WHStoneman

I have had my luggage opened and items removed without my approval. They left a note, signed by two personnel, in the suitcase itemizing each item that they confiscated and where I could retrieve my stuff at the end of the cruise. Don't lock your luggage...they will open it if they want to, whether you are present or not. It really wasn't a big deal....a clothes steamer and an extension cord.

I have not been to Chops yet....but reading their menu offerings, Chops would be a great steakhouse choice. Other Chef's Table experiences lend itself to "adventurous" dining. Probably will have wine parings with each course. The Chef's Table usually is a group dining experience, discussing all the flavors, etc. Personally, I would want to celebrate a birthday in a more intimate setting and your husband deserves a big steak...and that most likely wouldn't be served at The Chef's Table. Go to Chops.

Bahia Mar is a beautiful property...a little noisy but for the most part very nice. Other trip advisor sites have excellent to poor ratings. Of course, you know by now, it is expensive but that is up to you! Have fun!

I used Spread Shirt to create my own personal cruise T....ship name...date...etc. Very easy to do on their website. Finished job was less than $50 for two shirts.

None of them ever come in my size anyway.

We enjoyed Mr. Sancho's on one trip. Booked directly through their website. All inclusive that was $55 PP and a very nice operation. Loved their swim up bar. On another trip, I did the Cooking Class at Playa Mia and had a blast. Booked that through CCL and felt it was a fun afternoon...for me, since I still am the only one who likes to cook. To choose again...definately Mr. Sancho's. Cabs were very reasonable when you share with others. RCL probably will provide you with transportation. Have fun....I know you will.

And you suggest how much tip......

Breakfast tray or trays delivered to stateroom tip?

The BEST way to receive great service from your Room Steward is to give them 20 bucks the very first time you meet them. They will NEVER forget you the rest of your trip. Works the same with the maître d'....tip on your way out the first night and they will never forget you also.

Guest Services will even print out a hard copy for you....and there might be kiosks around the ship that will also print for you.

You don't get a discount....you get an OBC for $100 on a six day cruise. RCCL does not volunteer this..you must send in the necessary paperwork.

I invested in CCL and have received a 38.4% increase in value plus numerous OBC's. I treat Stock perks as an nontaxable dividend. Otherwise, I would have to pay taxes on the $100 dividend on a 1099. I am going to watch RCCL for the next three months and then decide if I want to invest in the minimum 100 shares requirement. Now we just need a Shareholders Cocktail Party event on board to seal the deal....vbg!

Thanks for the info (buried deep in the RCCL website)....now I see the Stockholder benefits with purchase of 100 shares of RCCL...small perk...but every little bit helps. What is the benefit? $250 Onboard Credit per Stateroom on Sailings of 14 or more nights. $200 Onboard Credit per Stateroom on Sailings of 10 to 13 nights. $100 Onboard Credit per Stateroom on Sailings of 6 to 9 nights. $50 Onboard Credit per Stateroom on Sailings of 5 nights or less.

Are there any additional perks for being a RCCL stockholder?

Looking forward to booking on Freedom of the Seas, 01/07/17