BeachGal

Couldn't be ChatGPT. It's actually articulate.
Edit: Le ChatGPT Rant. Not providing the prompt, though it's rather simple. From GPT-3.5 (the free-to-use model).
Hey fellow cruisers,
I need to vent about the absolutely infuriating experience I recently had with Royal Caribbean. Brace yourselves because this is one rant you won't want to miss! So, here's the deal: I had been eagerly anticipating a dream vacation to the Greek Isles on a Royal Caribbean cruise. I meticulously planned, saved up, and counted down the days, only to have my dreams crushed when the company decided to cancel our cruise to charter the ship to a private group. Can you believe the audacity?!
Let me start by saying that I understand chartering happens occasionally. However, it's how Royal Caribbean handled the situation that has left me fuming. They couldn't have cared less about their loyal customers who had booked and paid for this cruise months in advance. It's like they waved a dismissive hand, saying, "Sorry, but we've got bigger fish to fry."
First and foremost, communication was abysmal. I received a generic email, buried in my inbox, informing me of the cancellation. No personalized apology, no explanation, nothing! I was expected to accept their decision and move on as if my vacation plans were insignificant. Well, let me tell you, they were anything but insignificant to me!
What really irks me is that Royal Caribbean clearly prioritized profit over customer satisfaction. Instead of valuing us, the ones who have been loyal to them, they sold out to this private group. I understand that money talks, but what about the people who have supported the company all these years? Do we not matter anymore?
It's not just the cancellation that angered me; it's the lack of compensation or alternatives. Sure, they offered a refund, but that doesn't make up for the countless hours I spent planning and researching this trip. And what about the emotional toll this has taken? The disappointment and frustration of having your long-awaited vacation yanked away without any meaningful explanation? It's simply unacceptable!
To add salt to the wound, Royal Caribbean had the audacity to suggest that we book another cruise at a discounted rate. Are they serious? They expect me to trust them again after this colossal letdown? They think a few dollars off will miraculously heal the wounds they inflicted? No, thank you! I'll take my business elsewhere.
I used to be a staunch advocate for Royal Caribbean, always recommending them to friends and family. But after this experience, they have lost a customer for life. There are plenty of other cruise lines out there that value their patrons and wouldn't dare pull such a stunt.
So, fellow cruisers, beware of Royal Caribbean's lack of respect for their customers. They may seem enticing with their glossy brochures and tempting itineraries, but when push comes to shove, they'll ditch you in a heartbeat for a private group. Let's use our voices and make it clear that we deserve better treatment and transparency from the companies we choose to support.
Thanks for listening to my rant. Together, let's hold Royal Caribbean accountable and ensure they learn from this disgraceful act.

Research your ports before you book a cruise

Most eligible bachelor... in Adventure Ocean.  🙂 

Very true. My 11 yr old will become D+ on his own merits next cruise.

The big question is did she get Crown and Anchor points for the sailing?! 🤣

I wonder a lot of things about this. Like had she been using the cards awhile? How early did she book the cruise? How large was the group traveling with her? Was she always like "drinks on me!!" I  mean list goes on.........biggest one is did she commit credit card fraud just to cruise. I need to know that most of all.......I need to know the signs in case this cruise addiction spirals out of control.

Looking at this one...

No I stand by what I said. Your example doesn't apply. There is no way a restaurant would offer something off a dessert if your meal was inedible. You need to compare apples to apples, not apples to a kumquat. They weren't rude, they just didn't give you want you wanted. I personally thinking 30% was fair. You weren't injured, you weren't sick, it was an issue of comfort. You feel entitled to four days compensation and they said 30 percent was enough. You implied they were the worst.

Both fine for me...

Mexican night has some intriguing options.
Though Mediterranean night amuses me. "We have to fit the turkey dinner in there somewhere!"  Turkeys are native to the Americas!

I agree. Without getting too far into political ideology/judicial philosophy, etc., I teach my GOVT students to pay attention to who appointed a federal judge when examining a ruling. Usually, it will give insight into judicial philosophy. However, this is not the case for this particular ruling. She was appointed by Obama, so we don't really have any basis for understanding her intent. We can say that this wasn't politically motivated. Its not government overreach because its a civil case. In a civil case, proof the cruise lines violated the law isn't necessary. There only has to be proof the defendant's actions caused injury to the plaintiff. Tort law is different than criminal law. 

Off to bed! Tomorrow we take off to warmer parts, thank goodness! Cannot wait to get back into my flip flops. Lol

I never understood why you wouldn't want to get this out of the way to enjoy the rest of your cruise.

This is more my scene 😌
 

While I am here...  I'd highly recommend reading this book before boarding any Panama Canal cruise:
"The Path Between the Seas: The Creation of the Panama Canal, 1870-1914" By David McCullough
There are also some videos available on streaming sources such as Amazon, Smithsonian, Engineering Marvels, etc.  It's worth a few bucks to rent them.  PBS used to have a video on YT but it has since been taken down.  
It is a fascinating engineering and political feat the likes of which we are unlikely to ever see repeated on this scale.
Having watched many videos and having read books about the canal it made the day in the canal so much more interesting.  

Hey all, I know there are a bunch of you that are coming to Cali for a cruise on Navigator at some point this next year. Living in the area I thought I would roll out the welcome mat and give you options for some of my local favorites that are within an Uber/Lyft drive. 
If you are staying in San Pedro, one of my all-time favorite breakfast spots is San Pedro Cafe (605 S. Pacific Ave.) - try the strawberry stuffed French toast (to die for!!).  Can get a little crowded on the weekend, so plan accordingly.  Most of my favorites are breakfast options, but I will check with some locals for dinner options... more to come!  OK, back again (edit) with some additional ideas/recommendations: Think Cafe (302 W. 5th St) - casual dining, breakfast/lunch/dinner.  San Pedro Brewing(331 W. 6th St.) - lunch/dinner.  22nd St. Landing (141 W. 22nd St.) - lunch/dinner, a little pricey.  After looking at the menu, I might have to check this one out (just to make sure it's OK for you all... you know, taking one for the team! ha ha)
Ports O' Call Village isn't what it used to be (filled with shops & restaurants), but it's still a nice spot to walk through, with some terrific spots for fresh fish.  Battleship USS Iowa opens at 10 am for visitors.
If you want to wander a little further, you can check out the Korean Friendship Bell located at 3601 Gaffey St., or further into Palos Verdes you can visit the Wayfarers Chapel.  Located just past Portuguese Bend, it is a small chapel, tucked away in the trees. It is also known as the 'glass church' because its walls and ceilings are made of glass.  The winding road to get there affords amazing views, and the chapel is truly amazing. It is one of the most peaceful and beautiful spots that I know.
Long Beach is a close Uber/Lyft drive if you want some options for dining overload, or just a nice spot to stretch your legs and enjoy the view.  Shoreline Village is one of those spots to simply take in the world around you (located on Shoreline Dr.).  If you want to dine there, I would suggest Parker's LIghthouse or Yard House, but there are many options in the area.
A further drive into Long Beach, 2nd street (between PCH and Livingston Dr.) is another lovely spot to wander, shop and eat.  Looking for a romantic gondola ride around Naples island?  Check out Gondola Getaway (http://www.gondolagetawayinc.com/).  Just up Ocean Blvd. a bit is Belmont Brewing (good food and great views).
If you have a day to spare, I would highly suggest a drive down PCH to Laguna Beach.  The views on the drive there and back are definitely worth the time spent getting there.
Suggestions for getting around in the area:  If you are looking to check out anything in Long Beach or further out to Huntington Beach, be aware that weekends are crazy crowded, especially on Sunday.  Plan accordingly, head out early, and know that traffic in So. Cal is truly insane!  Use a ride service to get around if you can, it will take the stress out of getting somewhere and then looking for parking (which is a whole next-level challenge).
 
More ideas to come as I think of them.  Feel free to ask any questions and I'm sure that more of the locals will chime in with their answers/suggestions as well.
 
 
 

Hey all, I know there are a bunch of you that are coming to Cali for a cruise on Navigator at some point this next year. Living in the area I thought I would roll out the welcome mat and give you options for some of my local favorites that are within an Uber/Lyft drive. 
If you are staying in San Pedro, one of my all-time favorite breakfast spots is San Pedro Cafe (605 S. Pacific Ave.) - try the strawberry stuffed French toast (to die for!!).  Can get a little crowded on the weekend, so plan accordingly.  Most of my favorites are breakfast options, but I will check with some locals for dinner options... more to come!  OK, back again (edit) with some additional ideas/recommendations: Think Cafe (302 W. 5th St) - casual dining, breakfast/lunch/dinner.  San Pedro Brewing(331 W. 6th St.) - lunch/dinner.  22nd St. Landing (141 W. 22nd St.) - lunch/dinner, a little pricey.  After looking at the menu, I might have to check this one out (just to make sure it's OK for you all... you know, taking one for the team! ha ha)
Ports O' Call Village isn't what it used to be (filled with shops & restaurants), but it's still a nice spot to walk through, with some terrific spots for fresh fish.  Battleship USS Iowa opens at 10 am for visitors.
If you want to wander a little further, you can check out the Korean Friendship Bell located at 3601 Gaffey St., or further into Palos Verdes you can visit the Wayfarers Chapel.  Located just past Portuguese Bend, it is a small chapel, tucked away in the trees. It is also known as the 'glass church' because its walls and ceilings are made of glass.  The winding road to get there affords amazing views, and the chapel is truly amazing. It is one of the most peaceful and beautiful spots that I know.
Long Beach is a close Uber/Lyft drive if you want some options for dining overload, or just a nice spot to stretch your legs and enjoy the view.  Shoreline Village is one of those spots to simply take in the world around you (located on Shoreline Dr.).  If you want to dine there, I would suggest Parker's LIghthouse or Yard House, but there are many options in the area.
A further drive into Long Beach, 2nd street (between PCH and Livingston Dr.) is another lovely spot to wander, shop and eat.  Looking for a romantic gondola ride around Naples island?  Check out Gondola Getaway (http://www.gondolagetawayinc.com/).  Just up Ocean Blvd. a bit is Belmont Brewing (good food and great views).
If you have a day to spare, I would highly suggest a drive down PCH to Laguna Beach.  The views on the drive there and back are definitely worth the time spent getting there.
Suggestions for getting around in the area:  If you are looking to check out anything in Long Beach or further out to Huntington Beach, be aware that weekends are crazy crowded, especially on Sunday.  Plan accordingly, head out early, and know that traffic in So. Cal is truly insane!  Use a ride service to get around if you can, it will take the stress out of getting somewhere and then looking for parking (which is a whole next-level challenge).
 
More ideas to come as I think of them.  Feel free to ask any questions and I'm sure that more of the locals will chime in with their answers/suggestions as well.
 
 
 

A good time is being had by all 😂

Venice Beach is actually just a bit north and west of LAX, so it's even further from San Pedro than the airport.
 

Hey all, I know there are a bunch of you that are coming to Cali for a cruise on Navigator at some point this next year. Living in the area I thought I would roll out the welcome mat and give you options for some of my local favorites that are within an Uber/Lyft drive. 
If you are staying in San Pedro, one of my all-time favorite breakfast spots is San Pedro Cafe (605 S. Pacific Ave.) - try the strawberry stuffed French toast (to die for!!).  Can get a little crowded on the weekend, so plan accordingly.  Most of my favorites are breakfast options, but I will check with some locals for dinner options... more to come!  OK, back again (edit) with some additional ideas/recommendations: Think Cafe (302 W. 5th St) - casual dining, breakfast/lunch/dinner.  San Pedro Brewing(331 W. 6th St.) - lunch/dinner.  22nd St. Landing (141 W. 22nd St.) - lunch/dinner, a little pricey.  After looking at the menu, I might have to check this one out (just to make sure it's OK for you all... you know, taking one for the team! ha ha)
Ports O' Call Village isn't what it used to be (filled with shops & restaurants), but it's still a nice spot to walk through, with some terrific spots for fresh fish.  Battleship USS Iowa opens at 10 am for visitors.
If you want to wander a little further, you can check out the Korean Friendship Bell located at 3601 Gaffey St., or further into Palos Verdes you can visit the Wayfarers Chapel.  Located just past Portuguese Bend, it is a small chapel, tucked away in the trees. It is also known as the 'glass church' because its walls and ceilings are made of glass.  The winding road to get there affords amazing views, and the chapel is truly amazing. It is one of the most peaceful and beautiful spots that I know.
Long Beach is a close Uber/Lyft drive if you want some options for dining overload, or just a nice spot to stretch your legs and enjoy the view.  Shoreline Village is one of those spots to simply take in the world around you (located on Shoreline Dr.).  If you want to dine there, I would suggest Parker's LIghthouse or Yard House, but there are many options in the area.
A further drive into Long Beach, 2nd street (between PCH and Livingston Dr.) is another lovely spot to wander, shop and eat.  Looking for a romantic gondola ride around Naples island?  Check out Gondola Getaway (http://www.gondolagetawayinc.com/).  Just up Ocean Blvd. a bit is Belmont Brewing (good food and great views).
If you have a day to spare, I would highly suggest a drive down PCH to Laguna Beach.  The views on the drive there and back are definitely worth the time spent getting there.
Suggestions for getting around in the area:  If you are looking to check out anything in Long Beach or further out to Huntington Beach, be aware that weekends are crazy crowded, especially on Sunday.  Plan accordingly, head out early, and know that traffic in So. Cal is truly insane!  Use a ride service to get around if you can, it will take the stress out of getting somewhere and then looking for parking (which is a whole next-level challenge).
 
More ideas to come as I think of them.  Feel free to ask any questions and I'm sure that more of the locals will chime in with their answers/suggestions as well.
 
 
 

@chy check out this post I made about things to do in the area
 

Hey all, I know there are a bunch of you that are coming to Cali for a cruise on Navigator at some point this next year. Living in the area I thought I would roll out the welcome mat and give you options for some of my local favorites that are within an Uber/Lyft drive. 
If you are staying in San Pedro, one of my all-time favorite breakfast spots is San Pedro Cafe (605 S. Pacific Ave.) - try the strawberry stuffed French toast (to die for!!).  Can get a little crowded on the weekend, so plan accordingly.  Most of my favorites are breakfast options, but I will check with some locals for dinner options... more to come!  OK, back again (edit) with some additional ideas/recommendations: Think Cafe (302 W. 5th St) - casual dining, breakfast/lunch/dinner.  San Pedro Brewing(331 W. 6th St.) - lunch/dinner.  22nd St. Landing (141 W. 22nd St.) - lunch/dinner, a little pricey.  After looking at the menu, I might have to check this one out (just to make sure it's OK for you all... you know, taking one for the team! ha ha)
Ports O' Call Village isn't what it used to be (filled with shops & restaurants), but it's still a nice spot to walk through, with some terrific spots for fresh fish.  Battleship USS Iowa opens at 10 am for visitors.
If you want to wander a little further, you can check out the Korean Friendship Bell located at 3601 Gaffey St., or further into Palos Verdes you can visit the Wayfarers Chapel.  Located just past Portuguese Bend, it is a small chapel, tucked away in the trees. It is also known as the 'glass church' because its walls and ceilings are made of glass.  The winding road to get there affords amazing views, and the chapel is truly amazing. It is one of the most peaceful and beautiful spots that I know.
Long Beach is a close Uber/Lyft drive if you want some options for dining overload, or just a nice spot to stretch your legs and enjoy the view.  Shoreline Village is one of those spots to simply take in the world around you (located on Shoreline Dr.).  If you want to dine there, I would suggest Parker's LIghthouse or Yard House, but there are many options in the area.
A further drive into Long Beach, 2nd street (between PCH and Livingston Dr.) is another lovely spot to wander, shop and eat.  Looking for a romantic gondola ride around Naples island?  Check out Gondola Getaway (http://www.gondolagetawayinc.com/).  Just up Ocean Blvd. a bit is Belmont Brewing (good food and great views).
If you have a day to spare, I would highly suggest a drive down PCH to Laguna Beach.  The views on the drive there and back are definitely worth the time spent getting there.
Suggestions for getting around in the area:  If you are looking to check out anything in Long Beach or further out to Huntington Beach, be aware that weekends are crazy crowded, especially on Sunday.  Plan accordingly, head out early, and know that traffic in So. Cal is truly insane!  Use a ride service to get around if you can, it will take the stress out of getting somewhere and then looking for parking (which is a whole next-level challenge).
 
More ideas to come as I think of them.  Feel free to ask any questions and I'm sure that more of the locals will chime in with their answers/suggestions as well.
 
 
 

Yes, they make a terribly nasty cola, Coke and Pepsi have always been better. But you really should try Jolt... 🥤

Ah man!  You were able to eat in the MDR!
Since Royal has neutered My Time Dining by starting at 6:45pm I haven't had the fortitude to stand in line for 45 minutes starting at 6:15pm to attempt to eat in the MDR.   If they offered bar service while standing in line for MTD it might be better.  Heck I'd pay $20 per drink plus 18% gratuity while standing in a line that doesn't move for an MTD hour to get a drink.  
Instead I've been relegated to the WJ where I can always find something and as someone who has eaten exclusively in the WJ for the 80 nights I've spent aboard in 2022 (so far) it does change nightly which is why the WJ is truly underrated.  
The only reason I'm not giving up on Royal despite how they have ruined MTD is because the WJ is actually a pretty decent dinner venue.  I can choose from several different types of salads (more than that's offered in the MDR), more variety of dinner rolls and many different foods that aren't offered in the MDR at all and I can choose how much of each to load (or not) on my plate.  
Naturally since you are busy not enjoying the MDR you aren't in the WJ to see the ever changing nightly selections so I understand you don't see the variety available in the WJ.  
Wait... did I just find your YT channel?

To be fair, it can only be called Nacho cheese if it is produced in the Nacho region of France, otherwise it's pasteurized partially gelenatinated non-dairy food product.