scarlett81

That's what I'm afraid of now. He hates the chain restaurants. So which cruise lines do you use that offer good food? Any originating on the West Coast?

We like Crystal, but as far as families go, its not for everyone. Its pretty high end, and though families are welcome, they won't have all the child amenities that a big ship cruise offers. When we travel though, we're not into babysitting or club services-although they do offer both for many sailings. Our kids found the kids facilities quite adequate, but like I said, compared to big ships there isn't nearly as much. Foodwise, they consistently have some of the best rated food at sea, with celebrity chefs overseeing the menus.

Regent's food is also very highly rated. As far as big ship cruising, Celebrity also has highly rated food, especially in the specialty dining venues. But alot of this will depend on personal taste of course!

We aren't the type that are going to be cruising every year. With the type of high end cruising we want to do, it would be too pricey.

An all out cruise every several years is great, with a few land trips in between.

What I like about cruising is that there are choices for everyone! Some people love the big ship cruising-my inlaws had a Hawaiian Princess cruise 2 yrs ago and still RAVE about it. I'd probably like it too, but I know my hubby would hate it.

If your hubby is a foodie (like mine) than some cruise lines will not please him. I personally am just as happy with carnival or Disney food as I am with 3 Michelin star food. I love both. But hubby (ny-er) is extremely picky and when he vacations, if spending lots of money, he'd rather spend that much extra to get authentic or high quality food.

Think about that aspect, as well as location. If you feel its more about the ship and activities then go into the cruise knowing that the food will likely be only so so to you. You can also get authentic food on land for your lunches.

I know my hubby and he would never do a big ship cruise, never. I wouldn't really care, but since its about both of us, I just know we'll never do one.

If the Hawaii thing was a hotel, I'd do a hotel (or the cruise). But I will never ever again do the condo thing, unless we are eating out for each meal.

I've tried this before and hubby and I agreed 'we are both on vaca, so let's share the work...mama's not doing 'everthing.." And it just doesn't work out.

We did a Disney condo/villa this winter however, and I made breakfast. (cereal, eggs and bacon only). That was fun. But, housekeeping does all your dishes and you could even get laundry done if you wanted. As opposed to an actual condo where you're planning on doing all the work.

I know you've never brought the kids on a plane before, but honestly, you may be overthinking it. At their ages, I think they'd be fine. You should take the 3 yo girls, and hubby should take the 6 yo. Bring a few portable DVD players, plenty of snacks, special toys that they normally don't play with (get a few special things ahead of time and make a surprise airplane backpack). Maybe I'm biased...I just took a 5 yo and 1 yo on a 12 hr (one way) flight to Istanbul....:rolleyes:...It was fine!

I don't think you could go wrong on a cruise either though. Everything's taken care of for you. There's really nothing to think about on a cruise.

I'd consider what do you feel like doing? Check out the details of the cruise itinerary, ports, etc. Then check the location of the land trip in Hawaii. Is there anything about either that really appeals to you? I think a trip is all about location. You can have the most beautiful hotel, or ship, but if you don't like the location you're going to...it really doesn't matter.

Anyone have thoughts to share about Ephesus and the best way to transport my 5 yo and 1 yo?

Ephesus in April via Crystal's med cruise.

I'm wondering if anyone has used or seen someone using a stroller in Ephesus.

The ruins we've been to include all of Egypt, and Rome. So all I can compare it with is that. Egypt I would have found very easy to use a light stroller (except the sand). Rome ruins would have been tricky with all the steps. I suppose if the stroller itself was the cheap light umbrella type it would be easy enough to carry.

We also have several backpack carriers and slings for the baby. He's very happy in them and it would work for a couple hours...after that my back hurts too much.

I'm thinking for this port maybe bring one very light stroller than can easily be folding and slung over hubby's shoulder, but taken out for restaurants, walking, etc...my 5 yo is petite and still loves to nap for hours in her stroller. The baby I can put in the backpack.

(for other ports on this itinerary I'm probably going to go to that specific port's board...definitely have similar questions about Athens.)

Any tips welcome...except leaving the kids on board. Not interested in that. :)

Thanks!

Having cystic fibrosis i have a compromised immune system, so for example a simple cold can send me to the hospital for weeks. So for that reason I am a total germaphobe. I use sanitizer pretty much when I touch anything. And I use paper or my sleeve to open or close doors. Thing is, I have legit reasons-I'm on 3 weeks of home IV therapy right bc of a cold I caught. Sucks. I have to admit, I am a bit worried about the cruise in May when I hear about all the ship sicknesses that go around. I just figure it can't be as bad as a plane...(i hope)