derbygirl520

Thank you so much for this thorough review. I'll be going on Liberty with my husband (cruising vet), baby (new at cruising), and mother-in-law in a couple of weeks. This is an excellent review. Thank you for the information!

We have a cruise coming up shortly, and I was really bummed about the new cost of Chops (and not including the steaks that I enjoy, without an up charge). After reading the lack-luster reviews, I passed on making Chops reservations ahead of time.

I am all game for trying the Chops steak in the dining room (my husband couldn't care less about having a Chops steak). I rather pay $20 than close to $100 after tip--especially if my husband isn't interested.

I'll report back. :-)

DG

Thank you for your response! I thought there was an all-in-one goop but I couldn't remember if there was conditioner or something.

TY,

DG

Hi guys,

Please remind me (my brain is blanking)--which toiletries are provided in the bathrooms of regular ol' staterooms. (I always over pack--and I don't want to bring unnecessary stuff.)

Thank you,

DG

Thank you so much for your kind response! Your information is wonderful--thank you for sharing!

Many thanks,

DG

I've been on several RCI ships, varying in size.

My husband and I LOVED Brilliance. As my husband puts it: "I really liked the architectural details." The elevators face out towards the ocean, which is really nice. Since it isn't a tiny ship, you do get some of the larger ship activities (like a sports court, Persian Garden) without sacrificing a more intimate feel.

Great ships!

DG

Thank you for this excellent information!

Did they offer the Mystery Dinner?

Did the ultimate dining package include the Chef's Table?

Thank you so much!

DG

My husband and I did a similar cruise (repositioning, but going Dubai to Rome), and it was fantastic. It was the best vacation ever. Going through the Suez was amazing. When we went, they were stopping in both Egypt and Jordan (which, they are not stopping in currently).

It looks like you would do Athens, two stops in Israel, Oman, and Dubai. Honestly, Oman and Dubai are totally safe. Israel--I would just stick with cruise tours in those areas (they will ensure you have the appropriate security, etc).

There's nothing for you guys to worry about. Have an enjoyable trip!

DG

Several lines stopped port calls last week in Turkey. Hope all calms down before you go.

Which lines stopped calling in Turkey? We have a 11/8 cruise that makes an Ephesus stop.

Thank you,

DG

... I should PROOOOOBABLY add a disclaimer here that I'm a bit of a beer snob, as well as a home brewer. If this fits your description and you really dig big IPAs and a variety of flavors in your beer you WILL be disappointed.

 

If this is less important to you, a select package will be a great value for you. If you are more selective of your beers, a bigger drink package would be a better option.

 

All of that being said - I seriously wish that RCCL would hop on board the craft beer wave and add maybe some Lagunitas/Founders/etc options to their lineup.

Amen. :p

We used Ephesus Deluxe. BTW, the only way you will be able to avoid the rug store stop would be to arrange a small private group, as all of the package tours have these stops where the tour company gets a commission.

Thanks for the tip on this. That's what I was thinking would be the sitch, but I just can'tttttttt do anotherrrrr ruggggg storrrrrrrreeeeeee. ;-)

So we either need to do private (thanks for all of the suggestions) or small group and drink alotta apple tea.

Thanks so much for the feedback!

Thanks so much for the awesome feedback! Much appreciated!

XO,

DG

Thank you for the kind response and positive review! We're looking forward to sailing on her!

Thank you again,

DG

Hello,

Is there a thermal suite on Rhapsody (in the spa area)?

Thank you!

DG

Thanks for the responses! I'll keep an eye out for it (but if it's not on there, I will be emotionally prepared :eek:).

Thank you again for your help!

DG

I'm sitting at the table, planning the trip with my husband. I said "Oh good! Bob responded! He knows all!" You really are a wealth of knowledge--thank you for all of your responses on this board. Your willingness to share is much appreciated!

I love the murder mystery dinner. It's a multi-course meal. It is a limited version of the Giovanni's menu--usually the entree choices are steak and something else. I just like meeting new people, and they do keep the wine a-flowin'. The pours are pretty generous. I know that some find the performance campy--and it is a little--I do think it's super fun. You get to talk to your table mates about clues--I just think it's a hoot!

Hey-yo,

We're booked on a Rhapsody Med cruise next month. It's a longer one--11 days.

Does RCI offer the Murder Mystery Dinner on European itineraries? It's not showing up as an available activity in the Cruise Planner...although for our last cruise it didn't show up as available until 2 weeks before.

I hope so! It's my most favorite on board activity!

Thanks in advance,

DG

Hello,

I am looking for recommendations for private tour operators in Kusadasi. I would like someone that is willing to customize a tour based on what we would like to see and do. (Also, someone that isn't going to force me to watch a carpet presentation. Believe it or not--I already have a dude that I super trust.)

My husband and I have spent some time in Istanbul, so we are very excited for this stop!

Recommendations or who to avoid would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you,

DG

From my experience in Turkey (not Kusadasi), I agree with the previous poster.

Plastic is accepted at government-run sites.

It's important to note that almost EVERYTHING is negotiable in Turkey, so having TL will give you a little more negotiating leverage. It wouldn't hurt to pick up some TL prior to getting to this port so you can take advantage of some deals.

Also, for larger purchases--most merchants take plastic. But smaller purchases--no way.

I thought I was imagining. It was confusing--not very customer friendly at all! I def. had to call C&A to get anywhere. Annoying!

XO,

DG

Hands down is Hafiz Mustafa. Best Turkish Delight I have ever had. They are right by the Spice Market, and close to the water. Cute atmosphere to grab a snack.

We are sailing within the next couple of weeks, and I have an independent excursion lined up out of Grand Cayman at 8:45. It's crucial we get on that first tender out. What time do I need to get our tender ticket at--it sounds like there are quite of few people experienced in that.

I don't care if I have to get up at 5am and wait in a line to make sure it happens! Thoughts?

Thank you for the other feedback on your recent cruise. It sounds like embarkation is kind of a mixed bag!

DG

I swear by traveling with Downy wrinkle release. In fact I buy it by the huge bottle at home and haven't ironed in over a year. So there's that.

It's fine for your dainty items, big items, etc.

Get the travel bottle. Best $2 ever.

DG

This is all really awesome feedback, with really great tips. Thank you so much for taking the time to post.

Thanks guys!

DG

Hello,

Does anyone have an idea of the wine products and range of pricing at Vintages? What is the average price per glass, and what is the price for an average "taste" size?

Does anyone have a menu for Navigator?

Thanks!

DG