BayCalif-Ariz R Us

We're long time cruisers and fans of Cruise Critic. Friends Ed and Buffy from DC are aboard and having a wonderful time so we're checking in from time to time. Are you following the stranded Russian 'cruise ship' Akademik Shokalskiy ? Just wondering if they are anywhere near you all. How nice if you could pipe them aboard for some hot cocoa and brandy!

we've seen Al twice and don't recal him ridiculing anyone, he was very very funny. One night at dinner we were sat at a large table and he joined the table for dinner, I didn't recognize him as I hadn't seen his show yet and thought, man this guy is funny then he said "i hope so, I am the commedian tonight" enjoy

We saw him last year, can't remember the ship. He joined our table at dinner and I was lucky to sit next to him. In fact, I was so charmed I bought him an after dinner drink that included the glass. He was kind of blown away by a passenger doing that. What a shame. When performers are good - and he is - it's nice to let them know in some tangible way if you can. We tend to not listen to CDs so don't buy them. I was glad to buy the guy a drink.

I have only tried the international cafe on the Emerald and loved it. The sandwiches, salads, pastries, cookies were fresh and delicious. the only complaint was that there was only one server for everything (after all this is free food) and the lines got pretty long. Also, they offered tapas - four for $3 or $4 dollars, I forget, but they were worth it - especially the little lamb chops! I made a meal out of them one night. And if you like to try different wines or sushi, "VINES" is directly across the piazza, and is wonderful for sampling.