Bob_KY

We have found that an extra gratuity at the beginning to the bartender and room attendant has served us well on many a cruise.  True you are not obligated to produce an extra tip. Let you conscience  be your guide.

Royal IQ is the old app that is still in use on Quantum class ships. It is more basic, mostly showing a part of the daily Cruise Compass and letting you see your reservations for meals, shows, etc. as well as make new ones. It’s only usable after you’re on board and connected to VOOM.
The app that’s just named “Royal” is the new app, and is still in its early stages. It’s been rolled out to a fair number of ships now, and will eventually be the only app for use both pre-cruise and on board all ships. It also lets you see the Cruise Compass and make reservations, but on top of that it includes (or will soon include) other features like pre-cruise checkin (replacing the web site), ability to serve as your boarding pass, chat (in beta), and information about the ship. More information about Royal’s plans for the app can be found in this blog post.

See article:
https://cruisefever.net/8-cruise-line-loyalty-programs-compared-perks-requirements/?fbclid=IwAR3PCTfee0symFsXDSzqoxmqA5TykOLqXQmjrxDjG2RmJT1OjXx9Nzwrq6g

It's funny. It may be  that empty nest, no grandchildren stage of life  that you'll find me on Celebrity. Then back to RCCL for the grandchildren. ? 

We got notified by our TA on Monday! We elected to move to the Allure sailing the same dates...Just out of Miami now and a different itinerary.  Just replied back to our TA email with our choice and they made it happen...No fuss or muss.  Got 200 OBC!  
 
We had booked this cruise over over a year ago to intrudce or son and family to cruising.  We had connecting ocean balcony’s but now now we are on separate decks but with the same category rooms.  We are not going to let this ruin our cruise.  After so many years in the military...Ive learn that S#*” happens. Adapt and overcome. 

I don't like roller coasters so I definitely wouldn't ride it even though it does look like a pretty cool experience. It's not for me, but I could see it being a draw for a lot of people. My biggest question about it is the noise. I understand it is electric but there has to be some noise associated with the coaster itself and then the screaming. I can't imagine relaxing by the pool will be the same if you can hear the coaster and screams. Personally I think cruise lines should just stick to water slides. I don't think the go cart track on the Bliss seems all that cool either. I find them both to be a waste of valuable top deck space on a cruise ship that should be primarily devoted to pools. I definitely prefer the direction that Royal Caribbean is going, but what else is new.

Board Allure of the seas a week ago from Miami , carried with me 4 bottles of water and two bottles of wine , no issues at all.

@stevendom57 , just saw this post so thought I would add my input, living in Oklahoma we are not shy about what we think real true Mexican is, with that said, I would not pay $30 PP to eat at a Sabor (Only on Freedom class and Voyager Class, O class are different completely and are not part of my reasoning), but if I pay for a 5 night or Ultimate DP Sabor is a restaurant I will eat at. This summer I took my 11 year old grandson on a cruise with us (Liberty OTS), he is a self proclaimed steak fanatic, I bought the 5 night package, assuming we would be eating at Chops most nights, but the 1st night we went to Sabor, long story short we ended up eating at Sabor 3 times that week because my Grandson liked it so much.
As far as our food quality or type, our waiter all week was from Mexico City, he told us that what we were eating was more like what he would eat in Mexico City verses what he might eat in Galveston or Houston, they have some dishes that are just ok, but they have some that are really good, short ribs in mole sauce is on of my favorites.
Food is subjective and everyone has their own thoughts, the last time we mentioned eating at Sabor above my 5 night package was out, so I asked one of the waiters I saw walking around that I would come back and eat again but he would have to discount the price, which he did by 30%.

We like Sabor for the Margaritas and the fresh Guacamole. The Guac was good and it's always a go-to for my wife and I. Have not been there for a full dinner.

To answer the OP $30 no but $20 might be. 
@MikeK  I was thinking the same thing about why I have to pay for the food again that why I had never dined in a special dining restaurant. However, these past few years had changed my attitude about the food on RCI cruise. I used to think so many great choices on MDR but now I can't find what to order since every night is mostly the same. To add it up, this past cruise on Anthem I went on MDR 3 nights included Thanksgiving's night only decent meal I got was from the last formal night when they serve a lobster tail and Thanksgiving's night was the worst meal since I went on the cruise. Anyway, there are other places on the cruise to dine like Solarium Bistro and Windjammer with no extra charge but I do miss my good old days great quality food in the MDR. I did find my new favorite though "Solarium Bistro" even though it not available on all class ship. I booked another cruise Symphony OTS for October 2019 and I just took advanced of Cyber Monday deal got $152/person for UDP so this will be my first time to pay for my dinner on the cruise I hope it worth it.

OP here, i was assigned a new TA, Danette.  She has been in constant contact with me.  I have still had to do some of my own legwork but at least she is responsive!  Much better than I had.

just catching up on reading these but thank you for the kind words!!

So sorry!  Was so busy with the final prep on the group cruise I didn't check the boards.  Please email me [email protected] or call me 919 605 6282 - We have over 100 agents and sometimes the chemistry is not correct with the first agent you get.  I will get your preferences of how you like to plan and communicate and match you with a similar agent.

IIRC, all of these options -- loungers, beach bed, bungalow, and cabana -- are based on one person buying them and then indicating who else in his/her party will be using it. So if you need a total of four then you only need two people to buy them, total cost $90.
That said, I still think that with a party of four or more, going the bungalow or cabana route is much better in spite of the higher cost. You have guaranteed shade, the cabanas actually have a ceiling fan installed to keep you cool on a hot day, and the attendant taking care of you just makes it a nicely indulgent beach day. Now, if you think you'll spend 90% of your time away from the place and hanging out in the water or doing other things, then the loungers may be more than enough.

The on the water cabanas are truly right on the water. Each one has a stairway going right into the water, so you never have to walk across the beach or through any crowds. The regular cabana is set back from the water a bit, so you have some beach to use if you want and you have to walk a short distance to go swimming.
For only two people, I think a cabana is overkill. Those are sized and priced where I think you need at least a party of four to get the best use and value. Bungalow is much more reasonably priced, and gives you most of the perks of the cabanas.

Well, after 3 cabin moves and who knows how many phone calls by our TA, we are back in the original cabin we booked a year and a half ago! 
@Matt is 100% correct when he says use a travel agent, John Ames at MEI really came through on this!
Scott
 

Lesson learned, don't ever remove guests from a reservation, just show up without them.  You'll get the portion of taxes and fees refunded for them anyways.
PS - I agree that Royal owes you something.  They moved you in hopes of selling that cabin to 3 other people, double dipping your wife's portion so it's not like they are losing money here, they got paid twice for one guest position.  

Pandora station "Bob Marley Radio" or "Beach Bar Lounge Radio"

It’s fine ... the captain is your DD!!!!

Same as @Waaaytooo with Michelle;  4 months after booking - "exception to policy."

This has been covered many times before but I'll say it again.  Yes, there is an automatic 18% added to your bar bill and you don't have to tip extra.  BUT, in my experience, if you leave an extra $1 on your bar bill (usually just via your charge) your bartender will remember that and will wait on you faster (or, if you don't tip extra, totally ignore you) in the future.  This is especially true at the pool bars where it can be very crowded.  

You do need to check out the Coastal Kitchen and the Suite lounge(next to the Coastal Kitchen)  We were on the Oasis last month and used to Coastal Kitchen just about every meal.  Our room was a loft suite so it was just around the corner and was very convenient.   We made reservations in the CK the first day before the ship left the pier.  Your will need your sea pass card to get in and also that is where you can meet up with the concierge,  they have a desk to the right when you walk through the door into the suite lounge.  The CK and the suite lounge are one big room with entrances on either side.  Remember to take advantage of the special seating for suite guests at all the shows (except the comedy zone)  They also open up the suite area in the shows about 10 min before the shows start for anyone to take the empty seats so get there at least 20 min before the show especially the Aqua Theater show.  When you get to the pier have your paperwork ready to show and watch for the suite lines so you will be checked through much quicker.  Dont be shy about asking RC guides about the suite lines when you are checking in.

If you are in a GS on Oasis you must try Coastal Kitchen! That is the dining room dedicated to GS and higher. Forget the MDR for this cruise lol. Take advantage of your suite benefits. If there is something that you are dying to try from the MDR menu, just have them deliver it to your stateroom or CK, another perk of Sky class. Here is the concierge letter that you will receive...it is very similar. Also, @bellemicheis sailing Oasis in a few days. Stay tuned for a report from her in the live blog section. 
"Dear Suites Guests, 
Its is our  pleasure to welcome you onboard the beautiful Harmony of the Seas We are honored that you have selected Royal Caribbean International for your cruise vacation. 

We are Jeremias and Cheker, your onboard Concierges. We are available to assist you throughout your cruise vacation from 8:00 am to 11:00 am and 5:00 pm to 8:30 pm daily in the Suite Lounge on Deck 17 Aft.                                                                               
As a Sky Suite guest, you are offered exclusive amenities and services not available to other guests onboard. 

For your convenience, here is a brief summary of our services: 
·  Use of the Suite Lounge located on deck 17 aft. 
·  A la Carte breakfast in Coastal Kitchen, Check the Daily Compass for the opening hours, (No reservation required) 
·  Continental Breakfast serve in the lounge. Same hours than the Coastal Kitchen. 
·  A la carte lunch from 12.00 to 1:30 pm daily  in Coastal Kitchen, Deck 17, (No reservations required) 
·  Dinner served in Coastal Kitchen from 06:00 pm to 09:30 pm, Deck 17, (Reservations required) 
·  Bar service is available from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm in the Suite Lounge, serving a wide array of beverages for purchase. 
·  Hors d'oeuvres, petit fours and complimentary bar setup with a selection of wine, spirits, beer and soft drinks every evening from 5:00 pm to 8:30 pm. 
·  Spa bathrobes for use onboard and upgraded bathroom amenities 
·  Exclusive Reception for Suite guests with Senior Officers. (Invitation will be sent to your suite). 
·  In Suite Dining. Full Dining Room menu privilege through Room Service, available when the Dining Room is open (For menus, please refer to your stateroom television). 
·  Priority reservations for any of our specialty restaurants, onboard activities, Shore Excursions, and Vitality Spa services. 
·  Private sun deck with loungers and cabanas on deck 17 forward. 
·  Show Reservations are not required for all Sky Suite guests . Please show your Sea Pass card at the entrance 20 minutes prior to show time as booked seats will be given away 10 minutes prior to show time. For Comedy show tickets, please see your Concierge or reserve now through the Royal IQ App. 
·  Limited VIP seats for the shows in Royal Theater (First 2 rows center, Deck 5), Studio B (Three front rows on left hand side pavilion) and Aqua Theater (first 2 rows from the top). Please show your Sea Pass card at the entrance 20 minutes prior to show time as booked seats will be given away 10 minutes prior to show time. 
·  Priority departure. Please ask your Concierges for more details. 

SPECIAL NOTE: 
As a special VIP guest, we are pleased to offer you access to the Barefoot Beach Club & Cabanas, a private beach on Labadee. Located on Barefoot Bay, this exclusive experience is only available to our Sky Class  suite guests – Simply show your Seapass card to the Island Concierge at the entrance. Each person will be give a wrist band for the day access. 

The Barefoot Beach Club & Cabanas offers complimentary non-motorized water sports equipment (floating mats & snorkeling equipment) in addition to an upgraded lunch menu and service from Suite Beach Attendants. 

For the ultimate way to relax in luxury, why not reserve one of the cabanas (with additional cost) for the day? Featuring beautiful views and dedicated Cabana Attendant service, the  cabanas at Barefoot Beach Club are a not to be missed experience. Reservations are limited so please contact your Concierge for more details. 

A maximum of 6 guests may have access to your Cabana. Please provide the names of any guests that will be joining you to the Concierge. These names will be added to the Barefoot Beach guest list. 

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Cabana Entrance 

  If you are interested in renting any of the Cabanas, please let me know via e-mail, as soon as possible, to avoid any disappointment as they are sold out very fast. 

Ok, I've tried to do my homework.  I've read through the many postings and blogs, but I still have few questions.  I'm traveling solo with my two daughters on our very first cruise (Oasis on August 12th).  I left another question on the tween thread, but my other questions are more general:
1) We have the 5:30 dining time in the MDR - I've taken this to mean that we have a standing dinner reservation at that time.  But, we also signed up for the ultimate dining package.  Do we have to notify someone if we are not dining in the MDR?  Do we just not show up (which doesn't seem right)???  I just don't have a sense for the interplay of these two dining options. 
2) We want to experience both the MDR and the specialty restaurants. I got a really good deal on the ultimate dining package, so I bought that package so that we have options.  Are there particular days where the MDR is a must?  My girls are 12 and 9, are there specialty restaurants that we should avoid?  My kids are adventurous eaters and fairly well behaved. I ask this less from the perspective of what my kids will like (they'd eat sushi every meal if they could) and more as a courtesy for other diners who may want to dine in a kid free zone (or maybe that isn't an issue?), even if they are well behaved kids.
3) The fine print on the dining package says that you also get 20% off on the culinary activities.  I booked the cupcake class for us.  I assume that the 20% will be added later (along with the 50% discount from the adult price I paid on my kids' dining packages)?  And this will be in the form of an OBC or a refund to my card?
4) We reserved a Grand Suite and my research tells me that at some point the concierge will reach out to me...to introduce themselves?  Or is this a contact point that can be used to arrange additional reservations (like other specialty restaurants and Question #5 below)?
5) I've seen advice to use Labadee as a beach day and I'm going to take that advice.  I was going to reserve a cabana at Barefoot Beach.  Initially it showed up in the Cruise Planner as needing to be reserved once on ship.  Not it isn't showing up at all.  Does that mean they've all been booked?  If not, see Question #4.  And if I can still reserve, is the over the water one worth the extra cost?  If I can't reserve one there, should I reserve at another beach or still spend the day at BB, but without the cabana?
6) I never used the $100 OBC that I got with my booking.  In hindsight, I regret that because there are no other activities/packages that I want (other than the cabana).  Will I still be able to use that?  What can I use it for?  Gratuities?  The cabana?
7) I loved someone's advice re bringing $100 in singles for additional gratuities.  How would you breakdown the allocation of these (e.g., $W/drink; $X/meal; $Y/day to housekeeper; $Z/XX to concierge, etc.)?  
I'm sure that someone has asked these questions before and I'm sorry for being repetitive if so.  I just couldn't find them.  Thanks so much for sharing your wisdom with someone who is perhaps to anal retentive for her own good!  My goal is to go on vacation and not have to worry about or figure out a single thing!
Thank you so much!!!

It is and it isn't. Travel agencies receive a commission based on their volume of business. When I worked for a successful cruise agency (many years ago), we received 16% commission. I have no idea what the rate of commission is now. Often the owner would rebate some of that to the passengers as a discount and also "throw in" perks such as a bottle of wine in the cabin etc. So, although the base rate is the same as quoted by RCCL, the discounts and perks might make a difference.
I have always booked my own cruises since 1997 but I recently transferred 3 cruises to MEI, just from the recommendations I read on this blog. I am hoping to relieve some of the stress of keeping up with cancellation dates, air schedule changes, and cabin price changes, etc. , especially since there are so many glitches in the new website. I probably should have done this earlier but I haven't had a TA that I trust  since I left my job and then my agency owner retired a few years ago. I don't know if there will be any particular benefit but if I get in trouble and need help especially on our Mediterranean in October, I will call them first and I will let you know.