loveladyc

On 3/14/2024 at 12:46 PM, MandL said:

Hi Oliver, 

 

Mark and I have so enjoyed following along with your travels. It’s been a long wait for our journey to Japan. We’re one of those that Celebrity has lifted and shifted since the start of Covid.  We finally head out Tuesday, and are spending four weeks in Japan (I guess the wait paid off, we retired in the mean time).  

 

Your wonderful outline with photos in port stops, along with the highlight of your trip  to “Kamakura” is so helpful.  It’s going to make our journey that much easier.  Thank you!!

 

Other than Yokyo- Kamakura was the best of all the things we did.

Intersting Information

If you are heading to Japan this spring in hopes of seeing the Somei Yoshino (Yoshino cherry) trees, the Japan Meteorological Corporation released its peak bloom prediction dates for more than 1,000 cities throughout the country.

Traditional hanami (flower-watching) celebrations in Japan happen across the country from mid-March through early May, though peak cherry blossoms vary slightly depending on location.In Tokyo, for example, the forecasted flowering date is March 23, with full bloom expected seven days later on March 30. In Kyoto, the blooms are expected to become flowers on the same date as in Tokyo (March 23); full bloom is expected two days later than in Tokyo on April 1.

Though it's unlikely that most people will be able to change their travel plans to accommodate peak bloom viewing, the meteorological corporation advises those who will be in Japan around those peak dates to download the Sakura Navi app for updated progression by location.

The agency's forecasting method is based on the temperatures during fall and winter, cherry tree growth status, overall temperatures and data from previous years.

"The flowering and full bloom dates of cherry blossoms depend on the temperature patterns from autumn of the preceding year. The buds of cherry blossoms are formed during the summer of the preceding year. Before they flower, they must go through two processes: dormancy and growth," according to the Japan Meteorological Corporation. "Buds do not start growing as soon as they are formed; they first enter a period of dormancy. Dormancy allows the buds to survive the winter, with its cold weather and short days. During dormancy, buds do not show any visible development. However, once they enter the growth stage, they will grow increasingly large as the moment of flowering draws nearer."

17 hours ago, Miaminice said:

Yes, South Korea was very smooth. Go through the terminal, show passport… over.

no paperwork to complete- no visa required etc???

I am interested in what the process was like entering the country of Korea ?

Just now, azgrandmax3 said:

What are chic nights? 

Collar Shirts and no Jeans for me

Women- whatever you want it to be.

On 5/31/2023 at 9:23 PM, HappyTravels4ever said:

Hi,

 

I am not asking (yet?!?!) for TA names, but trying to get an idea of what perks your TA might give for a $20,000 cruise. Gratuities? OBC? Other?

Every Company is different, Sometimes its OBC of  flat amout, Sometimes its a % of the cruise fare, somes times its Prepaid Gratuites, sometimes they give a Loyalty OBC and it changes all the time. Once booked with the cruise line and getting all I can get from the cruise line, I call my TA and ask what I can get if I move the cruise to her conpany.

I think the guy is talking about $9500 for the whole cruise and airfare. But if he booked on November 21 for a Christmas cruise that is past the due date when they will give you a full refund on the cruise.

The rules are and have been for as long as I can remember:

between 28-15 days prior to cruise you only get back 25% of the cost of the cruise.