Matt

I stayed at the Marriott Hotel at Newark Airport: https://www.royalcaribbeanblog.com/2015/03/20/quantum-of-the-seas-live-blog-newark I also stayed at the Springhill Suites in Newark: https://www.royalcaribbeanblog.com/2014/11/11/quantum-of-the-seas-live-blog-bayonne

Worked well for me. It's not on par with Anthem/Oasis, but better than Navigator/Voyager

Pretty much anything by Jimmy Buffett

Welcome! On the Royal Caribbean Blog group cruises, it's really about taking a cruise with the folks from this site (including myself) and enjoying a cruise with other Royal Caribbean fans who really "get it". We're a great bunch and we organize a number of events onboard. Here are a few recaps from past group cruises that I think will shed some light on what to expect: https://www.royalcaribbeanblog.com/podcast/episode-163-freedom-of-the-seas-group-cruise-review https://www.royalcaribbeanblog.com/2017/03/01/abc-islands-live-review-royal-caribbean-blog-podcast https://www.royalcaribbeanblog.com/2017/03/01/abc-islands-live-review-royal-caribbean-blog-podcast In terms of more tangible benefits, folks that book the group cruise in our group with MEI Travel do get some bonus rewards and "thank yous". What it can be will depend on the sailing and how many folks book into the group, but on past group cruises it has taken the form of onboard credits, lunches at specialty restaurants and private shore excursions.

If it's the same Carly I had on Jewel in 2013, then yes she is quite good.

Most times, I consider these three factors: Ship Itinerary Price I go back and forth between ship and itinerary.

I've had good luck with the hotels around Newark airport. Very close to the port (maybe 10-15 minutes cab ride) and they tend to be frequented by business travelers, so the quality is great.

I'd compare booking it separately (cruise and Universal) just for pricing. The combo packages may not be the best value, especially if you consider staying at a non-Universal hotel.

Make it happen!

I'd like to try those when we go in February when we go to Belize.

Also it's worth noting that the dinner and lunch menus change. The breakfast menu in MDR remains the same every day.

There is a subset of each day's menu which remains the same each evening.

Great videos!

There is no way to know if a drink card will be offered on your cruise, or when. Here's more info on the drink cards: https://www.royalcaribbeanblog.com/2016/06/23/spotlight-drink-cards-royal-caribbean-cruises

I generally don't think so

On night one hours can be a bit different, but it is open on night one.

It's a lovely idea, but scroll up 2 posts for the explanation as to why it's not available currently.

This is but one example. Bad weather, flat tires, airport closures and a variety of other unexpected issues could delay your travel plans.

I get asked about this feature a lot and it costs extra for that feature. It runs about $35/month for it, which is not currently in the budget. Of course, if more folks become Insiders, that could change.

I've heard the Mayan ruins in Belize are supposed to be pretty good

Too bad you aren't retired and living in Florida to make that easily happen...

If/when I receive any, I will post them on the site

Come spend the night with us and join the pre-cruise fun!

For anyone joining us for the Harmony of the Seas Group Cruise (whether you are booked in the group or not), we have secured group space at the Cambria Suites hotel. That will also be the site of a pre-cruise meet up, so you will have a very convenient location. All rooms are King bed suites. Rate is $119 plus tax. 3rd/4th adults are $10 extra - kids are free. Free shuttle from FLL airport. Simply email annette@mei-travel for more info to book.

When can I prebook entertainment, dining and more for my Royal Caribbean cruise?