LGBT Roll Call: Celebrity Silhouette T/A 12/01/12

[amusea]

Hi everyone,

I booked seats on the 12:10 Frecciabianca train to Civitavecchia. Sadly, I seem to have lost out on the less expensive tickets, I paid almost $39 for the two seats. I'm in Coach 8, seats 1C & 1D. Someone else on this board is also in Coach 8, but right now I'm too lazy to look to see who it is. See you on the train ;)

 

From my research, I've got Simon Boccanegra playing at the Teatro Dell'Opera on 11/30, but I haven't found a way to book seats for anything beyond October. Anyone have any clues there?

 

I love the fact that, accidentally, the opera house is within walking distance of my hotel!

 

We are the guilty persons that have seats 11A and 11B in coach 8. The fact that the price has gone up means that the train is filling up. We have done the walk to the entrance of the port where the shuttle buses wait so just follow us (unless it is raining and we will all fight for the one taxi):(.

No sense trying to get tickets to Boccanegra at Rome Opera. They are not selling seats until November and then it is probably through a ticket agency. We will probably walk across the plaza on the 29th and just try to buy tix at the Box Office. That way you can choose your seats since the Rome Opera is in the classic horseshoe shape and many seats have partially obstructed views. Just use you best Italian.

Since it is the second performance with the second cast it should be easy to get tickets. Just use your best Italian. On the day of performance the seats are supposed to be 25% less but in Italy you never know. If that doesn't work there is also a reduced price for seniors and unfortunately I am in that category although my partner is not.

By the way, the Boccanegra performances are Tuesday the 27th (premiere), Thursday the 29th and Saturday Dec. 1.

 

Jay

[HellsKitchenCruiser]

By the way, the Boccanegra performances are Tuesday the 27th (premiere), Thursday the 29th and Saturday Dec. 1.

 

Jay

 

You're right, Boccanegra is on the 29th. I confused the date with the Vatican tour I'm looking at.

 

Michael

[wv4891]

Hello everyone,

 

Thought I would hop over here from the main rollcall to say hello. Marilynn and I are looking forward to this cruise and meeting , seeing you around the ship.

 

This cruise is finally on our radar and is less than 8 weeks away now. For any of you still looking for a private excursion, Jade13 on the main rollcall has put together a "Gaudi" tour while in Barcelona, with an expert guide. If any of you are interested, we still have room for 4 more. Here is a link to her message on the main rollcall. You can email me at wv4891@sbcglobal.net and I will forward it on to Jade13.

 

Enjoy your Sunday.

Edited October 7, 2012 by wv4891

[JimmyNYC]

We're in coach 7. Going to have to follow everyone else. We have no idea where to go once in Civitavecchia. LOL

 

 

There will likely be quite a few people walking from the train to the port. When you exit the train and are facing the sea, just be sure to walk to the right towards the town! You're also welcome to walk with us.

[moking34]

There will likely be quite a few people walking from the train to the port. When you exit the train and are facing the sea, just be sure to walk to the right towards the town! You're also welcome to walk with us.

 

Thanks! Have seen some of the information on here about turning right when getting off the train at the station. Just look for two bewildered Canucks. I'm sure we'll be easy to find... LOL:D

[daviddfld]

Hello everyone,

 

Thought I would hop over here from the main rollcall to say hello. Marilynn and I are looking forward to this cruise and meeting , seeing you around the ship.

 

This cruise is finally on our radar and is less than 8 weeks away now. For any of you still looking for a private excursion, Jade13 on the main rollcall has put together a "Gaudi" tour while in Barcelona, with an expert guide. If any of you are interested, we still have room for 4 more. Here is a link to her message on the main rollcall. You can email me at wv4891@sbcglobal.net and I will forward it on to Jade13.

 

Enjoy your Sunday.

Hi Marilyn & Bill ... thanks for stopping by to say hello. Larry & I look forward to seeing you again. I know we have been on a TA or two with you in the past!

 

David

[tt_dp]

Hi Tim and Dale,

 

Just wondered if you booked the 12:10 train and, if so, what car you are in. We are in Car #8. Just in case it is raining maybe we could share a cab from the train station in Civitavecchia to the port entry if the cab is big enough for four persons and luggage which may be a stretch. It is only about six blocks to the port shuttle bus but you and your luggage could get very wet if the weather doesn't cooperate.

 

Jay and Al

 

Jay and Al

 

Sorry for the delay in getting back to you. I had not been logged in for a while. We are on the 12:10 train in car #1. We have 2 others travelling with us so sharing a cab won't work. Looking forward to meeting everyone. It's looking like a LARGE group.

 

Tim & Dale

[amusea]

Hi Tim and Dale,

 

The train roster seems to be growing daily. JimmyNYC is also in Coach 1. I think that is the sleeper car:D:D. I guess we will have quite a caravan walking to the port. Luckily we never travel with any checked luggage. Just a rollaboard and flight bag each.

 

Jay

[amusea]

For those of us that have contributed to this board and are not connected to Aquafest or one of the other groups onboard, it might be fun to find a place to meet on the day of sailing after the fire drill. On another Solstice ship our group decided to meet in the Ensemble Bar on Entertainment Deck 5. The reason was that this lounge is located aft by the specialty restaurants and Michael's Club. It is not a passage to some other lounges so it was very empty. It turned out to be a good idea and it was possible to talk without shouting over the PA system music. So I put this forward as a possible venue and welcome other ideas if people are interested in having a gathering.

 

Jay

[russg140]

what train is everyone discussing? how do you book? thx.

[Jade13]

Hello everyone,

 

Thought I would hop over here from the main rollcall to say hello. Marilynn and I are looking forward to this cruise and meeting , seeing you around the ship.

 

This cruise is finally on our radar and is less than 8 weeks away now. For any of you still looking for a private excursion, Jade13 on the main rollcall has put together a "Gaudi" tour while in Barcelona, with an expert guide. If any of you are interested, we still have room for 4 more. Here is a link to her message on the main rollcall. You can email me at wv4891@sbcglobal.net and I will forward it on to Jade13.

 

Enjoy your Sunday.

 

wv4891, thank you so much for posting this.

 

Yes, Wv4891 and his DW and me and my DH still have room on a comprehensive Antoni Gaudi Tour for Wednesday December 5, 2012 in Barcelona (small group size of 8, possibly 10 persons max).

 

This will be conducted in a mini-bus with both driver and expert licensed guide who can skip the lines for easy access for all inside visits. You will see a lot of the city as we drive around.

=====

 

Silhouette – Barcelona, Spain

Wednesday December 5, 2012 – Antoni Gaudi Tour

Silhouette – Barcelona, Spain

Wednesday December 5, 2012

Silhouette Arrival: 8:00am

Silhouette Departure: 5:00pm

Tour time: 8:15am – 3:30/3:45pm (approx. 7.5hours)

 

The sites we plan to visit

 

1. Park Guell

2. La Sagrada Familia (inside visit) (13 EUR cathedral, 3 EUR towers)

3. Casa Mila - La Pedrera (inside visit - roof Structures)(15 EUR)

4. Casa Batilo (inside visit, roof terrace, building well) (18.50 EUR)

5. Casa Vicerns (outside)

6. Placa Reial - lamposts

7. Barcelona Cathedral (not Gaudi, 6 EUR) (inside visit time permitting on way back to ship)

 

With a group of 8 the base price will be 99 EUR per person (less if we have 9 or 10 people) paid in cash that day. We have already secured the driver and guide with credit card. The entrance fees are an additional approximate 55.5 EUR per person (current prices), total estimate 155 EUR per person. Lunch and tips for the driver and guide are additional at your individual discretion.

 

Notes:

 

This will be a fast paced tour with multiple inside visits and a short time for a quick lunch.

 

The tour is suitable for those with a special interest in Antoni Gaudi (1852-1926) or Catalan modernist architecture but we wil be driving all around the city.

 

We have hired an expert guide with van and driver as we have limited time in port and want to maximize our time, including port pick-up and drop-off. The licensed guide can skip the lines at the various venues.

 

If interested, please let us know how to get in touch with you.

 

We are looking forward to meeting everyone!

Edited October 9, 2012 by Jade13

[daviddfld]

For those of us that have contributed to this board and are not connected to Aquafest or one of the other groups onboard, it might be fun to find a place to meet on the day of sailing after the fire drill. On another Solstice ship our group decided to meet in the Ensemble Bar on Entertainment Deck 5. The reason was that this lounge is located aft by the specialty restaurants and Michael's Club. It is not a passage to some other lounges so it was very empty. It turned out to be a good idea and it was possible to talk without shouting over the PA system music. So I put this forward as a possible venue and welcome other ideas if people are interested in having a gathering.

 

Jay

Hi Jay,

That sounds like a good idea as the group guys will probably have their own private get-togethers right from the start.

 

Please remind us all again as we get closer to our sail date. Larry & I will already be on board as we are doing the previous cruise.

 

David

[amusea]

what train is everyone discussing? how do you book? thx.

 

Here is my post from a while ago with the details on the express train from Termini. It seems that we have all chosen the earlier train which leaves at 12:10. Since it is reserved seating it is best to order tickets over the internet. Just be aware that the "discount" price increases as the train fills up. However, I just checked and the super discount second class tickets are still 9 Euros. I don't know why someone seems to have paid a lot more but that was probably for first class.

 

The train is such an easy and inexpensive way to get to Civitavecchia if you are in the vicinity of Termini. The "regionale" local trains are slow, uncomfortable and have little room for luggage. But a few times a day there is a "Frecciabianca" train that runs between Roma Termini and Genova which stops at Civitavecchia. You have to reserve a seat but the trains are the former deluxe long distance intercity trains with comfortable reclining seats and lots of luggage space. These trains usually make only one or two stops between Roma and Civitavecchia. You can get a second class Super Economy ticket if you buy the ticket in advance on the Trenitalia site (super economy tickets are still available as of today). The link is http://www.trenitalia.com/cms/v/inde...0080a3e90aRCRD. The price rises as more tickets are sold. Ours were nine Euros rather than the standard fourteen and a half Euros and our pre-allocated mandatory seat reservations which were included in the price were e-mailed to us along with our electronic train ticket. There are two Frecciabianca trains leaving Roma Termini that would get you to the ship in time for the cruise. If you are interested, here is the procedure:

Click on the above link which takes you to the English Trenitalia version. In the "From" box type in Roma (not Rome) Termini. In the "To" box type Civitavecchia. Indicate number of tickets and fill in the "hour" box with the number 12. The date of course will be 1-12-2012. Click on the lowest available fare box. This will pull up the complete list of trains around noon to Civitavecchia. There are two Frecciabianca trains that are available for getting to Civitavecchia in time for the cruise. The first is train #9786 which leaves at 12:10 and arrives at 12:51. The second train #9770 leaves at 13:29 and arrives at 14:07. Click on the train you prefer and the 9 euro per person economy fare if it is still available. The seat allocation is automatic when you purchase your ticket(s). Scroll down to the bottom and there is a box you can click which does not require registration. After completing each screen click on "complete". You will have to give your name and e-mail and you have to click on the box that indicates that you have read the rules and regulations. After completing the purchase with a credit card there will be an instantaneous message sent to your e-mail which has the ticket with electronic code printed on it. I used my credit card that has no foreign transaction fee but any major card will work.

 

I have used the Trenitalia site twice recently. Once for my tickets from Florence to Rome since I will be in Florence for a week before traveling to Rome and once again for Civitavecchia. Both worked perfectly.

At the station on the day of travel make sure you validate your ticket in the box before getting on the train or there could be a 50 Euro fine.

 

Jay

[ptownandpompano]

hi folks, I am reporting in from Provincetown, MA. Somehow, there are now fourteen of us who have booked this cruise, and not as an organized group. In addition, my partner and I are traveling with three other friends. Many of us are arriving in Rome on the 27 of November. Three of usare actually flying out of Miami on the 26th.

 

 

two questions: any thoughts on tuxedo rental for formal nights?

any sense of weather as we cross Atlantic between Tenerife and Fort Lauderdale?

 

Thanks,

 

Richard

Edited October 9, 2012 by ptownandpompano
spelling

[johhnnyt]

I think there are two larger groups, probably 4 more pods of friends traveling together, along with another dozen or so solo couples and groups from what I can tell, can't wait to go and meet you all (already supposed to get down to 30's in temperature in NY this week).

 

two questions: any thoughts on tuxedo rental for formal nights?

I know quite a few people that have used this, and been real happy with the service,and lack of having to pack one. I always bring mine, as its my once or twice a year chance to see if I still fit in the pants.

any sense of weather as we cross Atlantic between Tenerife and Fort Lauderdale?

 

Monica had posted this link Cruise Outlook which shows you expected weather for the cruise, but I guess its only available 10 days before sailing

 

I know its a crap shoot to tell, but one transatlantic I did we had three days at see windy and cool but rest were delightful

[amusea]

Hi everyone,

I booked seats on the 12:10 Frecciabianca train to Civitavecchia. Sadly, I seem to have lost out on the less expensive tickets, I paid almost $39 for the two seats. I'm in Coach 8, seats 1C & 1D.

 

 

Yikes. I can't imagine what happened. The regular second class fare is 14.50 Euros and the discount price today (Oct. 9) on the Trenitalia site is still 9 Euros per person. The only higher price is 20 Euros for first class but you are in the same car that we are. Perhaps Coach 8 is divided into two parts - one part first class and one part second class. Some coaches are divided like that. Anyhow, sorry you had to pay so much.

 

Jay

[David Craig]

The train is such an easy and inexpensive way to get to Civitavecchia if you are in the vicinity of Termini. The "regionale" local trains are slow, uncomfortable and have little room for luggage. But a few times a day there is a "Frecciabianca" train that runs between Roma Termini and Genova which stops at Civitavecchia. You have to reserve a seat but the trains are the former deluxe long distance intercity trains with comfortable reclining seats and lots of luggage space. These trains usually make only one or two stops between Roma and Civitavecchia. You can get a second class Super Economy ticket if you buy the ticket in advance on the Trenitalia site (super economy tickets are still available as of today). The link is http://www.trenitalia.com/cms/v/inde...0080a3e90aRCRD. Jay

 

Thank you, Jay, for your detailed information on booking the train tickets to Civit. Very impressive that you would take the time and effort to help others. ( I followed your instructions carefully and it was pretty easy.) Last year I took the regular train down but I am anxious to try this particular train this year, mainly because of your reccomendations. . I am traveling down on Nov 30 at 12:10 and spending the night in Civit before our embarkation the next morning.(planning on going to the CC get together that night in Civit.. Am anxious to reconnect with friends from last year and new friends from the CC boards) I was able to get a 1st class ticket for 9 Euros . Not sure the big difference is in 1st class. We'll see. . I will be staying at the hotel Miramare in Civit. and the Hotel Opera Roma in Rome (right by Termini).

Let me introduce myself. I am Dave (Corybuff) and from San Francisco. I was on the same cruise last year and will be rejoining 7 of the people that were at our "solo" formal nights table last year. We all met on last year's cruise. (that is 7 out of 8 returning from our Cruise Critic organized table, including, Alan (Babe at Sea)(..hi, Alan, I finally made it over to this board.lol.) Needless to say we all had a great time last year.Looking forward to meeting all onboard and reconnecting with friends from last year. It is getting closer everyday. Have already started with the to do "lists":o lol...

[Compass Rose Monica]

hi folks, I am reporting in from Provincetown, MA. Somehow, there are now fourteen of us who have booked this cruise, and not as an organized group. In addition, my partner and I are traveling with three other friends. Many of us are arriving in Rome on the 27 of November. Three of usare actually flying out of Miami on the 26th.

 

 

two questions: any thoughts on tuxedo rental for formal nights?

any sense of weather as we cross Atlantic between Tenerife and Fort Lauderdale?

 

Thanks,

 

Richard

 

Hi Richard,

 

Weather crossing the Atlantic - one year the water was smooth as glass on a few days, calm seas, and warm temps. Shorts at pool deck were perfect. My TA last year was rough and cold the first half and wamer the last few days. This was from Southampton. It's always best to bring a mix of clothing.

 

Hopefully the link that John provided will be accurate enough for us. :p

 

 

Monica

[Compass Rose Monica]

FYI,

 

I'm hosting a Rome get together on the 30th at 6:30pm. So far I have a group of 34-36 people. The place is located off via N azion ale (if I spell the word without spaces then you'll see **** as the first four letters are banned on CC). Anyway, the place is charging 9 euros for the first glass of wine and comes with Italian appetizers. Additional drinks are 6 euros.

 

If anyone is interested in joining in please email me.

 

Looking forward to meeting everyone on the ship.

 

Thanks!

 

Monica

[Jeffuarc]

For those of us that have contributed to this board and are not connected to Aquafest or one of the other groups onboard, it might be fun to find a place to meet on the day of sailing after the fire drill. On another Solstice ship our group decided to meet in the Ensemble Bar on Entertainment Deck 5. The reason was that this lounge is located aft by the specialty restaurants and Michael's Club. It is not a passage to some other lounges so it was very empty. It turned out to be a good idea and it was possible to talk without shouting over the PA system music. So I put this forward as a possible venue and welcome other ideas if people are interested in having a gathering.

 

Jay

 

Jeff here from Plymouth, MA ... I am traveling with friends and not part of any group so, count me in! We are flying into Rome on the 29th and staying at the St. Regis (any one else there?). Looking forward to meeting you all ... Your posts have been really helpful ... Thank you!!!!

[russg140]

Thanks for the great info on the trains. Very thorough and helpful. Does anyone know how much it would be to take a cab from Rome to Civitavecchia?

[JimmyNYC]

Thanks for the great info on the trains. Very thorough and helpful. Does anyone know how much it would be to take a cab from Rome to Civitavecchia?

 

We looked at Rome Cabs (www.romecabs.com) before booking the train. For a hotel transfer to the pier, their online booking system quoted 130 Euros. The port is a significant distance from the city. I think it's around 50 miles. There are probably less expensive private or shared options to be found once you're in Rome. I have to say the train was a lot of fun. But you may not want to board the ship after a couple nights at the St. Regis! We're staying at the IQ, a few blocks away from you.

 

Yes, everyone here has been very helpful. Looks like a nice group of people.

 

Jim

[JimmyNYC]

We looked at Rome Cabs (www.romecabs.com) before booking the train. For a hotel transfer to the pier, their online booking system quoted 130 Euros. The port is a significant distance from the city. I think it's around 50 miles. There are probably less expensive private or shared options to be found once you're in Rome. I have to say the train was a lot of fun. But you may not want to board the ship after a couple nights at the St. Regis! We're staying at the IQ, a few blocks away from you.

 

Yes, everyone here has been very helpful. Looks like a nice group of people.

 

Jim

 

I have to stop speed reading these messages. It's Jeff who may not want to board the ship after the St Regis!

[njp70]

Playing catchup on posts.... Glad to see all the activity....

 

Anyone flying out of Atlanta on Nov 28th....

 

Looking forward to meet and catching up with those I sailed with before....

 

Can't believe we leave next month for Rome....

[2008cruisemate]

Hello all!

 

Seems there has been some very lively conversation to date. I can see everyone is going to have a great time on the ship!

 

My partner, Jon, and I are VERY close to booking this cruise. We're a couple from Toronto. We wanted to do the Equinox TA last year, but ended up backing out due to work schedule conflicts. Jon may have an exam in December this year; however, we will know in the next week. If he doesn't, then we're booking!

 

I'm really hoping that we can get on this ship. I've been waiting to do a TA for a while.

 

Cheers,

 

Dan