coloradocruisers

The voter's approved the rule, but the legislature wants to overrule? Not good.

Well that doesn't happen very often does it?! Put that extra money to good use!

It seems like "Bon Voyage Rose" should be an ongoing thread! Have a fun time.

Howard: I saw her picture in Cruise Travel magazine, from back in her hey day. What a beautiful ship. Unfortunately, her scrap value probably exceeds her museum or cruise ship value.

Sounds like fun! Except for the "head back to Tucson" part. As Mel Tillis said.... "Nobody wants to go down to Tucson in the Summer..."

Hmmm....A wine cruise. I'll be interested to hear your review when you get back. Hope you have alot of fun.

You just made me think of that "Happy people dancing around the world" video that you posted last month. Now imagine all those people dancing for you!

Apparently even the whales prefer the Royal Caribbean brands Right. But it sounds like they're just dieing to hitch a ride.

Joey: I can't add as much as the more experienced cruisers in this bunch; but Carnival does seem to offer some of the most reasonable rates and the most options with their fleet size.

I agree. We must have posted simultaneously.

And when things get "better", and fares go back up, will the service and food get better as well?

I'd refer to it as "next month". Sounds even closer that way. It'll be here before you know it.

Norva, there's also some good guidebooks out there. One that I've found very informative is Frommer's Caribbean Ports of Call. I have the 5th edition. In addition to discussing the ports, the book also gives a good rundown on the various cruiselines.

Norva: I noticed in your other post, that you were considering Carnival. Carnival has a great website, which I'm sure you've located; but there's so much there it takes a little time to find all the information. Your kids will enjoy the kids programs that Carnival has. Princess and Disney also have excellent kids programs, if your still undecided. If you're sailing to the Caribbean, one thing to look into is the excursions available. I know that we were wary of taking our young daughter to the beach at some of the Eastern Caribbean ports, because so many beaches we read about were "clothing optional". Western Caribbean is a good first cruise for a family. Somebody posted a really good website awhile back about the ships. I've bookmarked it on my computer: http://www.shipparade.com/

And here's what you can do: 1) pack your own corkscrew 2) if the waiter even hints at charging the fee, pull it our of your purse and let out a big sigh. 3) I'll bet the fee goes away.

Debbie: You and your hubby can each take a bottle of wine without any problem. Although the rules say they can charge a corkage fee, that is up to the discretion of the waiter, and the waiter will probably not charge you.

Good for Carnival. Hope the others follow suit. The spa is usually one of Sharon's first stops after boarding; she'd much rather sign up before hand.

Oh, I almost forgot. I'm not sure what the traffic is like since Hurricane Ike went through, but prior to the hurricane, traffic from the mainland across the causeway could be heavy. Allow plenty of time.

You can book and pay parking on-line for a discount on parking. Not much, but it will buy a couple drinks. Google Port of Galveston and you should be able to find info on parking.

Let's see...how about add it to the Upcoming Members Cruise tab on the CruiseCrazies website

Rose: The one I like best is you at St Lucia, with the island and ships in background. Thanks for sharing your cruise with us landlubbers.

Keith: You always seem to wear such unique and stylish tuxedos. Please tell me, do you own your wardrobe, rent from the ship, or rent stateside and take with you?

Welcome back Keith. Sounds like a great way to kick off another year. (Did Rose behave herself? You can PM me with all the details).

Thanks Carmen! I suppose it's not too unreasonable to live with.