Deb93

I recently booked an Alaskan cruise on DCL and am having 2nd thoughts. A balcony room on RCI is about $2K cheaper for the 2 of us. I did Alaska on RCI before but that was 10yrs ago so I feel like this is pretty much a first cruise and I have lots of questions and don't feel like RCI's website is terribly helpful. So any info you guys can provide - even suggesting better websites - would be greatly appreciated! What are the best balcony stateroom locations - prob category D or E? Are all balconies the same ? I know on DCL some are "porthole" balconies. I want a room with a sliding glass door out to the balcony and a balcony where we can see out while sitting - not a solid bottom wall that you have to stand up to look over? What about aft-facing balconies - good or bad? Also, anything anyone can tell me about the Explorer, dining, shore excursions, extra expenses to expect or any other general if would be great! Thanks so much! deb