Got2Cruise

The hotels by JFK are not recommended unless it’s the TWA hotel. That’s why the cost is low. I’d change the hotel.

Ohhh I didn’t realize that about AMEX. I use the Costco VISA because of the 3% cash back but now I’m going to have to re think it. I usually book less than one year ahead so I’m going to have to do some research. Which in my case means asking credit card gurus on a FB group lol

Definitely spend a couple of days in Munich at the end. Neuschwanstein Castle, all the beer gardens and Old Town Munich are all very worthwhile and interesting.

Did you consider other brands before you chose Viking? Was the price significantly less?

I agree with White Plains. When I put it into Google Maps it says take the FDR Drive to the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel. It’s a crap ride because you have to go thru the Bronx and the part by the G Washington Bridge is tricky to get into Manhattan. If you’re considering NJ don’t forget that Seacaucus is where the hotels are for Met Life Stadium and it will also be congested because of Christmas Shopping, plus the football game. There’s a bunch of stores over there.

I’d stay in the Financial District of Manhattan. The rates for the properties are lower than midtown. The only property in Brooklyn I recommend to tourists who aren’t street savvy is the Marriott Brooklyn Bridge and that’s always expensive. Choose either LGA or JFK whichever works out best for you. But do know LGA is shut down more often than JFK.

One thing that might happen is that it triggers the dreaded extra security check. It all goes back to 9/11 and the terrorists buying one way tickets.

I’m going to confess that when I got to Vatican Museum I didn’t stop to look at any of the magnificent paintings in the hallways or ceilings. Walked straight into the Sistine chapel. We also went into St Peters to see the magnificence and of course the Pieta.

Rome is very crowded and frankly overwhelming. Even if you are going to the Vatican with a private tour it’s still overwhelming. You need to do a bit of research and narrow down what you want to see there. I wouldn’t want to leave Rome without seeing the Sistine Chapel.

Interesting to learn. Thanks.

@Host Jazzbeau back in 2019 when I sailed the Douro, all the vessels were owned by the same company and leased to the various brands. This was due to the narrowness of Douro and the special regulations in Portugal. Are you saying that the Scenic ship is not leased from the Portuguese company?

I’m so happy for you that you had such a wonderful experience. I agree that Salamanca is worth the trip.

I didn’t pack anything. Who has room? Lol but everyone, dressed or not was having a fun time.

Download the app Spot Hero. You’ll have a backup plan “just in case” it’s full when you arrive. Arrive around 10 am. The previous cruisers will all be gone. Plenty of spaces open.

It’s really a personal preference. Some think it’s worth the extra $$ to experience the view of the Manhattan skyline and eat at stay and eat at higher quality places. Others are fine staying and eating at moderate places, they have no interest in Manhattan.

Oceania and NCL are part of the same company so I have faith. I wonder how that happened?

Hi. The area has so many restaurants but here are a few to get started. You didn’t say the day of the week, but NYC is big on brunch on the weekend. Reservations are highly recommended. You can Google to get the website and menus Moderate priced American - The Smith Midtown 2nd Ave between 50th and 51st Fig & Olive Midtown 52nd off Fifth Famous Bagel Place - Ess-a Bagel 3rd Ave and 50 th Italian - La Pecora Bianca Midtown 50th and 2nd Ave Fresco By Scotto has a Special Prix Fixe Lunch 3 courses $57. Famous NYC Steakhouse- Smith & Wollensky 49th Street and 3rd Ave

I LOVE that location. It’s Midtown East so it’s walkable to many tourist spots, but no where near seedy Times Square. You have a wonderful choice of non tourist trap restaurants around. Also good transportation options. My daughter lived in Turtle Bay which is slightly East, I know the area well.

If the ship is at full capacity, which preCovid many times the case, every seat is accounted for. One is very entitled if they think they deserve a table of four if they’re a party or two. We have met so many interesting people from all parts of the world, chatting with them at a meal. Also, we imagine ourselves being a solo traveler. Of course you’re welcome at our table.

We were on Uniworld La Venezia and there were maybe 6 tables for 2. Be the first ones in the dining room if you want to secure one.

I’m finding this discussion very interesting. I’ve been to all these wonderful towns mentioned.

Go on your own It’s very easy to book the tours you want thru TripAdvisor or Viator. The only time it would be worth it is if it’s a hassle to get to the city to the cruise port independently.

I was fortunate to take an “after hours tour” of St Marks. What a beautiful experience. Nobody in the place except 100 people. You sit in the pews and listen to the very knowledgeable guide about the history. Then you are able to get up close to the Golden Altar and learn about that. Also you go down to the crypt. Look on TripAdvisor the tour is listed

Thank you for sharing your unfortunate event. It is good to know how Amawaterways goes beyond to provide their passengers assistance. P

You’re welcome! I wanted to give readers an idea what they would be experiencing if they chose this itinerary.