Detailed Carnival Victory review:Photos,Menus,Fun Times July 4th-11, 2010

[midwesttrvlr]

Thanks for confirming my fears haha. Luckily my travel dryer is pretty compact. Would hate to have bad hair for a week! I'm sure my husband would be more than happy to 'sacrifice' bringing a pair of dress shoes to accomodate me. :)

[Buffettfan 225]

Thanks for confirming my fears haha. Luckily my travel dryer is pretty compact. Would hate to have bad hair for a week! I'm sure my husband would be more than happy to 'sacrifice' bringing a pair of dress shoes to accomodate me. :)

I like your thinking, my DH wore tennis shoes on plane,brought one pair of black shoes, and sandals he wore with khakis in MDR and while on shore tours. He said he almost didn't need tennis shoes really.

[Buffettfan 225]

ok, where I last left off..Just exiting ship in St.Maarten. Straight ahead is a few typical "carnival map"sponsored shops: and off to right and taxi area are some interesting kiosks.

Are mission this morning-hit the shops, souveniers, try to locate some belt buckles, and per college son request some "wayfarer" looking sunglasses.

 

Best method to get to shopping, the water taxi. An all day wrist band is the

most economical method.

Water taxi rates:

walkway up to counter to pay (can walk around outside sidewalk if already have a band for the day)

The water taxi usually travels in a triangle route from the start then to the right dock, and then to center dock-which is essentially the midpoint of Phillipsburg front street shopping. In the past we usually got off at second stop, but St.Maarten has enhanced the pedestrian and waterside experience and figured it would be easy to work our way up from the end.

They have built a brick paver and concrete walkway along the waterside between the sandy beach area and local eateries and bars.

 

The first drop off has a few small stores and a small alleyway of vendors. My DH was happy to enjoy the view while I strolled the area. The small vendors were just setting up at 9:40am. We have usually purchased "old license plates" from islands we visit and found a vendor in alleyway here that sold authentic- not reproductions here for $5.

Waterfront table area near the first watertaxi drop off

We continued up the first alleyway- the alley is a mere cut through to get to onto front street the main street of the shopping. It is quite safe, shallow,bright and can see front street. If one were to turn right as exit alleyway and head to end will face a cross street, this is the direction of the larger casinos if I recall called Jump Up and Diamond. You do not see these as you exit the water taxi at first stop as view is blocked by a small hotel. My dad is a slots fan and on a previous cruise visited them (slots mostly) and said they were acceptable and won just a bit. This trip my parents got off at second stop not making it down to end of the street, but stopped into the more central slot casinos and deemed them small,smoky,dirty and unacceptable "rip off."

Here is a basic map of water taxi drop offs and casinos:

We were not interested in casinos and just started at end and worked our way up. Most shops were sweeping and opening up about 10am. We first stopped at an official cruise recognized "bamboo clothing store" -lovely and soft clothes but prices very expensive that I could not justify at all. They were also having issues with "free necklace giveaway" coupon stating it was in a local magazine not the one Carnival had. The women presenting the Carnival coupon who were keen on getting whatever they could that was free, the store did give in eventually- turns out to be a cheap brown-white shell necklace-not worth the hassle.

I spent a bit more time at the all white linen clothing store near there (they carried men & womens), but the sizing is strange going by numbers 1,2,3. Nice quality if looking for linen clothing, but for me nothing fit that great, and moved on. We then went across street to a store set up more like glass shelves seen in an old dime store- the register is on right as enter. This store has a good variety of this and that soveniers. A higher "woman" type shop is a bit more down on right-everything from house decor items,mobiles,calendars,children items,a very gifty type store;really the best on the street (it was also the only one I noticed on the checkout counter the "carnival ship numbered CD's" that are a popular mix of well known songs done in steel drum music. I even found a Food Network magazine issue I had been looking for. DH was so thrilled to now be carrying reading material around! If one is looking for an internet cafe it is practically upstairs next door.

 

We now made it to the infamous "Guavaberry Emporium" in past I only walked through and took photo of this sign

I was offerred a free taste-basically a medicine cup of guavaberry--ick,ick to me it was worse than cherry cough syrup. That is my opinion though.

[Buffettfan 225]

After such a nasty taste,from guavaberry, I was so pleased to come upon this little bar/cafe right on front street it may have been called Sint Rose. The side facing you in photo appears as a bar- if you look close there are frozen "slush" machines on right side. We chose nonalcoholic and were looking for only a cold drink relief from the heat. For the first one we chose strawberry and later would order another in lemon flavor (it was even better to chill off with-like a frozen minutemaid lemonade). I think each was $3 but could be $5 at most-whatever the price it was worth it.

The other side serves as a cafe with wraps, pressed sandwiches,mexican fare, etc. and has tables with umbrellas.

 

This is view from other side -it happened to be near a wide walkway cut through,(called St.Rose Place on Carnival shopping map) and a small pharmacy here for any items you may need.

 

We now were refreshed and ready to head to an out of the way very large souvenier store called Rima's. Rima's is across from the old salt flats and two cross streets in from front street it is on Nisbeth Road (#95 Pondfill Rd) it is a factory outlet for t-shirts,polos, beach wraps, bags, hats, towels, beach accessories, tropical dresses, and souvenirs galore. It has restroom facilities on left as you enter.Rima's is a "fashion/trinket emporium" that caters to the beach & vendor sellers (they buy here and double mark up or more.)

This is NOT an ad for Rima's, just a not as well known place to shop. It is a good 15-20min walk. A good landmark is the court house and walk straight back. Then walk left when hit salt flats- one should pass a Subway and it is next door to the Electric Utility where locals pay bills. A big yellow building with flags on it.

 

Here is a photo of Rima's as we walked up from left:

 

street map use the court house as a starting landmark, I think Rima's it is next to govt. building, and post office is too far:

On the way back we explored back street, and it is really a repeat over and over of overstock crammed stall like shops of clothing,jeans, and most were XXL or larger. A vendor will insist they have your size-look endlessly to hand you either another item, or wrong size- saying they run small. We found it hot and a waste of time. Although on front street on way back to central pier passed by a cute French restaurant:

[Buffettfan 225]

beach area by central water taxi pier:

 

 

We just missed the water taxi so headed back up beach boardwalk. Photo of some wandering vendors-they did not bother, just looked hopeful someone would come to them:

 

It wasn't an easy task finding wayfarer style glasses not wanting to pay "full retail" did find two pairs, here is one I put on just for photo:

 

After exiting water taxi we checked out the shops along left side, we are glad we went "behind" the ones facing water taxi.

There are a few cute vendor stalls with unique items:

 

One woman was busy hand rolling cigars:

[Buffettfan 225]

St.Maarten pier shopping area cont.:

Across from water taxi area, and behind shops facing water was an area of vendor stalls:

 

There was a kiosk cart way back at right, I was very intrigued with originality & uniqueness:

My DH was patiently waiting while I shopped and noticed goats grazing up in the hills. They are small white specks.

 

A look back at the concrete pier area while heading to the ship:

 

So long St.Maarten[/url]

 

Here is a map of taxi rates around island:

[Buffettfan 225]

While we did not get to Maho Beach this time, I wanted to post a few photoa as feel the "airplane beach" is worth experiencing at least once:

Here is current photo of taxi rates to get to Maho:

 

The taxi was 30minutes there around noon. Return trip traffic was much heavier-leaving beach at 2:15, did not get near downtown Phillipsburg until 3:30pm.We opted to take water taxi across as we already had wrist bands from earlier in the day. That way we shopped a bit and caught 4pm water taxi- a 15min trip across. Allow plenty of return time-many miss the ship.

Sitting near Sunset Bar (pre hurricaine)-avoid sitting in center of beach as planes cause sand "exfoliation"

 

plane approaching:

 

Cool VIDEO: make sure sound is on, and click arrow to start:

http://travel.webshots.com/video/3073471340103372150yorCYU?vhost=travel

 

Landing:

A DHL jet that must fly route regularly, clearing fence barely:

[Delta Dear]

Once again, your review and photos add to my excitement about our trip. We're booked with Joyce Prince for a tour in St. Maarten and very excited about it.

 

Happy to know that you are feeling better. Just looking at your photos would cure all that ails me ! Thanks again for all of your detailed notes. I'll write a reveiw of our trip in Feb., 2011 when we return.

[jimbo5544]

Great review and pictures. Thanks!

[Buffettfan 225]

Once again, your review and photos add to my excitement about our trip. We're booked with Joyce Prince for a tour in St. Maarten and very excited about it.

 

Happy to know that you are feeling better. Just looking at your photos would cure all that ails me ! Thanks again for all of your detailed notes. I'll write a reveiw of our trip in Feb., 2011 when we return.

Thanks once again, I am still resting per doctors orders. Per my post time, you can tell my sleep pattern is goofed up.

 

I recall your DH walking issue, St.Maarten I thought I saw some golf carts early in am by ship on pier. Another item to prearrange when on ship, or that wheelchair option being the best. Maybe look into a rental chair from a medical supplier that folds and they can gate check at airports for the plane like they do strollers?

 

Just curious, are you or any posters getting any red x's where photos should be? I sometimes am and it requires right clicking refresh button.

[SCarlow]

Thank you so much for your reivew... I have three weeks left until we leave... Wonderful, wonderful...

 

Again, thank you.

[Buffettfan 225]

Carnival Victory Menu Day 7 St.Maarten:

Appetizers:

Entrees:

 

Panko crusted shrimp:

Desserts:

Grand Marnier Souflee:

Chocolate Melting Cake:

[Buffettfan 225]

We had mentally prepared for the ritual of packing to put bags in hall. On Friday late afternoon dug out a suitcase from under the bed and packed one full of items we knew we were done with, and gathered other items into a central drawer and shelf location.

That really took the stress off Saturday final bag packing.

As mentioned earlier we had brought a digital luggage scale- glad we did, it helped us shuffle a two pound overage.

 

I also took the time to write thank you cards to put in envelopes and extra tips for those we felt provided that extra level of service. On a previous cruise I even put photos I had printed of waiters and room steward in envelope. They were happy to have them saying they rarely get a chance to get a photo and could now send them home to family. Touching. We often connect with those enhancing our cruise, and find it means a lot to ask them about their family as they miss them so much.

Be sure to fill out comment cards and include staff names- I heard after cruise the management staff and department head read them, and often compliments can help get a person a promotion in future.

 

It is such a hard decision planning for the last morning and what will you need to wear the next day for airport and flight home. In fact my mom knocked on our balcony asking what about their rechargeable toothbrushes? Should they pack them? Well, being a dental hygienist & past girl scout, I was prepared with extra new toothbrushes.

 

In San Juan it is not as hard in morning to slip last minute extras into what will be your checked luggage. When retrieving it from the sea of bags- can slip a toiletry bag in, a pair of shorts, or at move items at the airport before checking bag. This is especially true as San Juan port no longer offers Luggage Express or Valet luggage program through Carnival -it was discontinued by our July 4th cruise.

 

Our last towel creation: a heart was a fitting end to our 25th anniversary cruise:

 

Being in a suite, we were entitled to VIP or early disembarkation. We received a letter with our #1 blue bag tags indicating to meet in the Caribbean Lounge at 8:00am. Now, we have been on the Victory for nearly seven days, but were not 100% sure this meant the main show lounge. After verifying it indeed was the lounge near the guest services we were set for the next morning.

Off to stroll the ship and take it all in one more time.

[Buffettfan 225]

Carnival Victory Debarkation day:

We awoke and looked out the balcony- a sad sight to see we were docked once again in San Juan :( and went to lido area to grab a quick bite to eat.

We were set to meet my parents back at the cabins at 7:45am.

 

At the designated 7:45am time we headed out of "our cabin" one last time. Most of the elevators were out of service being occupied with the task of moving luggage. So be prepared to possibly manage your carryons down the stairs.

 

We arrived at the Caribbean main show room to a crowd already forming. A lot of people were sitting in the main floor back rows- and most sitting on ends of them for easy exit. We were greeted shortly and told the ship was in process of being cleared for customs and should be starting disembarkation or clearing of ship at 8:30am. They would proceed with VIP and then would be calling ship organized tours after that.

 

At 8:20am the cruise director entered from the back right door and said VIP and priority this way. We followed him out the door and sadly left where we had boarded the week prior. Across the gangway walkway, and down the escalator to the awaiting sections and rows of luggage.

 

We were quickly greeted by porters with dollies offering assistance. Yes, we'll take the help. He helped locate all of our and my parents bags, added our carryons to the pile and wheeled toward customs. It is weird I did not recall going through immigration, just having to hand over our customs declaration paper and out we went. The porter speedily hailed a taxi and after taking care of his tip we were off to airport. Happily this driver was not our first driver Ralph.

 

We were making our way toward aiport when suddenly the driver pulled off to side--oh no...I think he heard a noise and wanted to make sure hatch was closed or no flat tire. All was ok. Then the humor started. When he got out, he had closed the drivers door. He had locked himself out. I happened to be sitting in front passenger seat and while I had this funny reaction to wave at him, I fumbled with door buttons and unlocked the door. I can't believe a driver would not have an extra key on him, or a door that locks like that.

We were off again to airport.

 

There weren't any porters at the airport passenger drop off, so had to manage getting all bags into airport. In San Juan you need to have your bags inspected (checked and carry-on) by USDA. This is a separate screening process and these machines are right inside the doors at Concourse B. Stickers are applied to each bag, and then can go to the check in counters. If one does not get stickered, must go all the way back to USDA scanners.

I took a photo and noted time stamp was 8:50am after our bags came out.

USDA scanning area:

 

We are fortunate that my husband is an elite flyer and able to use the special line for check in. Without I would estimate the Continental airlines line at about 45-60 minutes, and even longer for some other carriers. We had gone to the inernet cafe on the ship before dinner around 5pm (it was quite crowded and got the last terminal) and did online check in and printed out our boarding passes. When we went to check in, they are using kiosks, they were all the same, it did not matter we merely needed to hand over our bags. We still had to swipe our credit card, and machine prints out new boarding passes. I did feel better though knowing we had securely checked in prior though- as those last to check in are subject to bumping for over booked flights. Next time if given option at online check in at home for initial flight I will select auto-check in for return flight.

The counter agent then reapplied USDA secure bands to our luggage and carryons as USDA stickers were falling off already.

 

The airport has increased eateries since we were last there (they did not increase their speed however.) There is a McDonalds prior to security and a Subway,potato place,pizza,newstand and a small bakery cafe after security.

Security went smooth, and I took this photo and it was time stamped as 9:10am. Although we did have VIP ship disembarkation,priority airline check in, no people in line for customs,or taxis yet, and our ship was cleared quickly today. Our boarding the week before was told ship had not cleared as fast. So I would add at least 60-90 minutes or longer to be safe.

San Juan B gate my parents awaiting Continental flight:

 

We chose seats on right side near the same MsPacMan video game machine that has been there 8 years! On back right wall I was looking for an outlet to charge my ipod. I am glad I had an adapter so I could expand outlet to two plugs- otherwise the charger blocked both. I was glad I had gotten there early to use the outlet, they were hard to find and people asked if they could use it.

[Delta Dear]

You have a great memory, yes, my husband has some problem walking distances. I will check on the golf carts you mentioned.

 

I did check with Carnival Special Needs, but they did not give me a direct answer about using a wheel chair just to get to the actual ports. I contacted the Port of St. Kitts and they said ust to let them know about two weeks ahead and they will make arrangements for transort from the ship to the port. I'll check with the Port at St.Maaren about the golf cartrs, thanks. I'll check again with Carnival closer to our departure.

 

My husband is stubborn and will not agree to renting a wheelchair or a scooter. (Imagine that, an independent, stubborn husband who doesn't think he needs assistance.) So, we'll work out these various alternatives.

 

Fortunately, all three of our excursions are with the CC group that we are cruising with. They are understanding of his challenges, so that makes it easier than if we were part of a larger group of total strangers.

 

St. Lucia Spencer Ambrose Tour

St. Kitts Rose and Jimmy's Taxi Tour

St. Maarten Joyce Prince Tour

 

Love the pictures as always !

[aeomom]

:( I don't want your trip to be over!

[orthonurse1]

great review, I've been taking alot of notes. We leave on 9/5/10 on the same trip. questions:

-you said somewhere in the blog that you would try to post a packing list-did I miss it?

-we have several people traveling together, in cabins of choice throughout the ship. A few of us are in the cheap cabins (steerage, as we've been calling it). I know you were in a suite, but do you know if there are mini-fridges in the lower level cabins? We have found them in some Carnival ships, but not all.

-how long was the entire Brimstone Hill trip? We have arranged a private 4 hr island tour for our group & not sure if we'd have time to do this as well.

 

btw-our group is from Indy : )

[Ginnyfyr]

Thanks for compliment.

Yes, we were even in a suite and it is an icky rectangle headed hairdryer, minimal power, and stuck on bathroom with no vetilation.

I would recommend a dryer from home- I second guessed and will no longer.

 

I tried dryer, and it would be lucky to dry a guys hair/ My hair is shoulder length and I did better outdoors on balcony! So go with your own.

I have a foldable travel hairdryer, but almost considered a "Goodwill overstock" hairdryer for a one way trip!

I have been on other ships that have 1200watt in drawer but never know when, and even that is weak dryer. Stick with bringing a dryer and just bring one less pair of shoes.;)

 

I'm so glad someone asked about the hairdryer - I was just thinking about the quality of it this morning! I was probably going to bring my travel dryer anyway so it will definitely be going in the suitcase after reading this. Do you know if I'll have an issue bringing my flatiron? My hair can't decide if it wants to be wavy or straight, so on hot summer days I usually just scrunch some mousse in and go wavy for the daytime, but I prefer to flatiron it to tone things down a bit for the evening.

[Buffettfan 225]

great review, I've been taking alot of notes. We leave on 9/5/10 on the same trip. questions:

-you said somewhere in the blog that you would try to post a packing list-did I miss it?

-we have several people traveling together, in cabins of choice throughout the ship. A few of us are in the cheap cabins (steerage, as we've been calling it). I know you were in a suite, but do you know if there are mini-fridges in the lower level cabins? We have found them in some Carnival ships, but not all.

-how long was the entire Brimstone Hill trip? We have arranged a private 4 hr island tour for our group & not sure if we'd have time to do this as well.

 

btw-our group is from Indy : )

Aw..I am off work that week-can I come :D I live in Carmel--are you a work group?

1.)Packing list has not been missed. It is in typing phase.

 

2.)I would have to say only suites have refrigerators. Honestly not missing all that much as it keeps things chilled, but not cold. Ask for a second ice bucket & we put towl under it and around, or bring a foldable cooler like we did- I carefully chose a cooler without seams inside it--can also line with a huge ziploc.

Here is a quote from website describing an interior on Victory:

"Category 4H - Interior Stateroom

Decks: Lido Deck, Panorama Deck

Occupancy: Sleeps 2 guests, some sleep 3 or 4

Description: Interior Staterooms have two twin beds that convert to a queen-sized bed, ample closet and storage space, private bathroom with shower, and a living area with vanity and seating. Staterooms are equipped with thermostat controlled air-conditioning, television, telephone, and personal safe.

Some staterooms are equipped with upper Pullman-style bunk beds to accommodate a third or fourth guest.

Square Footage: 185 sq ft"

 

3.)Brimstone--about a 20 minute ride, taxis allow for a standard 45min wait,(time really flies at fort-my Dh said next time he'd skip 9 min video inside welcome center-noone cares- just walk straight through curtains or skip going into visitor center all together) then we did a quick 15 min stop at caribelle batik (only because driver thought I'd like it -got to see the special painted rock with cryptographs or something like that on it, and whipped through the Caribelle shop and grounds in 5min as was closing at 4pm.)

I think we left about 2pm or so and were back by 4:30 for sure. Likely could be faster without extra stops. The PM private taxi tour of fort was so uncrowded. I think it was a standard rate and could have been cheaper if split four ways. It did not include admission.

I think depending on time your tour meets, 2-1/2 hour window is enough, 3 hour if you really want to build a buffer. The taxis start and drop off at same location I am sure your tour does also. Parking area is just to right of the "Slots" sign in photo. For tours they open gate, to catch a private taxi walk all the way through arch way, and will be guided to taxi dispatcher on right side who writes a ticket. (Don't be caught by taxis coming up to you and offering-they are either skipping line, not regulated fares or as they call them gypsy not official taxis)

 

Photo taken before leaving for carnival sponsored train tour-our buses seen on far right in photo

I plan on posting more to thread--I can answer questions and post my thoughts and packing list

[Buffettfan 225]

I'm so glad someone asked about the hairdryer - I was just thinking about the quality of it this morning! I was probably going to bring my travel dryer anyway so it will definitely be going in the suitcase after reading this. Do you know if I'll have an issue bringing my flatiron? My hair can't decide if it wants to be wavy or straight, so on hot summer days I usually just scrunch some mousse in and go wavy for the daytime, but I prefer to flatiron it to tone things down a bit for the evening.

Yes to flat iron- I brought my flat iron. It has been officially posted as ok as long as in good working order, and steward does not catch it plugged in.

I was so paranoid, I put it in my carryon and carried a printed letter from forums about flatirons being approved.

We DH also put an extension cord in his suitcase and wrapped it around frame of suitcase, and I put one attached to my hairdryer in my suitcase. They both made it.

I know what you mean about hair doing its own thing in humidity--there was a Friends episode where Monica was in Barbados playing pingpong and her hair kept getting bigger and bigger like Rosanna Dana--my loving DH on cruises calls my hair Monica hair. Hence all the ponytails in photos. Its too hot to not put it up anyhow-

Here is link to a recent post by carnival staff on forums- same type I printed and brought with me. Flat iron is under miscellaneous concerns section.

http://www.carnival.com/Funville/forums/t/112400.aspx

[orthonurse1]

sure you can come! We've got 15 people (13 from Indy area, 2 from Florida). It's a mixed group of friends, family, co-workers. Most have known each other for years, but some haven't met. Flying AirTran at 6:30am :o

[aeomom]

Suzy, what are your thoughts on transportation to and from port? We are flying in the day of (long story, but we don't have a choice in the matter really). We know that we want to shop a little before we board (CVS, the wine shop, etc). Carrying all of our luggage while we shop would be a pain. If we use Carnival transfer do we have to see our checked bags again before they end up in our cabin? Or would it be better to grab a taxi, board the ship and then get back off sans our luggage?

 

 

Also, on the way back to the airport I see you did use a taxi. When you opt to do it this way you don't have to leave your luggage outside your room the night before? That makes me nervous.

Edited August 23, 2010 by aeomom
typo

[Buffettfan 225]

Suzy, what are your thoughts on transportation to and from port? We are flying in the day of (long story, but we don't have a choice in the matter really). We know that we want to shop a little before we board (CVS, the wine shop, etc). Carrying all of our luggage while we shop would be a pain. If we use Carnival transfer do we have to see our checked bags again before they end up in our cabin? Or would it be better to grab a taxi, board the ship and then get back off sans our luggage?

 

 

Also, on the way back to the airport I see you did use a taxi. When you opt to do it this way you don't have to leave your luggage outside your room the night before? That makes me nervous.

OK. I do not know how the Carnival transfer works, I only know basics that it is a bus, and first load does not leave airport until noon, and only when each load is full. I cannot verify if they check you in at airport and then transport luggage all the way to room or not. cost:

Cruise Line transfers are $15 per person each way so if there are at least 2 people traveling, a taxi is much more cost efficient.

You may want to post that question about San Juan transfers if they expedite check in at airport and move luggage.

 

What I do know:

here's my best idea for you.

Proceed down to luggage area and gather- exit and there is a small booth where a taxi is told where you are going and how much. (we used a luggage porter-he gathered luggage and loaded into taxi he got -he skipped any line waiting for a taxi -they must have some unwritten rule)

I think it was $20 for up to four of us + tip.

 

The taxi drops very close to front of walkway-- there may be porters here (there was at 11am) that take luggage from here and it will get delivered to cabin.

Now you can choose to check-in, (the wine store is on the upstairs level -one per person in carryon) purchase wine, go through security, eat a bit and wait on lido area until 2:30pm when allowed to go to cabins and then can take items you carried on, empty them. Then get off ship as dinner is open seating 5:30-8:30 and safety drill at 9:30. So plenty of time to go to CVS for soda and miscellaneous -you could also add another wine or champagne that way :) to a carryon. Just know depending on time you leave, there may be another wait in security line to get back on.

 

OR if you feel can add the soda/water to your carry on: drop off luggage with porters, and then just go to CVS across and down a bit. Return with carryons,buy wine and check in. Just depends on how much you are carrying on to start with.

 

Luggage last night in hall: Bring return address labels so not have to fill each bag tag separately. Obviously keep meds,small toiletry kit,electronics,what you intend to wear set aside, plus my souveniers all in a carry on rollalong backpack. We have never had trouble with leaving bags in hallway. We have always used cable ties to secure them when in hall. Last cruise we forgot and nothing was disturbed. I also like to use the space bags that you roll and squish air out (not the vaccum kind). It makes packing easier, and is a lot harder to disturb contents and possibly "lose an item" . San Juan is unique and in morning when claiming luggage or before airport checkin can slip last minute items in if need be.

 

I also when printing out cruise luggage tags at home-print two per bag. Put one on side handle and one on top and I laminated them. My mom just coated hers in clear packing tape not having a laminator. I also am extra cautious and created tags for my carryon just in case it got misplaced.

I have also read some people put a note inside checked bag with their contact information in case bag gets lost. I also took a photo of each bag in case they needed to know what it looked like.

I may sound like an over-planner but our vacations go very smooth!

Edited August 23, 2010 by Buffettfan 225
typo

[orthonurse1]

I didn't realize there is a wine shop there. How is the selection? How are the prices? Great ideas on the luggage tags & pics.

[kenrod]

Buffettfan 225

Thank you so much for taking the time to compose your highly detailed pictorial. To me, it brought back so many fond memories of the Victory cruise we took. Since some of your shore excursions were different from ours, it was nice to see what else is available to do should we dock at these ports once again.