Loads of mini questions for veteran cruiser new to MSC

[riddle]

I am going solo on the MSC Seaside in two weeks.  I have cruised about 35 times, mostly on NCL (which is an industry standard for solo cruising.  For the record, I am married, do not always cruise solo, but I love to cruise and my DH not so much.  So off I go!

I am through URComped where MSC has comped my cruise due to my casino history from NCL  I made a small downpayment refundable to me through OBC once onboard.

 

Questions:

1.  I am accustomed to freestyle dining so interested how planned seating will work for a solo.  I have the early dining but may want to change that.  Can I?

2.  I am Bella but was upgraded to a balcony but am still Bella experience.

3.  I get free drinks in the casino.  Taking into account that the casino is not open unless you are at sea, would it be advisable for me to purchase the lower cost drink package.  I probably average about 4 drinks a day.  If I drink 2 of those in the casino, approximately what will the other 2 cost me and would it be better just to pay for them?

4.  Will I seem like a fish totally out of water as a solo on this line?

5.  I don't dress up for dinner so are nice slacks, top ok?  I would not call them flip flops but I wear nice sandals that slip on as I have foot problems.  Is this ok?

 

Hoping anyone who has gone solo can help.  Others as well.  Thanks

[seldovia]

We are going on the Mar 23 Seaside -- started with a Bella balcony that somehow came with the (low end) "drinks on us" that I assume was a current promotion for Bella experience -- perhaps yours includes that? (heineken, wine, basic liquor choices, bottled water, but not the room fridge)  We were on the Divina and didn't have any real problem with dressing for dinner, but we had brought ties and coats for "formal" dinners that didn't seem strictly enforced.  Also read here somewhere that MDR may loan coats as necessary for these dinners. 

We are also concerned about the assigned dining times -- I understand the changes are made on board with the Maitre D.  If I read correctly, there are two dining times at one place and three at the other... possibly three at both (some cruisers said they felt a little rushed).

Have also heard the casino can be crowded -- I expect to spend a few "breaks" there, possibly with my 20yr son.  Wife and youngest son not interested.

We're looking forward to the Western Caribbean itinerary -- ports we haven't visited (Jamaica, Grand Cayman, Cozumel, Nassau).

[deliver42]

Slacks and a top are perfect. Depending on what you drink, the standard drink package, which you should have, could be adequite.