligible Card Member's name.

Here you go: Suites & Staterooms Welcome to your vacation home with ocean views, sea breezes, and all the style and amenities of a boutique hotel. Plush cotton robes, complimentary bath products, fresh flowers, and 24-hour room service. Our goal is to make you comfortable so you can spend more time on important things. Like exploring the world. SUITES Experience the Suite Life The premier way to travel, discover luxury with each Azamara voyage from our Club World Owner's Suite, Club Ocean Suite, Club Continent Suite or Club Spa Suites. As a suite guest receive a variety of exclusive benefits in addition to modern accommodations and authentic service. We take care of all the details, so you can focus on the adventure ahead. Continent Suite Spacious and comfortable, our Club Continent Suites feature fresh new décor inspired by natural elements. With two beds convertible to a queen, a cozy sitting area, breezy balcony and refreshed bathroom with a bathtub or shower, this is your wonderful, refined home away from home. Club Continent Suite Stateroom Spacious and comfortable, our Club Continent Suites feature fresh new décor inspired by natural elements. With two beds convertible to a queen, a cozy sitting area, breezy balcony and refreshed bathroom with a bathtub or shower, this is your wonderful, refined home away from home. Suite Features Included Suite Amenities Luxurious cotton bed linens with duvet Terry bathrobes and slippers 24-hour room service Fresh-cut flowers Tote bag Use of umbrella Shoe shine-service Turndown treats Daily news bulletin Complimentary Internet (240 minutes or 50% off the unlimited internet package) One free bag of laundry service per suite, each seven days* Complimentary specialty dining Complimentary access to the Thalassotherapy pool and spa deck SUITE AMENITIES In-Suite Afternoon Tea Open the sliding glass doors and take your tea on your private veranda, served by your butler. Complimentary Spirits Sip on your favorite cocktail, made from a selection of complimentary in-room spirits.

Don't gamble. Renew your passport (if you can) so as to obviate problems with validity. From the foregoing answers you can see that it is not straightforward.

My experience, too.