ldubs

If I have a question I would rather ask in a new thread than attempt to search for relevant answers in one that is thousands of posts long.

We were in exactly the same place as you for a long time. In fact, if you searched back several years you would find a post from me saying the same thing. We had tried several times and were absolutely convinced using a TA would not be to our advantage for the cabin classes we typically used. That was until we found the right TA. Our TA serves folks and their family who work(ed) in a specific industry segment.

It can be more complicated. All the perspectives can lead some to overthinking things. But overall, I think having more choices is a good thing.

We were the same for a long time before we finally found a TA that delivered significant price savings. BTW, I don't agree that TA discounts are not available for fall season cruises. We just booked a fall cruise at an incredible savings compared to booking directly. To sweeten things, we selected the cabin we wanted and have a refundable deposit. The cruise line fare we compared was a guarantee and nonrefundable deposit. As far as controlling the booking, the difference is instead of calling or using the cruise line website, we call the TA or use theTA's website. Using the TA does not prevent us from entering preferences to our Princess Cruise Personalizer if we want to take that approach. If fares go down, we can get the lower fare without having to deal with the cruise line. But, we have to monitor fare levels and make the request.

Sweet spot for us is 2,500 to 3,500. Age not a big consideration as long as the ship has been maintained. Though I have to admit I have not been on any size cruise that I didn't enjoy.

I tHink I'm repeating. I would get the data plan, then easy to stay in touch. Use the Medallion location function as a backup.

X2. We just saved over 10% booking through our TA vs directly with Princess. And, there was much happiness!

And yet, I would not want to go back to the cruise card. Even with the glitches, I like the medallion. I guess the cruise cards are still an option for those who really want them.

Your neighbor's experience is a horror story. Short connections should not be allowed. Sadly, even booking directly with the airline will often have short connection options, labeled nonstandard (or whatever term they use). No way I would do 30 minutes at any airport. Sadly those without experience will rely on the booking agent to make a viable routing. Let the flyer beware! As far as having to go through EZAir for problems, I suppose that would depend on the problem. Changing a ticket to another carrier is interesting. In the bad old days there was some reciprocity between airlines. Those days seem to be long gone.

Good advice. I don't think EZAir is different than anyone else when it comes to guaranteeing a timely arrival. No one can really guarantee that.

At first I didn't understand your comment about it being risky. Now I get it. With missed connections that are the airline's fault, they will put you on an alternative flight. That doesn't mean it will be the best alternative or get you to your destination on time. Is that different than if booked through your TA? Out of pure curiosity, in your neck of the woods, when booking an international flight (not with a cruise) do you normally use a travel agent?

Uh oh. I had hoped it was recognized as a good natured jest.

Right now if we had to name one it would be Enchanted Princess.

Good point. I've read quite a few posts from folks who want the package, or all inclusive fare, just for the convenience.

While I still think disgust is a rather strong emotion to be reserved for more important things, I recognize and have empathy for your feelings about this.

Yup, for some it makes sense and for others it doesn't. I don't understand the endless posts about why or why not the purchase is justified. It isn't exactly rocket science.

"if it sounds too good to be true" This one simple concept would eliminate a lot of scams and deceptive sales pitches.

I'm really interested in hearing what folks think of the new layout. One of the things I really like about Princess ships are the variety of very comfortable areas available to just chill.

Prices may vary, but otherwise I think you will find the basic fare "extras" on Princess to be about the same as Celebrity. Assuming no perks of course. Negatively has always been widespread on these forums and it is worse since covid, in many cases for valid reasons. We would all like the experience of 20 years ago, especially at today's prices. Those days are gone for mass market lines.

Back in the saddle!

But that is what a souvenir is -- a reminder of the trip.

As long as the ships don't leave earlier than posted, I'm good!

When we did the canal transit the new locks were still under construction. We did a partial transit. Once we reached the lake, we did an excursion on a small ferry boat that took us the rest of the way through to the Pacific. Then we were bused back to the ship. If I recall, there were drinks and snacks made available. The ferry excursion through the remaining locks was pretty cool. You could literally reach out and touch the side of the lock, which we shared with other vessels. There are some long stretches of motoring along that some might find tedious. If that is an issue, it is likely better to have the amenities of a cruise ship over being on a small ferry.

@leck57 makes a good point about rules being potentially differrent in different countries. From here, as long as it is apples-to-apples and prior to final payment, yes you can get the lower fare.