Before answering questions...

[fleckle]

Make sure you have the facts or point out that the answer may not apply to all passengers, or try to ask questions in your reply. I see people posting about insurance, cancel policies, pre flight arrival times, passport reqs etc, without knowing or understanding or most importantly asking about nationality, whether flying in or out internationally or domestically, knowing that how and where people purchased their cruise (US? Europe? Direct with X, through a TA?) may affect deposit and cancelation policies. That diferent nationalities may have to have different travel or entry visas, that prices in the UK for example are not just the US dollar amount converted to pounds or Euros, but a whole different price set. That a pre existing condition on a US insurance policy may not be the same for a foreign policy. Roaming charges and cell phones for an American on a European cruise using their regular US phone work completely differently for someone who lives in Europe with a GSM phone.

 

I am also amazed at the number of people giving "advice" on how to cheat the systems, the policies, the staff, sneak in electrical items that can cause fires, avoid paying for items, sneak extra people into hotel where max occupancy is exceed (regulations in place by fire Marshall), " steal" amenities from the spa because they don't come " standard" in the room, and who feel that their every need, request, complaint etc needs to be taken care of immediately and without question and with Compensation. Yes, most will try to do their best to make things right but you are one of 2000-4000 and being reasonable goes a long way.

 

Sorry about the rant, no not everyone is like that and those who get upset with what I said... Well aybe take a good hard look and see if it's actually your conscience talking..

 

I have to wonder how you would react if someone was trying to pull a fast one on your business..?

The people who post here are unpaid volunteers. They are not running a business here.

 

Each person has his/her own ideas of what is or is not appropriate to post, just as you have yours.

 

One can find good, useful information here as well as lighthearted, frivolous banter and statements that are incorrect or incomplete.

 

People try to be helpful. They kid around. They make mistakes.

They may be half asleep, or in a good or bad mood when they post.

People post replies based on their own experiences, which will differ from someone else's experiences.

Realistically, all of that and more is to be expected on any message board of this type.

[jcrandle]

To the OP:

 

Well, Bless your heart!

[CaroleSS]

I find that when there is a void of "official" information, unofficial information will crop up.

 

When Celebrity (and others) can't (won't) give out correct information, CC people try to help. I don't understand why X customer service can't tell you things....I just called to ask what art classes would be offered on our cruise. I was told I'd have to wait until I got on the ship to find out.....and to find out the costs.

 

The rep told me that there was always space in the classes and I could walk in and join a class. I mentioned that the web says that space in the free classes fills almost before ship leaves the pier....she said "oh yes....the FREE classes fill quickly". Why did I have to know that information before I called? The rep knew little to no details about classes, the Lawn Club, wine&cheese packages, etc.

 

If not for my CC friends, I would know nothing! While some posters may not know ALL the information, they sure beat X's customer service! Forgive those that try to help.....they are not on the payroll, but they ARE trying to help, based upon their experiences.......YMMV!

[TLCOhio]

This board, and many of the seasoned Celebrity contributors helped me to understand the ins and outs of the upgrade policy. I was more informed when I called the Celebrity phone reps. I think CC is a terrific resource. It has made cruising both more economical and fun for me.!

 

CaroleSS: I find that when there is a void of "official" information' date=' unofficial information will crop up. [/quote']

 

fleckle: The people who post here are unpaid volunteers. They are not running a business here. Each person has his/her own ideas of what is or is not appropriate to post' date=' just as you have yours. [/quote']

 

I can understand and appreciate the very valid "concerns" from the original poster, BUT, the above viewpoint by Kevnzworld is very wise about the overall, practical result/benefit from most, but not all, who post here. Lots of great ideas and people are here on these boards and they are happy to help.

 

Super excellent points by CarolSS and fleckle above. Overall, people, including on these boards, are fairly smart and able to sort out the "real stuff" of value versus those lesser opinions and slants.

 

Buyer beware is important in some cases.

 

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

 

Did a June 7-19, 2011, Solstice cruise from Barcelona that had stops in Villefranche, ports near Pisa and Rome, Naples, Kotor, Venice and Dubrovnik. Enjoyed great weather and a wonderful trip. Dozens of wonderful visuals with key highlights, tips, comments, etc., on these postings. We are now at 101,173 views for this live/blog re-cap on our first sailing with Celebrity and much on wonderful Barcelona. Check these postings and added info at:

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1426474

[Lois R]

I can understand and appreciate the very valid "concerns" from the original poster, BUT, the above viewpoint by Kevnzworld is very wise about the overall, practical result/benefit from most, but not all, who post here. Lots of great ideas and people are here on these boards and they are happy to help.

 

Super excellent points by CarolSS and fleckle above. Overall, people, including on these boards, are fairly smart and able to sort out the "real stuff" of value versus those lesser opinions and slants.

 

Buyer beware is important in some cases.

 

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

 

Did a June 7-19, 2011, Solstice cruise from Barcelona that had stops in Villefranche, ports near Pisa and Rome, Naples, Kotor, Venice and Dubrovnik. Enjoyed great weather and a wonderful trip. Dozens of wonderful visuals with key highlights, tips, comments, etc., on these postings. We are now at 101,173 views for this live/blog re-cap on our first sailing with Celebrity and much on wonderful Barcelona. Check these postings and added info at:

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1426474

 

Hi Terry:)...yes, most of us do try to help and the other thing,

about being a public message board? Unless things get really

bad most posts stay as they are (unless things get really out of hand

and a moderator has to step in).....but the other point about folks

trying to rip off the cruiseline, sneak things in etc.....? Again,

it is a public forum and there are all kinds of people in the world

and everyone is different. Not saying it is right, just saying it happens

and nothing really amazes me on here anymore.

 

If you are on here long enough you see lots of things......good and

not so good.

[jt'scruisinmom]

it is my humble understanding that this is a discussion board, not a bullet point just the facts info sheet. If you want just the facts, go to an encyclopedia.

 

The first definition of critic is: One who expresses a reasoned opinion on any matter especially involving a judgment of its value, truth, righteousness, beauty, or technique

 

everyone is entitled to an opinion. Everyone who reads that opinion has the right to believe or discount what he/she has just read.

 

But remember that opinions are like rectal sphincters, everyone has one, but nobody thinks that theirs stink.

 

:d:d:d

[ghstudio]

I think "ripping off the cruise line" is a bit over the top. One could argue that celebrity is "ripping us off" by only allowing two bottles of wine when you sail. One could argue that a $25 corkage fee is just a bit steep. How about 5% to get your money at the casino cashier...is that not ripping off passengers?

 

Let's try to maintain a balanced view.....and not all rush to the perceived high ground.

[Lois R]

I think "ripping off the cruise line" is a bit over the top. One could argue that celebrity is "ripping us off" by only allowing two bottles of wine when you sail. One could argue that a $25 corkage fee is just a bit steep. How about 5% to get your money at the casino cashier...is that not ripping off passengers?

 

Let's try to maintain a balanced view.....and not all rush to the perceived high ground.

 

Hi.:).....I should have quoted the OP.....that is what I was referring to...

I think she mentioned it in her first post. I said ripping off....here is what I meant......

quote:

"I am also amazed at the number of people giving "advice" on how to cheat the systems,"

 

Cheating the system....rather than ripping off..........

 

As for agreeing with it or not...what I was saying in response to Terry's post? Nothing like that

amazes me anymore.

[wwcruisers]

Hi Terry:)...yes, most of us do try to help and the other thing,

about being a public message board? Unless things get really

bad most posts stay as they are (unless things get really out of hand

and a moderator has to step in).....but the other point about folks

trying to rip off the cruiseline, sneak things in etc.....? Again,

it is a public forum and there are all kinds of people in the world

and everyone is different. Not saying it is right, just saying it happens

and nothing really amazes me on here anymore.

 

If you are on here long enough you see lots of things......good and

not so good.

 

Lois -- I've been trying to come up with a constructive, yet honest, response to the OP's post -- but you said it all (and very well, I might add! ;))

[gold1953]

Once you read a few posts ,one quickly realizes that there is much wrong info given out. It all comes from personal experience or a friend telling a friend, etc. . There is also excellant info given.

Nothing on this board will change.

I do chuckle at times..the best one is ..How is the food..the answer ranges from terrible to awesome.

Can I make it to the airport on time? ..no the taxi lines are long..yes, there was no line for taxis

How do I smuggle booze on board?...well Celebrity reads this..the gig is up!

Today there was a post ...CC versus Aqua class . The first answer given was wrong, but it was the experience of the poster who obviously did not have a good room attendant. Been there!

 

So this board will continue as is. A few folks will read this thread and most will not see it as it will quickly make it to page 2 or 3 and then beyond

[TLCOhio]

Hi Terry:)...yes, most of us do try to help and the other thing,

about being a public message board? Unless things get really

bad most posts stay as they are (unless things get really out of hand

and a moderator has to step in).....but the other point about folks

trying to rip off the cruiseline, sneak things in etc.....? Again,

it is a public forum and there are all kinds of people in the world

and everyone is different. Not saying it is right, just saying it happens

and nothing really amazes me on here anymore.

If you are on here long enough you see lots of things......good and

not so good.

 

conshydot:: it is my humble understanding that this is a discussion board' date=' not a bullet point just the facts info sheet. If you want just the facts, go to an encyclopedia. The first definition of critic is: One who expresses a reasoned opinion on any matter especially involving a judgment of its value, truth, righteousness, beauty, or technique. everyone is entitled to an opinion. Everyone who reads that opinion has the right to believe or discount what he/she has just read. But remember that opinions are like rectal sphincters, everyone has one, but nobody thinks that theirs stink. [/quote']

 

As always, great and interesting thoughts and comments from Lois. Very funny, true and interesting by conshydot. Isn't this "free speech" stuff stimulating? Helps start the day off with a little "sizzle"!!

 

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

 

Did a June 7-19, 2011, Solstice cruise from Barcelona that had stops in Villefranche, ports near Pisa and Rome, Naples, Kotor, Venice and Dubrovnik. Enjoyed great weather and a wonderful trip. Dozens of wonderful visuals with key highlights, tips, comments, etc., on these postings. We are now at 101,473 views for this live/blog re-cap on our first sailing with Celebrity and much on wonderful Barcelona. Check these postings and added info at:

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1426474

[ghstudio]

Once you read a few posts ,one quickly realizes that there is much wrong info given out. It all comes from personal experience or a friend telling a friend, etc. . There is also excellant info given.

Nothing on this board will change.

I do chuckle at times..the best one is ..How is the food..the answer ranges from terrible to awesome.

Can I make it to the airport on time? ..no the taxi lines are long..yes, there was no line for taxis

How do I smuggle booze on board?...well Celebrity reads this..the gig is up!

Today there was a post ...CC versus Aqua class . The first answer given was wrong, but it was the experience of the poster who obviously did not have a good room attendant. Been there!

 

So this board will continue as is. A few folks will read this thread and most will not see it as it will quickly make it to page 2 or 3 and then beyond

 

Humorously, the incorrect information in the CC vs Aqua thread was posted by the OP of this thread! That created a number of responses, all correcting the incorrect information.

[Chooz2Cruz]

I found that quite funny, too. Someone who is ranting about wrong information, is giving out wrong information on the CC vs. Aqua thread! They seem to think that if X has it on their website, they can quote it, and they are correct and everyone else is wrong! "Before answering questions.........................!

[dchillis]

 

I am also amazed at the number of people giving "advice" on how to cheat the systems, the policies, the staff, sneak in electrical items that can cause fires, avoid paying for items, sneak extra people into hotel where max occupancy is exceed (regulations in place by fire Marshall), " steal" amenities from the spa because they don't come " standard" in the room, and who feel that their every need, request, complaint etc needs to be taken care of immediately and without question and with Compensation.

I have to wonder how you would react if someone was trying to pull a fast one on your business..?

 

.......sneaking in alcohol in bottled water bottles or mouth wash bottles! And worst or all people having fun when the have no right to have fun that really cooks my goose, the nerve of people, having fun :eek:....:cool:

[ORV]

Humorously, the incorrect information in the CC vs Aqua thread was posted by the OP of this thread! That created a number of responses, all correcting the incorrect information.

 

Seems rather ironic.

[gacruisergal]

Have you ever been on a Celebrity cruise? You joined Cruise Critic in June, 2012 and Booked an Equinox cruise for November on August 12, 2012. Just wondering...............

[Alg63]

Not everyone lists their cruise Conquests and yes i have cruised Celebrity and others and some that you never heard of like the Windsor Castle which was my first cruise at age 11 "....One of the Royal "mail" ships as they were referred to in those days.

Sorry I did not know one had to post a. Resume or be here a certain amount of time before being allowed to post... for the last 5 years I have been spending my time trying to save my home and business..now that l gave it bank to the bank I have time to post. Sorry about that. Do I have your go ahead now?

[A Sixth?]

Not everyone lists their cruise Conquests and yes i have cruised Celebrity and others and some that you never heard of like the Windsor Castle which was my first cruise at age 11 "....One of the Royal "mail" ships as they were referred to in those days.

Sorry I did not know one had to post a. Resume or be here a certain amount of time before being allowed to post... for the last 5 years I have been spending my time trying to save my home and business..now that l gave it bank to the bank I have time to post. Sorry about that. Do I have your go ahead now?

 

Sorry for your hard times....

 

Is posting about something as trivial (IMHO) as how people interact on a holiday chat board, really important to you? I must say I am confused.:confused:

[Alg63]

Sorry for your hard times....

 

Is posting about something as trivial (IMHO) as how people interact on a holiday chat board, really important to you? I must say I am confused.:confused:

 

Maybe I am in a dream world thinking there may be a posting Utopia... As for my hard times I did not lose my business because of people trying to pull a fast one but they certainly tried ... And so many business owners will say the same things. Everyone wants more for less, and when they get it they are happy. Then they see THEIR "less" for even less and suddenly they have to find a way to get it or they will not be happy. And everyone is giving Mr Less I.S. More advice, some downright sneaky. See even I am confused now.

[grammyandpoppy]

I've been reading your posts. Would you rather be right or be happy? Like many others, I am grateful for the information shared. Maybe its not perfect but neither am I. Have a good night

[Alg63]

I've been reading your posts. Would you rather be right or be happy? Like many others, I am grateful for the information shared. Maybe its not perfect but neither am I. Have a good night

 

Let me try and put it in fewer words, apparently it may be easier..Yes there're lots of useful posts, I have never said otherwise.

 

ALL I was saying was try to clarify what the poster is asking and TRY to consider there may be other factors and TRY not to screw everyone over while doing it. There, now be happy. MAYBE next time you get an answer you will be even more grateful because someone asked 2 extra questions and you got a great answer.

[jackdiamond]

What did she say?

[dchillis]

this thread give me gas :o

[Kevnzworld]

this thread give me gas :o

 

Haha!

[ghstudio]

Let me try and put it in fewer words, apparently it may be easier..Yes there're lots of useful posts, I have never said otherwise.

 

ALL I was saying was try to clarify what the poster is asking and TRY to consider there may be other factors and TRY not to screw everyone over while doing it. There, now be happy. MAYBE next time you get an answer you will be even more grateful because someone asked 2 extra questions and you got a great answer.

 

I'm still waiting for some examples because I'm just not aware of that much wrong information appearing in this forum and when something is wrong it's usually found and corrected by someone within minutes. Of course some who post incorrect information refuse to accept the corrections as being fact and continue to repost the same incorrect info....