LIVE from SE Asia with Sungirl - 29 Nov16 Diamond Princess

[TracieABD]

Oh no! I am so sorry to hear about your hand. I hope it and you feel better soon so you can enjoy your last days in Singapore.

[Pushka]

Hope the hand is better today!

[seacrystal]

. . . . As I was getting out of the cab I put my hand on the door frame for leverage. The driver didn't see that and slammed the door shut and locked on my fingers. I scream and it is only the second time in my 29 year marriage I have seen PC turn green. The first time was in Queenstown, NZ when I fell off a bench at a sheep show. I was the star. I was in shock and the driver was in shock. I told PC to go get security immediately. I couldn't feel anything, just swelling. I was bleeding a little. Security brought ice and first aid and whisked me away to their private lounge. What an entrance I made!

 

Hi Paige, this is so sad after having such a mind-blowing vacation. I do see, however, it did not diminish your great sense of humor. Stray strong and carry on!!!:D

[easyboy]

Hoping that your left middle finger heals soon.

[KCSungirl]

Singapore Sight-Seeing 13 December16

 

I haven't shared my travel mantras with you.

 

0. I travel wide, not deep

0. I am here for a good time, not a long time.

0. I can afford anything for one night, sometimes two.

0. I can sleep when I am dead

 

Traveling with me takes a ton of stamina. I go fast and can put in very long days. I have traveled a lot with friends and they love it because I do all the work, but they know the pace is rigorous. They are never disappointed. I pride myself on being an independent traveler. I would rarely use a third party to book anything. I always book directly with the provider, I want full control and I get much better service. I even road tripped Morocco with only a few advance hotel reservations. No reservations are my best trips!

 

My fingers/hand are not in very much pain, but fluid has caused more swelling. Hopefully that will go down. I am so lucky I didn't have a broken hand. These freak accidents happen so fast. Like I said, it just would not be a vacation without medical drama. The taxi company and insurance agent all called me before 8am. On one hand I appreciate it, on the other hand they just want to make sure I am ok and I am getting out of the country soon. If I go to the hospital it would open a can of worms. I will be ok.

 

We got a late start, as usual. We are off to the Singapore Zoo. A world renowned, free range zoo. It's part zoo, part conservation project, and part botanic garden. We took a taxi ($22S) because the clock is ticking. Not worth it to waste time getting to the MRT station and waiting for a bus. The park is 20 minutes outside of town and the MRT will not get you there without connecting to the bus. There is a 4 park pass you can buy that includes the night safari, river safari, and bird park. We only had time for the zoo - $33S/ pp. I always laugh when I ask someone how long it takes. I can cut that time in half! I was mainly wanting to see the Orangutans. I am not too good with zoos overall. They upset me. The polar bear and elephant areas were painfully small. Loved the giraffes and the all of the ape species, especially the Lemurs who were very friendly. The animals are well cared for, but they are still confined. We taxied back to the hotel ($22S)

 

Time for the main event! Swimming 57 floors above Singapore. It was hot and sunny for our afternoon at the Sky Park. We had lunch delivered to our sun beds poolside by Spago. Wolfgang Puck is every where! The Marina Bay Sands is a mega hotel and the group owns several hotels including The Venetian and Palazzo in Las Vegas. The casino is across the street in the mall, which keeps crowds under control. It is very busy, elevators are full, and lots of Japanese and Chinese patrons. The people watching was great. All people do is take selfies and photos. Why not, it's the coolest pool view ever. Overlooking the Singapore skyline. Two summers ago, we were on Waikiki Beach and it was full of Japanese people with inflatable floating watering toys. I have the best photos. I googled inflatable toys/Japanese. They love them! So here come the Japanese with a parade of inflatables at the pool. OMG. We laughed so hard. It's a bit crowed to even consider these blow up donuts and cartoon animals. There were a lot of Kardashian wannabe types. They come in every color/nationality. I got depressed watching these half naked girls walk around. My time has come and gone, unfortunately. I want those bikini days back! I had another expensive margarita, and made sure they didn't skimp on the tequila. Smooth.

 

Another quick costume change and we are off to the Singapore River. We took a bum boat from Riverside Cruises on a one way ride $18S. Or $24S RT. This is a narrated 20 minute or so ride around Marina Bay and up the river. It was great. We got up close and personal with Merlion, the symbol of Singapore. A huge lion statue/fountain. We cruised passed the Fullerton Hotel, Colonial District, Boat Quay and got off the cruise at Clark Quay. Lots of bars and restaurants along the river. We couldn't see the river from the HOHO bus, so we were really glad we took the cruise. We walked around Clarke and Boat Quay looking for a dinner spot. We were both tired and really afraid to eat the wrong foods considering we had a flight to catch. We can't stomach the Asian seafood/smell at this point. We decided to check out the historic Fullerton Hotel. Their Christmas decorations were outstanding. We went to their river cafe, Town. Ate outside while the Michael Buble Christmas album played. It was our Singapore Christmas dinner - we shared chicken curry and chicken noodle soup. Why do asians put eggs in everything? I can't take it. My soup had quail eggs and I wanted to hurl again. Yuck.

 

It's 9pm and we have a very early wake-up call. I asked PC if he was up for one more excursion and he says yes, looking at me with such tired eyes. I love him. I hired a taxi for a Christmas Lights tour on Orchard Rd. Orchard Road is full of shopping malls, department stores, and designer stores. The Christmas lights are the most glamorous and cosmopolitan lights you have ever seen. Completely amazing. Overwhelming really, along with the shopping. I rarely hang out in the high end shopping districts. I can find all of that stuff in the states for less, plus I am shopping at Target, not Chanel. Not that there's anything wrong with it.

 

Upon returning to the hotel, I thought it might be in my best interest to get an accident report from the security office in regards to the taxi mishap. In case I had any trouble when I got home. They didn't file a report. What good is a security office if they are not documenting guest accidents? They were supposed to phone me, but of course, never did. I will just hope for the best. I mentioned to Mr. Soon that I would be getting a report just to make him sweat a little.

 

The only thing we skipped entirely was the Singapore Flyer observation wheel. That wasn't necessary considering my view on the 37th floor of my hotel room. I didn't want to be hostage with 28 people in a capsule either. Not gonna do it! I accomplished everything I wanted to do in Singapore. I don't consider Singapore or Dubai destinations, I consider them awesome stopovers going somewhere else. Singapore is in a class of it's own with the cleanliness and safety. PC would fit in really well there.

 

We are packed and ready to head east/west. Grandma is completely worn out I am sure, taking care of my cats. We adopted two homeless kittens from the creek on July 26 and it has kind of turned our lives upside down. We never wanted the responsibility of pets ever again, but fell in love with these kitties. I am still not sure about it, but I hope they missed me. Kind of scared they will shun me or forget me. If you tuned into Fungirl Across America, I also have a series with the cats - Feline Fun with Duke and Dolly.

 

I am trying to make peace with premium economy. It's just not right, but the flight is full and we are 3/4 on the business upgrade list. It really messed me up because United cancelled the flight on Monday morning due to maintenance. This creates inventory issues because they have to re-route everyone free of charge and give them whatever they want. I am pretty sure several people got on the Wed. flight. How will I ever manage with plastic ware and no hot fudge sundae? Plus, the new Polaris business class service started Dec. 1 with all new amenities. I can't bare to walk down that aisle past those new Saks Fifth Ave comforters and pajamas. Getting home safely is the most important thing, so I will just have to suck it up. I will wear my tiara, and maybe that will get their attention.

 

There is a full moon illuminating the Singapore skyline tonight and it was the ultimate going away gift. I am so lucky.

 

Goodnight moon and Goodbye SE Asia...........

[sunsetbeachgal]

Safe trip back home and I have enjoyed another fun journey with you. Wishing you the merriest of Christmases and a year filled with more unusual and sunny adventures! Oh, and the good health to enjoy them!

 

 

Sent from my iPad using Forums

[AsianBohemian]

I found your travelogue while hunting high and low for feedback on Diamond Princess. I was in the same cruise 9-12Dec Singapore-Penang-Port Kelang-Singapore. Thank you for such a detailed description.I had thought those people who skipped the safety drill were culprits for the 3hr departure delay. I was quite taken aback by the level of sanitation onboard Diamond Princess. My bunch of trippers were amused that a lady is stationed at the buffet counter to make EVERYONE sanitise their hands EVERYtime we enter the buffet station. I learnt that this ship had a nasty food-poisoning episode early this year with over a hundred passengers down.

 

I have just signed in to this forum only yesterday. Sorry to hear about your finger. I would have recommended for you to get an x-ray in our local hospital...It would have been much cheaper and straight forward. It sounds like a fracture to me. I had one hairline fracture on my finger which swelled for 48hrs, little pain though. I am not sure if you are still reading this or are you halfway in the sky. Pain from a fracture can worsen during a flight and when the plane lands. Keep asking for ice to reduce the swelling.It works!

[KCSungirl]

The Long Road Home 14 December16

 

4:45am and the moon is still smiling at me. WOW. I don't know how I managed to get the suitcases closed, but I will hope they don't bust open at the seams when handled. I actually debated buying a piece of luggage. It's hard on the luggage to overstuff them as I do. I get four free checked bags, but I can't carry all of those bags.

 

Our bathing suits didn't dry, so PC gets the blow dryer out and starts drying. He is the best helper. I hate the smell of wet, mildew clothes.

 

I get in the shower and NO hot water! WTH? I paid good money for this hotel. After ten minutes, it maxed out at luke warm. I was freezing. Ok, this is going to be more drama. I immediately call the front desk to report and Put them on notice that I will expect compensation. They sent Mr. Ken, from maintenance, and he knew how to fix the problem in a nano second. Is this a conspiracy to conserve hot water? Meanwhile PC is standing naked in the bathroom waiting for Mr. Ken to get out of the shower. Horrible pressure for Mr. Ken because we had flight to catch.

 

I used all of my remaining Singapore dollars paying my hotel bill. Foreign currency all gone. I told the front desk guy that I wanted compensation for my drama in the shower and he offered me breakfast. That would have been fine if my luggage wasn't at the curb to get on the road. He comped our lunch from yesterday instead. That was the cheapest margarita ever! Very nice and very appreciated.

 

If you haven't figured it out by now, I am quite a force. In the best possible way. I have many impressive skills (including plumbing) and can wear many hats. I became an attorney and negotiated my settlement with the taxi company for the door incident. Are you ready for the settlement? A free ride to the airport! But they didn't send a limo. A little disappointed by that. I am happy with my settlement and I am on my way.

 

United Airlines doesn't staff their check-in/gates at Changi. They contract with another company. They only run a couple of flights a day - SFO, HKG, maybe Tokyo. Not sure. We got a free club pass, but didn't clear the business upgrade list. I will be traumatized for weeks and need therapy. I will make peace with premium economy, plus I saved PC more money. I mentioned earlier that I book the aisle and window seats when traveling with PC hoping the middle seat stays empty. Middle seat was occupied by a gentleman who could not get his head around the fact that PC wants the aisle and I want the window for a long haul flight and that would trump sitting side by side. He was just wanting the aisle.

 

We are securely in our seats, seat belts fastened, and I am eagerly awaiting my plastic ware lunch. No salt and pepper shakers either. Life is not fair.

 

On with my international films. I read sub-titles all the way home.

 

Food was underwhelming. Almost gross for the amount of money you spend on the flight. I can see why foreign carriers get better reviews than US airlines for premium economy service.

 

I bought the internet package for the entire flight - $24. It helps to the pass the time, but it is not reliable. I was fine till about the 2:45 mark. I was uncomfortable and exhausted. Dig deep and push through.

 

We made it to US soil. Praise Jesus. I need a taco in the worst way. I never want to see or smell Asian food again. PC says you've seen one Chinatown and temple, you've seen them all!

 

The only thing I could think of satisfying to eat at 9am besides a taco, was a bowl of clam chowder at Yankee Pier. It will tide me over till I get the taco. Oh, how I miss Mexican food when I travel abroad.

 

Spent a few hours at the United club at SFO waiting for our connection. We are off now on the final leg of a wonderful journey. Yes, Princess is up front on this flight. Two flights in a row in economy would cause a breakdown of some sorts. I get to sleep in my own bed with my fur babies tonight. I love to travel, but there is no place like home.

 

I still have more to say about the cruise and some questions to answer. I will see you after I get some much needed sleep. Again, thanks for your concern and positive comments.

 

Cheers, Sungirl

[TracieABD]

Wow-KCFG- that sounds like quite a flight home. I am going to spend 24 hours in premium economy on Singapore air in about a month. I can't even imagine how I will feel or look at the end of that ordeal.

 

I am glad you have made it back to American soil. I wish you many happy tacos!

Tracie-Lynn

[seacrystal]

The Long Road Home 14 December16

 

4:45am and the moon is still smiling at me. WOW. I don't know how I managed to get the suitcases closed, but I will hope they don't bust open at the seams when handled. I actually debated buying a piece of luggage. It's hard on the luggage to overstuff them as I do. I get four free checked bags, but I can't carry all of those bags.

 

Our bathing suits didn't dry, so PC gets the blow dryer out and starts drying. He is the best helper. I hate the smell of wet, mildew clothes.

 

I get in the shower and NO hot water! WTH? I paid good money for this hotel. After ten minutes, it maxed out at luke warm. I was freezing. Ok, this is going to be more drama. I immediately call the front desk to report and Put them on notice that I will expect compensation. They sent Mr. Ken, from maintenance, and he knew how to fix the problem in a nano second. Is this a conspiracy to conserve hot water? Meanwhile PC is standing naked in the bathroom waiting for Mr. Ken to get out of the shower. Horrible pressure for Mr. Ken because we had flight to catch.

 

I used all of my remaining Singapore dollars paying my hotel bill. Foreign currency all gone. I told the front desk guy that I wanted compensation for my drama in the shower and he offered me breakfast. That would have been fine if my luggage wasn't at the curb to get on the road. He comped our lunch from yesterday instead. That was the cheapest margarita ever! Very nice and very appreciated.

 

If you haven't figured it out by now, I am quite a force. In the best possible way. I have many impressive skills (including plumbing) and can wear many hats. I became an attorney and negotiated my settlement with the taxi company for the door incident. Are you ready for the settlement? A free ride to the airport! But they didn't send a limo. A little disappointed by that. I am happy with my settlement and I am on my way.

 

United Airlines doesn't staff their check-in/gates at Changi. They contract with another company. They only run a couple of flights a day - SFO, HKG, maybe Tokyo. Not sure. We got a free club pass, but didn't clear the business upgrade list. I will be traumatized for weeks and need therapy. I will make peace with premium economy, plus I saved PC more money. I mentioned earlier that I book the aisle and window seats when traveling with PC hoping the middle seat stays empty. Middle seat was occupied by a gentleman who could not get his head around the fact that PC wants the aisle and I want the window for a long haul flight and that would trump sitting side by side. He was just wanting the aisle.

 

We are securely in our seats, seat belts fastened, and I am eagerly awaiting my plastic ware lunch. No salt and pepper shakers either. Life is not fair.

 

On with my international films. I read sub-titles all the way home.

 

Food was underwhelming. Almost gross for the amount of money you spend on the flight. I can see why foreign carriers get better reviews than US airlines for premium economy service.

 

I bought the internet package for the entire flight - $24. It helps to the pass the time, but it is not reliable. I was fine till about the 2:45 mark. I was uncomfortable and exhausted. Dig deep and push through.

 

We made it to US soil. Praise Jesus. I need a taco in the worst way. I never want to see or smell Asian food again. PC says you've seen one Chinatown and temple, you've seen them all!

 

The only thing I could think of satisfying to eat at 9am besides a taco, was a bowl of clam chowder at Yankee Pier. It will tide me over till I get the taco. Oh, how I miss Mexican food when I travel abroad.

 

Spent a few hours at the United club at SFO waiting for our connection. We are off now on the final leg of a wonderful journey. Yes, Princess is up front on this flight. Two flights in a row in economy would cause a breakdown of some sorts. I get to sleep in my own bed with my fur babies tonight. I love to travel, but there is no place like home.

 

I still have more to say about the cruise and some questions to answer. I will see you after I get some much needed sleep. Again, thanks for your concern and positive comments.

 

Cheers, Sungirl

 

Hi Paige!

 

What a blogger you are. I have followed you for a couple of years and am so disappointed this year's event has come to an end. What am I supposed to do now? Please find a new destination to keep me happy!;)

 

I hope your hand continues to improve and the rest of you stays intact until your next adventure. Enjoy your holidays with your kitties!:D

 

Your constant admirer,

[Aussie Gal]

KCSungirl,

 

I have just finished your two last blogs. What a bummer that it your amazing trip is over though you are probably glad to return home.

 

I have enjoyed so much this latest trip. Your writing is excellent, both funny and amusing and yet you give us all the details. Having been to all of the ports except of course the Maldives, I have been able to imagine where you have been walking, seeing etc.

 

I think you can understand now, why we always have a stopover in Singapore on our way home from Europe or even when on some trips to S.E. Asia. It is so clean and the hotels are just so comfortable. It helps us make the last 8 hours home on a plane bearable after spending 12-13 hours coming back from Europe.

 

I am looking forward to your next exploits in 2017, until then our Christmas wishes from "down under".

 

Jennie

[scluvsrain]

Thanks for a wonderful finale! You're a hoot and a half. And your PC is quite the guy. Lucky you!

 

 

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[AsianBohemian]

:confused:I am so curious. How does chicken noodle soup with quail eggs look like? I am a Singaporean but I have never seen chicken noodle soup.You are also making me wonder how chicken curry look like.

 

Marina Bay Sands does have a "food court" that offers local food, closest to what we really eat and in comfort, away from the humid weather. Whatever you find along Singapore River and Clarke Quay are for tourists. Ahem! Poor appetite and bad digestion do affect locals too when the weather gets too hot and humid.That explains why there is so much spicy food in SE Asia. Yes, we, SE Asians, add chilli into almost everything, except our beverages.

 

It was my first time on a cruise (to accompany my aged parents actually). I am wondering if it is safe to sleep on the beach chair at the balcony...hearing the waves and allowing the break of dawn to wake me in the morning.

I drew open the balcony curtains on the first night but I chicken out when the spectacular lightning on the horizon and stormy sea on the first night made me think twice about sleeping outside.

[QM2 Cruiser]

Thanks for posting! I've really enjoyed reading about your trip! :)

 

I'm taking this cruise in February, and I have a question for you! Did you bring extra passport photos with you for Vietnamese and Cambodian visas? I'm planning to get the visas onboard through Princess, and I've had two different Princess agents tell me different things... One agent told me that we need to go to CVS before the cruise and bring extra passport photos, and the other agent told me that they will be taken onboard as part of the $55 visa fee charged by Princess.

 

:confused: Could you tell me how this was handled on your cruise? Thanks a bunch!

[KCSungirl]

Jet Lag kicked my bum. I still have my days and nights mixed up. It's been difficult getting back into rhythm. I think the weather has a lot to do with it also. I want to stay under the covers in below 0 temps.

 

Did any of you read the review the person wrote about "The Diamond not covering the basics" or something like that? There was truth in what that poster said. The cabins, balconies and public toilets are where I noticed the "wear" on the Diamond. Not a deal breaker, but definitely noticeable.

 

Diamond Princess Review

 

CABIN - We booked a mini suite, which was a treat. Normally we book an aft balcony cabin. The space/storage is great in a mini suite. Whenever we travel we refer to spaces like we are at home - the kitchen, living room, office, etc. I crack up every time I say "Put in the kitchen". That would be the space above the refrigerator in the cabin. The Diamond cabins/balconies need a complete facelift except for the televisions. Everything was worn out. Carpet, drapes, etc are all worn out and drab. The sitting chair had a large hole in it. For what I paid, I don't consider this acceptable. The balcony furniture is pitiful. The aluminum is just cheap. Need to replace with the resin wicker or something nicer. There are paint splotches all over and lots of rust. This would all be fine if it was reflected in the price of the cabin. The bath tub in the mini suite cabin has a huge step up IMHO. This would be problematic for people with mobility issues. If you have mobility issues, book a handicap cabin or stick with a regular cabin with shower only. The grab bars are my best friends getting in and out of the tub. Water pressure was so so. Hot water plentiful. We had ongoing issues with the toilet. Maintenance kept turning off the system to repair. Every time they turned the system on, the toilet would explode and send yucky water up the system. The smell was really badly. My room steward was well aware of this, and cleaned thoroughly. Ladies, bring your own hair dryer. I can't use the low wattage dryer Princess provides. It wouldn't get my hair high enough and closer to God. Bring your own shampoo/conditioner. Princess only offers a shampoo/conditioner combo. Doesn't work for me.

 

I print out schedules and maps before we leave home and post them on the wall so PC doesn't have to bother me daily with questions. He can refer to the wall. I also make copies for his bedside, so I am doubly insured. It's fun to have the maps on the wall to follow along.

 

ENTERTAINMENT - I really enjoyed all of the entertainment on board. From the lounge acts to the production shows, they were all great. Princess should update a few production shows that have been around a while. Bravo was the best. If my memory serves me correctly, Princess is one of the few cruise lines that has an orchestra accompany the production shows. I don't remember this happening on Celebrity or HAL. Could be wrong on this.

 

FOOD- Food was so so. I will never go hungry, but I am rarely impressed. The Horizon Court Buffet is small compared to Celebrity and HAL equivalents. I had one experience in the dining room and it was bad. Service too slow for us. We don't cruise for the food. We enjoy eating on land in port, so the cruise food is not our focus I did notice a lot of cost cutting measures. The salad bar is missing a lot of vegetables that used to be around. PC got food poisoning on some kind of beef stew. He knew it tasted bad immediately and quit eating it. It hit fast and was gone fast. He stayed clear of any stews for the rest of the cruise. He was really happy with a cheeseburger. We were really sick of the food after 13 nights. I guess that is our limit on cruise days! Overall, Celebrity and HAL have much better food IMHO.

 

EXCURSIONS - Princess does a fine job with excursions, but they are so overpriced. I only book them when it is prudent for liability or time reasons. Otherwise, it's very easy to create your own excursions online or at the port.

 

SHIP BOARD ACTIVITIES - Again, I feel Celebrity and HAL have better activities. Not enough culture/educational options on Princess. But, if you like movies, Princess is a good ship. They have lots of movie options.

 

PUBLIC AREAS/POOLS - Crowded. The Mass of Humanity where there is no escape! The library is too small. Internet Center is good and well staffed. Atrium is nice for coffee, classical music, and people watching. One word - SANCTUARY

 

I compare Princess to my relationship with Marriott Hotels - They aren't the best of the best, but I feel comfortable and I love the perks that come with my status. I do feel Celebrity and HAL is a better product overall, but I have an affection for Princess that comes with so many cruises. I know her so well.

 

I really want to cruise The Regal to see how it compares to the older ships like the Diamond.

 

I will give you a few product endorsements/favorite brands

 

PACSAFE luggage. Love the back packs, purses, and carry-on. I am amazed by how many travelers do not carry cross body bags. Shoulder bags are not safe. Plus, hands free is helpful.

 

LIPAULT luggage. Soft sided light weight. Love the carry on.

 

ECCO - our shoe brand of choice for comfort sandals and boots

COB HILL - the New Balance brand for more stylish comfort sandals.

 

THE NORTH FACE - thermobomber jacket is great and the rain slicker

 

CRAZY SHORTS - PC loves these shorts from Hawaii. They have stores in tourist locations all over the US and Hawaii

 

EYEWITNESS TRAVEL GUIDES - I like these guides. Especially the Top 10 city guides.

 

I have lots of recommendations, but these are just a few of my favs.

 

QUESTIONS????

 

VISAS - I was under the impression I needed passport photos for the onboard issued Vietnam visa. AAA gives me unlimited Passport/Visa photos, so it's no problem. I brought photos with me. I didn't need them, but I strongly suggest you have them in case you had a problem or needed to leave the ship. Princess charged $31 for the Visa. You do need photos for Cambodian visas. No Visa for the Maldives and no visa for Laos for US citizens.

 

WEATHER - I would not leave the ship without a daypack filled with rain ponchos or rain jackets, umbrella, charmin on the go toilet paper, wet wipes, a bottle of water

 

MONEY - It's always best to pay in local currency. I have the XE currency app downloaded on my phone for calculating. I order currency from Bank of America before I leave home. However, I had no problem with ATM's in any location. The fees were about $6 per transaction.

 

CLOTHING - I nailed the packing except for two extra sundresses for me, and two extra shirts for PC. Not bad.

 

I had one pair of touring shorts, black capris, white pants and capris, khaki cargo pants, black legging, skinny jeans (oxymoron), boyfriend capris, zella workout/yoga pants. Lots of tops. One cardigan, black cardigan travel sweater, three swimsuits, rain jacket, black beach/pool dress.

 

PC - two jeans, one khaki pant, one khaki dress short, 2 linen dress shorts, khaki safari short, 2 crazy shorts, north face fleece pullover, two short sleeve shirts, two long sleeve sport shirts, three polo shirts, three crew neck t-shirts, 2 linen dress shirts, two bathing suits.

 

I hope I have been helpful. 😻

 

I will see you at Mexican Melrose Place at the end of Jan., my Mexican home away from home. I play the part of Amanda because we look so much alike.

 

Cheers, Sungirl

[sunsetbeachgal]

Paige, you really need to cruise on the Regal or Royal, I know you like buffets and the ones on these ships are excellent. I can't comment on comparison to Celebrity but it blows away HAL or Royal Caribbean.

 

Love your review and humor. Have fun in Mexico, I'm back on the Regal in February!

 

 

Sent from my iPhone using Forums

[Aussie Gal]

Paige,

 

We were on HAL in 2013 in the Med for a 21 day cruise on the Noordam and we didn't have any speakers at all whilst on the ship. Secondly, we felt that HAL's meals in the dining room were in the cost cutting stage. Certainly nothing like our previous cruises on HAL which took place between 1998 and 2009.

 

I agree with you regarding Celebrity. We have enjoyed our times on the lovely Solstice and the food in Aqua was superb. We are back on the Emerald Princess in January and it will be interesting to see how the food measures up. We are in a mini suite but in the new category "Club Mini Suites" so it will be interesting to see what is so different.

 

Thanks for all your wonderful tips. I do know the "Crazy Shirt/Short" shops in Hawaii. They always have a great range of gear. Otherwise, I don't think we can get many of the brands you have listed down here other than Ecco and Pacsafe and of course my favourite travel guides "The Eyewitness" Books.

 

Thanks once again for taking us with you. It does take a lot of internet minutes especially when on the ship and it is taking ages to connect or send!

 

Jennie

[TracieABD]

Thank you, Paige, for updating. I really appreciate your honest appraisal of the ship. I am a bit concerned, as I board in 4 weeks.

 

The "heads up" is great though... I will just adjust my expectations!

 

I have been on the Royal 4 times. The new builds are lovely- and BIG! We are planning a Regal cruise in June. I will be happy to report my thoughts.

 

Again, thank you for this live from-- It is one of the things that is getting me to my cruise!

 

Tracie-Lynn

[QM2 Cruiser]

Thanks for clarifying the visa info! Very helpful review! :)

[KCSungirl]

I wrote this tune back in 2007 after my Seinfeld cruise on the Emerald. I thought I would go back and revisit my holiday tune for you.

 

I Wish you a happy and healthy holiday.

 

I lovingly dedicate this to my friends in Del Boca Vista.

 

To the tune of "Silver Bells". Practice the tune real quick before singing my version.

 

 

Silver Hairs by KCSungirl

 

Crowded buffets, busy buffets.

Stocked with plenty of food

In the room

There’s a roaring

of Seniors

Seniors shuffling

Seniors shouting

Meeting cane after cane

And on every deck level you’ll see

 

Silver Hairs, Clairol Hairs

It’s cruising time on the Emerald

Ring -A-Ling, hear them scream

Soon it will be time to eat

 

Strings of walkers

Even scooters

Block the path to the door

As the seniors rush on to the buffet

 

Hear them farting

See them wandering

This is the Emerald’s big scene

And above all this chaos you’ll see

 

Silver Hairs, Clairol Hairs

It’s cruising time on the Emerald

Ring-a-ling, Hear them scream

Soon it will be time to eat

[easyboy]

Very nice lyrics! Glad to learn of your other talent.

[KCSungirl]

I am in the process of submitting my claim for PC's ship medical emergency. I file with my primary before I file with Princess Vacation Protection (Aon). My insurance was coding the 2 hour visit as hospitalization. I think it is an emergency room visit for two hours. Does anyone have experience with this type of claim? It will get reimbursed eventually, but I didn't know how much time I should spend trying to explain the situation to the primary insurance BCBS.

 

I will let you know how it works out, but if anyone has advice or language to use, I am all ears.

 

😻🍹🇲🇽👙🕶🌴🌺☀️ Sungirl

[caribill]

I am in the process of submitting my claim for PC's ship medical emergency. I file with my primary before I file with Princess Vacation Protection (Aon). My insurance was coding the 2 hour visit as hospitalization. I think it is an emergency room visit for two hours. Does anyone have experience with this type of claim? It will get reimbursed eventually, but I didn't know how much time I should spend trying to explain the situation to the primary insurance BCBS.

 

I will let you know how it works out, but if anyone has advice or language to use, I am all ears.

 

 

Since between your primary insurance and your PVP you will be getting 100% reimbursed, I would not worry about how your primary categorizes it. What they do or don't pay, the PVP will cover the rest.