GLP

There is a part of the wall between exp. cafe/library that opens. To my knowledge there is no wall that would separate part of the CN. There are a few computers along the starboard windows of the exp. cafe/library with an opening going into the CN.

I'm very sorry to hear that but I'm wondering how often the Crows Nest was actually occupied during that cruise? And was it the only venue you could not access? It could be that it was just coincidence it was blocked during those times you wanted to visit. On the other hand, it could be another example of other reports here in recent weeks of large groups taking over ship's venues to the exclusion of other guests. :confused:

It appeared to me that it was booked by just a few people most of the times. One day we went in the morning and it was "booked for a private function" and again the afternoon of the same day. Yes there were other places we could and did go on the ship but it was just not the same. The crows nest is so open and bright. And yes there were other venues were booked as well, piano bar as another example.

We recently sailed on the Nuiew Amsterdam, Jan 24 to Feb 8th. On sea days and days when we do not go ashore we like to go to the Crows Nest and sit and read. However on this cruise the Crows Nest was booked for private functions at least half of the time. I feel that this is a public area and should not be booked for just a few and not allowing others access!!!!!

Other than that it was a very good cruise. We went to all 3 specialty restaurants, all of which were excellent.

We recently sailed on the Ryndam out of Tampa, returned Feb. 8th. We took a taxi from the cruise port to the air port. The fare is a flat $25.00 and there are a number of taxi's waiting when you get off the ship.

We are looking at booking the 14 day Southern Caribbean cruise on the Ryndam Jan 25, 2015. Having only been to Tampa once, many years ago, just a day trip I know nothing about hotels there. We are planning on getting into Tampa on the 23rd, arriving by air from Canada, and would greatly appreciate any help you could offer regarding hotels, close to both air port and cruise port.

Thanking you, in advance, for your usual prompt and informative responses.

The problem with a hold is it limits your ability to charge that amount for other purchases on the card,i.e., if you have a $5,000 credit limit on the card and HAL holds $3,000 against it, a $3,000 charge for another purchase will not go through. This could be a problem if you're near your limit and this card has some automatic bill payments such as utilities that are going to hit while you're away. They may not clear,generating penalties and charges. You may also go ashore and try to make a purchase to have your card rejected.

 

In defense of MTVL, while HAL is not pre-charging him, this type of hold is a real potential inconvenience.

This is why a hold is palced on a card in the first place. The hold is the only way HAL has To Ensure they are paid what is OWING to them at the end of the cruise.

I worked for 35 + years in a finacial institution and little do you know but there is a HOLD placed on ALL credit card transactions until the transaction clears to the credit card company.

That is the only way the credit card company can guarantee the merchant they will be paid what is owed them.