Lady Hudson

Royal already figured out the “only so many” can fit in the lounges - - now there are vouchers. Prior to vouchers we would go to a lounge just for a drink or two — even if the drink was a bottle of water or a Coke. On our last 10 trips we never went into a lounge — unless it was for a morning coffee or for just a quiet place to sit during the day. No happy hour for us. The benefits for Diamond, Diamond + and Pinnacle are far superior on Royal than other lines, IMHO. We enjoy the private breakfast, early on, early off, officer luncheon (which the last few have included filet and lobster) and of course the internet - which use to access my home tv provider. About wearing the pins - I don’t see the need (for me) on embarkation day but I do wear it on the Crown and Anchor day and for the Officer luncheon. DH never wears his — he is just not a jewelry person. For those who wear their pins all the time — good for them. My pin is the most expensive piece of jewelry I own so if I feel like wearing it I will. I do agree that some Pinnacles and other levels are aging out. I know a number of frequent cruisers who are no longer sailing.

Memories fade but I seem to recall that your waiter went with you each night with Dynamic Dining. We sailed two cruises on Quantum and had no issue with DD. But I do recall quite a few people having problems with their reservations.

You don’t like Chops for breakfast on Oasis, John? We have done two cruises now where there were “too many Pinnacles” for breakfast in CK and were assigned Chops for breakfast. The view in CK is certainly better but thought Chops was fine. Different strokes for different folks! Welcome back. Katherine

We like CK and on our last trip ate there almost exclusively for breakfast and dinner. Menu — except for lobster and filet nights — is just ok but some nights I would prefer the MDR. DH is using a scooter these days and he appreciates how the CK staff take care of his needs. Table always ready so DH can just scoot right to our table. Thinking back, I do think the menus used to be better, IMHO. Katherine

Anyone know where Captain Patrick Jukes is? Was on Harmony now I don’t see his name listed anywhere.

Thanks, Roy. AC guy put in additional freeon (sp?) on Thursday so hoping all well until tomorrow.

Thank you to all who post and special thanks to Rich and Roy. I have been pretty much AWOL. Life is getting in the way. New air conditioning system needed — being put in tomorrow, readying a business building for selling, finally got to NJ to visit DSIL, general caretaking of DH, dentist appts., etc. etc. Doctor’s appointments this week for both of us. My cleaning person of over 40 years is retiring. How dare she — just kidding. New person is not happy with our cruise travel schedule which means lost income for her. We’ll see how this works out. Next cruises for us are in November and December — unless my fingers get itchy and I book something else. I would love to get back to Canada for a fall trip. Happy Sunday to all. Katherine

Thank you for your report. Can’t wait to book another transatlantic crossing. Katherine

I go to hear the captain speak and to hear the LA give the Crown and Anchor totals. I also like to hear the numbers for the top cruisers. I usually sit in a seat where it is convenient to leave once the future cruise guy/gal starts to speak.

Just booked a free 8 day using an offer available online. Offer was to expire today- glad I checked my online account. Got an outside cabin for 2 — total cost $430 for taxes, etc. Sailing 12/1 from Baltimore. Love when the ships are decorated for Christmas. Katherine

And I just cross over (inside) to complete my walk and get a different view. I don’t understand blocking off what was supposed to be a promenade deck on Vision class.

Jacqui — my DH was in finance and the “year” rule was definitely for major financial/life changing decisions. That is for all people suffering a loss — not just widows. The exception, of course, is for the surviving spouse who cannot afford to stay in his/her home. You will make the right decision concerning a new pet. It is whatever is right for you. Best wishes. Katherine