cjsebastian

playing cards if you use them - sometimes they are scarce on the ship and don't seem to be free much anymore! Small flashlight and a color copy (preferably laminated)of your passport(s) packed separately.

We have had several upgrades recently - Carnival Spirit booked a balcony guarantee and got the top balcony cabin in Feb 08-similar expereince on RCL on a 'free' cruise; booked a guarantee mini-suite AE for Jan 09 on Golden Princess and got a AA cabin, mid ship, right off the elevator; got a 8 level upgrade on NCL several years ago - all booking guarantees but in the category we wanted (OV/Balcony/Suite). Have never been upgraded on HCL tho. For some reason on the upcoming Princess cruise, we paid only $2000/pp thru the TA, and the cabin we are in is showing on Princess for $3200/pp last week....great upgrade!!!!!

We're on the Volendam on their first AYW sailing - we are thankfully booked for late dining on that sailing since I'm afraid that first time will be utter chaos. We have tried NCL and while the flexibility is nice, not having the same wait staff who know what you want to drink the minute you sit down was lacking. We have met some great folks dining even tho on many sailings we have gone with a group and eaten with friends or relatives.

I think the AYW is a nice alternative, but I hope that they continue to offer assigned dining as well for those who prefer the traditional dining.