5326jan

See the comments in red above.

 

By the way, if you do the Shanghai to Beijing direction, do not expect free time in Shanghai other than on the day you arrive in Shanghai.

Thanks Bill! I love hearing this from someone I know and respect!

We're considering this trip for 2013 and would love to benefit from the experience of others. While I understand there is so much that is subjective, there is also some information based on fact and I'm interested in the subjective opinions to see if there is a trend. I promise I won't ask about tastes of food or coffee, softness of mattresses or which tour guide I should ask for!:D;)

Here are my questions, please share your opinions:

**Which month is the most comfortable to travel related to cool temperatures (between 65-80) and low humidity and smog? Or which month did you go that was bad? Our plans are very flexible.

**What are the pros and cons to starting in Shanghai as opposed to Beijing? Why did you like/dislike the direction you went?

**Do you recommend flying in a day or two early to get used to the time zone? (I understand that Viking transfers are not available if you come in early and that there may be a deviation charge added to the air)

**Is there a preferred deck or side of ship for either direction? More sun/less sun, noise, scenery, etc.

**If you could change one thing you planned with your trip what would it be? It doesn't really matter what you wished VRC did different, because I can't change that.... just something extra you planned.. a special tour you wished you did on your own time, a show that you wished you had skipped... or you skipped that you regret, etc.

Thank you so much. I really did read more than a year's worth of posts on the now closed thread and appreciate so much people's time sharing all the great information. :)

As an aside, this will be our first River Cruise!

Thank you so much for the great review! We are interested in doing this trip next year. Hope you don't mind a few questions!

Did Viking arrange your air? If so, were you able to choose a carrier? We're flying out of Norfolk and would like to use Delta to get credit towards our FF miles. Did they allow you to fly in a day ahead to avoid airline related mishaps that could delay your trip?

Were there plenty of choices related to food? I have a seafood allergy and have some problems in Asia when travelling independently convincing the restaurants that taking the fish out of fish broth doesn't solve the problem.:p I don't want to draw attention to myself, so I always travel with peanut butter crackers in case I can't eat what's served. It would be nice to know that Viking would help in this regard.

In general, how much did you tip the bus drivers and local guides on a daily basis? Was there a safe in the stateroom on the ship?

Would you recommend an area on the ship for cabin? Does it make much of a difference?

Again, thanks for your review!

I lived in Europe for the past 10 years, so speedos are commonplace at the beach or pool, although not as commonplace as in the 90's. Never understood the negativity in the U.S. generated by speedos but I can almost understand when I see the typical American tourist in Europe...fat, bald, with a goatee, wearing running shoes, baggy shorts falling off the butt, printed t-shirt and baseball cap. I guess if I looked like that, wearing speedo would be nasty site. Fortunately I don't look like that, so I wear a speedo.

I think your description is an unfair stereotype of American men. But if it makes you feel superior....:rolleyes:

I live in a beach resort and we have many European and Canadian visitors. We appreciate that they want to come to our beautiful beaches and enjoy their vacations here, regardless of what style of dress they wear!

I personally don't like speedos on any shape or nationality, but that is just my opinion and I won't disparage an entire nation's gender because of it!:confused:

Hi, 5326jan, we are planning to go on the Voyager of the Seas which will dock in Koper on Oct 09 this year. Actually I did ask him for any other recommendations and that is his answer:

 

'I am sorry but I would rather not make any recommendations for alternative providers because I cannot vouch 100% for their quality and reliability. I did this once before and it backfired on me and the clients were not happy with me. I hope you understand my predicament.'

 

I do understand his situation, that's why I try to ask if anyone can give me any other recommendations.

Hi, we just got back. Graeme was great and Slovenia was fabulous! If you haven't found a guide yet, maybe you would be able to rent a car and DIY. The roads were perfect... like driving in Anywhere, USA! There was a toll road, so have Euros, but that was the only "extra" about driving there. Lake Bled was about 2 1/4 hrs from port and Lj half the distance. The castle at Lake Bled was worth the 8E entry fees and the views were beautiful Our only problem with the time in port in Koper was that there wasn't enough time there! My DH and I would love to go back for a week. It's beautiful!

Sure, you can do Istanbul as a DIY, but enhance your time there with a guide! We enjoyed our half day walking tour with Kagan Kosagan. Be sure to include the cisterns in your day! http://www.tourguidesinturkey.com/kagankosagan.html

We just returned from the Princess Black Sea cruise, Sept 4-16, so I can give you VERY recent information!

We used Achtypis Travel and were very pleased with the tour. http://www.achtypistours.gr/volos-meteora-monasteries-lunch The vehicle was a 15-18 passenger recent model air conditioned mini bus. There were 7 of us on the tour and it worked out to be about 120E each. The cost was higher than the ship's tour, but since there were only 7 of us, we were able to move quickly and beat the crowds on the big buses. Our guide had 35 years of experience and had grown up in the area. We were treated to history, Greek Mythology and stories told through generations of her family. Unlike the ship's tour, our vehicle was small enough to get us to the tops of the hills and drop us off so that we didn't have the steep incline to walk prior to the steps! Our guide's name was Ms Mary and was obviously well known and loved by other guides at the monasteries. She will probably retire soon. She did a great job maneuvering around the crowds to get us to quiet areas where we could hear her and be isolated from the big tours.

If you can manage the stairs, don't miss this trip! The views are stunning! Ladies, take a large wrap or scarf to tie around your waist to enter the monasteries. Head coverings were not necessary. Men should wear long pants. Wear comfortable shoes and take water. We did not go to the largest monastery, which was fine with me. It is the one with 400 steps. The monasteries we went to were Vaarlam and Rousanou. St Stephens was closed because it was Monday. Vaarlam had 140 steps and Rousanou had fewer than 50.

Our tour included lunch in a restaurant in nearby Kalambaka. The travel time to and from the Monasteries is about 2 1/2 hours each way, so be prepared for that. We made a comfort stop on the way and stopped at a grocery store near port on the way back for people that wanted to buy beer, wine, sodas.

I recommend this tour without reservation. It does require a deposit upon booking and final payment a week prior to tour.

I like to give things at least a test wear first. If I don't love wearing it, I don't bring it. Also it helps me to see if there are any

wardribe malfunctions (Some things which seem find with just a trying-on don't do well after a couple of hours)

This is so true!!! Many items that have some spandex get stretched out pretty quickly and are uncomfortable. I hate having to pull my pants up all day because the waist has stretched too much! :eek: (Although, I do want a little stretch on a cruise!:rolleyes:)

The "Vermont Store" (and the catalog) carries a section of nostalgia items, and I bought a Tangee lipstick - I don't use it - just inhale that old familiar smell and it brings me back 55 years! They also carry "Evening in Paris" perfume. And as already mentioned - Villager - sigh. . . .

OMG!!! I completely forgot about Tangee lipstick! How funny! Everytime I smell Cover Girl make up it takes me back too! Oh, and Noxzema was a nightly ritual!

We live in a beach town that is VERY casual.... Once a year we go to the big Charity Gala Ball and I have to buy a dress..... one that I will never wear again. I would love the option of renting one for that evening.

You look very fit. I'm sure you are proud of your physique and in board shorts you'd look handsome. Sorry, speedos...IMHO are tragic and should only be worn by competitive swimmers, just before jumping in the pool!:)

Of course, when wearing the John Meyer and Villager outfits, with Pappagallo shoes you simply had to wear Shalimar Perfume! And.... a monogrammed sweater!:p

Lacody, Yes, I am pretty organized. That's why I like the bagallini....it certainly isn't because they're stylish!;) I put my glasses/sunglasses, mints, etc in the main compartment. The keys/keycard in the outer pocket, my cell phone in the slip pocket on the back and all the things I think I need, but never use (bandaids, pen, calendar, in the section that's the most difficult to get into. There are slots for credit cards, money, etc which I use... but I take very little cash and keep my atm card in my moneybelt when travelling. I wouldn't use this purse at home.

When you think about all the things we carry in our purse, what do we really use? Cash, a credit card, keys, glasses....yet we have everything that may possibly ever be needed in case of emergency. I even have an eyeglasses repair kit in my purse! I actually had to use it last week, so now I'll never be able to give it up!:rolleyes: I think my purse must weigh 4lbs! If anyone tries to snatch it, they'd be sorry!:o

My latest thrift store finds are pictured below.

When I saw the Pappgallo label, it took me back many years to when that was high fashion. Many of the "better" brands began manufacturing low-cost items. Remember Bobbie Brooks, Ship N Shore and White Stag? I'm sure there are other labels that are now found in WalMart and Target...not that it's a bad thing. After all, there's more $$ to be made when appealing to the masses.

Who remembers other great labels - oh, I used to love to shop at Peck & Peck...

The shorts, Capris and tops were purchased for a total of $22.00:)!

The raspberry shorts are Northern Reflection and the blouse had the label cut out. (I ALWAYS cut out scratchy labels, too!). The blouse zips on the side for a nice fit.

The peach print shorts are Pappagallo. What I love about them is the zipper on the side - no extra bulk on my belly! AND of course, the palm trees:cool:. The top is Banana Republic.

The black print Capris are White Stag & I believe WalMart sells that brand. No matter where they came from, the fabric & construction are good quality. The top is Talbots. I didn't include the shoes in my total spending - they were a bogo at Payless!

 

 

Don't forget John Meyer and Villager!

My red Baggallini arrived this week! Lots of room and little compartments for "stuff". And the zippers keep little things from falling out.

It won't be put to work until our September Las Vegas trip.

And it could very well become my everyday handbag until winter when the leather Brighton gets it's turn.

I found another cute bagallini cross body bag today that will be perfect for excursions that don't require a big tote bag! It was at the mall for 49.99, but I got it from ebags for 31.99! I like to support local merchants if they're close in price, but this wasn't even in the ballpark! http://www.ebags.com/product/baggallini/bon-voyage-bagg-crinkle-nylon/107671?sourceid=adwp366602&couponid=55583734 I love all the little compartments! One pocket for each country's currency!:D

Glad I am keeping up with this thread. Your mention of Rehoboth Beach reminded me that DH and I had talked about doing a day trip there in August.

 

I'm sure I'll spot something I "NEED" :rolleyes: for my cruise/Florida/summer closet.

We've also vacationed in Rehoboth, Bethany and Ocean City.... but, IMHO, none can compare to my hometown or the Outer Banks of NC!:D

From looking at the previous posts on this thread, almost everyone recommended Graeme for the private tour for Ljubljana and Lake Bled, however, when I e-mailed Graeme, I was told he is occupied on the date we want already. We were a bit disappointed. So, we want to know if anyone has any other private tour guides or companies to recommend for the Ljubljana and Lake Bled tour, or if we want to go by ourselves, what kind of transportation can we take? Thanks!

just curious, what date/ship are you going to Koper? Did you ask Graeme to recommend anyone since his company can't do the tour?

5326jan: I put your Perfect Carry-On Bag on my Christmas list!! And if I decide it's a Must Have before the Vegas trip, I'll order it myself;).

It's a great looking bag with Lots of pockets. What sold me was the reviewer who said she washed hers and it looked as good as new.

Thank you for the info!!

I haven't washed mine yet, but the fabric is water resistant so most stuff just wipes off with a damp cloth. The only thing that keeps this from being without flaw... a 9 instead of a 10... is that it doesn't have an optional shoulder strap. The two handles do go over my shoulder, but it does flop off from time to time if I'm moving fast. It would be nice to have the option of carrying it across by body. I think it would be an easy fix. I usually use the pocket that fits over my rollaboard handle, so I don't have to carry it. It's got all kinds of neat open and zipper pockets inside and out! Just wanted to give you full disclosure. :D

true i feel very LUCKY that i do have so much to choose from and more than 7 nights to wear it...do love those longer cruises.

but i do have to quit thinking i NEED something else--like that will happen:D

what i really NEED and should concentrate more on is the PERFECT PERSONAL CARRY-ON!

I finally found my perfect personal carry-on. It's perfect because it has a flap that will go onto the handle of my regular carry-on, and it's big enough to hold my small purse and other necessities of long travel... dvd player, book, etc. http://www.ebags.com/product/baggallini/a-la-carte-bagg-medium-crinkle-nylon/107617?productid=1283454

Thanks, ladies! The place I go for laser treatments re: rosacea are the people who suggested it. It is part of a plastic surgeon's office, called an "aesthetics center". The lady that does it is an RN. I haven't actually looked at her before and after photos b/c I haven't gotten brave enough to seriously consider it. The nurse that does my laser treatment told me that she has permanent eye liner and I would have never guessed it! Even after she told me, I couldn't tell... so subtle! I'm going to look into doing it in the fall. Thanks for the information. I know it was not meant as encouragement to do it, but it is encouraging!

My eyebrows just vanished about 4 years ago. I had new ones tattooed on and they have been perfect for me. The pain was not so bad and went away within hours. They do itch for several days as the skin heals around the insertion points. A&D ointment helps a lot. I would highly recommend it for anyone with a similar problem!:)

I also have disappearing eyebrows and don't leave the house without penciling them on. .... otherwise I look a bit "alien-like"!:o (ha! even this emoticon has more eyebrows than I do!)

Please tell me more! Did they do hair strokes or a solid shape? Did you draw on the shape or did they? How much has it faded? What color did you use and how similar is it to your hair color? Any other info? Seriously considering, but very wary. There's no room for an "oops" when it is permanent!

Hi,

You are right! I do want Kotor, Montenegro!! But some of the info is from Kotor below.

I guess I will start a new thread so Kotor is in the same place!

 

Thanks!

Maybe you can go to TLCOHIO's posts and find out if he got good information. I believe they have recently returned from the Solstice Med cruise. Here is their roll call, you may find good info on some of your ports there. I think there is a "after cruise" post that may wrap it up if you go to the last page. http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1189036

Oops, Terry is the name... maybe he/maybe she. It's an androgynous name. :o

We arrive in Kotor on Nov. 11 and depart on Nov. 12 at 6 in the morning. According to the itinerary we are tendered in and then docked on the 12th. Great information here. We do not prepay tours, so did anyone use another service besides Graeme Chuter?? I checked the tours for our ship and none go to Lake Bled or Ljubljana. The tours on our ship are more than what 5326jan posted! We are looking for a tour with for a group of 8 to 15.

 

Any information would be greatly appreciated!

Hi Onthebalcony,

I think you are referring to Kotor, Montenegro and we are going to Koper, Slovenia. It's happened before, the names are very close!:)

I found out as soon as we started unpacking. We had a mini-suite and the inside of the bathroom door had two hook-type thingys to hang the robes on.

So glad I saw this --we will be on the Island P--and I have been wondering how that would work. There is a chid's bath organizer that I think will work well also --how many towel bars in the mini-suite bathroom?

When we were on the Coral, we hung the organizer from the brass rail at the bar....to the side of the fridge. You can only use about 4 rows, but that was plenty for us. We used it more for charging cords, camera stuff, highlighters, desk stuff, etc. In the mini suite we had enough counter space and shelf space for our toiletries.

I always bring my own. The pillows always slip out of the paper pillowcase and end up on the floor behind my seat. Most likely the person sitting behind me has had his feet on it and was probably in the rest room right before placing his feet on my wayward pillow!:eek:

I use this one, it has a strap that secures it to my seat. http://www.amazon.com/TravelRest-Ultimate-Inflatable-Travel-Pillow/dp/B001DYDAEK I also bring my own blanket which is slightly bigger and thicker than the one supplied by the airline. I use theirs to wrap around my feet as the floor of the airplane is always cold.

As to the floor of the restroom. I bring a pair of slippers that go into a ziplock bag when the flight is over and into the wash asap. :) Have you ever looked at the floor of the restroom after a couple of hours??? YUCK!

I agree with the two previous posters. I would not be able to stay in a cabin that smelled smokey either. We haven't had any problems. As for the beds, I find them to be very comfortable! We never order an egg crate and don't feel that the beds are too firm. But I would much rather have a too firm bed than a too soft bed. As Goldilocks says: "This one was just right"!:)

The benefits of Princess far out weigh a firm bed. They allow travel agents to discount, they have a wonderful loyalty program, you can buy future cruise credits on board which are 100% refundable. We're hooked on Princess!