Got2Cruise

Ask when you get on the cruise. They’ll know. 

Go to a hotel. Obviously not a five star hotel. Go to the bell desk. Say Hi can you keep our bags until check/in. Have a $10 bill in your hand. 99% of the time it will be sure no problem. 

Which airport are you referring to?

I always look at the included excursions with the extensions. I did take an extension in Milan because it included hard to get Last Supper and a private boat tour of Lake Como. 
 

I also took the extension in Munich because it included Neuschwanstein Castle. 
 

Many times the extension leaves the entire afternoon free so you have to do research anyway. Obtain tickets or tours to popular sites beforehand. 

Hi. Where is your hotel located or will you be coming directly from JFK?

if you are near Penn Station you can find the PATH train to Bayonne on 33rd Street. You need to exit Penn Station and walk. It’s not far. But if you are near the World Trade Center you can catch the PATH train there. 

On 2/29/2024 at 9:50 PM, screwsmcernst said:

We are planning our 1st river cruise on Ama Waterways.  What is there to do in the evenings?  Will we need to make our own fun?

 

Which itinerary? Some itineraries you can walk around town a bit if you wish on some stops. 

I would definitely do the Alto Vista Chapel if you’re Christian. It’s just a lovely place. 
 

The Natural Bridge is also something only in Aruba and everyone should see the rough side of the island. 
 

The lighthouse has beautiful views. 
 

I’ve never done the others. But I do love Aruba Aloe products. The sunburn gel is great especially but I just purchase at one of the Aruba Aloe stores. 

Hi. Maybe a starting point is to decide if you want to do ESB or Top of the Rock. If you do Top of the Rock you will be able to view the ESB and get it in your pics. There are nice enough hotels near the ESB or Rock Center. Personally Rock Center area a bit nicer and more to see right there. 
 

3 hours ago, youngnet2 said:

Thanks so much for the info.  So much to do, so little time!  But that's okay, we will pace ourselves and enjoy the complete adventure.  I have started my vacation spread sheet with the tips and suggestions that everyone has shared so far,  and already filled up a couple of pages.  LOL    Thank you again

I have a bunch of photos from my trip posted here if you want to search. 

Don’t worry about the Last Supper, your guides will have it booked and let you know when you get there. As was explained to us, it’s very difficult to get the booking for the Last Supper and they can’t always get it for the first day. We had it in the second day and it all worked out. 
 

We took the Masterpiece extra tour to Lake Como and loved it. Definitely take it if it is offered. 

Hi. We took this tour last summer. It looks like you have Lake Como covered I was going to suggest that. Also we booked directly thru the Milan Duomo the tour amongst the spires on the roof. We loved that. If you have free time in Milan I recommend that. 
 

When you are in Venice you will be given the choice of tours on the last day. I highly recommend the tour that goes to the market by the Rialto bridge. You travel there in private water taxi which is worthwhile as it is. Also don’t leave without a gondola ride. 
 

This is a matter of personal taste but there were one or two stops where you get to choose a beautiful church or a winery. We always chose the winery and were always glad. 
 

All the included tours were wonderful. 

You’ll be able to cross 6th Ave on foot. You could always walk over to 7th Ave and then get a cab or Uber from there. No need to walk the entire distance. 

I’m surprised Bratislava isn’t a separate stop.

How many days in Vienna do you have? 

Bratslavia is interesting especially if you take the hike up to the Castle, but Vienna much more worth your time. But it also depends if you want to learn more about Maria Theresa. It’s a lot. Lol 

2 hours ago, Goldenrosebags said:

No. I'm not rude. Just extremely shy. I really want to do the chef's table, so grin and bear it it is. 

I’m sure it will be fine. Usually a good conversation is other cruises you’ve been on and places you’ve traveled to. 

Hi. Very good advice given so far. Agree wholeheartedly about the tours. You won’t need to interact with those on the tour. Most guests are focusing on the guide. And then free time you break off until it’s time to get back to the bus. It’s good to have a waving friendship with other guests. 
 

One thing to mention is that on AMA there is the Chef’s Table special dining room. It would be a shame to miss that. But they will seat you at a table for 4 with another couple. 
 

Id look at Uniworld also. Depending on the ship you might have more 2 top selection. 
 

For breakfast get there as soon as dining room opens you’ll get your 2 top. 
 

For dinner one of you go to the dining room a few minutes before it opens, the other stay in the lounge to listen to the Cruise Manager about the next day’s plans. At the lounge sit at the bar. 
 

Please smile and wave to others even if you don’t wish any other interaction. Others understand if you’re reserved but nice. It’s different than not wanting to bother with anyone because you put on airs. 
 

They fixed up LaG. Easier to maneuver than EWR. 

lol. If you are a true NYer you know what I’m taking about. But I’ll translate. 
 

it’s a short subway ride under the East River. Queens is on the other side of the narrow East River. 
 

I don’t understand why you don’t feel it’s a good place to stay if you’re on a budget. Museum of Moving Image blocks away. Safe area. Less than $100 per night or more than Manhattan. 

5 hours ago, Indiansbaseball said:

Hi ! 
Is this a good place to stay if we come in early and do want to sight see ? Their website says they are close to subway and attractions. 
Thanks 😊 

It’s in the borough of Queens. It’s right under the East River and you’ll be in Manhattan. It’s good if you’re on a budget. 
 

Of course it’s more convenient to stay in Manhattan. Compare the rates for when you’re visiting. 
 

Usually I only book 6 months out but I’m going to plan ahead this time. 
 

Is it possible to do a Tulip Time in April with an extension to the Swiss Alps? Share your experiences. Open to all brands. O

Tell your friend to get a cabin on the middle deck, in the middle. I think the lower level you can feel the wake or the vessel gets bumped around while docking or going thru the locks. Perfectly fine for most folks but if she’s very sensitive she might feel queasy. 

We had the pleasure of enjoying a Seine RC a few years ago. Fortunately maybe one cathedral we saw but only the outside.

What you need to do is read the day to day itineraries very carefully. The devil is in the details. Will you be taking the precruise extension in Paris? What does that include. My number one advice is to confirm that the vessel is docked in Paris with a view of the Eiffel Tower. 
 

26 minutes ago, mjkacmom said:

Secaucus junction is 20 minutes from penn station (my young adult kids transfer to/from Secaucus from Delawanna, entire trip is 30 minutes). Secaucus hotels will usually have bus service into port authority.

Oh even better. Even though the Port Authority is a bit confusing to use if you’re not used to it. Also many more characters hanging around. 

It’s not far at all from EWR to Broadway. Stay in Secaucus. Get the NJT train into NY Penn Station from Seacacus Junction. It takes less than an hour. Then it’s a quick walk up 7th Ave to your theater. Easy peasy. 
 

Unless you have a companion who can assist you, it will be very difficult on any RC.

Doubletree Long Island City Queens shows $185 for the night. If you are leaving from Manhattan Cruise Terminal this is a good property and location.