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Coka
Casual Cruiser
| Joined: | Sun Feb 18th, 2007 |
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Posted: Sat Mar 15th, 2008 03:08 am | 1st Post |
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This review is over the CC boards but was asked to post here:
I Dived In and Discovered A Perfect Pearl! How We Spent 03/02/08 with NCL…
Part One of Two
Prologue:
Down but not out, I had to escape the perils of short days, long winter storms, and a six month home renovation project. Asset rich yet cash poor, I needed to figure out how to see sunshine last longer than 15 minutes a day. I needed to feel the salty wet ocean sand between my toes. I needed to hear waves break an NCL ship’s bow and I so much missed the aroma of automated hand sanitizer gel. Nobody to share the cruise cost with, I rationalized my way to cruising solo. If I did not get out of town, I would indeed go nuts.
Cashing in some saved up Bank of America NCL cruise points, I booked the 5 day Western Caribbean 03/02/08 sailing out of Miami on the Pearl. This was my 19th NCL cruise and my 31st overall. I had not sailed the Pearl before and her itinerary/cruise length was perfect for my needs. At the time, I felt like a pauper getting ready for the trip. My suitcase was packed with nothing fancy, nothing new, a little leopard and nothing blue. Heck, I was blue enough on my own. For spending money, I did what many other married middle-aged French/Irish Catholic American women do. I took from the hidden stash in places the men do not know about. By 3:30 am on February 29th, I was driving to the airport thinking there IS nothing better than leaving the house in the hour of dawn to head towards ANY Norwegian Cruise Line ship…
I flew to Fort Lauderdale and used GO Transportation for 9 dollars to land at Gigi’s Resort, a Bed and Breakfast ½ block from Fort Lauderdale beach for two nights (The GO company also brought me to the ship in Miami through their 18 dollars share-a-ride program). Most of the 12 themed rooms/apartments had kitchenettes and I stayed in the Hong Kong room. Before arriving, I figured Gigi was an 85 year old Hollywood B actress from days gone by who never sold out her property to a hotel corporate. If not, then Gigi was going to be a very tan middle aged eccentric gay guy. He ended being a 20 year old Hispanic kid who ran the place while the real Gigi was probably traveling the world for more collectable items.
Fort Lauderdale was freezing the first day. I sat on the boardwalk wall by myself eating from a USAIR five dollar snack pack. Not a bad deal for breakfast, lunch and dinner. A prisoner of winter, I wanted to cry for I could not run the ocean shoreline like Bo Derek. Good thing for I did not have a sexy bathing suit. So I went shopping and bought a cute one complete with matching cover-up. I also found some cute leggings all the teenagers wear. Then I went for a manicure/pedicure since no wet ocean sand was going to give me a natural one. All that and I still was not feeling any better.
The second day in Florida I awoke to a tap-tap-tapping sound in my kitchenette and went to discover the source. I learned a few years ago that I let out a blood-curdle scream when I free fall 50 feet from a zip line tour. I discovered on this morning I inhale a loud wheezing sound and jump UP 50 feet when I see a giant crustacean carrying a full pistachio nut across the floor. The sound was even louder when it ran away to hide. I hated being a pauper. Why was this huge ‘thing’ bringing IN a pistachio nut from a bowl of pistachios way outside in the garden sitting area? Was he feeding his wife and kids? Were they in a nest somewhere in my room? Was he really a she and did she lay eggs in my suitcase? If a nuclear explosion can not kill this monster, then how could I? Where the hell was Gigi?
Let me give you another example from the cruisecritic post that discussed not using hotel glasses. Within three hours I captured the creature by covering it with one. Ticked off, I swear he flipped me the bird as he/she pounded against the inside trying to break the glass for escape. I shouted, “How do you like them apples, La Cucaracha?! You stay there and become an example for any of your other friends who want to enter this domain!” I then left it to find out its identity and then book a room at the St. Regis if necessary. I did not care how poor I was. After talking to many locals, I found out it was a Floridian Palmetto Bug and not a cockroach. When it is cold outside, palmettos want to get warm too. They are not a sign of filth. Arriving back to my room, I told my captive that he was found innocent. Covered glass and all, when the darkness set in, I set him free in the bushes of the resort next door. Afterwards, I watched the news of two school shootings and I had to turn it off. Pillow over my head, I used my powers of suppression but still awoke on embarkation morning feeling horrible…
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Sidenote:
I joined a roll call before this cruise and at the end of the week I asked DonsTowing, Indycruisers, and Scarhead 101 to join in on this review. We hung out together yet we all did different things so we all are going to report back on them. Any other cruisecritic from the same sailing is free to add as well if you like. I will still write using my diary-like style. We are all going to report daily. Have fun and enjoy!
Coka
Sunday: Embarkation
The moment I saw the Norwegian Pearl, I began to feel better. She is absolutely beautiful and in my opinion, she outshined the competition’s ships in port that morning. I arrived around 11:00am, gave my luggage to the porters, and was warmly greeted by a man at the entrance. He made me feel like Cinderella arriving at the ball when he told me I that I was a very special person. He then escorted me to a V.I.P. room to check in. NCL has an excellent repeat passenger program that has added benefits at each level. I boarded the ship soon thereafter but the staterooms were not open until 1pm. I think enough of us wrote in our reviews that we would drop off our luggage anyways so now one crew member is stationed on each deck by the closed doors. They were all welcoming and greeted me each step along the way up. I was heading to the Garden Café to chow down some real food.
The Freestyle Daily (given at embarkation) stated on the front cover that passengers can also eat lunch at the Summer Palace Restaurant. There was no pressure to only eat in the Garden Café and both options were advertised and encouraged over the public announcements. The unique action stations are different from the competition’s buffet areas. You do not begin at one end by lining up. You are free to walk around all the areas, peruse the items, and walk up to any station for selections. You are not “cutting” anyone because there are plates and silverware in many different locations of the café. There are also three different entrances to the buffet area. In the mornings for breakfast, there are also three different omelette/eggs any style freshly prepared stations. If you happen to eat when many of the passengers decided to eat as well, then go to the outdoors garden café because they have selections outside, including the omelette station.
I also noticed a coffee, latte, cappuccino machine in a location between the indoor and outdoor café. You can make your own there and one passenger told me they were great. So, if you are not in a suite or higher cabin category (they have machines in their staterooms), then that is a great option.
As with every other NCL ship, the hand sanitizers are everywhere. Mustafa, Gulbaher, the restaurant manager from Turkey was always out and about making sure things were running smoothly. He must be a good leader because his workers were always happy and smiling. I particularly enjoyed the hand sanitizer gal’s morning welcome and enjoyed listening to her singing as she awaited passengers to spritz. I also witnessed Mustafa walking around talking to people and basically ensuring a smooth operation. As a solo traveler, I was more observant to these particular things throughout the week. Did you know the buffet’s serving utensils are replaced every 20 minutes? Even so, nobody likes to get sick on vacation or while working, so wash your hands frequently and use the sanitizers.
My balcony stateroom located mid-ship ninth deck afforded me excellent access by stairwell or elevator to everything above me and below me. Taking the stairs can always burn a few calories from all the food we eat too! I laugh at myself that I actually searched for any sign of dust bunnies or items left under the bed from past passengers. I remember reading a cruisecritic review about that and I could not find a darn thing wrong. My stewards were great! They were Dante Triambulo and Carlos Ipapo. They vacuumed, wiped down, washed, replaced, took away, arranged in the most meticulous manner. I even caught them cleaning the two chairs on the balcony! I asked if I was that messy. They laughed and replied no, not at all. For my stewards, I find out when they a get a chance to go on shore. The morning of that day is when they get my extra thank you present which is cash to spend on shore. Even if they are not going off that week, they still appreciate it.
I had six pillows as the two beds were arranged together. I tested the bed and wondered if Freestyle 2.0 had begun its phasing in. Everything was extremely comfortable and I looked forward to the mattress and duvets at the end of the evenings. The beds were also long. I am 5’ 10” and I had plenty of extra space beyond my feet. The stateroom also had a coffee maker, a safe and a refrigerator. A large rectangular shower with sliding door complemented the large storage space on the sides of sink and beneath it. Okay, as much I do not want to admit this, my knees too hit the wall in the last remaining section (remember the guy who wrote that in his review)? That section had a sliding door too.
A fold out couch served as an extra bed. Had I thought about it, I would have unfolded it and tried it to see. I slept in one on Sun once and I thought it comfortable back then. I assume they would not be uncomfortable as the foldouts these days are made just as comfy as beds. Next on my agenda was to sit and read everything that was in my stateroom. I encourage you to do so as well. I helped clarify a few things to some passengers that they could have learned by either reading the Freestyle Daily or by reading the information that gets placed in your cabin. Believe me, in my earlier cruise years, I too missed out on stuff because of that. Well, I still do today, but I try to make a point of it! I also look to make sure that there are appropriate life jackets and that they fit (when I have cabin-mates). Then I look to see where my muster station is and review emergency procedures. The muster station drill took place at 3:30pm and the Pearl set sail as scheduled.
The sail-away parties are always fun but I knew of a secret place where hardly anyone goes. Laugh all you want at those funky beds/chairs on the sides of Spinnaker’s Lounge. They had them on the Gem and I read they had them on this ship too. Let me tell you, on both ships those beds are enjoyed by all! They are cozy, comfortable and you must have to sit or lay in one at least 2 minutes before you decide they do not belong there. I parked my hiney in one solo and enjoyed the scenery of leaving Miami. The view from inside at the front of ship way up high gave me a different perspective on things as opposed to limbo-ing down at the sail-away with cruise staff.. Certainly an “ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh” moment as all my troubles got left further and further behind….
Coka
Once we got out to sea I ventured down to the Sky High Bar to observe the remaining sail-away crowd. Extremely happy to see a nice variety of all age groups, I reaffirmed NCL appeals to all. A nice blend of families, young couples, spring breakers, Generation X-ers, middle-aged baby boomers like myself and the ever-so-wise elderly. I met and chatted with a lovely couple in their late fifties. Excited to be on their first cruise ever, they selected NCL because of the freestyle options.
The Sky-High bartenders and waitstaff were fun to watch. They too sang and danced to the fun Caribbean Vibes pool band as they worked their hineys off making and serving cocktails. When you order your drinks, an automatic 18% gratuity is charged. I later on talked to a guy who did not like this charge because he thought he was getting dinged twice since he paid 10 dollars per person per day. I explained to him that is only for the restaurant servers and for the cabin stewards. When compared to all the service he got on board, the automatic tip is still a great bargain. After talking to him, we concluded his travel agent should have told him more so he would not be surprised.
The helmet bucket of beer bargain seemed to be a hit. You get six beers for around 22 dollars. A bunch of spring break guys did not know what to do with their bucket after they drank the beer. I told them they were supposed to put the bucket on their head and walk around the ship wearing it. They did not want to put the bucket on their head much as I tried to persuade them.
Not knowing what I was going to do for dinner, I tried a deli hotdog from a barbecue section next to the Sky High bar because it was there. The cook also made hamburgers and French fries. Down below in front of the kid pool area was another outdoor barbecue to get a quick bite. The shaded sections of the pool area had comfortable chairs and tables to gather at. Both sides had sections with rattan style seats/couches with super-thick cushions. All week long I enjoyed observing passengers zoning out, vegging out, sleeping on and resting in them. I so much wanted to lay in one and watch all the people go by too. They seemed to be for groups and I did not want to read anywhere on cruisecritic that this solo traveler took up a big space that others could have used.
I arrived to treats back in my cabin. Little sandwiches were on a covered plated on my table. I also found a fruit basket and a bottle of merlot. Another bottle of merlot (I can not remember the name of it, but I it was number 660 on the wine list) was standing there too. Accompanying the bottle was a little hand written card stating my first name, welcome on board, and to have a wonderful cruise. It was signed by Colin Veitch. I exclaimed to myself, Colin darling! He is the man! The President and CEO of NCL…my fake husband for 10 minutes on the Dawn…my late night dance partner for 60 seconds on the Gem…the guy who gave me a diamond pendant from Tiffany’s for being such a loser! (You need to read my previous cruise reviews to understand what I am writing about)
I needed to make some friends or I would get into trouble drinking all that wine alone. I wondered where the cruisecritics were and if they had decided to get together on the first night before the official meet and greet on the first sea day. We shared a little about ourselves on the roll call boards and I wrote I would buy drinks if anyone could spot me before the official greet. So I got dressed for dinner, still not knowing where I was going, and decided to take care of necessary purchases at the Spa. This included an awesome body lotion from Elemis, thirst quencher moisturizing shampoo from Steiner along with their SOS repair and relief deep conditioner. The airport security took my Steiner identity hair styling cream along with my Steiner shine drops hair serum so I got those too. In case I did not make any friends, I also planned to go Trade Routes Boutiques and Virginia Slim could be my friend all week.
The old timers over on the cruise critic fashion boards will be happy to know that I finally wore my all white dress on a cruise. This solo cruise was perfect for it because if I was just sitting somewhere by myself, others might wonder, “Does she work here?” “She must, she is wearing white, she can eat up here.” I also decided, if necessary, to say that I was the Pearl’s doctor…just in case some drunk tried to hit on me. I could pretend my watch beeped and that I got a call…sort of like what cruisecritic Bob did when he was on the Pearl last month…by the way…the funniest review ever…I am still laughing.
I had a drink for courage at the Great Outdoors bar and then went to La Cucina Italian Restaurant. On the Pearl, you can eat your meal outside in a wind-protected area. The ambiance was great. La Cucina currently does not have a cover charge. Here is a sample of the menu:
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Traditional and contemporary appetizers are offered tabled from the trolley. I had a variety of olives along with the tomato/mozzarella
Soups/Salads: Tricolored salad with balsamic dressing, Caesar salad, cannellini beans/vegetable/pasta soup, or beans/vegetable/pancetta and pasta soup
Create your own Pasta favorite selecting from spaghetti, linguini, fettuccini, penne, farfalle, cheese tortellini, or meat ravioli. The sauces to select from include classic marinara, marinara with cream/butter, seafood tomato sauce, alfredo, carbonara, gorgonzola or Bolognese.
A variety of pizza dishes were available too.
Main Courses included: 1. Egg battered sanpper fillet, mushrooms, capers, with white wine lemon sauce,
2. Italian sausage, mushrooms, olives, tomato sauce, 3. breaded chicken breast, garden greens, oven dried tomatoes, 4. veal medallion, shrimp scampi, grilled polenta, spinach, artichoke, mushroom sauce, 5. sliced beef strip-loin, arugula, toasted pine nuts, gorgonzola cheese sauce, 6. a vegetarian manicotti
Side dishes included spinach with garlic, zucchini oreganetta, sautéed mushroom, gnocchi brown butter with sage, or vegetable risotto.
Desserts included tiramisu, sinful chocolate velvet cake, strawberry cheesecake, macadamia nut ice cream with white chocolate rice crisps or a cheese/fruit selection
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The Freestyle Dailies mention that everything’s hotter when the sun goes down. In case you want to know who the entertainers were on board, other than me, below is a sample listing. Sometimes people follow the entertainers:
Love Brothers and Lira (playing in the Crystal Atrium)
Kenosis (playing hot dance hits in Spinnaker’s Lounge)
Mario Blanco (Guitar player in various locations throughout the week)
Marcus Dagan (singer)
DJ Patrick (Bliss Lounge)
Ballroom Dancing with the Pearl Showband (various times in Spinnakers)
Jean Ann Ryan Company Shows (Sea Legs, South Beach Rave)
Peter James (piano easy listening)
Second City Improv
Note to Self: Never wear white to an Italian restaurant. I was in the ladies room washing up when I exchanged greetings with a passenger. She asked if this was my first day on board. I thought to myself this was everyone’s first day on board until I realized she assumed I worked on the Pearl. I smiled sheepishly and responded, “Da” a Balkan word for yes as I nodded my head. I assisted her in how to make the water run by running the hands by the automatic sensor. Back at the cabin I debated whether to go late night dancing in my white dress and mess with the spring breakers while speaking a foreign accent. After finishing unpacking, I decided the all white bedding was a better option for I wanted to make the morning cruisecritic gathering. Since the dress was five years old, its mission was finally accomplished.
Coka
Monday: First Day at Sea (parties/parties/parties)!
The first early morning at sea, I enjoyed the warmth and sunshine on the balcony as I perused the Freestyle Daily. Plenty of activities, seminars and fun things to do were listed in the morning, afternoon and evening sections. The unique options on the Beautiful Pearl include a rock climbing wall, a bowling alley, and Nintendo Wii on a big screen in the Crystal atrium. . The bowling alley is open from 9am until Bliss Lounge closes (which can vary from 3:00-4:00am). Two lanes on both sides of Bliss combine for four groups to enjoy during any of those times. Also unique is a mini casino set up in the pool area.
Freestyle breakfast dining choices include four different areas: Garden Café, Outdoor Café, Summer Palace restaurant and deck 12 mid-ship. A fifth option in Cagney’s restaurant is available for passengers in the Garden Villas, Courtyard villas and other suites, and for registered V.I.P. guests. They also can eat lunch there. Since I missed out by not reading the materials on previous cruises, I selected Cagney’s to see what the fuss was all about. This was another “ahhhhhhhhhhhhh” moment…filet mignon and eggs for breakfast equaled pure ecstasy. Wearing yoga pants and dressy sweatshirt, I savored the moment as I listened in on the rich people’s conversations while watching the joggers run by the windows.
The official cruisecritic meet and greet took place at 10:30 in Le Bistro, the French restaurant. A representative was there to meet us and she had a coffee/juice/Danish set up for us. DonsTowing and her sister made the original contact with the ship so I thank them very much! About 30 were supposed to attend, yet only 1/3 of us showed up. Kimdacruiser, Indycruisers and Scarhead101 were there too. I stated in previous postings that these meet and greets are a very good idea to attend. We had the opportunity to meet Captain Sverre Svodness (although his autographed picture said Leachner), the Staff Captain Tobias, the Hotel Director Dwen Binns, Assistant Hotel Director Tanja Bessel (woo-hoo to see a female up there!), Food and Beverage Director Denis Prguda and Cruise Director Simon Murray. The two I recognized were F and B Director (from my Jewel cruise a few years ago) and CD (from my many sailings on the Sun) How embarrassed were we that almost more of them showed up than us?
The Captain and the above listed team of officers are the real reason why the entire staff and crew of the Perfect Pearl are so happy all the time! Of my 31 cruises, this definitely was the happiest ship by far. NCL always seem to have happy crew on all their ships, yet this group seemingly outshined. They entertained us all week and we asked questions along the way. Many of us thought Freestyle 2.0 was already happening on the ship as our experience so far was great. The implementation target date for 2.0 is around April/May. I laugh because I can not imagine how the Pearl can get better than it already was.
Immediately after our gathering, we did a tour of each other’s cabins. We talked about it on our roll call board and it worked out very well for we all got to see a Courtyard Villa (wowsa), a suite (wowsa), a balcony (they were still impressed) and an inside (which still impressed). Meeting each other and hanging out with each throughout the week was a highlight. I was glad to have found friends and we plan to stay in contact with each other. Now how cool is that?
I had lunch in the Garden Café but ate it outside. I had three servings of their yummy chicken and tried to figure out how I could make it like that home. Action stations provided a variety of other food items to choose from: soups, sandwiches, huge hunks of beef/ham/pork that is carved for you, salads, breads, desserts, pastas, and so much more. Something different was offered every day.
The dining room was another option for lunch if you like to be waited on and to possibly dine with other guests. You can find their menus posted outside each of them for lunch and dinner. You do not need reservations in the main dining rooms. You just show up. If that scares you because you have a group of people or want to eat at a particular time, then you can make reservations but they really are not required. I talked to a couple who were having a great time on board. Their only disappointment was that they hoped to dine with different passengers. You let the door people know you would like to have others seated at your table. For them, nobody had made a similar request. Therefore, if that interests you, then make a request. Years ago when freestyle began, my niece and I made the request to be seated with some good looking men. Lo and behold, 8 of the best dressed/best looking guys on the ship were seated at our table. Too bad they were gay, but we had a great time dancing with them all week!
My next party of the day was the Latitudes party in Spinnaker’s Lounge, an event for past passengers to meet the officers at the door (handshaking is discouraged) and to win prizes from the various shops on board. You only need one NCL cruise under your belt to become one. You can read more about the program’s perks on the NCL website or here on cruise-critic. Free drinks are also handed out along with h’ors d’ouevres. I first sat on a comfy semi-circular couch until three lovely ladies noticed I was by myself and invited me over to their table. I thanked them very much (how sweet was that) and we talked about living in Florida versus living in the north. Our party did not win any prizes and I did not win the bottle of champagne. I decided my gravestone will read “May she win a bottle up there and finally rest in peace…”
A must do while sailing is to take advantage of NCL’s cruise rewards program, especially if you will cruise with them again. I read about the program and their advertising strategy worked. Put a deposit on a future cruise for 250 dollars (better deal than back home in real life) and you receive a 100 dollar onboard credit. You may purchase up to four. So now you know how I got the cigs/spa products for free. They took off two hundred dollars from my onboard account.
The nice cruise rewards program guy gave me two certificates that show I have deposits in my latitudes account. I have to book within 12 months of purchase date and I have to sail within 30 months of purchase date. This will not be difficult as I am planning a 2 Day escape out of Boston on the Dream (never sailed her yet) and a New Year’s cruise on the Gem (to celebrate her first birthday, to give her a gift, and to add another good luck charm to the mermaid in the bridge viewing room…I tell ya…it works). You do not actually book the cruise while on the ship. This allows you to find the best deal out there when you get back home. More importantly, it allows more passengers to take advantage of the program without waiting in long lines to book. The whole process took me only a few minutes. I also have up to 30 days to change my mind, cancel and get the deposits back. Yeah, right, like that is going to happen. I left armed with two future cruise deposits in my pocket and headed to the pool. While basking in the glorious sunshine and listening to interesting calypso music from Caribbean Vibes, I was happy to know that winter will not kick my butt next year. I fell asleep as I tried to decide whether to dress up…or not…for the Captain’s VIP party.
Evening:
NCL ships have optional formal nights. This means you can choose to dress up or not. After eating my afternoon treats delivered to the cabin, I looked in my closet and continued to debate what to wear to the Captain’s VIP party. The invitation stated “Dress Up or Not.” I went back and forth between my animal print dress with leopard shoes or going in capris. The animal print dress was the one I wore to the Gem’s christening as a Gem-It Girl finalist to be godmother. Although clean, it still had the pin affixed to the rip I made 1 minute before the ceremony. I decided to at least get made up/dressed up and see. I looked in the mirror and saw a 6’2” beast. Instead of changing, I decided to crack open a bottle of wine, sit out on the balcony with my friend Virginia and think about it. The wine (660 from wine list) was a merlot and it was very good even though I am not a connoisseur.
All I know is that my taste buds asked for another 4 oz. refill and then another. There I was all alone in my leopard sandals and dress with slits cut down to there…Oh my gosh…I was also sitting there so refined…and yes, I was drinking myself half blind! I was not Coka. I was Lola from the Copacabana! Yes, yes I thought. I will be Lola only thirty earlier and not the thirty years later. I was stoked and ready to go out for the evening.
The reception was held in Spinnaker’s Lounge. No handshaking for the officers but they did accept a fist and touching knuckles. DonsTowing/sister, Indycruisers, Kimdacruiser/hubby were there too. We found out the Captain was a riot as were the officers. He had a contagious laugh. Again, cocktails and finger foods were served. Another opportunity to find out information, the F and B Director talked about the alternative restaurants. I had eaten at all of them on various ships except the Lotus Garden where the raw seafood is served. Eating raw fish on a 5 or 7 day cruise just did not sit right with me. He stated that the sushi on NCL is the safest anywhere and highly controlled. I asked if that meant he fished off the back of the ship and caught it daily.
When the gathering was over, he had convinced me to eat sushi, sashimi, battered squid and shrimp. Although I have eaten sushi in many Montreal restaurants, he was absolutely correct about the quality. OH MY GOD…it was the best I have ever had. Deck 7 mid ship is where the Lotus Garden (10 dollars per person), The Sushi Bar (15 per person) and Teppanyaki (20 per person) are served. The Freestyle Daily describes this area as “delicious meals prepared in front of you by talented Teppanyaki chefs, shabu-shabu, and Mongolian cuisine on the seven seas. Sushi-shashimi like you never had before!” After what I ate there, I would book a cruise just to eat more of it and to find out what shabu shabu is. I am sure it is something yummy!
After having a good time in my It Girl dress I changed up into the capris, t-shirt and went to the 50’s and 60’s sock hop. This was just one of the many activities the Cruise Director and the staff had available. Throughout the week, passengers could attend not-so-newlywed game show, 70’s themed parties, retro dance party, white night party, sailing solo and singles mixes (never went), name that tune, karaoke madness, 18-20 year old socials, Friends of Dorothy, Bill W and so much more. At the sock hop, I had fun watching the passengers impersonating Elvis. I kept my 30 year ago Lola attitude and headed to Bliss to meet up with the cruisecritics.
Bliss was packed. All age groups were having a fantastic time dancing to awesome club sounds of DJ Patrick. Before hooking up with cruisecritics, I watched the bartenders work. Winfred (I think from Jamaica) was hauling you-know-what. After tending bars myself for five years, I know a superior bartender when I see one. He too is a super shining Pearl employee. Some cruise staff were there along with many passengers all enjoying themselves. I had missed the shadow dancer show but that was okay. The first time I went out on the dance floor alone, I somehow became one as the spring breakers stopped dancing and looked at me. I did not notice until the song ended and they cheered. I thought what the heck that was all about. Good thing I was not in my leopard dress or I really would have scared them. So I walked back to the bar. As I did, CD Simon was present. I asked if he saw how a space on the floor cleared for me like the parting of the Red Sea. He said yes. I then asked if I could be a guest shadow dancer. He said that he loved the idea. I saw him later on in the week and he had two passengers and me all ready to shadow dance on the last night of cruise. He also said he would incorporate the concept into future cruises. So get your grooves and moves and shimmies and shakes going down, girlfriends!
Overall, the spring breakers were a great group, mostly from Ohio and Michigan colleges. I talked to a lot them throughout the week and many are the future leaders of tomorrow. I think we are going to be in good hands. I did find out that Bliss nightclub is only for 21 and over passengers. This just did not make sense to me and I will work to change it. Eighteen to 20 year olds can gamble, can drink wine/beer with parental permission, but can NOT enter the only nightclub open after midnight to dance? I would not have believed it if I did not see it printed on the Freestyle Daily. I should have asked the reason why. I forgot about it until writing now. In my opinion, here is what I would do if I was 18, 19 or 20: Go to Bliss anyway and see what happens. The worst is you get carded and asked to leave. How can you tell the difference between a 22 year old and 20 anyways?
If you smoke, the smoking areas are right outside Bliss on the promenade deck next to the doors. Signs are posted that you can smoke there. I like this idea because A) you smoke less, B) you cool off in the wind, and C) you meet other smokers so you already something rare in common.
You also need to know to not bring drinks out on the dance floor. This is true everywhere for it is a safety hazard. DJ Patrick was on top of this and reminded people to not take them on. They will stop the music, turn up the lights, and clean the floor until safe again when a non-rule follower drops their glass or bottle. The Bliss Bar Manager was always present and did a great job overseeing the place. At one point late night, er, early morning, toilet paper ran out of one ladies bathroom stall. I let the manager know and then observed that it took two minutes for it to be fixed. My point is that if you see something or notice something that could be a nuisance to a passenger (especially this one!), then let an employee know and they will fix it. We read on cruisecritic all the time that they want us to do this.
I retired to my cabin at 3:00am as Bliss closed. I felt great as I certainly made up for not dancing the first night. Shampooed and showered with lots of calories burned, I opened the balcony to hear the waves hit the ship and climbed into my comfy white bed. I had an excellent day at sea on the Perfect Pearl. No dreams for I was already in my dream world.
Coka
Tuesday: Cozumel Day
The omelette man made a perfect one on the Pearl as they do on other ships. Plenty of shore excursions to choose from such as ATV rentals, Mayan ruins, dolphin encounters or swims, snorkeling, shopping and beach breaks, and other island tours. I wondered if I was growing up by not planning on dancing at Carlos and Charlies or at Senor Frogs. If you have never been before, be sure to order a shot at Carlos and Charlies and then think of me when they bring it to you.
I was out of town and nobody knew me, so I surprised myself that I only wanted to find a bicycle and ride around the island in the hot sun. The beautiful Pearl was docked next to the Carnival Holiday, my first cruise taken in 1991. I said hello to her as I walked by and wondered how I paid almost the same price per person on NCL in 2008 as I did back then.
I did not find a bike rental for I did not look very hard. Instead, I walked down the street to the perfume store in search of Jill Sanders Sun for my mother-in-law. Amused at still looking for sun, I did not find it there so I bought some tanning lotion and headed back to the ship where it was guaranteed to be shining on the pool area. Anyone with low self esteem (or not) will feel better (or not) by walking the Cozumel strip. The Mexicans want you. They want to show you their things. Not falling for their bait, I said “non anglais.” When they responded in French, I just made up a language and repeated a few foreign syllables. They did not want a crazy lady in their valuable jewelry store and stopped wanting me. Walking across the street helped too. I should have just taken the ship’s excursion.
Wiped out from my one hour self made failed shore excursion, I enjoyed a lounger on the 13th deck and took a nap. Awakening refreshed and hungry, I ate yummy pasta/marinara, greek salad and Caesar salad for lunch. Since I did not ride a bike that day, I power walked the motionless Pearl’s promenade after lifting some weights in the awesome fitness center. The fitness center has everything you want from a gym. Complete with aerobics room and good music, I am sure any health enthusiast will not be disappointed. Thank goodness most everyone else was on shore as I walked fast and danced a little and waved to the hidden cameras as the endorphins kicked in. When finished my two Trance/Dance CD’s, I was a sweaty, walking clove of garlic and peppers and onion. The finale was an amusing observation of happy passengers’ zig-zagging their way back on the Pearl. I made a good decision that afternoon. I celebrated sobriety and losing thigh cellulite by eating a small slice of pizza and a big bowl of hard icecream.
Back in the cabin I showered and got ready for the Murder Mystery Dinner at 5:30pm. Having signed up the first day on board, I was looking forward to trying something new. A little red light flashed on my phone. The message invited me to dine at the Captain’s table in Cagney’s at 8:00pm. Already full, I decided to attend both events so I RSVP’d. Maybe the Captain thought I was a riot too and therefore got the invite.
The message said to dress up or not. Thank goodness for freestyle because the only thing I had left for the week in my opinion was the not. I wore long white dress pants and a long green/white dress shirt. I finished the outfit with Colin’s diamond pendant necklace. The pendant would be my reminder that if I survived that 2 day cruise, then I could survive anything. Or, if anyone at the Captain’s table complimented it, I could respond, “Oh thank you darling, Colin gave it to me” and then move on to the next topic.
The Murder Mystery Dinner was interesting. Everyone met in the StarDust Theater. Seeing the theater for the first and last time that week we moved on to the Summer Palace decorated tastefully with beautiful ceiling to floor windows. Noticing a gorgeous aft view, I also noticed I was the old lady of the group amongst three spring breakers and two thirty-somethings. My character was Loleina, an exotic Hawaiian dancer. I need not say more. If you have the opportunity to do the Murder Mystery, it can be fun and unique activity while you dine. I ordered Meze of Grilled Lamb Sausage with sweet peppers, chilled melon soup with ginger/mint/yogurt, and the cooking light chicken and garlic sauce. The cooking light dishes on NCL are very good in my opinion. Although planning on not eating much, it was too good to waste. I just skipped the dessert choices of coconut cream pie, warm apple bread pudding, chocolate caramel mouse dome, pineapple cream cake and yogurts/icecream/cheese platter. The other suspects told me they enjoyed their strip steak, grilled salmon and pork loin dishes.
Returning to the cabin for a nose powder and brush of teeth, I looked at two delivered platters of late afternoon treats. Were they kidding me? The first was a selection of fancy chocolates and I did not even look at the second. I somehow had to manage eating in Cagney’s, the ultimate famous steakhouse on NCL ships with a group of passengers/officers. I prayed for the first time since embarkation, then laughed at myself at I took the stairway to Cagney’s.
They must have told everyone else 7:30 because I was the last to arrive promptly at 8:00pm as the message stated. Captain Sverres surprised the passengers with autographed photographs taken the previous day at the VIP cocktail party. I ordered the smallest things I could find on the giant Cagney’s menu. An extremely difficult accomplishment amongst KING crab leg, HALF rotisserie chicken, DOUBLE-CUT lamb chops, KING cut prime rib, CAPTAIN’S CUT filet mignon, WHOLE lobster. The famous TWENTY-FOUR oz. porterhouse steak was all I could think about in Fort Lauderdale. It was the last thing I wanted to think about this evening.
I started with the colossal shrimp cocktail. I skipped soup and salad. I prayed some more they would bring me the late-night-wet-vac-cleaning-man’s cut of filet mignon. Surprisingly, I ate all because it was scrumptious. I even took the Captain’s suggestion that a huge serving of fresh crushed garlic should be spread over my filet mignon. The engaging and humorous table conversation enabled me to forget how full I actually was. With the Captain on my right, the Staff Captain on my left, the Hotel Director across from me, the Assistant HD on a left angle and the Chief Engineer on my right angle, I had a darned good time. An important note is that they do not drink at these events but I was allowed to. In the end, everyone agreed that what happens at the Captain’s table stays at the Captain table. I was the one who suggested it. I will share that they are people just like you and I. Finding something in common with each of them, there was never a loss for conversation or laughter.
The Norwegian Pearl’s crew consists of over 1100 people from all over the world. Three department’s include: 1. The Staff Captain oversees the Deck department that includes bridge officers, safety, medical, security, finance, IT and surveillance, 2. The Chief Engineer who maintains all mechanical and electrical components of ship, and 3. The Hotel Director oversees the hotel department that includes the Cruise director/staff, housekeeping, galley, restaurant, bar and all other guest services. The three departments are all under the Captain’s command.
I met up with other cruisecritics in Spinnaker’s for the ‘80’s Retro night dance party with the excellent band Kenosis and the cruise staff. Afterwards, we headed to the ultra white night dance party in Bliss Lounge and claimed a bed. I exchanged my long white sailor pants for my new short white leggings as they had a stretchy band around the waist. Another ahhhhhhhhhhh moment. We cruisecritics stayed on the dance floor with our 21 year old spring breaker friends until they shut us down. The funniest line in Bliss Lounge was that the cruisecritics had taken over the ship. This coming from a spring breaker! The other funniest line heard from them was “what smells like garlic?”
Coka
Wednesday: Grand Caymen
Morning stretches on the balcony, other ships anchored, and a view of Seven Mile Beach could only mean we were in Grand Caymen that morning. Reading materials left out the previous evening included how to get tender tickets and did I want my laundry washed and folded (available to all passengers for 20 dollars or you can do your own in the laundry area). I never used my VIP ticket which allowed me to take a tender at any time. I also waited to do my laundry at home. Luggage full of dirty sweaty clothing discourages any airport inspector from digging around too much.
Information on how to debark the ship is given a few days before the cruise ends Read through everything and make your choice: 1. Express Walk-Off…you can leave first or at any time at your leisure carrying your own luggage…do not place your bags outside the stateroom, 2. VIP walk-off…you get escorted off the ship…meet at an early time…find your luggage in the VIP area because you leave your bags out the night before, 3. Regular debarkation…get your colored luggage tags to place on you bags the night before…wait for color tag to be called the next morning, leave the ship and find your luggage in the coded color area, and 4. BAGS program…sign up before a certain time/day for 16 dollars…if approved by your airline, you will receive your boarding passes, your airline luggage label to put on luggage night before…get off the ship next morning…go through customs…get your suitcase in the BAGS area…walk ten feet…give to guys right outside in the big trucks…you see your luggage when you arrive home. Guess which program I used?
My only goal for the day was to get sun by either bike riding around the island or walking to Seven Mile Beach. No rush because we were in port until 7pm. A loud cannon firing made me jump as I saw the Jolly
Roger Pirate Tour sneak around the ship with its captives on board. I waved to them and they waved back. Their evil Captain tried to get me to jump ship. I hollered back, “Never! My Captain is a lot nicer
than you! He feeds me filet mignon and you will make me eat grub then walk the plank!” He jumped up cussing at me while waving his arms. I hollered back, “Go away La Cucaracha before I take my wine glass and capture you too!” He did as I laughed like the devil while he thought, huh?...
For this early morning breakfast, I decided to get me some eggs benedict at Garden Café. As I crossed the pool area I decided to interview the passengers lounging around. Curious to know if I was the only one having a great time on the Pearl, while smiling at all and wishing a good morning to each of them, I stopped to find any complaint from a few. I learned from the people in wheelchairs the Pearl was very accessible. More importantly, the crew/staff went above and beyond for them. They were even amazed at the passengers who offered assistance. Bidding good morning to a mother and daughter, they shared each could safely do individual excursions of their interest during the day and could then meet up for dinner later. An elderly gentleman was enjoying the gals in bikinis but shared he heads to the cushioned ones on the promenade deck later for his nap. Spring breakers in the hot-tub said they were having fun with all age groups. My interview stopped suddenly as I noticed it was 1pm according to the pool clock. Where did the morning go? The commercials are true! You really do not need a watch on an NCL cruise! Nor an alarm clock as the cabin phones have one built in.
One of ten people on the tender to shore, I became the ship’s photographer taking pictures of cute couples. They did not mind explaining how their cameras operated and I thought about getting one some day when rich. On shore I took a right to search for a bike rental shop. The hot sun felt great. My legs did not. Ignore it, baby, I told myself. I discovered a great perfume shop that also sold L’Occitane products for a better price than in Montreal. The bike shop was nearby yet the bike rental man was not. So I hiked in the other direction to Seven Mile Beach.
A cab from the port to the beach is only 4 dollars. You too can go for free if you quickly walk the hot pavement for 30 minutes. By the time I arrived to the first “access to beach,” I thought I was going to die. Soaking wet from the heat, my legs felt like a jelly fish. Another note to self: Never power walk in bike sneakers. Once on the shoreline, I ripped them off and finally felt the ocean sand between my toes. Ahhhhhhhhhhhh.
By the time I arrived at the Royal Palms public beach area, I smelled like a pig, mascara running, back sunburned, and once again looked like I wet my shorts. Feeling like Jesus on the 40th day in the desert, I parked solo on the cobblestone wall. I wondered if he too smoked a cigarette afterwards. At the Royal Palms, people were enjoying swimming, sunning, parasailing, jet-skiing, drinking margaritas, listening to fun music while observing the Pearl from afar. Within minutes, I attracted an army of ants who tried to carry me inside their hill compound. I fought back and watched how long it took for them to escape their sand slide. Maybe they were not ants but the red palm mite we were warned about. Do not buy anything in port made out of green palm or banana leaves such has hats and other souvenir items. Would they let me back on the ship?
Walking back to the Pearl was not going to make my butt smaller and transform my mayonnaise thighs and tummy into the hard bodies I witnessed walking along the shoreline. I took the four dollar cab back into town. Back on board, I enjoyed a shower, the pool, the butternut curry soup, the cookies, the chocolate yummy filled treats in cabin with fruit on top, sipping merlot out of my fancy wine glass and witnessing one of the most beautiful sunsets ever. I was totally relaxed.
My thoughts were interrupted by the phone. I was invited again to dine with the Captain and his staff. Maybe I gave too much information the evening before, but hey, I accepted figuring they were afraid of me. Besides, I had no scheduled plans as I was on holiday. I changed into black dress pants, my leopard sandals and a top that I could finish the night dancing in Bliss with, one with no material under the armpits. I finished the outfit with my loser diamond pendant. Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha!
Coka
At 8:30pm I was greeted by Corina Rodovanovic, the Assistant Maitre D at the Lotus Garden. If I had to select one employee (and you can at the end of the cruise with a card they give to fill out) that best represented Norwegian S.T.Y.L.E (Service, Teamwork and Yes Lead to Excellence), then it would be her. Having dined in the Lotus Garden the first night and again on this evening, Corina was a fireball. She was on the move, she was gracious, always smiling and ensuring prompt service while fulfilling special requests and needs.
The Captain was a few minutes late as he was at the goodbye show. Always a moving performance I highly recommend not missing it. They truly make you feel like their family member. They do their thing at the end of the Jean Ann Ryan Company’s last two shows of the week and it is always impressive. While waiting, I met up with the cruisecritics also eating at the Lotus Garden. We got to see the kid parade that the KidsCrew staff puts on for the parents and other passengers. They were so cute and their chants were not interruptive for other diners.
My date arrived and I exchanged greetings with him, the ship’s Doctor, the Staff Captain and was introduced to the Kids Crew Director from Serbia, the Crew Activities Coordinator and someone who I am sorry did not get their name. I missed the name because the Crew Activities Coordinator was Olga from Sweden. I was busy laughing to myself that I finally met the REAL “Ulga from Sveden!” She looked like me 23 years ago.
Shabu shabu is one of the Mongolian Hot Pot options; a dish originating in the 13th century as a way for Genghis Kahn to efficiently feed his soldiers. Shabu-shabu was re-introduced in Osaka, Japan. The ingredients are swished back and forth in a pot of boiling aromatic broth. Ingredients include thinly sliced beef or tofu, Chinese cabbage, nori, onion, carrots, shitake and/or enoki mushrooms. Now I have to book a cruise to find out what nori is. The other options include noodle dishes.
I had no idea what everything on the menus meant (even though the F and B Director had been a good teacher)! I am not a very good student. I did not know where to find the yummy squid. Where were the other passengers at this table of soldiers? Oh my goodness, much as I tried over the years, I can not handle chopsticks. It was easy the other night as I could hover over my plate with nobody watching while I used a fork and my fingers. ‘Bad It-Girl!’, I exclaimed to myself.
If not for the cruisecritics at the other table laughing at me, I think I would not have survived. I whispered to Corina if she could send a bottle of 660 on the wine list over to the cruisecritics table from me. The ever efficient multi-tasking talking laughing and listening Captain overheard and took care of it. A gentle and giving man he was.
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Last edited on Sat Mar 15th, 2008 03:25 am by Coka
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hstrybuf
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Posted: Sat Mar 15th, 2008 03:22 am | 2nd Post |
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| Thanks Coka! Wow! I'm going to have to read that tomorrow when I have a bit more time. I'm sure I'll enjoy it as I do all your reviews!
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Deb
"In matters of style, swim with the current; in matters of principle, stand like a rock." - Thomas Jefferson
My pics: http://community.webshots.com/user/hstrycrsr
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Coka
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Posted: Sat Mar 15th, 2008 03:26 am | 3rd Post |
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PART TWO OF TWO...hahah, it did not fit in one post!
When Corina took my order first, I sheepishly and delicately asked if I could just have some of the sushi and sashimi like the other night (because that is all I knew). Yes, yes, everyone at the table wanted sushi and sashimi. The Captain recommended the duck and then I told him a story about the first time I went duck hunting. Once he laughed heartily, I knew I would be okay. Others ordered some side dishes. How surprised was I when the meal arrived in a GIANT boat full of awesome sushi and sashimi. The boat took up the entire elongated table for eight and for the first time in all my vacation experiences I wanted to take a picture of the darn thing. Everyone was wowed. The chopsticks issue no longer mattered and we all dug in.
Captain Sverres is a great leader. He had invited this group to dinner especially to discuss and to hear ideas from his soldiers as to how to make their programs even better. He was very interested in the crew activities on board which tells me he knows the importance of keeping a happy crew. My contribution was to tell Olga to keep the Ship N Males going as it is a fun way to get the guys out of the kitchen/galley, to earn some mad money, and the passengers appreciate it too. My other contributions included questions such as, “Tell me your opinion on Kosovo because…,” “What is the most outrageous medical emergency you experienced on the ship…?” and “Is that hot and sour soup making your nose run?”
By 10:30pm they had to get to the second Jean Ann Ryan show for the farewell performance. My only regret is that I wore my white dress the first evening. I know I could have talked them into letting me be the Doctor’s nurse and get on stage with them to sing the song too. I know the words by heart.
Coka
The Captain, officers and staff left and I ended up at the cruisecritics table as they were having a great time too. We shared war stories and I invited them to help finish the wine in my cabin before going out dancing. Once the wine was finished, we set out to find a missing critic in the casino first. If you sailed the Jewel or the Gem, the casino is set up the same way (as is the rest of the ship). After embarkation I had signed up for the triple play chips and player’s card yet never used them. The casino, krackits, bingo, lotto and other gambling options such as slot tournaments and Texas Hold Em tournaments were offered throughout the week when the ship was not in port. All slot players got double points when playing between midnight and 2am. I spent 20 dollars and walked away with 45. That covered my transfer back to Fort Lauderdale, the BAGS program and bus driver’s tip.
Bliss was packed again and I asked the DJ to “please don’t stop the music!” because nobody had to get up early the last day at sea. We then made our way like Rhianna out to our favorite spot on the dance floor to shake away any last remnants of stress we had prior to boarding. The male spring breakers figured out the first night they could not get away with train freaking the hot MILF’s on the dance floor. People wonder why I dance with my elbows out and spin around a lot…it keeps the freaker-seakers away.
By 4:00am, we were hungry and went to the Blue Lagoon, the 24 hour restaurant. We ate fish, chips, fries, buffalo chicken wings, pork fried rice, chicken fried rice, and shepherd’s pie. Other options included burgers, hotdogs, macaroni and cheese, noodle stir fry, soups, chile and salad. We debated just staying there watching the humorous events from some over-indulgent passengers and having breakfast there that begins at 7:00am and ends at 11:00am. They offer omelettes, scrambled egg croissants, French toast, hash browns and other muffins, bacon, danishes and morning beverages. Full of comfort food already, we said goodnight and I waddled off to my cabin…
Coka
The Last Day At Sea
Ring, ring, ring rang the phone at 9:00am. Carlos Zarate, the current Pearl Concierge called to let me know I was invited on a bridge tour that morning. I made myself some coffee and ate the chocolates from the covered platter that was untouched from a few days prior. I ate some fruit, surprised the grapes and orange tasted like they were fresh plucked from a vine and tree. I put on a sundress, some eye cream to smooth up the bags and a little mascara. No other makeup necessary as I had a good tan going.
Carlos met the invited passengers outside the secret entrance. We walked down the secret hallway and I peeked into the secret offices where all the hard work was secretly orchestrated. The bridge was similar to the Gem so I knew already the little tiny skinny stick the size of ½ pinky finger moves the ship. They have a steering wheel available for old time’s sake. In case you are wondering, there are always officers on the bridge who watch the computers and watch the sea in front of them. They look very tough so do not even think of a mutiny.
Never owning a digital camera, ipod, blackberry, blueberry or mulberry, I was amazed at the technology. In my brilliance, I pointed to an object sticking out in the middle of the port-side panel and asked what it was. The ten year old passenger answered it was a flashlight and everyone laughed at me. I wondered what on earth they needed a mobile flashlight for. Power outages? Did they send morse code signals for fun to other ships throughout the night? I did not ask further so if anyone knows, then please fill me in. Who needed blush that morning anyways? .
The Captain is always in total control of the ship. Previous debates stated the port master/harbor master takes over. They do not. If at any time there is ever anyone who suggests or tells the Captain to do something that he thinks unsafe, inappropriate, or against his judgement, he has a hotline phone to a guy who answers immediately. This provides him quick access to the NCL President. Heck, I told him he could contact me and I would let Colin know he needed help. Every leader needs a go-to-guy for an out so I was pleased to see Miami office thinks of their Captains too. After all, they are in charge of 965 foot ships that carry thousands of human beings.
The sense of responsibility was overwhelming. I therefore decided to be responsible myself and start packing once I returned to my cabin. Do a little at a time and it does not seem so bad or sad. I went to the reception desk and checked my onboard account. The reception desk was always friendly and nice as I needed them for a variety of things throughout the week: my bus transfer, further information on the Bags program, extra paper and envelopes for thank-you notes, a photocopy, and a band-aid for my toe.
Below are the rules for the BAGS program:
1. Your flight must be domestic within the United States, including Puerto Rico, Alaska and Hawaii.
2. Your flight must depart on the same day as your ship's arrival at Miami.
3. You have to be flying on American, Continental, United, JetBlue, Northwest, AirTran or Delta Airlines. The registration form gave these symbols: AA, B6, CO, DL, FL, UA, NW and US (I was on USAIR and got the program).
4. Connecting flights must also be with one of the above participating airlines.
5. Your flight must depart after 11:30am from Miami or 2:00pm from Fort Lauderdale airports.
6. Maximum number of checked luggage allowed is two (2) pieces per person.
7. Your flight must depart no later than 11:59pm the same evening.
8. Valid photo ID is required (Passport or driver's license)
9. You agree the value of all the baggage noted does not exceed 100 dollars per enrolled guest and any liability of NCL for any cause whatsoever with respect to said baggage shall not exceed such sum and shall be subject to the applicable limitations set forth in the guest ticket contract
10. Sixteen dollars per applicable person is charged to onboard account.
The Bags program was great for me. I had nothing valuable in my luggage, I was solo, and in Fort Lauderdale I saw my luggage get on the plane which meant the guys at the pier did a great job! It was sweet to have my airplane boarding passes delivered to my stateroom that evening.
Once half-packed, I decided to forsake the onboard t-shirt specials, the jewelry specials, the bingo, the spa specials (check them out throughout the week…when the ship is in port, they come up with specials. Also, if the ship is not full and they are not full, then they run specials…but be careful…usually the spa appointments fill up fast and you can not get an appointment), the drinking clinics, and cruise staff activities by spending the afternoon sleeping by the pool. I needed my beauty rest for traveling the next day but more importantly for my shadow dancing debut. Who knew it all would end up being …a not!
Coka
When cruising solo, there is always a lone lounger by the pool. I found one yet ended up staying awake talking to those who came and left throughout the afternoon. We talked a lot of politics and weather in the Northeast that afternoon as some passengers had ordered the electronic New York Times to their staterooms. Hilary…Obama…and how Albany NY was hotter than the pool deck…Even so, the cutie waiter from Romania was always nearby ready to take a drink order or to spritz a passenger with refreshing cool water. He had a smile as big as the Caribbean.
About to fall asleep in the glorious sunshine, the only lone unhappy passenger on the Pearl parked next to me. He was disappointed about volleyball and tennis. He had not played at all. He had not read the Freestyle Daily because there were sports tournaments set up during the week. He was upset he did not meet other passengers. He never talked to the spring breakers, to the middle-agers, to the elderly because he did not think he had anything in common with them. He had not danced because he never went to Bliss or to Spinnakers. I asked what he was doing when he took out a bunch of papers and started writing. He replied working. Not taking it anymore, I sat up and gave advice a fourteen year old gave me years ago. I told him he needed to to lighten up.
About to fall asleep again, he asked if I wanted to go on the water slide with him. Remembering the time my fat arse got stuck on the Jewel water slide, I declined and told him why. Lightened up, he went anyways and reported back that adults must curl in a ball in order to go really fast down the slide. He said he had a blast. Proud of him, I encouraged him to check out the martini clinic at 3pm as I knew fun people his age would be there.
I left and went downstairs to one of two swimming pools. The adult pool water was warm and I sat on the sides getting the last rays of sunshine until next June. The adults were quietly using both pools as there were probably 20 kids on board who were currently getting ready for bed. The sun began to set causing a colorful array of pinks across the horizon. The perfect Pearl was purring smoothly towards Miami and the band played their last song. If only time could forever stand still.
The cabin treats came in handy that early last evening. Chocolate covered strawberries and cheese/crackers complimented my peckish appetite. I knew I would not make it as a shadow dancer that night. I had nothing left to wear that I liked. Seriously. No way was I going to wear work clothes I threw in the suitcase last minute. I decided to go to bed after calculating only 8 hours sleep in the last 60 hours. Lessons learned from cruising years ago no pleasure exists waiting in airports when over-tired (Good thing as I had five delays in NC, a missed flight in NY, no hotel, and no way to get 6 hours home until 2 days later due to ice storm. I spread my Pearly happiness to other stranded crying travelers, rented a 220 dollar mini-van and drove 6 hours home to our airport parked vehicles…give and you shall receive…receive and you should give...okay, the deal was they drive and if I pay)!
About to fall asleep, the phone rang. Please God, don’t let it be CD Simon giving me an 11:30pm curtain call at Bliss. Fortunately it was DonsTowing/sister, the Indycruisers and Scarhead101 telling me to get my butt to their cabin for cocktails. I did. My dearest DonsTowing, Indycruisers, Scarhead 101, and Kimdacruiser, you are the best. How fortunate I am to have met you and to have shared wild and crazy times on the high seas ever with you. Thank you for the laughs and I sincerely hope we fulfill our pact to meet up in Vegas. Thank you also for not being embarrassed dining with me wearing black leggings and a bathing suit cover-up!
We ate our last meal together at the Mexican Restaurant. Remembering I still had a voucher for Le Bistro and a free bottle of wine as part of my Platinum latitudes benefits, I ran upstairs to get it. The little red flashing light was a missed invitation with more soldiers. I returned my regrets and I was happy to spend my last evening with the cruisecritics. I was also happy the restaurant honored the coupon for the wine. Guess what number wine we ordered? The Benziger went very well with the salsa, Quesadillas, nachos, spring rolls and taquito appetizers. We followed by selecting from shrimp/salmon/swordfish skewer, sizzling fajitas, pork back ribs, enchiladas, burritos, and the famous house specialty IL Popo (grilled chicken, skirt steak, peppers, onions, tomatoes, pineapple and jalapenos and more all flamed with tequila hanging on metal hooks, served with rice and flour tortillas…yum, Yum, YUM!) We ordered all the desserts and shared berry tostada, coconut sherbert, cream puff with chocolate sauce, baked custard caramel in a tulip wafer, and chocolate mouse with a cinnamon sugary dough pastry.
Everyone planned to meet up later for shadow dancing. Probably a good thing it did not happen for DonsTowing put the idea in my head to do shadow puppets instead. I thought of throwing in some Elaine from Seinfeld dance moves along with “What is Love” moves from A Night At the Roxbury/Saturday Night Live spoof too. Fat and happy to stay in my bathing suit cover-up, (as it also made a great nightgown), I finished my immigration forms and labels, finished packing and brought my suitcase inside the “do not enter” door where the early bird suitcases awaited their elevator ride. I returned to the cabin and began writing. About to fall asleep, or already asleep, the bright lights shining in through the balcony startled me. Docked in Miami, I lay there and watched all the other cruise ships glide by the perfect Pearl.
Debarkation breakfasts are served a bit earlier and end a bit earlier. Due to pre-planning the day before, I had yogurt and milk in my refrigerator, a box of cereal/bowl and a remaining banana, along with my stateroom coffee maker to top off all the Mexican food from hours ago. I call it transitional dining…a perfect way to end a cruise and to prepare for home…get it myself.
With the debarking options, leaving an NCL ship is the smoothest operation amongst the competition. I left my cabin at 8:30am and was outside the pier by 9:00am. I talked to more people while in line and on the bus to find out the best part of their cruise. I stop asking when I reach ten answers:
From a couple in their ‘40’s: Diving in Grand Caymen
From a couple in their ‘30’s: The Sex
From a middle aged woman: Winning 4 art prints at the art auction
From a father: SNUBA tour
From a mother: Winning 1,225 dollars in the casino (third machine on the right of entrance…sorry did not get which entrance…although you can only win up to 1200 without claiming it on taxes…)!
From a daughter: Seeing the sun (I high-fived her)
From a woman in her ‘30’s: Everything was a 10
From her sister: No, everything was an 11
I looked back at the Pearl as the bus drove away concluding that NCL, the Pearl officers and staff, and the cruisecritics gave me the most memorable cruise ever in a lifetime. I never thought my Gem-It godmother finalist adventure could be topped. After the christening cruise back in December, I thought baby Gem’s debarkation diamond hull wink meant she approved me to be just her wild and crazy aunt instead of her godmother. Since Captain Sverres said I could re-christen his ship, who knew that she was telling me I was really a Pearl Girl?!
With love,
Coka
Epilogue: This review is dedicated to Robbie, my good luck charm. Thank you for a perfect vacation!
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gurlwithbaggage
Founders
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Posted: Sat Mar 15th, 2008 05:06 pm | 4th Post |
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What a great review! Thanks so much for sharing with us!
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Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans~~John Lennon
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hstrybuf
Founders
| Joined: | Sat Jun 17th, 2006 |
| Location: | Kansas |
| Posts: | 21180 |
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Posted: Sun Mar 16th, 2008 03:44 pm | 5th Post |
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| Thanks Coka! Your reviews are always so full of info and entertaining as well! The BAGS info is very helpful to people who will be asking about that in the future.
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Deb
"In matters of style, swim with the current; in matters of principle, stand like a rock." - Thomas Jefferson
My pics: http://community.webshots.com/user/hstrycrsr
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