GOARMY

Or, as Sartre opined: "Hell is--other people." Personal opinion: Sometimes. GOARMY!

resordanis: As papaflamingo mentioned, no military credit similar to, for example, Cunard's. Cunard also goes the extra step of having a Military Vet's recognition gathering incident to one of the Formal Nights. Neat to see the Commonwealth Vets donned in their individual country's regalia. Yanks have been welcomed, and we have participated. I have, in the past, brought the matter of offering some form of military credit to Regent Management's "attention". To no avail, to date. Also suggested there be some form of onboard recognition when a cruise segment coincides with a significant historical event. Like, for example: "D-Day". Nothing as elaborate as Cunard's. Not another cocktail party--there are plenty of those already; and all beverages are "included", anyway. Management did respond by initiating a "Veterans' Meeting" opportunity once every cruise segment. These are for Vets, spouses, and family members, Low-key. Announced in "Passages", These are hosted by the Cruise Director, and/or a Staff Officer for a morning gathering for introductions; followed by breakfast at Compass Rose at set tables. Or--meeting in one of the Lounges on a sea day for cocktails and conversations prior to dinner. Attendance has varied from 18-20--to 4 or five. It's the thought that counts. GOARMY!

resordanis: Welcome "aboard". We also eschew bingo and trivia. And--art auctions. (Not to worry, no auctions cluttering up Regent ships' common areas.) Similar history. Started cruising almost 30 years ago--on Holland America and Princess. No complaints. However, on advice of our then-Travel Advisor (TA): gravitated to the smaller, all-inclusive Silversea, Seabourn, and Radisson/Regent ships. Throw in a few Crystal cruises which were, thankfully, before the bankruptcy. Still do the "Queens" and Princess with extended family from time to time. But, if it is just spouse and self, any ship with over 800 passengers is not the right fit. That IS a key distinction. You have taken the initial step by joining this Forum. Suggest taking the time to review a few Cruise Critic Regent Threads to get a sense of where many of your potential fellow travels are coming from. If you have a TA: Hopefully, he or she has experience sailing on, and booking clients on Regent ships. Another Source of Info. No hard-sell while onboard for--shops, future cruises. Few general announcements. Just take the time to read daily "Passages" hard-copy which (together with two delicious chocolates) will be on bedspread each evening after turn-down. Two visits each day by Suite Attendants. Suite Attendants: Uniformly wonderful, caring people. Ask for something which, by chance was not in your Suite--or another bottle of wine--Viola! They are the Real Ambassadors of the Regent "Brand". Should you be in Penthouse or above--the Butler. Have utilized that amenity about 25% of our times w/Regent. Often as part of an incentive offer. Nice to have; not need to have. What Regent provides is a uniform level of service to all guest regardless of Suite accommodation. Certainly, those who book a "Named Suite" and above get first priority as to additional Special Restaurant seatings. (NO extra charge for these--another significant example of All-Inclusive Fare.) However, each Suite, regardless of Category, will have one guaranteed booking at each Specialty Restaurant during that cruise segment. Lectures: Yes. Usually attuned to that particular cruise segment as to history of area. The lecturers have, on the whole, demonstrated first-hand knowledge by having been there. They are approachable for after-talk chats. We have often extended an invitation to a Lecturer to join us for dinner. Invitations--both before and after COVID--have been accepted. Shows: Yes, but not a three-ring circus with trapeze acts. Smaller Stage. Each cruise segment is anecdotal as to guest reviews of quality of singers and dancers--let-alone Cruise Directors. Hard to generalize, other than there have been very-few clunkers. True confession: At this "stage" of our lives--have seen the Theater productions, or variations thereof which usually do not begin until 2130H. A bit-late for us old timers. Cuisine: Very, very subjective. I am, basically, a meat and potatoes guy; my wife is a gourmet cook. Great combination for the last 55+ years. My wife participates in at-least one of the two-hour "Culinary Experience" hands-on cooking classes offered on Explorer, Splendor, and Grandeur. Learns something new every time. Regent has maintained quality and consistency in food preparation and presentation. Ask, in a reasonable manner for something not on the menu--and give Staff time to prepare--expect the response to be: "Of course." Something not-quite right on the dinner (or lunch, or breakfast) plate: Removal and replacement. Just--be kind in asking. Overall: Ask, in a reasonable manner for any amenity--Response has been: "Of course" There is an ongoing Thread as to boorish and rude guests who treat Staff as servants in some 19th Century Manor House. Have reviewed ongoing comments--as we have witnessed these louts not just on Regent--but on every Line we have sailed on. A shame. The exception, of course; but it does spoil the experience for those who witness such conduct. So-----s ending on a positive note: Other folks will chime in with their thoughts. Because, as always: YMMV. For us: we vote with our wallet. No reason to change from Regent. GOARMY!

Amber14: Log in to Regent. Bring up your Booking Hit "Manage This Booking" Hit "Show My Itinerary" That should bring up your day-by-day Itinerary. The first entry will be your Pre Cruise Day at whatever city you will be in. That should show your assigned hotel. HOWVER: You are still six-months out. So--Regent may not as yet assigned your hotel. Based on past history, that assignment usually shows up from four to five months out. AND, it can change. Recent example was at Barcelona. Regent changed hotels twice within 30 days of our departure from USA. Reason given was hotel(s) undergoing renovation. It did not matter. The Regent Rep. who met us at the Airport knew where we were going. ------- Update to my Post #14. Second comments on Posts 20 and 26 as to Ritz-Carlton. Our latest was the Ritz at San Francisco earlier this year. Outstanding. The guy at the Front Desk noted our previous stays. Upgraded to Lounge Suites. Gracious service. GOARMY!

Hyatt Regency (downtown) and/or Fairmont Hotel. These are kitty-corner from each other. Easy, six block downhill walk to Canada Place Ship Terminal. GOARMY!

CascadeLakeGirl: As Pcardad noted in Post #190-- And, as any TA with experience booking a Regent cruise segment should be expected to know--for client guidance purposes: Formal Optional nights apply only for a segment of 16 or more nights. We were on several in 2023; two in 2024; and booked on three 2025s when aboard Grandeur or Explorer. Itineraries include Atlantic TAs; Central America-Carib; and Tokyo via Alaska to Vancouver, BC. Spouse and self dress to reflect honoring the 5+star service we have received while with Radisson/Regent for over 22 years. And, with TAs who have placed us on similar Seabourn, Silversea, and Crystal segments. I wear a tux; my wife takes a gown. No big deal. We have met, and anticipate future 2025 meetings with from 15-20% of couples similarly attired. Easy to do. Perhaps, perhaps, this is partially based on 30-years' in Military. (Also--and this is STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL--my dear wife was a professional Model when I met her 55+ years ago.) No one will be out of place in attire which reflects the top-shelf onboard ambience. Common sense. Safe cruising to all-- GOARMY!

snorklelover: Another thought. Early on your segment, like maybe Day 2--Review your Account which will be posted for online viewing in your Suite. OBCs will be shown as a Credit. THEN--go to Reception and request a hard-copy printout. The refundable and non-refundable OBCs can get a bit convoluted. At-least to my ever-increasing Senior mind. Example: you have a TA (hopefully) who has provided OBCs. The Statement from your TA will contain the bottom line. OBCs provided by a TA are separate from whatever Regent has "gifted" as an incentive, or Promotion, or whatever. Regent will utilize the Nonrefundable OBCs first for onboard purchases, like, for example, a Wine Lunch/Dinner; Special Wine, Shop purchases, that special Regent Excursion you decided to book, whatever. Then--will default to Refundable OBCs, if any, provided by your TA. Periodically throughout the cruise, check on outlays. Hopefully, the potatoes will come out even with the gravy before the final day--a wash. No CC Bill. Or, if there is one, it will not cause sticker shock. TA's handle Refundable OBCs which are NOT used differently. So, not going to provide more details on this aspect. Enjoy your Cruise. GOARMY!

1teach58: Thank you for the Post #98 update. Or, as a Preacher might opine-- Salvation comes either by seeing the Light; or feeling the Heat! Either way works. Intercession by TAs? Intervention by Jennefer? (See Post #82.) We will probably never know. Regent Corporate: Way, way too late stepping up to the Plate. The Word will, ultimately get communicated. But, again, this attempt to put the toothpaste back in the tube shows another gap in basic corporate communication protocols. GOARMY!

Valpacino: The early bird will get the---table. Particularly, as you are currently at the tail-end, so-to speak, of that night's reservation window. If nothing else--show up early. Follow papa----'s advice on Post #4. We have experienced similar opportunities for unexpected availability at specialty restaurants. And, not just on "opening night". These have been for a table for 2. GOARMY!

TS: Need more Info. Is that Table for 4 persons all your family? Or, are you trying to book a table for two couples--you and your friends also on that segment? If two couples, you need the other couple's booking number, for starters. Have gone through this "Drill" many-times before. ALSO--Suggest you review another ongoing Thread--"Specialty Dining With Friends." Useful Information. Waiting your response. GOARMY!

ysolde: Reference your Last-- Might we be meeting you on January 7th at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel; or next-day after boarding Grandeur? GOARMY!

Experienced the Reykjavik hotel mess earlier this year. Saved all receipts for additional expenses which exceeded Regent's "credit". TA advised not wasting time further pursuing the matter. Regent's rationale in that situation, or, better put--lack of same--did not pass the "giggle test". That's a response an Accountant provides when the client offers an explanation for claiming a tax deduction. If the Accountant giggles--chances are that dog will NOT hunt with the IRS. To the present mess: Second forgap's Post #62 as to Jennefer Teegen being (potentially) a positive POC pursuing, or prodding, Management to employ common sense to bring about a positive resolution. Limit further damage, if nothing else. Jennefer was that advocate for us on a previous matter not as serious as this one, but still meaningful. One additional suggestion: That would be for TAs (plural) providing Regent with significant client traffic discuss this particular situation amongst themselves--then respond to Management. TAs obviously have a stake in the outcome. Clients' satisfaction is a key element in their portfolio. GOARMY!

As mentioned above (Hambagahle's Post #14): Mariner, early 2024 transit--L.A. via Hawaii to Polynesia--that Video "featured" my spouse in a cameo appearance. Totally unscripted. Perusing the Compass Rose Brunch before too much damage done. Brunch on Sunday is no State Secret. Should itinerary include a Sunday sea day--this will be a topic of general conversation once you board. Just ask. Like, the Cruise Director. Then, "Passages" will provide specifics. Plan to practice what I preach on upcoming January '25 Grandeur L.A-Panama Canal-Miami segment. One Sunday sea day while cruising the Pacific Ocean. No "breakfast" that morning. Well, maybe a little something at Coffee Connection. Then, hopefully, off to Brunch. GOARMY!

GMIAC: Your Post brought-back one of our South or Mid-Atlantic crossings from, I think Rio or Miami, to London. This was on either Voyager or Mariner. Rough weather. We left a Compass Rose dinner. Made it back to our Suite. Then, a really-significant wave hit the ship. Next morning at Compass Rose for breakfast. We stayed low and centered for that meal, as it was still rough. Noted wood panels across several window segments. Staff advised that, shortly after our departure, a wave hit the ship resulting in breaking several windows. What a mess! Those panels remained up until our next landfall. Again, only anecdotal. GOARMY!

pingpong1: You have outdone yourself with pithy, on-point latest Post. Now, can we pleeeze move on! GOARMY!

Dolebludger and other Posters: Natalie partnered with Dru Pavlov during our June-July B/t/B London-Iceland-Greenland-Iceland segments. We met her on several occasions, the last-being at a morning Military Vet's get-together on that second around-Iceland segment. She was most-kind to Sue and me. Please extend our regards to her. GOARMY!

kstrittm: You have provided an impression--your first "take" for your upcoming Regent cruise. With respect--Please open up the aperture a bit. Yes, after 20+years with Raddison/Regent--collected the faux leather tags long-ago. What a trifle! Current Tags meet a simple, intended purpose. Correct Deck. It takes about five minutes to fill in Name, Ship, Departure Date, and Suite Number particulars. Hardly an onerous task. Please keep CCers updated as to your first impression(s) after actually boarding whatever Regent ship you will be boarding. GOARMY!

cruise--- Hope Springs eternal. But, weather prognostication in the South to mid-Atlantic while on a TA in either direction during the very-early Spring? We have done Barcelona, via Lisbon, to Rio; and Rio to Lisbon segments during timeframe late March to early May. The one weather constant was day-to-day changes. These were pre-Pandemic aboard either Regent or Cunard. Memory has faded a bit. Overall: chilly and windy conditions. Cannot recall many opportunities for swim suites. But, as always, YMMV> GOARMY!

This issue has been a continued concern for fellow-travelers and self while on a series of post-COVID cruises--on several Regent ships. Our most-recent was Splendor following June-July B/t/B GB-Scotland-Iceland-Greenland-Iceland segments. A fundamental administrative change needs to be made. Simplify the process. Eliminate on-ship Internet difficulties. This should NOT be rocket science. Well, that may be a "Bridge Too Far". (BTF) Regent must take a "Great Leap Forward" to address this ongoing vexing issue. Aside: BTF has been misused in so-many contexts unrelated to the historical context. For Military-types: Arnhem, Holland. September, 1944. Operation "Market-Garden". Spouse and self visited Arnhem about 25 years ago. Sobering. Suggest reading Cornelius Ryan's book, same title. Pardon the diversion. Back to present reality. Bottom Line is establishing a consistent and reliable platform and procedure providing timely feedback re: proper recognition to Staff at ALL levels-- Deck Hands removing standing water from Sports Deck Jogging Track; Engineering Staff in full-garb clearing-out "evacuation issues" in the hallways outside a particular Suite; dining venue folks serving drinks/food; Suite Attendants/Butlers. Let-alone: Entertainment staff and Cruise Directors. Mike Moore, who was a very-valuable advocate on these types of IT issue disconnects, no-longer works for Regent. Apparently, his position has not been filled. Pity. Therefore: a POC may be: Jennefer Teegen, Director of Guest Experience and Loyalty. 7300 Corporate Drive, Miami, FL 33126 jteegen@rssc.com Have had positive interactions with Jennefer on several different contexts going back to 2020. She has responded. Give it a try. GOARMY!

Irishwitchy: Whomever might be the CD on a particular segment has never really factored into whether we book a particular segment--because we book far in advance. It is a bonus to learn a CD such as Ray Solaire (hope he has not retired, as has been reported) will be onboard another Navigator segment. Another favorite--John Barron--has departed Regent for pastures closer, coming and going, to his home in England. A loss for Regent. Fortunately, in over 20+years with Radisson/Regent--never recall a real Dud. Time and tide wait for no CD, or a guest. Take care, all GOARMY!

Gpilon et al: Carefully reviewed your, and other Posts on this Thread as we will experience our first time(s) aboard Grandeur in January, followed up by another segment later in 2025. Then, back to Splendor. This after exiting Splendor last month after experiencing uniformly positive B/t/Bs. Contrasts/comparisons between the two ships will certainly get our attention; but will keep everything in perspective, as GMIAC noted. GOARMY!

katykrol: As to a wine tasting opportunity as differentiated from Wine Lunch-- No change in our experience over the past several years on various Regent ships. But, of course anecdotal, as we do not live on Regent ships. The standard on Explorer, Mariner, Navigator, and Splendor has been to offer a "World of Wines" tasting at 10:00am on the first sea day. Venue has been Atrium. It can get a bit crowded. Some segments have few sea days; or, if there are any, they may be near the end of that cruise. No point in having a tasting because the point is to acquaint new guests as to the included wines available during that segment. Example: Recent B/t/B June-July '24 aboard Splendor. First segment: first sea day, which was the second day onboard had the World of Wines; second July 5-15 segment around Iceland had only one sea day, which was on the penultimate day of that cruise. No World of Wines. GOARMY!

Happy: Actually--our Wine Dinner event was on Navigator. June, 2023. Montreal to NYC. Second leg of a B/t/B. Our seating was in the Card Room with 10-12 others. "Oversubscribed", so they set up another location "next door" for about the same number of guests. Received good reviews. This was fairly new for Regent, at that time. Believe second occasion for a special Wine Dinner on any Regent ship, and a first for Navigator. Have not been back on Navigator since. Suggest you inquire through your TA--or directly w/Regent as to possibility of this being offered on your segment. If no definitive answer (and, I would not expect one before you board), ask the Sommelier or Matre'd. during your first day aboard, as suggested above. My-oh-my. Has the price escalated! Or, as the old SNL "Weekend Update" Commentators opined--"Really! Really?. Total for the two of us was around $425.00. Supply and demand, again. If Regent can fill the space, it will charge the freight. GOARMY!

Happy: Yes. Everyone was "happy" during that dinner; and at those lunches. GOARMY!

Have done two Wine Lunches and one Wine Dinner. Had a surfeit of OBCs to use up. Been there; done that; got the menus. Regent does not seem to have an issue booking these up to capacity. Constant reminders in "Passages" does the job. No sour grapes [sorry!] as to wine selections. Attentive service and explanation(s) as to what wine--or champaign--was being paired with a particular course. Not high on our repeat list--at this point. GOARMY! .