cruisellama

Have a very similar situation going on. Started out great, now I don't get emails or phone messages returned. Figured I'd allow the reservations I have in place run their course, but started making direct bookings until I can find a TA who'll do their job.

Its been Amplified

I'm off this sailing and rebooked for 4 June 23.

Thought the Harmony from Galveston was interesting and encouraged as its more up to date than Allure. So booked that for March '24. Curious if Allure will get amplified during its absence from Galveston.

I cannot recall Celebrity being there. But Princess used to sail from Galveston.

I believe we'll see a good deal of additional regulatory requirements levied by many countries that host cruise liners. Under current economic circumstances (fuel, labor, environmental) throughout the world, I expect the industry to experience additional financial burdens that will have to show up in rates.

I'm sure they do too, but I was referring to the Celebrity planner.

I logged into my cruise planner last week and a banner came up showing I had been granted a $78 on the spot OBC. Terms stated I just had to spend it that day to keep it. I found a promotion that fell under the $78 and purchased for my wife (I didn't want to get drawn into paying out of pocket for another purchase that I didn't need). Has anyone else experienced this?

Ditto's - we've wondered the same thing. I haven't seen the App usefulness grow sufficiently to make it indispensable - still just a nice to have.

When we did it, we stopped in some shallow areas and looked around for Starfish. Apparently, the guide told us there used to be a lot of them, but the Sea Cucumbers took them out. Also may see a stray stingray or lemon shark.

Photo is from boardwalk donuts. Open until 11:00 am, yes included.

For those who are nervous about going through pre-cruise testing, the free test used as a "practice test" can help reduce the anxiety before the big game.

I've had the same issue last week on Allure. I raised issue with concierge who elevated. Web based reservations getting dropped, updates or adds on-ship not showing up in planner, for 3-days, account information not showing up. I constantly refreshed and found it to be less than 50% accurate in presenting my reservations in the daily planner. We were able to make reservations for some entertainment venues. Upon return from cruise, I received an App survey from RCL which I highlighted all the issues. Noticed the same things happening before the pause, thought it would be fixed by now. I also recommended they provide bridge/cruise director notification message option as many times you can't hear PA notifications if you're in your stateroom. Other people we cruised with also experienced the issue. I've been happy with performance for check-in, and deck views, restaurant menus, but held personal reservation on the calendar really needs to work right.

Welcome aboard!

Sailing Allure now and realized I’m spoiled with the newer/upgraded Oasis ships. Was happy when I heard of it going to Galveston, but it has fewer toys than Freedom class Liberty which might be a disappointment for families. Think it’s going to need amplified to build a Texas following. Especially if Harmony shows up for a late 23 tour.

One other thing to watch on regional carriers - "baggage costs". Far cheaper to pay prior to getting to airport than paying at airline counter. So do some research if you take that path.

Footnotes to your search - Depending upon the airline, flights (whether A2S or on your own) open about 9 months ahead of your desired departure date. I've seen some European airlines open earlier (11 months), and you can see those that show up in A2S. You can play with the "multi-city" selection on A2S and adjust your entry cities for cost. It can make sense to enter in a less expensive gateway city then take a regional carrier or train to the port city. (Example - we can get less expensive direct flight from DFW-Madrid, then take a train or regional carrier from Madrid to Barcelona (port), came can work for Italian entry points) We like using the A2S option for overseas vacations because they work back-ups if you experience delays/interruptions. Also, if you're looking at premium seats, they go first and as the supply diminishes the price goes up quickly. So I book at the earliest practical opportunity.

Sign me up!

I have one in June, and its the standard 90-set back, in fact paying this week.

Actually it is - BRAIN FREEZE

I didn't feel guilty at all - just recycle in the plastic bin. But recently just brought an oversized thermo mug with lid and fat straw that I can dump my frozen drinks in. Rinse and re-use.