Beachb

Thanks Phoenix. The Mexican Riviera cruise went well and I do plan to continue cruising. I did cancel the Panama Canal cruise primarily because I wanted to spend more time pre and post cruise in Japan and don't have enough vacation with the Panama Canal cruise being so long (so not entirely because of the higher UV levels there, although avoiding that is probably a good idea).

 

Your advice on how to handle the photo-sensitivity is much appreciated--thanks again.

Hi Bassett Mom, Just wanted to add my two cents to Phoenix_13's comments. I was diagnosed with lupus in the mid-1970's when the outcomes were significantly more dire than they are now. I had both the photosensitivity (first flare followed a week vacation in Jamaica!) and systemic lupus with organ involvement. Like you I was already an adult when diagnosed and a lifelong beach lover and cruise lover. So I learned very quickly to adapt and adjust. I admit to pushing the envelope but each lupus patient needs to learn what the limits are for their own disease. It is different for each of us. I don't know you or your specific case but after working with dozens of patients over the past 40+ years through support groups and phone lines, I would guess that your dermatologist is being over protective and you need to find out what works for you. Cruising is actually pretty easy because one can usually find shaded decks on one side of the ship or other. And big panoramic windows are featured on all ships these days. All the other stuff is obvious cover up as much as possible, avoid peak hours and ALWAYS have your sunscreen at the ready. I wanted to write because I wanted to say how important it is to end a way to live the life you want with the cards you are dealt. I was not supposed to make it to 40 and I just had my 70th birthday, getting ready for my 31st cruise and spend most winters in Hawaii. You will figure out what you need to do, and then get on with it. Good luck, Bill

Thank you all for your thoughtful comments and insights. I will continue to follow with great interest as my intended cruise will not happen until the Dec '16 - Feb '17 timeframe.

 

But the main point above will unquestionably be the key. The decision will be itinerary-driven. We are fortunate enough to have done a sufficient number of Caribbean cruises. So now we seek new adventures, and new sights and cultures to embrace. If I am still learning, I am still living - no thriving!

Clearly no offense was meant to Caribbean cruisers. You will note the B2B coming up in October! But even that was "music-driven" as we are doing a Blues Cruise.

A bit concerned about the negative food comments, though, as we are foodies. Still, we are planning a cruise to return to East and South Africa, not to spend days in the dining room.

Thank you all for your thoughtful comments and insights. I will continue to follow with great interest as my intended cruise will not happen until the Dec '16 - Feb '17 timeframe.

But the main point above will unquestionably be the key. The decision will be itinerary-driven. We are fortunate enough to have done a sufficient number of Caribbean cruises. So now we seek new adventures, and new sights and cultures to embrace. If I am still learning, I am still living - no thriving!

Thank you mjnvoyager.

Look forward to more comments.

Me too please!

Thinking of upgrading from Celebrity and Azamara to Oceania or Silversea (Cloud). Appreciate any thoughts comments and advice.

We are in the process of making exactly this decision and found this thread to be very helpful. Of course helpful does not mean it showed us an answer!

Thinking about booking this cabin on upcoming cruise. Is my memory right on this one? Does it have a bathtub

AND a shower stall?

It is a big balcony so there are usually two lounges and two chairs with a table. Not sure I remember ever seeing footstools, though i agree completely, they would be preferable to lounges.