Adventures ahead

Have used SDT before. We're travelling late October. It's been a wait and see to reach minimum numbers for some of the ports. So far, it's working out. Communication has been excellent.

Rather than use an airport ATM, I've used a bank on Plaça Catalunya that's affiliated with my bank in Canada. Saved fees.

Sailing NCL for first time and on Dawn in October. Can you find out early on the cruise when shows will be in the Stardust Theatre? Do you need to reserve seats for it, or for any other entertainment venue? Do any charge a fee?

I know this thread is about renewals. For others reading here, I just spoke with CBSA about making a new (initial) application. Told that applications aren't handled in chronological order by US Homeland Security. Worst-case scenario is 20-22 months before application could be pulled, then step 2 would be set up an interview. Good luck with your renewals.

First-time NCL cruiser. Sailing in October. Can someone share recent Dailies from the Dawn?

Apparently concerts have been added. Our only option was a self-guided audio-tour that we thoroughly enjoyed and recommend.

I'd request one for boarding regardless of the port. The ramps can often be a very long walk! I requested wheelchair assistance for my husband when our agent booked the flights. I suppose it can be added to your flight reservation whenever you're able.

First-timer question... If your bid is accepted by NCL, are you automatically upgraded and credit card automatically charged without you being consulted if you want to accept the new location?

I fell short of suggesting missing Park Guell. Thought I might be admonished! It was interesting but not my favourite. As a second Gaudi 'fix' to Sagrada Familia, we thought Casa Batlló was a lot more fun and easier to get to. To us, the park felt like a make-believe land (without a guide). The Gothic Quarter felt real, so well worth the time spent there. I've done the Runner Bean tour twice and hope to do it again this fall. A little different each time with a different guide. I only suggest a route on the HOHO for a relatively quick overview, don't get off, time to sit and relax, learn from the English commentary. Food isn't a priority for us on a port day. For a quick snack at a café, try patatas bravas and a local drink. (BTW, don't lay your phone or camera down on a table. Don't fret. Just keep your bag in your lap.) Come back and tell us how your day went!

You're welcome! Agree with Marazul. Makes sense to do your most important first, then judge what you can do in the remaining time. We were in Barcelona for a week. A much different reality on a cruise ship day. I wouldn't use the HOHO bus as transportation to visit Sagrada Familia and Park Guell in a day, plus attempt to accomplish everything else on a long wish list. In my opinion, if taxis are plentiful, waiting for buses can waste precious time. Park Guell was unguided so it's easy to lose track of time. We skipped the trails and went directly into the Monumental Zone. Would be great to fit in at least one of the three loops on the HOHO bus for an overview of the city. Each route takes 2-2.5 hrs without getting off. If skipping one, I'd skip the one along the beach... even though I love beaches. BTW, we truly enjoyed the walking tour in the Gothic Quarter where we had a personal guide providing historical accounts of what we we saw. The tour would restrict your time as it only runs at certain hours. We also enjoyed Gaudi's Casa Battló, a short walk from Plaça Catalunya. It's a single crazy-amazing building and appealed to my sense of humour. Something for everything... tough choices to make. Truth is, it's all amazing! Enjoy!

There is no charge. You tip/pay what you want.

A perfect answer... for now... including the mind-reading comment, lol! So often I'm tempted to go further afield and, possibly, miss something great that could be right under my nose. However, Soller seems to be worth the trip, as does an optional stop in Valldemossa. Excellent to have an experienced feedback on how to divide up the time. Thanks!

Hola Roger B! First-time visitors to Palma De Mallorca. Nov 2 NCL Dawn 8am-7pm. Two women, early 70's, adventuresome spirits, good walkers. Without knowing our likes/dislikes, what are your recommendations for a 'must see/do' visit? PS - Won't rent a car!

I've done the HOHO twice before when staying a few nights pre-cruise. When doing all three routes from Plaça Catalunya as your starting point, it took us most of the day without getting off. August/September was busy, lots of stops with people getting off and on. As you know, the Gaudi sites sell timed-entry tickets. If doing the Sagrada tower (I recommend) you'd probably be there more than an hour to get the most of your visit. It's not to be missed. For that reason, a taxi between sites may be the the most efficient time-saving option. It will be hot and you won't want to rush... stop for a snack and drink. You may still have time to do a couple of the HOHO routes for the views and English commentary. Barcelona is huge! Limited what you can do in a day! From Plaça Catalunya, you may want to walk the length of the Ramblas (1.3km long) to the Columbus monument on the waterfront 'near' cruise ships, and catch a ship's shuttle across the street, if offered, or taxi back. The Ramblas runs adjacent to the Gothic Quarter where we did 'free' Runner Bean Walking Tour from Plaça Reial. Enjoy!

This. Do it!

100 days out from a Med cruise in October from Lisbon to Barcelona including Canary Islands and Morocco. Many ports (12 ports in total) show no excursions at all, very limited, or only very expensive gourmet tours. The number of tours available has decreased since booking a couple of months ago. Wondering why some have disappeared and if more will be added.

Thanks for sharing. NCL's choices in October are to tour Agadir or venture out of the city to Taroudant. What tour company did you use? Currently, nothing is being offered for Casablanca.

We just booked Rossio Plaza Hotel for October. It boasts a great location and excellent reviews.