A really great perk. We always send out our laundry. Just send underware, tee shirts and items that aren't good. However we never had a problem. We also, for a fee, might send dry cleaning and pressing items out also.
I don't understand how a tiny room like that would work- but that's me. Consider two oceanview staterooms even interior. The bathroom would be a real problem, especially with seniors.
The cabin seems to lack adequate storage. Who needs a hammock! Would rather have two nice lounge chairs. No little kids great. Glad they don't have art auctions. Do not like "camp" seating in Razzle Dazzle. Not sure that line is for me. We really enjoy Celebrity Edge class ships. Might stick to them for now.
We would book on Oasis class ships only. Great choices of specialty restaurants- on the old ships not many options. Have enjoyed all of the specialty restaurants on Oasis class. Also did on Icon- IMO worth it- get a two or three night package on the old ships.
We are two adults and found the surfside family suite horrible. It is small with no storage. Unless you have a toddler the 1/2 room much too small. The split bathroom toilet side tiny
The water is safe to drink. Some people who drink tons of water, order the non-alcoholic beverage package. They get bottled water at every bar and venue, and might bring a few bottles back to their cabin.
I wouldn't want to bring as not great savings and bad for my back- it is your vacation.
Unfortunately it appears that for many dressing up is a thing of the past. We still do and enjoy it. My DH owns his own dress clothes, and when necessary updates them.
You can bring a rented tuxedo with you if you don't own one. My DH used to order me a corsage also, as our anniversary and birthday's coincide with some of our cruises.
Don't let it stop you from dressing up. Many people still do-
when we saw Hairspray many years ago on the Oasis it was our favorite show. It was excellent. Looking forward to seeing it again on the Symphony. Our least favorite show is cats- a real boring stinker. Unfortunately we will be going on the Oasis again in the spring- of course will skip the show.
Our least favorite shows are those with too much acrobatics- Celebrity does that in it's main theatre- people rolling up in cloth. Enough already.
You can only book onboard. Suggest if you are fussy about time, go to any specialty restaurant on board as soon as you board and book. You can reserve all dinners for any restaurant at any restaurant.
Very different IMO. People sometimes do not wash before using utensils. Pick and eat food on line then grab utensils for more food- Kids sometimes put thing back and grab food with their fingers. We either try to be the first on line for a buffet or avoid completely. With door knobs and elevator buttons, you can use wipes after.
If you cannot do a full suite, it is a good compromise- The room is much bigger and the walk in closet is great. Early boarding- extra points and a few other perks as previously mentioned. For me, the extra space is the best.
You will enjoy either- However, IMO the Allure is a ship that has more to offer. The ship is newer and the amenities, entertainment and food options are better. However, kids will love either and it would depend on your budget.
Our ship is stopping at Puerto Plata, DR instead of Labadee it looks like a great port- so much to do at the actual port- or some shore excursions available. Last time we went to Labadee I was disappointed. Food not good- We were in a suite and the suite area wasn't great- many flies and sand ants-