Matt

I do not know how big it is when pulled out, but it is a decent size sofa. My kids (2 and 6) can fit comfortably on it, and I'm sure it would be fine for a nap for me.

Hmm, first time I have seen that, My guess is it is merely an internal tracking name, but who knows.

So you're in MTD for the cruise but cannot reserve any times? Or are you trying to get MTD for your sailing?

Next time you are onboard, you could ask for the recipe.

Correct. So pretty much everything else in Vintages is not covered by the drink package.

Here's a look at brunch on Empress: http://www.royalcaribbeanblog.com/2016/09/15/empress-of-the-seas-live-blog-day-3-sea-day

There are two tradeoffs with the dining package You must dine at one of the restaurants on night 1 or night 2 You cannot make reservations until you get onboard.

Starbucks on non-Oasis class ships are Starbucks kiosks, similar to ones you find in many hotels. There's no advertising or promotional package. It's just a way for the establishment to serve Starbucks branded beverages. The retail shops have a completely different relationship with RC, and I can only assume they are just like any physical location that just happens to be on a cruise ship.

Congratulations!

I prefer traditional for the same tablemates, same wait staff and knowledge show times will line up with my dining times. Plus, I like the consistency of having dinner every night at the same time because it makes it easier to plan for me.

Thanks for sharing the review!

Not very busy. I've never waited more than maybe a minute

The new app is expected to roll this out to 6 to 11 new vessels over the course of this year. And then the next year it is expected to be rolling it out at a rate of 1 to 2 a month over the period. Source: http://www.royalcaribbeanblog.com/2017/01/26/royal-caribbean-sheds-more-light-its-new-smart-phone-app-plans

More to the point, if you find all elevators going in the direction you want full, take a ride on an elevator in the opposite direction and like Stoneman said, it will eventually take you where you want.

I don't know the answer, but it never hurts to ask about it. It is absolutely important to tell the staff upfront about the condition and they can tell you if he will be able to participate or not.

Depends. Smaller ships show more movies because it's an easy form of entertainment to offer. Serenade fits that bill, so I'd expect a few different movies during your cruise. When I was on Navigator of the Seas, it felt like there was a movie per night.

If it still exists, I am unaware of it. If I were you, I would find a good deal on a hotel you like either in Newark Airport area, Jersey City or Manhattan. Then arrange for private transportation to the port at your convenience. The check-in time is a suggestion, not a requirement. I try to arrive around 10am to avoid the lines. The car lines materialize later on in the morning. If you show up at 9:30, you will be among the first there.

In general, Voom on these ships is outstanding: Oasis of the Seas Allure of the Seas Harmony of the Seas Quantum of the Seas Anthem of the Seas Ovation of the Seas Majesty of the Seas I've heard/seen good things on Freedom of the Seas Enchantment of the Seas

Can you share a screenshot?

I agree it is best to activate the WiFi calling before you leave, but I was able to activate the feature for my mom while on Anthem. (I'm on AT&T). My voicemail worked on AT&T, although a couple of messages refused to download until I got back to the USA.

Bungalow: Beach bed

Traffic in St. Thomas can be a problem, especially around rush hour. I remember on one sailing we shared a van with a couple on Carnival and they had to exit the van a mile away from port to make a run for it because traffic was holding things up. That being said I almost always take a taxi. Just give yourself plenty of time to get back (as in multiple hours) and you will be fine, and likely save money.

I thought it was pretty darn strong for coffee (especially free coffee). Flavor wasn't bad at all (not too bitter). Nothing holds a candle to my all-time favorite brew-at-home coffee: Christmas blend Fresh Market coffee

That's a fair point. I can only speak to how RC markets itself

There is no question the $11.99 rate is cheaper than onboard. If you want an internet or drink package, always pre-purchase it online. The going rate for Voom online is usually $11.99 per day for 1 device. Occasionally it goes cheaper, but it will cost $17.99 per day for 1 device if you wait to get it onboard.