Matt

Everything has a cycle to it, and I think what you're seeing is just what they have come up with this year. Every year they tweak deployments for a variety of reasons. Totally agree

You will get Complimentary lunch for two at Giovanni's Table. Complimentary bottle of red wine in your stateroom. Private casino gaming lessons from an onboard expert. https://www.royalcaribbeanblog.com/2016/01/26/royal-caribbean-offering-complimentary-perks-neigborhood-balcony-staterooms-oasis-class

I know nothing of this, but in my experience, I'd be extremely suspicious. If it looks like a duck, quacks like a duck...it's probably a duck.

Glad to hear I was not the only person to ever be denied access to the Diamond Lounge for wearing shorts

I saw a sign on Indy at or near the cashier.

Based on that story, it sounds like @Big Dawg Ron is one of the contractors they hired?

Yes, you need to go to Guest Services to make that happen.

I think you're on the right track. In short, there will not be major differences based on what we know now. The fact Symphony is newer will also (likely) command a higher price tag. So you're considerations of minor things like entertainment or dining is exactly the kind of rationale needed to make the decision. We don't know of any major differences between the two at this point.

Yup, and I believe it only allows topless sunbathing during European sailings.

Speaking of Freedom, did you notice on Indy that area forward of the Solarium that is accessible by glass door is closed off permanently, whereas on Freedom it's a secret area to sit?

I think it was the cheese. Tasted and felt different than Sorrentos on other ships.

Such a cool experience to tour the bridge. I've done it a number of times, and it's still fun each time!

Love all the photos!

I am a pizza snob, and Sorrentos is awful. It is what it is: mass produced quickly produced pizza. My kids generally like it. That being said, the pizza on Independence was inedible in my opinion. Not sure why Indy's version of Sorrentos was different from the rest of the fleet.

Correct

My understanding is the Centrum aerial shows no longer are offered. It was a big part of the refurbs Vision and Radiance class ships got in 2010-2011 time range, but there was some issue with performing them (I believe related to safety) and the shows were quietly retired.

Interesting. On Anthem I don't recall if I picked one or not. I did stop one day at Wonderland to make my beach bungalow lunch order prior to arriving, but I can't remember if we chose the bungalow in advance (and if so, when).

I think @DocLC summed it up well. We all have sympathy for your sailing, as it would be a situation none of us would be happy with. However, it's not anything close to a common problem and I'd encourage you to give it another chance.

Congratulations!

Antigua is an island I wish I had more time on. Beautiful and easy to get around.

If you're going to Cozumel, try a place like Paradise Beach.

Regular rate. You only move up to suite gratuity rate with Grand Suite or above.

No, on Vision you will not get Voom access like you would in Sky Class on Oasis or Quantum class ships.

That has been my experience as well.

I'll bet it's the same dish offered in MDR on Thanksgiving, and I'd agree it was quite good!