LIVE From The Eurodam 2WK Holiday Cruise ...Brought To You By LAFFNVEGAS

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Greetings from Las Vegas McCarren International Airport.

We are on our way and about to board our 6 AM Delta flight to Atlanta, then on to FLL

Amazingly the ride to the airport was not the usual Mr Toads WILD Ride I guess our son is maturing:D

I am looking forward to giving you my versions, and impression of the new Eurodam.

I will attemtp to check back in once we arrive in Atlanta.

[jhannah]

Hope your flights are good. At least most of the bad weather has moved out of the south and is now up north.

[jbhcw]

Lisa, have a safe flight and enjoy Florida and your cruise:) Glad you are getting to do a back to back and happy you're doing a "Live from" report:)

[mafig]

Looking forward to meeting you!

[GmaPajama]

I'm so excited for you, Lisa! You're going to love every minute of it - and I can't wait to read more!
Just beware: once you've done 14 days, it's hard to do less - but with any luck, your new job will allow for that. :)

[SDHALFAN]

BON VOYAGE Lisa and Tom. Have a safe flight and a wonderful cruise. I will be thinking of you with a ton of envy:D.

Enjoy your Christmas aboard ship and don't forget the Christmas Eve performance by the officers and crew - it's a lot of fun and a great way to get the Christmas festivities started.

Valerie:)

[Cruising-along]

Lisa, I'm looking forward to your Live Reports, and have a super time! You'll love doing 14 days!!

BTW, did you get your HAL Visa card before leaving home? We're still waiting for ours and I think we signed up the same day you did. I know you wanted to get yours before this cruise. :)

[maxxboy]

Greetings from Las Vegas McCarren International Airport.

We are on our way and about to board our 6 AM Delta flight to Atlanta, then on to FLL

Amazingly the ride to the airport was not the usual Mr Toads WILD Ride I guess our son is maturing:D

I am looking forward to giving you my versions, and impression of the new Eurodam.

I will attemtp to check back in once we arrive in Atlanta.



We won't be far behind you! Our flight leaves ATL at 7PM tonight. We're all packed and ready to go. Just drop off the puppy dawgs and head to the airport. We'll be on the Eurodam tomorrow!!

[NevadaHiRoller]

Have a wonderful B2B cruise and don't eat too much! Merry Xmas.

[Northshorecruisers]

Lisa and Tom have a great cruise!!!! Wish we were going with you.

Really looking forward to your live posts from the Eurodam. That will keep me busy until Christmas......when will I finish my Christmas shopping :eek:
Maybe I can shop on line between posts:D

[k8russ8]

What a way to get "up" in the morning. Have a great cruise. Maybe Santa will bring me a cruise for Christmas. Actually, a new job would be better. I can then start cruising again as I did in the past. Enjoy these precious moments and soak up some sun. I will cruise along with you and dream.

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Greetings from Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson Airport :)

Well we might have left Las Vegas 5 minutes late but we arrived in Atlanta 35 minutes early, let me tell you that was some strong tail winds :D Actually this was our first time to take Delta and I was actually impressed. There was a lot more room between the seats in our 767 than AA, UAL and SW. Not that Tom and I need leg room but it is nice to not have that seat in front of you so darn close. It was a very smooth flight and went far faster than I expected. We have been here over a hour now and already had lunch which was more like breakfast to us. Our next flight leaves at 3:55 so have about and hour or so more time to kill.

I have bets we go to bed early tonight, my eyes are burnng for lack of sleep or it could be all the smoke from those smoking here in the Atlanta airport, or both. It seems all the restuarants and food courts allow smoking or they do not care and or people are just lighting up. It is a drastic difference from the no smoking in Las Vegas.

I really am looking forward to doing this LIVE report it has been a few cruises since I have done this and for those that have not read my Live threads in the past they are sort of a cross between blogging and my personal diary ;) Tom and I are not big adventure cruisers,meaning we hardly ever do much for excursions, we go to be on the ship and the ports are just secendary. We booked the 2nd week not even realizing that it was a different itinerary but were thrilled it was different.

I have to admit we are really looking forward to walking over that gangway tomorrow to see the Eurodam that I have read and heard so much about. I am one that believes that each ships as an auroa and or feel. Some people can walk on a ships and feel that good feeling and others not. I am anxious to see and how the Eurodam feels to us.

The two week Live will give those a feel the first week of being in an SA suite and the 2nd in an OV. We originally booked this first week almost a year ago when we switched because our original booking was to be in October and it was chartered so we switched to sail on her for December 13th. It was only a week late in the afternoon that we had the sudden crazy idea to add on Christmas week. HAL was wonderful in helping us make it a B2B. The sailing was closed for any bookings but they were able to place us in a HH Guarantee and by Tuesday DHL had arrived with our documents. Yesterday afternoon the upgrade fairy sprinkled her dust and moved us from an Obstructed View to a Full Ocean View category D on Main Deck. So I can report on service and ammenities from more than one level :) Unless the upgrade fairy finds more Holiday Dust to spread ;)

Well, it seems out arrival into FLL at 5:35 will not be delayed, they just annouced that the plane coming in to take us to FLL has been delayed....they unfortunately did not say how long :eek:

We are staying this evening at the Embassy Suites so I will report in later tonight to let you know our take on that hotel.

Signing off from the Atlanta Hartfield-Jackson airport.

[ViolaSwamp]

Bon voyage - looking forward to the live review!

[NevadaHiRoller]

Great upgrade. The full view vs. the obstructed one will make it much nicer for you. Now if you could only get one more upgrade and have a balcony, that would be the best xmas gift one could get.

[nik953]

Lisa,

I hop you and Tom have clear skies and smooth seas as you are enjoying the Eurodam.

Love how you are doing a live from. It will feel as I was there with you :D

[mamaofami]

Lisa, I'm so happy for you that your Eurodam cruise is finally here. Watch out for that step in the Lido. :eek:

[SakeDad]

Have a great cruise! Wish I was there with you (although i would have been off contract by now anyway). I can't wait to hear what you think. Be sure to say "Hi" to the cast and also Justin Miller for me. Be sure to go to Deck 5 Forward to look down on Deck 4 Bow, this is where I always hung out when drinking in the Officer's Bar. Great views as you sail toward the horizon. My other favorite place was the deck ABOVE the Tamarind. Great for panoramic views.
ENJOY!!!!

[purplenorway]

Hi Lisa! We just arrived. See you tomorrow!

[Snowkhat]

Lisa,
Can you find out if the Retreat Cabanas are indeed booked for next week's sailing (December 20th)? Hope you are having a wonderful B2B!!! See you next week.

~Rosemary

[RuthC]

Have a great cruise, Lisa. Thanks for checking in. I'm quite interested in how the E-dam strikes you, what you like, don't like. All that!

Looking forward to all your posts (as usual). ;)

[midgecruiser]

Lisa,
I am also looking forward to your view of the Eurodam. I also believe that each ship has it's own "vibe" if you will and look forward to your take on HAL's newest ship. Enjoy your B2B Holiday cruise....sounds great to me:D

Hugs,
Wendy

[Chivalrygirl]

Well Lisa my best mate, only you could bring me back here. No wonder you had trouble answering me on facebook and all this writing over here on the boards :-) Me, Ruffles and Joey are sure gonna miss you :-)

Bon Voyage and have a great time you two.

Love from Val

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Good Evening from Ft Lauderdale :) All in all it has been a good day. Everything went perfect with the flights, our luggage was off the plane before we were. We grabbed a taxi to the Embassy Suite at 1100 SE 17th but I am not sure we were not over charged. His meter was not working :rolleyes: and he said it was $20. We get out of the taxi and who should call out our names Becky aka purplenorway and her parents Cindy and Jim :) Wow nothing like a welcoming committee :D They were waiting to eat at Outback and had walked over to our hotel, they are staying at Hyatt Place. After chatting briefly they took off and we went in and checked in. I then spoke with the Concierge about setting up their service to the pier tomorrow morning. They leave every 30 minutes starting at 9:30. We chose 10:30. Now if I remember correctly but I could be wrong KK said the cost was $7.00 per person well tonight they told us it was $8.00 PP they said we could take a taxi but their service was better, faster and cheaper because taxis have to wait in a long line to get into Port Everglades. Now I do not know if this was just a line just to sell their service. But we made the reservation then headed upstairs to drop off our luggage.

The hotel on first impression looks nice but after really looking at it, it looks old and worned out. Our room has definitely seen better days. The lighting is very dim, the furniture looks very old and dated espcially the curtains and when we saw the bedding :eek: The sheets are so very thin you can see right through it. I am serious. This is truly one of the most pathetic hotels I have ever stayed at especailly for the price. They even charge for the Wi-Fi. We went back down to the concierge because I wanted directions to Total Wine, a recommendation for an easy casual dinner and to possibly find a nail place because of all things I could do I broke a nail trying to get my lap top from under the seat in front of us on the plane on our last flight. I first asked the concierge about places to dine and she wanted to send me to several places that I am sure she gets a kick back from, then I asked her about where Total Wine was and it was almost as if she did not want to tell us. Then I said well isn't there a places to eat in that center she claims no only a Publix store and Total Wine. Then I asked about a nail place to fix my broken nail and she claimed the only salon would not open till 10 tomorrow. OK so we take off and figure we would walk over to Total Wine, I knew from reading CC that there was a place called Gators in this center and possibly other places. To our surprise there were things over there and this Concierge almost did not want us there. Well we bought 4 bottles of bubbly and at very good price, then we saw a big bottle of Henkell like they serve on the ship in the mini bar. We had never seen it any where else except the ship. So of course we had to buy a bottle and it was actually a good price at $11.47 So we then decide to walk down to Gators and check it out and what should we see along the way but just what I wanted one of those little Asian Nail places that was open till 8 and fixed my broken nail for $3.00. It took a whole 5 minutes to fix and we then walked over to Gators. A descent band was playing, Santa was walking around and we actually had a great sea food dinner with some pretty tasty Mojitos. So all worked out well but I actually question the advice from this Concierge.

Well, CCers it has been a very long day but I can go to bed with a big smile knowing that tomorrow we get to walk across the gangway of a Dam Ship:D

Signing off from the 6th floor of the Embassy Suite in Ft Lauderdale.

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Well Lisa my best mate, only you could bring me back here. No wonder you had trouble answering me on facebook and all this writing over here on the boards :-) Me, Ruffles and Joey are sure gonna miss you :-)

Bon Voyage and have a great time you two.

Love from Val
Oh Val I gonna miss you too :) Sorry I was getting some of your messages, but then suddenly they were boarding our plane when we were in Atlanta and I had to pack up and go. Yes take good care of Ruffles and Joey too bad you can't hop over to the house and help Andy take care of the real Ruffles and Joey ;)

[cruisinjudy]

Bon Voyage Lisa!

I can't believe that Embassy Suites is in such bad shape. They are not cheap.

[marle7]

I am so glad now that we canceled our Embassy Suite booking and went to the Ft. Lauderdale Grande and Yacht club a few weeks ago. I've got friends booked into the Embassy in April. I think I'd better warn them.

Thanks!

[jhannah]

Sorry the Embassy Suites has gone downhill. It was pretty nice when we were there a few years ago.

[RevNeal]

Bless you, Lisa! I pray your wonderful cruises are a true joy. Be safe and have a GREAT time!

[Copper10-8]

Sorry the Embassy Suites has gone downhill. It was pretty nice when we were there a few years ago.

They must have REALLY gone downhill and fast! Been there (FLL) several times and never felt the need to complain:confused:

[brucory]

Can almost feel that first sailaway with all the anticipation... Have a wonderful trip and looking forward to hearing how it all goes...

brucory...

:D:D:D

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Good Morning from Ft Lauderdale:)

I see Ships, I see Ships :D But I do not see the Eurodam, or at least yet. Yes from our balcony here at the Embassy Suites I can see the ships. It looks to be a great day.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i308/laffnvegas/EurodamDec13-272009004.jpg?t=1229173463

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i308/laffnvegas/EurodamDec13-272009002.jpg?t=1229173487

While I have my camera out thought I would take a picture so you can see those sheets I mentioned, does not hurt to have a little proof. Personally Housekeeping should be ashamed to even make up a bed like this.
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i308/laffnvegas/EurodamDec13-272009006.jpg?t=1229173572

Here you can see where you can see the lamp right through it.
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i308/laffnvegas/EurodamDec13-272009007.jpg?t=1229173622

I have seen toilet paper thicker than these sheets.

Well better go to get showered up for the day. I am thrilled to see the Eurodam in the Web Cams and she is facing the bridge so we can go out on the bow for a web cam wave if anyone is going to watch at 3 PM

Signing off from the Embassy Suites in FLL

[trvlcrzy]

The experience at the hotel will simply sweeten the experience on the ship... oh, the feel of a Mariner bed... ahhhhhh.

Lisa, on 12/20 and 12/27... give a wave toward the Statendam. DH and I will be there. I'll wave to the Eurodam!

[GmaPajama]

We, too, were disappointed with the Embassy Suites in FLL, Lisa. Like Marle7, we tried the Yacht Club last time and found it to be a world above - though with the economy in a mess, we're going for the Hampton Inn in March. That's a very decent chain and I think we'll be pleased. For just one night, we'll be glad to have a room in FLL for under $200 - and without adding a $40 breakfast of plain old eggs.

Is anyone going to watch your Webcam Wave? Silly girl - you ARE the webcam wave, and we wouldn't think of missing it!

[RustaRoo]

Have the most terrific time, Lisa! Thank you for taking us along via your 'live from'!

[LAFFNVEGAS]

We are just heading down to try the"FREE" Breakfast but Donna I just wanted to say that our stay on the 27th after we get off the Eurodam is at the Hampton Inn near the airport and I am using my United miles for that and booked thru United.

Yes, I so look look forward to sleeping on the ship tonight:D

[Krazy Kruizers]

We have never had a problem with the Embassy Suites -- about a year ago they started to refurbish the rooms starting on the top floor and working down. We always get a room on either 11 or 12 facing East. All new furniture, curtains, carpeting and bedding on those floors.

I have mentioned several times in various posts about where the location of Total Wine is and the Harbor Shops.

We did use the shuttle service to go to the pier in November -- at that time it was $7 per person. In the past we either used the hotel's Shuttle buses (which are now gone) or used a Taxi. In February we are going back to using a taxi -- the shuttle bus was too loaded with luggage and people. We have also never waited at the security point very long -- shuttles, cars, and taxis all get in the same line.

Our Taxi ride from the airport to the hotel was $14.50 -- meter was running -- + tip.

Have a great cruise.

[richwmn]

Good Morning from Ft Lauderdale:)
Well better go to get showered up for the day. I am thrilled to see the Eurodam in the Web Cams and she is facing the bridge so we can go out on the bow for a web cam wave if anyone is going to watch at 3 PM

Signing off from the Embassy Suites in FLL
Is anyone going to "aim" the web cam this afternoon? I will be capturing again and hope the pictures come out better.
Rich

[kryos]

Sorry the Embassy Suites has gone downhill. It was pretty nice when we were there a few years ago.Oh, crap. That's where I'm staying next month for four nights (no, not for a cruise ... just a training class in Fort Lauderdale). But, I guess I should look at it on the bright side. At least I'm not paying for it.

Blue skies ...

--rita

[jhannah]

I have seen toilet paper thicker than these sheets.I'm shocked that they would use that sheet! That's really sad. Oh well, you'll be in the lap of luxury tonight! :)

[CuriousJ]

Okay...could I BE any more jealous that you are in FLL and likely on your way to the E'Dam as I type this?! Meanwhile, it is 20-degrees and a huge snowstorm is headed my way. Something is wrong with this picture!

Seriously, though, I am so looking forward to your reviews of Eurodam! Please keep an eye out for the Bloody Mary Bar on the Lido deck for me. They had one on Zuiderdam but not Oosterdam. Wondering if E'Dam will have one.

Have an amazing time and MERRY CHRISTMAS! :D

[NevadaHiRoller]

Those sheets are past disgusting. I hope you complained to them.

[Copper10-8]

...............We grabbed a taxi to the Embassy Suite at 1100 SE 17th but I am not sure we were not over charged. His meter was not working :rolleyes: and he said it was $20. .........................

Yep, you got overcharged! A new ploy, maybe? ('My meter is not working, that'll be $20 even') Hope you didn't give him a tip on top of that! Seems like a lot (if not most) of the cabbies in FLL are from Haiti (not that there's anything wrong with being Haitian;)) In the rides we've been in (from the airport to the port) they always bypass the first off-ramp, and shorter ride, to Pt. Everglades and instead proceed further north down A1A S. Federal Hwy to get the next one and make the meter run a bit longer. What's a mother to do?:rolleyes:

Have a nice two weeks on Eurodam! Don't break your neck on the Rev step!;)

[fireman845]

Bon Voyage Lisa and have a GREAT time!

[scopewest]

Looking forward to your reports.

[Northshorecruisers]

If it's the Hampton Inn Plantation, FL you're talking about, we stayed there precruise last year and loved it. Excellent service and clean rooms. Free shuttle to the airport and cruiseport - they even shuttled our friends around for shopping in the area prior to our arrival. We will stay there next time we sail from FLL.

Anyway, back to important stuff. Lisa, are you on the ship yet?????
Sorry we're not with you. We had such a great time sailing with you and Tom in October.

[gizmo]

Sorry about the ES. I have to agree that sheets look terrible. :(

I stayed there for 2 nights in Oct. and had the same experience as KK, it was very nice. The furnishings appeared very new and had very nice sheets, nothing like the picture that was posted. The concierge that was there was very nice when I asked a couple of questions about restaurants. I had a list with me and it appeared she answered all my questions honestly without pushing me towards any one in particular.

Thanks to KK I didn't have to ask about Total Wine or any shops.

I look forward to more posts about the Eurodam. :)

[Kiwi Kruzer]

Bon Voyage Lisa,
Looks busy in the port today.

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll281/kiwikruzer/eurodamfromgrand.jpg

[katgio50]

Embassy Suites has a 100% satisfaction guarantee so you should not have paid for your room . Those sheets were indeed disgusting.

[richwmn]

Bon Voyage Lisa,
Looks busy in the port today.

David -- what web cam are you using?

Rich

[Kiwi Kruzer]

David -- what web cam are you using?
Princess bridge cams.

[Chivalrygirl]

Lisa, those sheets are disgusting. One of those pictures looked to me like Joey had done a big piddle :p He he you know where my mind was going don't ya matey :)
Hoping I can watch you doing a big wave, you must be on board by now but I am confused with the time difference.
Talk to you soon
Love Val

[Atomica]

Lisa, glad your flights went well - sorry to hear the hotel wasn't up to par. It may have just been that room. I've been to a couple hotels more than once where once the stay is great, the other time not so much.

Enjoy the Eurodam for the next two weeks!

[knitlady037]

We just stayed in Embassy Suites in Nov. Had an east facing room on 11th floor. This room was very nice. New furniture and very nice front desk people. They were very helpful about directions and finding places. Our trip from airport was $14.60 plus $2.00 trunk charge.

[innlady1]

Have a wonderful two weeks on the Eurodam, Lisa! I'm looking forward to your blog....

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Saturday December 13th, 2008

Finally LIVE from the Eurodam!!!!
Lot of first comments/impressions to make I just hope I can remember them all.

I last left off before we checked out of the hotel, when we checked out and they asked how our stay was in a very nice way I explained we were very disappointed and even went as far as to shoe them the photos of the sheets. They were quite shocked at the front desk and ended up setting up to send up a comp night in the future and did not charge us for the internet and shuttle service to the pier.

We arrived at pier 26 at about 10:50 and dropped off luggage to the steveadore and went and stood in line. To our surprise and Red vest gentlemen came up to us and asked us what our cabin number was. He then said come with me and took us out of the long line that had formed outside and took us to the front of the line and gave us little badges to clip on that had the S on it. About 5 minutes later we were escorted inside and were the first to check in. This was all handled quite nicely and making Suite passengers feel like they are being taken care of….. Where the ball dropped was when you went up stairs. There seems to be a lack of information but about 20 minutes later after they boarded handicapped they then called PH and S Suite passengers. Fortunately we knew what we were doing and headed right up to the Neptune to drop off our carry ons. Like I said this is where the lack of information was which was different than when we recently checked in, in San Diego and June in Seattle.

After introducing ourselves to Christine one of our Concierges we had a lunch in the Lido. OK The first thing I noticed was the difference in colors. Nice warm earth tones. I did have the good feeling as I crossed the gangway and boarded the ship. It feels good but feels very different but yet the same. Very hard to explain. I thought maybe it would feel more like the Noordam but it definitely does not. We are pleased to say that there are so many crew we know. Many are from the Noordam that we got to know in two sailings in summer of 2007. Many familiar faces in the Lido and one of the first that we knew right away is the Assist. Culinary Mgr Wessel. He was in beginning training when we first met him in Feb. 2006 on the Oosterdam.
He is moving up nicely in management and we wondered where he was. After lunch we decided to start exploring, we did our walk to the aft pool, then to the Lido Pool area and thru the spa. Next up to the Crow’s Nest to see the new Explorations Café. I was convinced I would not like it but actually I do. But the big surprise was the person working the Coffee Bar. (Val this information is for you ) One of the Bar Staff from the Noordam Angie was there and that is where she will be working the next two weeks. We were so thrilled to see her right away. We exchanged big hugs and started talking about other crew members and I told her that I had heard from Bede who had also been on the Noordam and that she was back home in the Phillipines and was expecting her first baby. Then I said where is Romeo and she said he is just around the corner in the Crow’s Nest Bar. Again we had another big reunion with him. We have heard there are some others we know but have not found them yet.
We soon found our way back to our cabin just as they were available to go to them.

While the cabin is the same it does have a different feeling due to the color scheme. Of course we noticed the lights for reading at the bed were different but the biggest changes we saw were in the bathroom. Now of course all this comparisons on based on the Vista Class ship. The bathroom counter while done in corian is noticeably shallower. The bathtub is not as high and actually seems really short in height. There is no light on the whirlpool tub in the bathroom, I had always used that as sort of a night light. Then the toilet paper dispenser is on the other side of the toilet. Yeah, that is bugging me. I tend to be a creature of habit and know the Vista ships very well. Of course none of this is bad just things that we noticed right away.

We did have a 3 PM Web Cam Wave, I have yet to be on CC yet to see if anyone has posted it. It seemed funny that Deck 5 has that level above the actual bow but also very nice. The weather today is very cloudy, cold and extremely windy. Definitely not nice out at all. After the wave we came back and our luggage had all arrived to se did the usual unpacking and that was like always and placing items in their usual places. It really goes quickly when you have done it so many times. You know where exactly you want items.

Life boat drill was normal except the have the newer life jackets. No long strings and having to tie them. Bet those conducting the Life Boat Drill like that.

Oh yes before the wave Becky and her parent Jim and Cindy came down to our cabin then we went to theirs to see the Pent House. Definitely very nice and will be a great week for them.

For Sail Away we decided to go to the Crow’s Nest where it was not windy and cold but it ended up that the RCL ship in front of us was still bringing on luggage and was just conducting Life Boat Drill and Captain Mercer could no get around them with the high winds so we needed to wait till they left.

Sail away started right about 6 PM, after seeing that there was not much to see since it was so dark we decided to head back to the cabin so I could finish writing this.

The ship is beautifully decorated for Christmas and we had some lovely gifts in our cabin when we arrived. We even have a nice size 2.5 ft Christmas tree that was a gift from a good friend.

This first day seems to have all the makings of being an absolutely wonderful week on the Eurodam.
Oh Yes, entertainment for the HAL Cats had been Leanna and the HAL Cats but Leanna must have just left we now have Robin and the HAL Cats. And YES Shane is still the CD and Marks Pells is the Hotel Manager.

I am going to now sign up for the internet and see if I can get this posted before we attend the Suite Cocktail Party at 7:30, then we have 8 PM Tamarind reservations.

Signing off from the slightly rocking Beautiful MS Eurodam.

[richwmn]

Saturday December 13th, 2008

Finally LIVE from the Eurodam!!!!

We did have a 3 PM Web Cam Wave, I have yet to be on CC yet to see if anyone has posted it. It seemed funny that Deck 5 has that level above the actual bow but also very nice. The weather today is very cloudy, cold and extremely windy.

Lisa - I have captures from the MortgageMobile camera from around 3pm. It moved from the bow to the sports decks (behind Crows Nest) several time. I saw several people, but could not really pick out a "wave". Where were ya'll? Inletcam never zoomed in on either area.
I will post that location when you let me know.

Rich

[mamaofami]

Hey, Lisa. Way to go with Tamarind reservations for night one. I know you'll be happy with dinner there. Don't forget to try lunch too. It's so nice that you met up with crew you know. Have a great cruise.

[Northshorecruisers]

Looking forward to review of Tamarind....what you had to eat and if Tom found anything to eat. I know he and Steve have similar tastes in food. I would never be able to get Steve to go to Tamarind.

How does the ship feel size wise? Do you notice the additional people or does it seem intimate like a Vista class?

[richwmn]

I went back and looked again and it looks like these are the pictures I got.
http://www.wa70.com/hal/Wave081213/wave1.jpg

====
http://www.wa70.com/hal/Wave081213/wave2.jpg

======
http://www.wa70.com/hal/Wave081213/wave3.jpg

Rich

[GmaPajama]

Looks like a wave to me - Good job, Rich!
I watched this thread all afternoon and am so glad to see your pics. :)

[earl_m]

Sounds like you are going to have a great cruise. keep them
daily reports coming!!

[Chivalrygirl]

Lisa, I was so happy to hear that Angie is safe in the arms of a DAM ship :) I was a tad concerned, did you mention to her that Sir Bernie had been so dreadfully ill? But all better now thanks to a miracle drug.
Keep on having fun.
Love Val

[HeatherInFlorida]

Lisa, I wish I'd been paying attention but haven't visited the HAL board for weeks (months?). Tonight I had some time and thought I'd see what everyone was up to so when I saw your 'Live from...' thread I started reading and hoped you were still in FLL. I was going to call you at your hotel just to wish you a Merry Christmas and a wonderful cruise.

Then I saw you sailed today so I'm too late in person, but want to wish you a great cruise. Wonderful way to celebrate the holidays!

What a shame you had such a nasty cold day for sailaway ... not what we like to show our guests!

Have a fabulous cruise. Look forward to your journal here:).

[fcorey]

Lisa, hope you and Tom have a wonderful time. I cant wait to read more of your posts! :)

[ugminer]

Happy Sails to You, Lisa and Tom. We'll all be looking forward to your reports.
Rich, thanks for the pics. I think that may be our own Lisa In the middle of the second picture. It looks like there may be a short blonde there.:D Maybe Lisa can verify that

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Hi Heather good to see you over here :) Yes too bad we could not of gotten together.

Val, I will mention to Angie tomorrow about Bernie.

Deb, you are absolutely correct ;)

Rich...Bravo, you captured our Wave perfectly. That is so fantastic. So we had the First Ever Eurodam Web Cam Wave :D Thanks so much for doing this for us and Thanks to Mortgage Mobile for the Web Cam.

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Saturday December 13th 2008.…. 2nd report

We are full content and happy!!!!

Leaving off from when I last posted …. At 7:30 we attended the Suite Cocktail reception in the Neptune Lounge. There appeared to be a very nice turn out. Of course I got a big hug from my favorite Captain Jonathan Mercer. It was so great seeing the big smile on his face when he recognized us. Of course we saw Shane the CD again, we had not seen him since the Noordam in 2007 and we met Mark Pells the Hotel Manager and Amber the GRM. We hit it off with Amber right away and talked about a mutual friend. (yes mutual friend it was all good ;-) )

We had dinner reservations at 8 PM in the Tamarind so we headed up to the 11th floor mid ship early in the day when we did our own tour of the ship we had already seen the Silk Den and Tamarind. Let me tell you that I already knew I was going to like this area and what it had to offer but in reality I was blown away. This is so very impressive. Even up there we knew more Bar Staff, we knew Paulyne the cocktail server from the Noordam. She served me my Pearl Sake and Tom a couple of bottles of Kirin Beer this evening.

Now if anyone knows Sashimi and likes it you will be extremely impressed. The quality of the Sashimi was melt in your mouth wonderful. I was so very impressed. Then I had the Sea Bass and yes Tom had the Steak and they prepared it without being Wasabi/Soy encrusted. He really enjoyed it and I think too he was rather shocked that he loved it. The Tamarind is really a huge HIT. We have got to find time to go again next week. For Dessert I had the Banana Ginger Bread Pudding and Tom had the Chocolate Fortune Cookie. Both were wonderful!!!
After dinner we went down to the shops. We love the new look, it has more of a High End Department store feel. The shop looks full but for someone like us that knows the shops very well I could tell they were low on inventory and had limited supply which is unfortunate. But I do like the look of the new shops and they did an excellent job of designing it.

OK some things I wanted to mention, I think Rev’s Infamous Step in the Lido has been fixed. Was it the step going into the area near the Canoletto’s because there is now a ramp there that appears slightly newer looking the space around it. Yes the tables in the Lido are closer to the food area but over all it has a much more open feel and I would guess there are more tables.

For the first day I am giving it a 10, I was not sure exactly how I would feel about the Eurodam because of numerous mixed reviews but I am pleasantly surprised. For someone like us that have had so many sailings on the Oosterdam, we know the feel of a Vista Class ship and while the Noordam was new and improved this ship is definitely NOT a Vista Class. I know many will argue that it still is a Vista class and while there are many similarities the feel is distinctly it’s own.

I think I am close to calling it a Good Night from a great Day.

Signing off from the Beautiful MS Eurodam.

[DizzyDallasDi]

Lisa - I am so glad that you are enjoying the Eurodam! I thought she was a real jewel when I was on her last month and I was so hoping you'd find her as appealing since your opinion seems to be so highly valued on this board. All the negative reviews are fading away and I know you will have nothing less than a fantastic time on your 2-week adventure! I look forward to the next installment. Wishing you calm seas and sunny days...

Diane

[PathfinderEss]

Wow Lisa, sounds like your already having a great time, nothing like a flight, a stay in Ft Lauderdale and on to a Hal cruise ship to get you going. Thanks for taking the time to do live reports from the ship, you know how we love them. Have a great cruise and a Merry Christmas on board, we'll be looking for more reports coming over the next few weeks. Sleep well tonight, your first night at sea.

[kryos]

Yep, you got overcharged! A new ploy, maybe? ('My meter is not working, that'll be $20 even')
Sadly, I think we'll be seeing more and more of this sort of thing in the coming years. With tourism so off in many areas, I guess the cabbies are hurting too and will be employing a lot of little tricks like this to increase their income. Sad ... but in some ways understandable. I would imagine they've seen a significant drop in their income over this past year and will do almost anything to add a few additional bucks to their pocket.

Blue skies ...

--rita

[Copper10-8]

Sadly, I think we'll be seeing more and more of this sort of thing in the coming years. With tourism so off in many areas, I guess the cabbies are hurting too and will be employing a lot of little tricks like this to increase their income. Sad ... but in some ways understandable. I would imagine they've seen a significant drop in their income over this past year and will do almost anything to add a few additional bucks to their pocket.

Blue skies ...

--rita

Like a trunk fee:rolleyes:

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Hi, Just a quick note before we head off to the Silk Den at 11 for our CC Meet and Greet. I have a correction, I did find the Infamous step and yes it is still there with black and yellow caution tape over it :o

We slept in till 9 so could not quite get ready in time to go to the Pinnacle for breakfast but did grab a small bite in the Lido.

I will write more later :D

[mamaofami]

Lisa, they were supposed to install railings in the show loungs because they made the steps down very close together and people were falling. Could you see if those railings have been installed? Thanks!

[Atomica]

Glad to hear you're having a great time!

Nice to hear Mark Pells is on the Eurodam - we were really impressed with him when we sailed on the Zuiderdam.

Hope you and Tom enjoy your day today!

[localady]

Lisa- I just knew you'd love your new home for 2 weeks!! :D :D Enjoy, relax and have a fabulous time.
Thanks for your reports, it's almost like being there but cheaper!! ;) :D

[seabourndt]

saw your started post on the VOLENDAM dec 2009 but since i juist booked the boarsd has gone completly quiet. ibn fact i'm sure some of the post were for 2008. as they said dec 5th. looking forward to getting a few more closer to the time.
see you are doing the OOSTERDAM next february
dave

[RuthC]

Hi, Lisa. Glad to see you're having a good time. I knew, from all you said about Tom's likes/dislikes in food, that he could still enjoy his time at Tamarind. I'm happy he did. Now he'll be more likely to go back!

And yes, it appears what John calls the "Rev step" (can't figure why he calls it that) is still there ready to attack unsuspecting diners.

Say, Lisa. If you're checking on things in the show lounge for others, could you also check on this---were the flickering lights on the staircase (starboard side) in front of the stage ever fixed?
IIRC, at one point someone figured out how to turn them off, so no one had to be afraid of seizures anymore.

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Sunday December 14th, 2008

Good Afternoon from somewhere in the Atlantic. I know that at the 1 PM report from the Bridge by Captain Mercer he said we had traveled 216 nautical miles since we left Ft Lauderdale. We are having gale force winds that are approx 45 miles per hour, seas are a bit rough and the sun is attempting to try to peak out of the heavy clouds and the temps are bout 74 degrees.

We had a CC Meet and Greet at 11 AM in the Silk Den and had said we would have a Chocolate Exchange because we had so many different people from all of the world and some how early on during the Roll Call many discovered that we all loved chocolate. Well let me say we had one heck of a big turn out, my guess would be some where close to 60 turn out. So we had lots of chocolate. In additional to the chocolate HAL took very good care of us. The spread they had for us was amazing including a chocolate fountain for dipping of fruit. Of course they had Bloody Marys, Champagne and Mimosas. Mark Pells the Hotel Manager along with several others from the Eurodam’s Management team were also there. Mark spoke about some things not to be missed in each of the ports.

I just remembered one of the things I wanted to mentioned that I cannot believe that no one else has reported on….the Announcement Chime. It is different that any of the other HAL ships, I am guessing HAL thinks it is less obtrusive but I really have grown fond of the HAL Announcement Chime, so much so that it is my ring tone on my cell phone.

Don’t you hate it when you are enjoying that first sea day and they had you of all things the Disembarkation form. One is just starting to relax and you have to think about leaving the ship….thankfully we were able to answer only item #8 that asked if you were staying on for the next voyage and what cabin number you would be in.

This afternoon is the Royal Dutch Tea and of course tonight is our first Formal night and our first time to go to the Main Dining Room and check out table 84. We are thinking of going to watch in the Screening Room this evening the movie Mama Mia since I have wanted to see that.

Tom is reading and I am thinking about reading out on the verandah if it is not too windy or I might just take a nap.;)

Carol and Ruth, yes let me check tonight after Dinner when we attentd the Captain's Toast about what you asked in the Show Lounge.:)

Signing off from somewhere in the Atlantic on the MS Eurodam

[mamaofami]

IIRC, at one point someone figured out how to turn them off, so no one had to be afraid of seizures anymore.

RUTH, what does IIRC stand for?

[Chivalrygirl]

Lisa, you will just love Mamma Mia, because I just loved it :) It will get you singing for days :)
BTW I am green with envy, but I need to tell you that Ruffles is starving :mad:
Love Val

[RuthC]

RUTH, what does IIRC stand for?
If I Recall/Remember Correctly.

You know at this stage of my game the memory has gone to .... Well, seems I can't remember where it's gone to. :D

On the E-dam's first two cruises the lights on the starboard staircase in front of the stage flickered terribly. Later in the second (I think it was the second) cruise, the lights on the starboard stairs from Deck 2 down to the level area on Deck 1 also started to flicker. It was, at best, distracting, and at worst, a potential killer for anyone with epilepsy.
I think the lights were turned off before my cruise ended.

[jhannah]

---were the flickering lights on the staircase (starboard side) in front of the stage ever fixed? Oh, those were irritating. The lights on the port side were flickering at some point, too. Seems like Nathan mentioned that someone was having to come aboard to fix them.

RuthC, I love your avatar picture. Excellent!!!

[RuthC]

RuthC, I love your avatar picture. Excellent!!!
Thank you. It was Greg's idea. I have avatars turned off, so it never crossed my mind to have one.

Now, let us return to Lisa's cruise-----:D

[CuriousJ]

Lisa - I am really enjoying your review and I hope the weather/seas get better the farther south you travel. Have fun on formal night!

[sassyredhat]

Lisa I may never get to sail Eurodam (health/flight restrictions), but I can close my eyes and see everything you describe.

Thanks so much for letting me live vicariously. :D

Pat

[mamaofami]

If I Recall/Remember Correctly.

You know at this stage of my game the memory has gone to .... Well, seems I can't remember where it's gone to. :D


Thanks, I sure know that feeling. I don't recall any flickering lights in September when we were on the Eurodam. That would have made me nutty for sure. On the other hand, we stayed pretty close to the rear of the show lounge because of the steps and no railing. But, I'm sure if those lights were flickering I would have noticed.:eek:

[Copper10-8]

If I Recall/Remember Correctly.

You know at this stage of my game the memory has gone to .... Well, seems I can't remember where it's gone to. :D

On the E-dam's first two cruises the lights on the starboard staircase in front of the stage flickered terribly. Later in the second (I think it was the second) cruise, the lights on the starboard stairs from Deck 2 down to the level area on Deck 1 also started to flicker. It was, at best, distracting, and at worst, a potential killer for anyone with epilepsy.
I think the lights were turned off before my cruise ended.

Those showroom step lights from my IIRC, could only be fixed with parts from the yard in Marghera, Italy and there was some kind of major non-availability issue in the wherehouse which caused the delay in getting them out to Eurodam

[RevNeal]

And yes, it appears what John calls the "Rev step" (can't figure why he calls it that) is still there ready to attack unsuspecting diners.

Yeah ... why DOES John call it that when it was YOU who discovered it and were the first to take a trip on the dang thing!!!!! :D ;) It should be the "Ruth Step" and not the "Rev Step." All I did was report on it, for which I have been mercilessly ribbed by some precocious personages on this board :D ;).

[RevNeal]

Those showroom step lights from my IIRC, could only be fixed with parts from the yard in Marghera, Italy and there was some kind of major non-availability issue in the wherehouse which caused the delay in getting them out to Eurodam

According to Nathan the problem was that the lights were controlled by a power junction box and the box was no where on the ships plans and no one knew where it was! Perhaps Nathan can clarify?

Oh, and Ruthless ... that photo was taken of you in the Crows Nest aboard the Eurodam ... so it's apropos for the thread!!! :D

[Copper10-8]

Yeah ... why DOES John call it that when it was YOU who discovered it and were the first to take a trip on the dang thing!!!!! :D ;) It should be the "Ruth Step" and not the "Rev Step." All I did was report on it, for which I have been mercilessly ribbed by some precocious personages on this board :D ;).

Rev step sounds better than Ruth step. Heck, 'dam step' sounds good also!

[Copper10-8]

According to Nathan the problem was that the lights were controlled by a power junction box and the box was no where on the ships plans and no one knew where it was! Perhaps Nathan can clarify?

Oh, and Ruthless ... that photo was taken of you in the Crows Nest aboard the Eurodam ... so it's apropos for the thread!!! :D

Power junction box = parts, n'est pas?:)

[Chivalrygirl]

Power junction box = parts, n'est pas?:)

I just gotta do this! To be found in the wherehouse, which is the wherewithal of all :D

Long time, no see, and will disappear again in less than 2 weeks. :p

Love Val

[barbon2]

Lisa,
How ironic, you have "our" table for dinner. A fantastic table, against the rail overlooking the steps leading down to the lower dining room.
Have a wonderful cruise.
Barbara

[kryos]

Like a trunk fee:rolleyes:
Yeah, I was wondering about that. What the h*ll is a trunk fee?

Blue skies ...

--rita

[fireman845]

Yeah, I was wondering about that. What the h*ll is a trunk fee?

Blue skies ...

--rita


The Son of a Guns charge you a fee if you put anything into the trunk of the taxi...

[docksider21]

Hello Lisa! Glad to see the scramble of plans worked out better than well. Love reading your report. Gale force winds? Yikes. Have a Fab-o time!

[RuthC]

Oh, and Ruthless ... that photo was taken of you in the Crows Nest aboard the Eurodam ... so it's apropos for the thread!!! :D
Really? :D I don't even remember you taking the picture.

Can't remember where I left my memory. It was around here someplace....:confused:

[cruisinjudy]

That's right , a trunk fee. In FLL we got tip requests three or four times just getting to our hotel after the cruise. One of those was for putting our luggage in the trunk. We thought he was the driver, but no when we go to the destination we were asked for a tip again!!!

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Sunday Evening October 14th 2008

Good Evening from a slightly rocking MS Eurodam.
After that nap I mentioned I might take I awoke about the time to start getting ready for our first Formal night. We have early dining and we just prefer it. We have tried in recent cruises to have the late seating and just found we did not care for it so returned to having early.

Tonight was our first night in the Rembrandt Dining Room and we quickly found our table since we already had a good idea where it was. To our surprise our Wine Steward was Rudy who we have had twice on the Oosterdam. Rudy is very good and of course never let our champagne class go empty except for when he emptied the bottle. Rudy had even been our Wine Steward for the Yum Yum Man cruise and remember it fondly. Then within minutes of walking in we found Ronald. We had spoke with some of the Bar Staff we knew yesterday and asked if Ronald was with them and they all said yes. We just were unsure if it was the Ronald we knew, sure enough it was. It was so good to see him as well that I had to give him a big hug. See we have see Ronald on at least 5 cruises now. I said to Tom this evening to you think we having a problem here…. Why is it the crew we know so well and they know us so well is the Bar Staff??? :D I have to say I honestly do not think I have been on a cruise that I have known this many crew. For several years now we have always run into crew that have known and remembered us but not like this cruise. I feel like old home week and hanging out at Cheers Where everyone knows your name. But you know that is probably the number one reason why we keep returning to Holland America and that is her crew. It just makes for such a special cruise.:)

Dinner was excellent tonight and Tom and I both had the Beef Wellington and it was so tender you could cut it with a fork. So far I have been extremely impressed with the food.

After dinner Tom and I decided to go to the Captain’s Toast, since it was one of my favorite Captains, Captain Mercer doing this I thought we should attend and then stay for the show. I am happy to report that there are unique railings for the steps in the showroom and they look very nice. They have also fixed the flashing lights on the steps in the Showroom. I really love the new showroom, those seats are so much more comfortable and my back was not hurting when the show ended. I think the new arrangement just makes it look a lot classier. All seemed to be working well in all aspects for the show room. It was a bit refreshing seeing the newer stage set and costumes. We immediately recognized 3 of the Lead Singers from previous Cast shows. Over all it was very nice. We have come back to the room to change and get more comfortable because we are going down at 10 to the Screening Room to watch Mama Mia. I know it is formal night and we should stay dressed but with early dining and having been dressed up for several hours it is just a bit more comfortable to enjoy a movie when not in Formal wear. For the most part I would say that everyone followed the dress code especially in the dining room.

Tomorrow we are in Grand Turk which is a brand new port for us, looking forward to a little relaxation, beach time and maybe a margarita or two at Margaritaville.

Signing off from the Beautiful MS Eurodam in the Caribbean Atlantic.

[matondo]

I am really enjoying your posts. How did you like Mama Mia? I just couldn't get past 007 singing and dancing and I'm not really sure if what he did you would call singing and Mr. Darcy is gay what is Elizabeth Bennett going to do?

[RevNeal]

Rev step sounds better than Ruth step. Heck, 'dam step' sounds good also!

Indeed ... and, now that I think about it, "dam step" is what I said when I discovered it (well, sort of ... it SOUNDED like "dam step" ... the "n" is silent.) :D

[IrishColleen53]

Lisa, I just wanted to let you know I am reading your posts daily and enjoying them. Have a mango dacquari for me! Colleen

[RuthC]

Thank you so much for following up on the lighting on those stairs! It's good to know that they aren't disturbing passengers anymore.

Have a great time in Grand Turk. If you get away from the pier area it will be different than any port you've ever been to, I'm sure.

[mamaofami]

I'm so happy to hear that there are now railings in the show lounge as I watched many people trip and some fall. Thanks, Lisa, for answering that question.

Hope you're enjoying great weather today.

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Monday December 15th 2008 Grand Turk

The song wasting away in Margaritaville comes to mind….Oh wait that is where we were…..:D

We are just ending our early departure day in Grand Turk. Now those that have cruised with us know we really are not early risers only if they are forcing us to get off the ship on debarkation day. But since this was our first time to Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos I wanted to be up early to see us come into port as well as there have been some sailings in the past that they could not dock here due to the high winds. I set our wake up call for 6:40 and like I reported we have had some high winds, we did this morning as well. I believe the Captain had to make a couple of attempts. We turned full circle at least once then we sat out several hundred yards from the dock for probably about 20 minutes then he attempted it again and this time with success. (Captain Mercer just came on the PA for announcements about leaving and did announce that it took two attempts) While there were scattered clouds and several that produced just a couple of sprinkles of rain it was a beautiful day. We first enjoyed breakfast in the Pinnacle, we had not yet dined there and will Tuesday evening but this was our first chance to try breakfast there as a suite passengers. We are seated by yet another crew member we knew that remember us by name as well as knowing he sailed with us on the Noordam last summer. We are beginning to wonder if we are not on the Noordam.

After breakfast we put on my swim suit, stepped into my flip flops and packed up my large beach bag with spray sun block, books and camera and headed to the gangway on A Deck. We walked around the shops for a while and of course ended up buying some T-shirts then went and found ourselves some loungers in the shade on the beach. What a relaxing day, got some reading in as well as managed to get our feet a little wet in the ocean. After several hours of total relaxation on this beautiful island we decided that we must go to Margaritaville and have lunch at least this week and a margarita. We returned back to the ship at about 1:15, all aboard is 2:30 with 3 PM Sail Away.

The water and beach is so beautiful here at Grand Turk, it has been so very long since we have been to the Caribbean in Spring 2005 and having strictly done Alaska and Mexican Riviera you forget how turquoise blue the water is here and how fine the powder sand is. Since we do not frequent the Caribbean I am so glad we are taking this opportunity to do 2 weeks here.

Interesting note in the announcement that Captain Mercer just did he said that one or youths were vandalizing signs here on the Eurodam and that he wanted it to stop immediately and that security would be on the look out and if caught they will be charged for the damage and possibly kicked off at the next port of call.

Today they had a BBQ at the Aft pool that was being held until 2:30 so before it ended Tom went up and grab himself a steak and a few other items even though he had a Cheeseburger in Paradise but Tom is not one to turn down a the chance to eat. I myself settled for some ice tea with a splash of cranberry juice from the Neptune. I did not even grab a cookie, I am still full from Nachos and Margaritas in Grand Turk.
As I am finishing this we are now pulling away and backing out on our way to San Juan PR another port of call Tom and I have never been to.

Signing off from Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos on the Beautiful MS Eurodam.

[sue1898]

Lisa, I'm so enjoying your posts as you give a preview of our April cruise. We met when you came aboard the Oosterdam when we did the one and only canine in attendence wave. Thanks so much for sharing your cruise by posting and happy holidays!

[Copper10-8]

................Interesting note in the announcement that Captain Mercer just did he said that one or youths were vandalizing signs here on the Eurodam and that he wanted it to stop immediately and that security would be on the look out and if caught they will be charged for the damage and possibly kicked off at the next port of call.

.........................

Someone else mentioned that happening on another dam ship (someone carving crap into the signs inside the elevators a la those graffiti 'artists' on shore) Would love to catch those idiots in the act of doing that

[cruisencrazy]

Lisa,
I don't know your plans for San Juan, but there are a couple of things I can suggest. First, try to go to the Butterfly People in Old San Juan. They make beautiful art out of butterflies (that died of natural causes). I have several pieces from there and they make excellent gifts. There is also a fabulous rain forest tour that is magnificent. Have fun.

[CuriousJ]

That's horrible about the signs being vandalized - I can't even imagine being on board such a lovely ship, most likely at someone else's expense, and finding nothing better to do with my time than being a hoodlum!

Lisa, Grand Turk sounds heavenly...you are reminding me how much I'm looking forward to sailing the Caribbean again. Sounds like your hubby is enjoying the food portion of the trip, too - I'm sure my hubby would be right there in the BBQ line behind him!

[marle7]

We are beginning to wonder if we are not on the Noordam.

Another question might be, who the heck is staffing the Noordam?:D

Glad you're having a great time!

[RevNeal]

Interesting note in the announcement that Captain Mercer just did he said that one or youths were vandalizing signs here on the Eurodam and that he wanted it to stop immediately and that security would be on the look out and if caught they will be charged for the damage and possibly kicked off at the next port of call.

Thanks for the report, Lisa!
It is so sad to read that such an announcement had to be made, but I'm VERY glad that the captain made it. Hooliganism like you describe -- vandalism to ship's signage, etc. -- cannot be tolerated and, if they catch whoever is doing it, they and their parents should be charged for the damage AND put off the ship. Sadly, there will be some here who will not believe that such happens. I remember when our reports from the Eurodam Inaugural regarding kids having elevators races were not believed. Hopefully, that won't surface here.

[js1357]

LAFFNVEGAS:

So how was the Screening Room? Any problem finding seats?

[u4ea]

Someone else mentioned that happening on another dam ship (someone carving crap into the signs inside the elevators a la those graffiti 'artists' on shore) Would love to catch those idiots in the act of doing that

That “someone else” was ME!;)
That was on the Rotterdam transatlantic, with very few kids, but I did see 2 youngsters that were “guilty by age association”.
Those crazy kids, next they’ll be smoking pot in Amsterdam……….er, no, wait, that was……..:eek:;):D

Thanks for the reports Lisa! Have a great time…:cool:

Mark…..

[jhannah]

Would love to catch those idiots in the act of doing that I would pay to watch you catch them! :D

[RuthC]

I would pay to watch you catch them! :D
Sounds like the beginnings of a great HAL money maker here. We pay HAL to watch while various security catches people vandalizing.
Needs a little work, but I think you're on to something.

[Copper10-8]

That “someone else” was ME!;)
That was on the Rotterdam transatlantic, with very few kids, but I did see 2 youngsters that were “guilty by age association”.
Those crazy kids, next they’ll be smoking pot in Amsterdam……….er, no, wait, that was……..:eek:;):D

Thanks for the reports Lisa! Have a great time…

Mark…..

You funny, funny man!;)

[cccole]

Thanks for the report, Lisa!
It is so sad to read that such an announcement had to be made, but I'm VERY glad that the captain made it. Hooliganism like you describe -- vandalism to ship's signage, etc. -- cannot be tolerated and, if they catch whoever is doing it, they and their parents should be charged for the damage AND put off the ship. Sadly, there will be some here who will not believe that such happens. I remember when our reports from the Eurodam Inaugural regarding kids having elevators races were not believed. Hopefully, that won't surface here.

It is sad that vandalism occurs on a cruise......but it is also possible that the hooligans were not under the age of 21. Hopefully they will be dealt with in the same manner a family with young adults would be. And.....I call my kids and their friends hooligans all the time. There is no excuse for this kind of behavior from any age. Cherie

[Snowkhat]

Wow!! I can't believe that anyone would deface anything on a cruise ship!? My mom would have hung me by my toes and I wouldn't have been allowed to roam the ship alone, that's for sure!!

Lisa--sounds like you are having an awesome time!! So exciting!! I can't wait until Saturday!!

~Rose

[fireman845]

Hooliganism like you describe -- vandalism to ship's signage, etc. -- cannot be tolerated and, if they catch whoever is doing it, they and their parents should be charged for the damage AND put off the ship. Sadly, there will be some here who will not believe that such happens. I remember when our reports from the Eurodam Inaugural regarding kids having elevators races were not believed. Hopefully, that won't surface here.

Couldn't have said it better Greg! This is one of my pet peeves, it is stupid and uncalled for! :mad:

[RevNeal]

It is sad that vandalism occurs on a cruise......but it is also possible that the hooligans were not under the age of 21. Hopefully they will be dealt with in the same manner a family with young adults would be. And.....I call my kids and their friends hooligans all the time. There is no excuse for this kind of behavior from any age. Cherie

Agreed ... it IS possible that the hooligans doing the vandalism are 21+. I was posting from past experience when it's been pre-21 brats running wild and damaging the ship, but you're correct ... it could have been someone older.

[cccole]

Agreed ... it IS possible that the hooligans doing the vandalism are 21+. I was posting from past experience when it's been pre-21 brats running wild and damaging the ship, but you're correct ... it could have been someone older.

I understand where you were coming from....it's just that some of us who travel with young adults are fairly sensitive to some of the generalities made regarding cruisers under 21. I am sometimes amazed at the juvenile behavior of adults on vacation. Hope your holidays are great.... Cherie

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Monday Evening December 15th, 2008

Good Evening from the Caribbean waters heading toward San Juan PR

It was another great day on the Eurodam. In many ways I feel like this is almost a report of one of our Alaska Noordam cruises from 2007 not only are many of our favorite crew from that ship on board but CD Shame was also our CD. Now are you ready for this other déjà vu Rudy who is our Wine Steward was suppose to be going to the Oosterdam a few weeks ago but instead they sent him to the Eurodam. Rudy was one of the Wine stewards during the Feb Yum Yum Man cruise but he also was our Wine Steward for our December Oosterdam cruise last year that was this same exact week before Christmas. Tonight he even remember exactly where we sat on the Oosterdam a year ago this week. Now what are the odds of getting the same Wine Steward exactly one year later.
Between all the Ships, Wine Stewards and chance that he would be assigned to our table.

OK you might think this cruise report is going to the Dogs based on my movies selections but we are enjoying the new Screening Room.We have always found a seat and those chairs are so comfy. Tonight’s movie was Beverly Hills Chihuahua and we actually thought it was kind of funny and cute. Tom said he actually enjoyed this one more than Mama Mia, he was really just humoring me going to that. But I actually liked that movie as well but to be truthful I never get the chance to watch movies so seeing two within two days is very abnormal for me.

Oh before I forget, one thing I wanted to mention is that the show times either never changed or they went back to the way they use to be but the show times are 8 PM and 10 PM so each seating has a show after dinner.

Dinner tonight was good, I must say that the food on the Eurodam has been excellent. I enjoy fish dinners but often fish can be dryed out or not prepared the way I like it but tonight Orange Roughy was the best Fish entrée I think I have ever had in the Main Dining Room. Oh and the Key Lime Pie was pretty tasty as well. We went to the movie right after dinner then instead of going to the show we went up to the Explorations Café to one check in with the Internet Manager to make sure I would be signed up for being back to back for the Internet. Once I accomplished that which was quite easy we chatted with Romeo one of our favorite staff and of course Angie making up the coffees. We decided since we lose an hour of sleep tonight and I was to be up early to be able to go out to the Deck 5 Bow to watch us come into San Juan I grabbed a Hot Caramel Latte to go so I could write my final entry for the day and maybe do just a bit of reading.

Let me say that for at least the past 8 to 10 cruises we have had the smoothest seas with hardly any movement including 3 Alaska ones, well this cruise is making up for it. I do not remember the last cruise that we bounced around so much…. Oh wait I think it was the last time we did the Eastern Caribbean on the Zuiderdam. Actually Tom is loving it because he says he finally feels like he is on a ship. I am amazed I am not bothered by it but I have taken my Bonine that I had not taken much over the last several cruises. I had forgotten how much noise the ship makes when you have rough seas. It will make for good sleeping tonight.

For those that have continued to follow this report I commend you because I warned you we are a bit boring. But this is the how we cruise.

Next time I will report from San Juan PR.

Signing off from the Beautiful MS Eurodam.

[Chivalrygirl]

Lisa, when I met Angie she was making coffee then :) Have you had a chance to chat with her and find out about emails etc.?
Have a lovely shore day tomorrow, no doubt you will be snoring under the blankets by now :)
We are all missing you. :D
Love val

[Copper10-8]

Lisa, when I met Angie she was making coffee then :) Have you had a chance to chat with her and find out about emails etc.?
Have a lovely shore day tomorrow, no doubt you will be snoring under the blankets by now :)
We are all missing you. :D
Love val

Hey Val, is this the same girl who worked the Silk Den Bar during the first Inaugural cruise back in July?

Happy Holidays to you in Haka land!:)

[RevNeal]

Let me say that for at least the past 8 to 10 cruises we have had the smoothest seas with hardly any movement including 3 Alaska ones, well this cruise is making up for it. I do not remember the last cruise that we bounced around so much…. Oh wait I think it was the last time we did the Eastern Caribbean on the Zuiderdam. Actually Tom is loving it because he says he finally feels like he is on a ship. I am amazed I am not bothered by it but I have taken my Bonine that I had not taken much over the last several cruises. I had forgotten how much noise the ship makes when you have rough seas. It will make for good sleeping tonight.

<sigh> Ah, yes, there is something wonderful about that rocking motion that just puts one to sleep ... good, deep, calming, soothing sleep! Yes, indeed. I miss that motion, and I look forward to it again in just a month and a week.

I'm enjoying reading your report from the Eurodam, Lisa! Keep it up, and enjoy the ship! :D

[ekerr19]

Hey Lisa! I've been feeding Rudi! Love your posts - PLEASE keep them coming!!! Hope you got a chance to meet Becky (PurpleNorway) and her Mom & Dad - didn't see whether you did or not yet - but Becky & her folks are super fun and great fellow cruisers!

FB if you have a chance!

Enjoy!

Laura

[Chivalrygirl]

Hey Val, is this the same girl who worked the Silk Den Bar during the first Inaugural cruise back in July?

Happy Holidays to you in Haka land!:)

Thanks for the Christmas wishes. Lovely warm weather down here right now, but no visitors from the US, which has made me terrible sad.
Yes that is out Angie, its hard to believe that its only two years since she was here in our home. We shouted her a call home to the Phillipines :)

Happy holidays to you guys up in the Obama land :D

[Northshorecruisers]

Loving the report Lisa. You're hitting on the important things for me as we seem to look for the same things in a ship. Steve was happy to hear that Tom could get a regular steak in Tamarind since I've been bugging that I want to try the Eurodam, and he knows I would have to go to that specialty restaurant.
Are you finding that the ship seems crowded in any way? We don't go to the Lido much so that's not really an issue for us. We're more going to a show after dinner or sitting in a lounge listening to music.
Glad you're having a great time and looking forward to this whole 2 weeks!

[Laserjock]

Lisa:

If you get the chance, stop by the Barranchina bar in Old San Juan and have their Pina Colada. It is one of two bars that lay claim to being the place where they were "invented".

Hopefully Jorge will be bartending there and will tell you the story, but he makes the BEST pina colada we have ever tasted. You might want to even have him make you their modification of that drink that I believe Jorge called Fire and Ice. It was fantastic!!!

Jorge was great...you will like him and the bar itself is fabulous.

[GmaPajama]

... For those that have continued to follow this report I commend you because I warned you we are a bit boring. But this is the how we cruise...
LOL, Lisa - you are FAR from boring! I've found your reports fascinating, and am constantly watching for updates. One of these days, we're going to have to try the Eurodam - you make it sound ever so inviting. Thanks again for sharing your time and internet minutes with us!

[Buckett]

Lisa thanks for taking the time to post daily and let us know how your cruise is going! I look forward to reading more every day. Sounds like you and Tom are having a wonderful time.

[RevNeal]

Lisa,

Here's a question for you. Does the Pinnacle Bar still have those horribly uncomfortable, straight back, "erector-set" style chairs that I photographed back on the Inaugural cruise? KK mentioned that they were going to be replaced ... have they been?

What do you think of the lounge? It's not the most warm-and-fuzzy place, is it? :D ;)

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Tuesday December 16th, 2008

I am writing this as the sun is setting here in San Juan and there is a slight pink hue to the sky. Tom and I had not really planned much as for doing things and partially because we often do not do much the ship is the destination but also I am trying to keep costs down due to economic reasons. Although a girl does have her priorities I do have a spa appointment tomorrow when we are in St Thomas.

Anyway Tom and I got up fairly early for us so that we could watch our arrival into San Juan, it ended up that we arrived a bit later than planned due to the high winds all night long. Original arrival was to be 8:30 it was more like 9:30 and we were docked a little after 10. We also lost an hour of sleep last night. We decided the best viewing aria was up in the Crow’s Nest so we headed up there early and grabbed a reclining chair seat. With Hot Chai Tea latte in one hand and a cinnamon roll in the other we were ready. Our plan for the day was to walk and window shop Old Town and that we did. We took off about 10:50 heading West from where the Eurodam docked. Even though this is U.S. it is not unlike any Caribbean port where you are solicited to take tours and even followed not want to take NO for an answer. After walked for about 45 minutes we decided lunch would be good and let’s be typical tourist and try the Barrachina Restaurant that is listed on our “In Port” pamphlet. It was actually very pretty kind and relaxing. We enjoyed a nice lunch there, the Margarita was mucho bien we also splurged and had dessert. I had a pistachio cheesecake that was very good. After our very relaxing and enjoyable lunch we decided to head back the other way taking a detour up a block to see what looked like a town square area that had all kinds of Christmas decoration. There were lots of teenagers that must just have gotten out of school that were in school uniforms. Then there were pigeons, swarms of pigeons. I even had a little “Good Luck” dropped on my head. On our window shopping venture we continued heading back toward the ship, as we neared the port area we saw that another ship had arrived it was the Celebrity Solstice. WOW is that one big ship, she really made the Eurodam look small. But I have mentioned in the past I actually like the look of that ship. I have never been impressed with other Celebrity ships as far as how they looked from the outside but the pictures I had seen of the Solstice I liked and she was just as impressive in person. I would love to know someone on board and to have been able to just walk on board to take a peek.

We returned to the ship at about 2:30 having walked quite a bit for the day I decided that an afternoon nap sounded very good because we have Pinnacle reservations at 7:30, then CC member purple Norway aka Becky and her parents Cindy and Jim that are in the PH just down the hall from us are hosting a Sail Away Party tonight at 10:30 as we leave San Juan.

Guess I better get ready for the evening…..

Signing off from the MS Eurodam docked in San Juan Bay.

[Chivalrygirl]

Kia Ora Lisa, you call that good luck ? I call it a :****ty mess:
I am just loving your reports of places I am most unlikely to visit. Still green with envy, enjoy your evening
Love Val, Ruffles and Joey (hugs)

[DizzyDallasDi]

On our window shopping venture we continued heading back toward the ship, as we neared the port area we saw that another ship had arrived it was the Celebrity Solstice. WOW is that one big ship, she really made the Eurodam look small. But I have mentioned in the past I actually like the look of that ship. I have never been impressed with other Celebrity ships as far as how they looked from the outside but the pictures I had seen of the Solstice I liked and she was just as impressive in person.

I'm loving your daily posts from the lovely Eurodam! I was on her last month and am reliving that wonderful cruise through you. Solstice was in Ft. Lauderdale when I embarked the E-dam on 11/1 and I agree, she is a beauty.

Diane

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Tuesday Evening December 16th, 2008

We are still in San Juan PR, I can heard Caribbean music playing which I am guessing is coming from the mid-ship pool area just above us. It is a beautiful night here in San Juan not sure of the temp but it is comfortable and not windy. Definitely different than home in Las Vegas where our son said we had 2 inches of snow and the opposite end of town at 4 inches. He said it was extremely cold. I guess this is a good time to be away on a Caribbean cruise.

OK I will admit I am not feeling 100% my body keeps wanting to come down with a Head Cold and I am having terrible sinus pressure which is not fun. Maybe I am allergic to the East Coast LOL:o

Well we did go to the Pinnacle this evening and not sure if it is the Head cold that is attempting to attack me or the Pinnacle itself but I was not impressed with the offering I tasted on the new menu. I had the Lobster Bisque which I thought could have been more creamy with not as much cognac, then I had the Steak Diane that I ordered Med Rare but was blood rare the first go round and had to send it back. I have had Steak Diane on numerous occasions but I was not impressed with this sauce, way too much peppercorn. Now I am not sure if it was just me with this head cold that is trying to attack me or it was the sauce but I did not care for it. One item I had not realized was taken away was my favorite salad which was with pears, walnuts and blue cheese. It is no longer on the menu instead they offer a Caesars Salad with anchovies. We always enjoyed the pear salad it was light and refreshing before the steak. Over all it was not the best of Pinnacle experiences but not the worst but I must chalk up part of the problem to my sinus feeling like it will explode.

Sadly I have left a message for Becky and Cindy and Jim that we cannot make it tonight for their Sail Away Party.

One thing that was different tonight for the Pinnacle is it was packed!!!! I do not think I have ever seen them almost fill up the Pinnacle, almost every table even out in the atrium area had people at them. We do have reservations for next Tuesday night as well since that is the night of the week that neither Tom and I can find anything we want to eat in the main dining room.

Hey Lisa! I've been feeding Rudi! Love your posts - PLEASE keep them coming!!! Hope you got a chance to meet Becky (PurpleNorway) and her Mom & Dad - didn't see whether you did or not yet - but Becky & her folks are super fun and great fellow cruisers!
FB if you have a chance!
Enjoy!
Laura
Laura, Yes we have actually been with Becky and her parents Cindy and Jim several times We really like them and wish that I was feeling better tonight to go to their Sail Away Party in the PH
Lisa,
Here's a question for you. Does the Pinnacle Bar still have those horribly uncomfortable, straight back, "erector-set" style chairs that I photographed back on the Inaugural cruise? KK mentioned that they were going to be replaced ... have they been?
What do you think of the lounge? It's not the most warm-and-fuzzy place, is it
Greg, those darn erector-set chairs are still there and no it is not the least bit inviting and you seldom see anyone setting in there. They really should change this to be more like the Noordam.

Deb, you asked if it feels crowded, actually not at all. Of course during peak times in the Lido but then it was like that on the Amsterdam this past summer for Alaska. If anything I am finding it less crowded then the Oosterdam especially for going to dinner possibly because there are more venue choices. Also there is not the big crowd waiting to get into fixed dining. It has been very nice. Over all we have found walking around the ship to find hardly anyone. I would never guess there was more people on here compared to the Oosterdam but then it could feel different next week for the Christmas Cruise but they are packed this week as well. Even this morning for sailing into San Juan, I would have thought that it would be full of people in the Crow’s Nest but not at all.

OK I know I mentioned this before but the announcement chimes are bugging the crap out of me. It is not the same sound as ALL the other HAL ship, it is not as loud and sometimes they only ring one chime. I cannot believe that no one has ever mentioned this before lol. Oh and also another tradition not to be found is the Yum Yum Man cart. The Yum Yum Man is in his uniform and ringing the chimes before dinner but then during he is like an assistant busser bringing out trays of food. For two nights there was no cart with mints and ginger to be found.

Val and Laura, thanks so much for taking care of y virtual pets on Facebook ;) I soke with son this evening and Joey the real cat is very ticked wwe are gone he just does not realize for how long :eek:

Tomorrow is St. Thomas and unless you love to snorkel or are in the need to buy jewelry and see the same jewelry store repeat itself 4 or 5 times then staying on the ship sounds rather good idea. Now granted many love St Thomas and we have been here once before but we think we will just enjoy a day on board ship with no one fighting me for a heated lounger in the Thermal Suite.:D I am getting a massage and facial and then spending the rest of the time in the Thermal Suite. Tom will just relax on the verandah and read.

Signing off once again from the MS Eurodam in San Juan Bay.

[Northshorecruisers]

Here in MN we have severe windchills and snow...oh, how I wish I was in the Caribbean - even an inside would do.
Glad you're having a great time. I wonder if we'll hear more comments like your on the Pinnacle with the new menu. I don't like pepper being used to enhance the flavor of everything...and then more makes it better. Never use pepper at home so when there's a lot of it in the food I tend not to like it.

[CJcruzer]

The vandalism occurred on the Nov 4, Transatlantic on the Rotterdam -- EVERY brass plate on every elevator was marked with a "Z" or "X" or just lots of line scratches or a combination of these marks- 2 plates in each elevator....There weren't too many youngsters on our sailing, since it was a 15 day cruise - and too early for children to have time off for thanksgiving - but I just can't see some adult doing this!!

Waiting for the next installment so I can close my eyes and "pretend" I am on the Eurodam!

[Chivalrygirl]

Kia Ora my matey, I am so sorry to hear you are not the brightest. Its so horrible when the sinues play up when you are on a cruise. Happened to me once and it rather spoilt my play time. Wonder if you should pay a visit to the Doctor, who know he might be a real dishie hulk, or a lady one :)
Have you had a chance to speak with Angie, I keep wondering why she never answered our emails, or even if she got them. If you have the time can you find out for me please.
Love from Val, Emerald, Chloe, Ruffles and Joey
:D

[ore-ee-gun]

Hi Lisa, I was also annoyed by the different annoucement chimes and the absence of the Yum-Yum cart (after we talked it up to our tablemates :o). Another thing I hadn't known about was the new voice in the elevator - especially her square dance pronunciation of "Promen-aid". Am I petty or what? Glad that you are enjoying your time on the Eurodam. We did as well!

Marie

[Avril]

Hi Lisa, I'm really enjoying your review, thanks a lot!! :D I'm sailing on the Eurodam for New Years (we board December 27th) and I'm so excited (it'll be my 1st HAL cruise)!! :D :D It's awesome to read about the ship like this, I kinda feel like I'm onboard with you!! :D We're going to the Pinnacle one night as well. Do they have Surf and Turf (Lobster and Steak) on the menu? Have there been any parties such as a Deck Party (or is there going to be)? Would it be possible for you to post some of your pics so I can see what the ship looks like (the different public rooms, exterior decks, etc)? I hope you and Tom have a fabulas (sp) time for the rest of this week and next week as well!! :D I'll be thinking of you both. I hope you feel a lot better soon!! :D

[k8russ8]

Lisa,
Get to shore and get some Zycam nasal swabs. They are a real Godsend. THEY WILL KNOCK OUT A COLD IN RECORD TIME. I use them whenever I feel a cold coming on. They are an over the counter fix.
I am loving your trip. I can tell you are too. Bon chance mon ami. St. Johns is a favorite of mine. I love the color of the sea too. It changes from Sapphire blue to a lucious Turquoise. God has a phenominal paint brush, doesn't He.

[SakeDad]

It's very interesting to read that so many of the things disliked from the time the ship left Venice are still there. So many things have been said HAl was going to change (Rev/Ruth step, stools in bar, drink holders in showroom, etc...) yet none have been. Although it's good they did add the hand rails in the showoom.
You are all correct about those blinking stair lights in the showroom. The problem was pointed out in the shipyard in Venice and was NEVER fixed before the hand-over. Once HAL had the ship the engineers could only find 5 of the 6 control boxes so it was impossible to fix them. Lisa, are they actually ON or did they just leave them off? Curious to know.
I'm glad you are enjoying Eurodam. My problems were never with the ship herself (much:rolleyes:) as opposed to other work related issues. When you disembark next time, look for the most forward starboard porthole on A Deck...that was my cabin!:)
Tell Ronald I said hello, also see if there is a wonderful waiter named LoveJoy still there. Most of my cast and all of my HalCats are gone. I also know alot of the crew I sailed with are gone too.
Sorry you have Shane but I'm sure you will have a great time. DJ Jazzy is FABULOUS!
I look forward to the rest of your reviews and hearing about your discoveries on Eurodam. Did you find the deck forward 5 yet???

[jhannah]

Sorry you have Shane ... I wasn't all that impressed with him either, Nathan.

Lisa, I'll second the Zicam recommendation for your head cold. It's great stuff. Don't know if you'll find any down in the Caribbean, but it's worth a look.

[Krazy Kruizers]

Hi Lisa, I'm really enjoying your review, thanks a lot!! :D I'm sailing on the Eurodam for New Years (we board December 27th) and I'm so excited (it'll be my 1st HAL cruise)!! :D :D It's awesome to read about the ship like this, I kinda feel like I'm onboard with you!! :D We're going to the Pinnacle one night as well. Do they have Surf and Turf (Lobster and Steak) on the menu? Have there been any parties such as a Deck Party (or is there going to be)? Would it be possible for you to post some of your pics so I can see what the ship looks like (the different public rooms, exterior decks, etc)? I hope you and Tom have a fabulas (sp) time for the rest of this week and next week as well!! :D I'll be thinking of you both. I hope you feel a lot better soon!! :D

These threads should answer some of your questions:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=887349&highlight=eurodam+daily+program

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=887248&highlight=eurodam+daily+program

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=888118&highlight=pinnacle+menu

[RevNeal]

Lisa,

Have you had a chance to scope out the Northern Lights? Tell us what you think of the new configuration and of the table top projections. :D

[DFD1]

Delightful report, Lisa. Glad you like Eurodam. Your report will go far in offsetting the early negative reports about her. Hope you're feeling better. Keep up the good work!

[NevadaHiRoller]

I wasn't all that impressed with him either, Nathan.

Lisa, I'll second the Zicam recommendation for your head cold. It's great stuff. Don't know if you'll find any down in the Caribbean, but it's worth a look.

There are some known side effects and dangers to taking Zicam. Weren't sure if you were aware.
Zicam Cold Remedy -Defective Drug Information (http://www.adrugrecall.com/zicam/remedy.html)

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Wednesday December 17th, 2008

Greetings from the Island of 101 Diamonds Internationals and another 1001 Emeralds Internationals, Tanzanite Internationals and all the other Jewelry stores. We arrived this morning to St Thomas after they had a light rain shower, the streets were still wet but the sky was clearing. Like I had mentioned yesterday we had no plans for St Thomas but I did have a Massage and Facial appointment along with planning to spend a few hours in the Thermal Suite. We decided to grab a quick breakfast in the Lido at about 9 then headed on shore to just walk around the shops here at Crown Bay. Tom and I walked around finding prices to be extremely expensive, in one perfume store that was supposed to be discounted I found the Givenchy perfume I normally purchase at Macys to be $5.00 more and some cosmetics to be equally higher. They actually sell most of this stuff on the ship for much less.

I returned to the ship at about 10:45 and Tom decided to continue walking around. This port day was definitely a great day to spend in the Spa and Thermal Suite. I was definitely one of the few that spent the day there. The massage and facial were not the worst I ever had but definitely not the best. I had asked to have my shoulders worked on and she barely touched them, yet when I left she said when you come back next week we will work on your shoulders you seemed to have some stress there. I will say though that I have found when you let them know you cruise frequently and always go to the spa for treatments and use the Elemis products at home they really do not go into the sales pitch.

The Thermal Suite was great and the Steam Rooms/Saunas all were in good working order with aroma therapy in two of them. One thing different from all the other Green House Spas on HAL’s fleet was in the showers in the Thermal Suite there is a button in the showers that let’s out an aroma therapy mist. These showers do not have this at all. But I will say that often on the other ships they are not working or filled with the aroma scent so I guess it is one less thing they have to worry about. I spent at least 2 hours in there with not one other person coming in with the exception of a crewmember checking on the towels. Very peaceful and relaxing.

I will say that a day in the spa and doing some relaxing in the aroma steam rooms has made me feel almost brand new. I wish I could go back tomorrow but already tomorrow we have a Mariner Brunch, then Friday is Half Moon Cay. I have no idea where this week has gone but thankfully I have another week to enjoy it but if this week has gone by too fast the next week will go even faster. Next week on Friday when we return to HMC we are there with the Noordam and I am thinking that I may return that day to the Thermal Suite.

I have to say that we are enjoying every aspect of the Eurodam and I am so glad it is not yet ending. I have spoke to a lot of my fellow passengers many are fairly new to HAL and they are all impressed with the Eurodam.

Captain Mercer just came on the PS system to give us an update. We are actually leaving about 15 minutes early interesting note that he said that the last 3 days of the cruise the Eurodam has gone through the highest winds and the roughest seas that she has ever encountered since she was delivered to Holland America. I am feeling pretty good about that because I did not think it was that bad. I know I have spoke to many that said they had been sick.

I will add just a few things here, I too am a firm believer in ZiCam and always pack it with me so have been taking it and thankfully today feel better.

Greg, have not checked out the Northern Lights at night but may do so tonight.

Avril, our server in the Pinnacle discouraged us from ordering their lobster tail so I take it it iw best to wait till Thursday night.


I guess that is about all for right now…. I need to get showered and ready for dinner and then tonight is the VIP Party in the Crow’s Nest at 7:30

Signing off from the Beautiful MS Eurodam in Crown Bay St. Thomas USVI

[RuthC]

Glad you are feeling better, Lisa, and that you had such a nice day in St. Thomas. I think you did St. T. the right way. ;)

[Copper10-8]

Lisa,

Have you had a chance to scope out the Northern Lights? Tell us what you think of the new configuration and of the table top projections. :D

And Lisa, be sure to try out some table top dancing:eek:

[InTheWASide]

Lisa,

Have you had a chance to scope out the Northern Lights? Tell us what you think of the new configuration and of the table top projections. :D

Lisa,

Can you try to get a little clip from your phone if it does video or your digital camera if it has a movie option of what the projections on the table are of?

Is it just random graphics like the video screen (Not sure if Eurodam has one like the Vistas do) has? Or is it music videos of the songs being played? A camera aimer somewhere on the dance floor?... Advertisements for onboard or port shops? :eek:

Would appreciate the info.

Thanks,

[jhannah]

... what the projections on the table are of? There is a camera aimed at the dance floor. It can be controlled by the DJ, so he moves it around to capture people sitting around as well as trippin' the light fantastic. It's really neat.

[popcruisers]

Hey Lisa - just to let you know - it's snowing like crazy here and has been for about two hours. About 2" accumulation at Valle Verde and the 215!!:eek:

[Chivalrygirl]

And Lisa, be sure to try out some table top dancing:eek:


lol, stirrer :D

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Wednesday Evening December 17th, 2008

Greetings from San Juan PR …..yes you read that correctly after leaving St Thomas that Captain came over the PA and announced that we needed to make a stop in San Juan for a medical debark so we have just arrived. But Captain Mercer assures us that we will still arrive at HMC on time on Friday.

Tonight was a very nice evening at dinner and the VIP party. Dinner was the well known and spoke of Parmesan Crusted Chicken which yes I had and Tom had the always good Prime Rib. The VIP Party was held in the Crow’s Nest and it was packed and totally filled the CN. It was good to see such a great turn out. We had the pleasure of sitting and chatting with Amber the GRM.

OK with each post I am trying to remember little comments to make about my comparisons to other HAL ships. First off tonight I did give Shane the CD and Mark Pells the H/M a bad time about the sound of the chime. I told them if they want to hear how it should really sound I have it as my ring tone for my cell phone and I will gladly play it for them and if they want to record the real thing. The QM2 was docked next to us in St Thomas and Tom heard their announcement chime and it sounded like a normal HAL ship.

OK something else I have remembered to comment about is the coffee in the Pinnacle. On all the other Pinnacles I have been in the coffee even that served at breakfast is what I call a cremora where it has a slight foam or forth on the top. Well this Pinnacle’s coffee is not that at all as a matter of fact it tastes more closely to Room Service/ Lido coffee and not at all as good as the Main Dining Room Coffee. Not sure what the difference is but they definitely are not serving the same type of Pinnacle coffee as the other ships.
I am so thrilled that I feel so much better this evening, last night I was a bit miffed that I felt lousy but tonight I feel great.

I honestly cannot believe that this week is almost over, just where has the days gone. I am sure we will be crying that 14 days are not near long enough. Too bad they can’t just put me to work while I am on board. Although if it did have to end Saturday morning which thankfully it is not this would be right up there as one of the best cruises. In all honesty this crew is so fantastic, we were told tonight that we will have our same table in the dining room for next week which will be great. I am sure it will be equally as great if not better being Christmas week and that special feel of the holiday.

Signing off from Yes still San Juan PR on the Beautiful MS Eurodam.

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Hey Lisa - just to let you know - it's snowing like crazy here and has been for about two hours. About 2" accumulation at Valle Verde and the 215!!:eek:
I just heard about this from our son, I cannot believe we are missing this :D It is about 78 degrees here in San Juan or maybe warmer. I also spoke to another friend in Las Vegas and he said they even closed down the airport.

[LAFFNVEGAS]

And Lisa, be sure to try out some table top dancing:eek:


lol, stirrer :D
You two are funny :D I was going to stop by there tonight but did not make it that far most likely tomorrow night we will do that. Although we had already checked out the NL the first day and those tables are the right height for a little dancing ;)

[RuthC]

Not sure what the difference is but they definitely are not serving the same type of Pinnacle coffee as the other ships.
That's not a bad thing, IMO. The coffee in the Pinnacle on the Rotterdam tastes like instant.

Why is it that the restaurants that serve the best food have the worst coffee? And the restaurants with awful food have the best? :confused:

[richwmn]

Lisa --
Are you going to try for another wave on the turnaround?
Just checking, if you want to let me know and I will capture again.


Rich

[Sleepladypalmdesert]

That's not a bad thing, IMO. The coffee in the Pinnacle on the Rotterdam tastes like instant.

Why is it that the restaurants that serve the best food have the worst coffee? And the restaurants with awful food have the best? :confused:


Oh my gosh....it's true!! Solomonesque widsom, for sure.

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Lisa --
Are you going to try for another wave on the turnaround?
Just checking, if you want to let me know and I will capture again.


Rich
Rich funny you should ask, I just emailed you :D Yes we would like to attempt it again this next Saturday. Mark Pells the Hotel Manager would also like to join us for the wave.
Thanks, I better get off have burned up a lot of internet minutes tonight :o

[RevNeal]

And Lisa, be sure to try out some table top dancing:eek:


Yeah ... and get pictures of it! :D ;)
John, you're a naughty copper you are.

[lorekauf]

I just heard about this from our son, I cannot believe we are missing this :D It is about 78 degrees here in San Juan or maybe warmer. I also spoke to another friend in Las Vegas and he said they even closed down the airport.
My brother is in Vegas right now and he also said the airport is closed/or closing and they don't know when it is supposed to open. He is supposed to leave tomorrow. I'm glad Calgary isn't the only place with brutal weather right now:D.

[marle7]

My brother is in Vegas right now and he also said the airport is closed/or closing and they don't know when it is supposed to open. He is supposed to leave tomorrow. I'm glad Calgary isn't the only place with brutal weather right now:D.

Ours is coming Friday, in Ontario apparently.:(

[Copper10-8]

Yeah ... and get pictures of it! :D ;)
John, you're a naughty copper you are.

Moi??:eek: Come on now, Rev - I am innocence personified!

[lorekauf]

Ours is coming Friday, in Ontario apparently.:(
I hope not. I've never seen so much snow in my life as we have here now....and cold! I'm spending about 4 hours everyday commuting to/from work. Nice to come back to after a 26 day cruise :rolleyes::D.

[richwmn]

Rich funny you should ask, I just emailed you :D Yes we would like to attempt it again this next Saturday. Mark Pells the Hotel Manager would also like to join us for the wave.
Thanks, I better get off have burned up a lot of internet minutes tonight :o
I have set up the automatic capture, and sent an email to MortgageMobile. I hope it happens again

Rich

[SakeDad]

The table tops in Northern Lights can have TV, videos, graphics, kareoke or a live camera aimed around the room projected on them, they are very cool. And I was thinking Lisa on a table top is something we ALL want pictures of!:D And, John, I was on a cruise with you....innocence is not a word I'd use:rolleyes:
Lisa, I sent you pics our neighbor took (we are still in San Diego) of the snow in our yards, at least 3"-4" already! Since 1995 I've never seen it like this there! Glad you're missing it on the Eudam!:p

[marle7]

I hope not. I've never seen so much snow in my life as we have here now....and cold! I'm spending about 4 hours everyday commuting to/from work. Nice to come back to after a 26 day cruise :rolleyes::D.

Oh it's coming! Tonight, another one on Sunday, and possibly one more Christmas Eve. I just got back from a 10 day cruise and it was a jolt to say the least!

Lisa, I'm so glad you are enjoying the Eurodam!

[gms333]

Please don't mention snow...I have been following this thread since it began..I am supposed to be on the Eurodam Saturday with my 17 and 12 yo daughters...I'm scheduled to fly to FLL tomorrow on JetBlue..but with the impending snow storm in the NY metro area I don't know if I'm going to make it now...they're already missing 2 days of school and I would love to go out tonight instead but they need to be in school tomorrow (if there is school) - I am dreading the possiblilty of missing the cruise - not to mention the money lost...

Pray for RAIN!

[localady]

Hey gal!

Just catching up after a few days of entertaining my BFF who was visiting here in Roseville. It is colder than a witch's you-know-what out here :eek: so enjoy all that sunshine. ;) Lots of fresh OJ will also help you stay healthy as well as all that wonderful warm weather.

Enjoy HMC, it's my favorite little island in the world! :D :D :D

[marle7]

Please don't mention snow...I have been following this thread since it began..I am supposed to be on the Eurodam Saturday with my 17 and 12 yo daughters...I'm scheduled to fly to FLL tomorrow on JetBlue..but with the impending snow storm in the NY metro area I don't know if I'm going to make it now...they're already missing 2 days of school and I would love to go out tonight instead but they need to be in school tomorrow (if there is school) - I am dreading the possiblilty of missing the cruise - not to mention the money lost...

Pray for RAIN!

In the grand scheme of things, and given the circumstances, I'd take them out and go today. I don't know where you live, but here in Ontario, it is already chaos at the airport becauses of storms elsewhere, and our storm doesn't hit until tonight. One day of school vs. the money lost? Maybe they could take some schoolwork with them. Then again, in our school system, not much seems to get done during the last few days before the break!

[docksider21]

First off tonight I did give Shane the CD and Mark Pells the H/M a bad time about the sound of the chime. I told them if they want to hear how it should really sound I have it as my ring tone for my cell phone and I will gladly play it for them and if they want to record the real thing. The QM2 was docked next to us in St Thomas and Tom heard their announcement chime and it sounded like a normal HAL ship.

Lisa,

Maybe, perchance, when you are landside again, might you be able
to download, upload, cross-load, or whatever that HAL Chime ringtone
so the rest of us can get a fix, stay addicted, or whatever our current
state of ebriety might be?

Happy HAL-idays to You! :)

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Thursday December 18th, 2008

Greetings from this Slightly Cloudy Sea Day on board the MS Eurodam some where in the Caribbean heading toward Half Moon Cay.

This 4 hour time change from home has me a bit confused but it is 2PM on board the Eurodam and we had a lovely Mariner’s Reception/Brunch. The Medallion Holders met in the Queens’ Lounge rather than the Explorer’s Lounge at 10:45 where we had a small reception line with Captain Mercer and H/M Mark Pells we were seated and watch a film about the building and In augural of the Eurodam. They then did a very nice presentation of Medallions. First off I was quite surprised at the number of Medallion holders which explains why it was held in the Queens Lounge as opposed to the Explorers Lounge. The presentation was very similar to the years past when it was done in the showroom. There were quite a few Copper Medallions given out ( I am guessing here but it seemed about 8 or 9) then they gave out a Silver Medallion but then introduced and brought up to the stage separately the Silver Medallion holders then the Gold Medallion holders. We were then escorted to the Main Dining Room where as we entered before the other Mariners we would stand with the Captain and Hotel Manager for a picture. We were then escorted to table along the back not in the elevated middle like in recent cruises for Medallion holders. Then about 10 to 15 minutes later the other Mariners were then allowed to come into the dining room and join us. Now something that I have not seen mentioned and I apologize if some one did mentioned this but the menu was in a cute little 3 X 5 Eurodam picture frame for each Mariner to keep. It is a plexi glass picture frame with Eurodam at the too in copper and the HAL logo at the bottom. The menu was the usual Mariner Brunch menu but I thought the dessert was the best I have had it was called “Palatschinken” which is a Viennese-style pancake. No we were not given any mariner tiles but I am guessing they will be delivered to the cabin this evening. Over all I was very impressed with the Mariner Reception on the stand point of being a medallion holder, Shane the CD did do a small Welcome to all the Mariners and actually did acknowledge each level of Mariners which was nice and I had not really seen that done recently. Over all it definitely was one of the better Mariner receptions although it was have been nice to seat all the medallion holders together and have an Officer dine with us but like I mentioned that could have been because of the number of Medallion holders. There was definitely well over 50.

OK another new thing I have not seen done before was the type of sales and discounts going on in the shops. Actually some very good sales and not just the junk they bring out the last sea day that they always have, instead for one hour they had 20% all HAL logo wear, then another hour they had buy one get the 2nd piece at 50% off, then they actually had some excellent sales of discounts on liquor and jewelry. Could be a sign of the economy not sure but with these sales it was definitely the busiest I have seen the shops all week. I also think the shops have a great selection of jewelry and the prices to me seem much better than St Thomas but then I am also not in my normal shopping mode but it did appear the jewelry side was busier and maybe rightly so.

We sent out another very stuffed bag of laundry today so we should be good to go for next week’s cruise. Tonight is our last Formal night of this cruise, next week will be Christmas night so it will be interesting to see if they do anything any differently for that night and for next week’s sailing.

For those reading this on our Roll Call for next week, or those that plan to watch the Eurodam 3 PM (Eastern time) Web Cam Wave I spoke with Captain Mercer and we will NOT be docked the way we were last week we will be aft end toward the bridge so we will be waving from the Aft Pool area “Sea View Pool” Deck 9 toward the Port side. The Hotel Manager is going to try to find us a flag or something to wave.

I think I will go back to reading my book after I post this. Who knows I might even sneak in a nap before dinner.

Signing off from still a bit bumpy seas aboard the Beautiful MS Eurodam:)

[Copper10-8]

Hey Lisa, how have those infamous Cabanas on one side of the Lido Pool looked on this cruise? Are they being used on this Caribbean intinerary? Unless I'm mistaken (which happens all the time), you have only seen one production show. Are they still doing "Nightlife", "Dream Park", and "In Concert"?

[Krazy Kruizers]

How quickly things change.

We got our tiles in our cabin right after breakfast on the morning of the Mariner's Lunch.

Mariner's Lunch - I did mention in my brief report that all medallion holders met at 11:30 in the Queen's Lounge for the presentation of medals for new people -- over 900 Mariner's on the first cruise and over 1000 Mariner's on the second cruise. Pictures were taken of the new medal holders as well as those with more than 300 days.

I did mention that we were assigned tables. When we got to the dining room an area captain asked our names -- checked his list -- and we were excorted to our assigned tables in the raised center section of the dining room. The first week we were at a table of 8 with the Shane Michaels. The second week we were at a table for 11 with HM Stan Kuppens.

There were no other officers or ship staff at either luncheon.

[RevNeal]

Lisa,

Maybe, perchance, when you are landside again, might you be able
to download, upload, cross-load, or whatever that HAL Chime ringtone
so the rest of us can get a fix, stay addicted, or whatever our current
state of ebriety might be?

Happy HAL-idays to You! :)

:D
The HAL ring-tone is this: HAL Announcer/Ringtone (http://www.revneal.org/Resources/halringtone.m4a)

[cruisinjudy]

Oops! rev Neal your site has been blocked by Google as dangerous.

[Copper10-8]

Oops! rev Neal your site has been blocked by Google as dangerous.

Dangerous by dress code association!;)

[richwmn]

Oops! rev Neal your site has been blocked by Google as dangerous.
try these --
MP3
www.wa70.com/hal/halringtone.mp3 (http://www.wa70.com/hal/halringtone.mp3)

M4A
www.wa70.com/hal/halringtone.m4a (http://www.wa70.com/hal/halringtone.m4a)

Rich

[Krazy Kruizers]

:D
The HAL ring-tone is this: HAL Announcer/Ringtone (http://www.revneal.org/Resources/halringtone.m4a)

Greg

My computer claims that the attachment has a virus in it.

id the devil make you do it???:D

[MissWindyCity]

Lisa...

I am enjoying your live reports from the Eurodam!
Glad to hear you and Tom are having a great time!
Hope you are feeling better!

I would love to see pics of you dancing on the tables! :D

Looking forward to hearing your reports of being onboard during Christmas week!

I am feeling a little jealous while stuck here in the Chicago Blizzard!!!! Make sure you have a mojito for me!!!

http://thmg.photobucket.com/albums/v466/yellowrosepic/Misc%20Antimated%20Gifs/th_AnimSmileyInBlizzard.gif (http://media.photobucket.com/image/blizzard%20smiley/yellowrosepic/Misc%20Antimated%20Gifs/AnimSmileyInBlizzard.gif?o=1)

[pipedreams62]

:D
The HAL ring-tone is this: HAL Announcer/Ringtone (http://www.revneal.org/Resources/halringtone.m4a)


I just saved it in my itunes

It's music to my ears.

[catl331]

Lisa: John and I got off the Noordam yest. after a 10 day cruise. We did have a bumpy ride only one night (gale force winds). It is still a beautiful ship. The only damage I saw was on lounge chairs on the top deck and I found out they moved all night with the gale forced winds. I did encounter some hard to cut Grouper at lunch in the dining room. The ship was beautifully decorated for Xmas by Dianthus from Amsterdam which also did all the floral arrangements. Captain Scott was a joy to sail with. We were docked next to the Eurodam on Dec.10th, then the Maasdam in Dominica, Zuidy in Curacao and Westerdam in Half Moon Cay and Ft. Laud. It was a great HAL 10 days!! Carol.

[matondo]

I just played the ringtone and I felt like Pavlov's dogs. I need to get on a HAL ship and fast so I won't miss the announcement.

[CuriousJ]

Please don't mention snow...I have been following this thread since it began..I am supposed to be on the Eurodam Saturday with my 17 and 12 yo daughters...I'm scheduled to fly to FLL tomorrow on JetBlue..but with the impending snow storm in the NY metro area I don't know if I'm going to make it now...they're already missing 2 days of school and I would love to go out tonight instead but they need to be in school tomorrow (if there is school) - I am dreading the possiblilty of missing the cruise - not to mention the money lost...

Pray for RAIN!

I'm not one to encourage kids to miss school, but I think you need to head to the airport NOW and avoid that storm!

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Thursday Night December 18, 2008

The Baked Alaska Parade is ALIVE and Once Again has returned to the Eurodam. Now I am not sure if it returned a couple of weeks ago or that this was the first week it returned but they have brought back the Baked Alaska Parade minus the Sparklers instead they are all carrying green glow sticks. What is funny is that the Chefs that come out all have the green glow sticks attached to the inside of the Chef’s Hat. Per our Dining Room server he said that there were numerous complaints about not having the Baked Alaska Parade (like the couple of weeks the did not serve the lobster tail) that they have brought it back. I asked my server if they enjoyed doing it and missed it and he said yes that it is a lot of fun. I have to admit that in mid October when we were on the Oosterdam it just felt like something was missing that last Formal Night. Despite No Sparklers it was still fun, this way they do not turn down the lights.

I have to say that over all dinner was great tonight, it was the first time in a couple of years that they served the Lobster Tails plain and brought out the butter if you wanted it rather than that thick sauce they were pouring on them in the last several years. Also the steak was very tasty and tender. Tonight felt like Traditional HAL Formal night and it felt good so good I even teared up just a bit during the Baked Alaska Parade. Normally I would tear up because we are so close to going home and leaving the ship but maybe it is just knowing that I have had such a good time this past week and am so very thankful that we are here.
Today turned into a cool extremely windy cloudy day not at all good to do any walking outside. It almost appeared we were sailing into a storm. If these winds keep up I am willing to place bets that we may not make it to Half Moon Cay tomorrow. I guess they were not able to go there last week either. The ship has had extreme movement and shaking all evening and making it difficult to walk a straight line and No I have not had too much to drink. Although Tom and I did finish off a bottle of champagne at dinner then after the show had drinks in the Ocean Bar where we ran into yet another Bar person we knew this time he was on the Amsterdam with us this past June. It is starting to worry me this pattern of knowing all the Bar Staff. LOL

Speaking of the show tonight it was a combination of two of this weeks performers who we had not gone to see previously. First up was a Comedian by the name of Jim Labriola who was pretty funny, then was guitarist Justin Miller who was very talented. I have to admit I really love this Show Room and the new seating, it is extremely comfortable and John I took your advise on which seats to grab. We sat in the row that is the first one that steps up, which is great for us shorties.

Tonight when we came back to the cabin we had tiles on the bed and Tom was thinking we do not have these but I am thinking we have one from when we exchanged tiles earlier in the year with another CC member. It is the one that says Holland Amerika Lijn and New York in the bottom right corner.

We gain an hour of sleep tonight which is always good but I think I will sign off and do some more reading.

Signing off from windy rough seas of the Caribbean on the Beautiful MS Eurodam.

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Hey Lisa, how have those infamous Cabanas on one side of the Lido Pool looked on this cruise? Are they being used on this Caribbean intinerary? Unless I'm mistaken (which happens all the time), you have only seen one production show. Are they still doing "Nightlife", "Dream Park", and "In Concert"?
John "In Concert" was the first Formal night Sunday, Wednesday was "Nightlife" and tomorrow night will be "Dream Park"

As for the Lido Pool Cabanas would you believe I honestly have no idea. Other than the very first day I have not gone any where near the Lido Pool. We spend a lot of time in our cabin :o There just has not been enough time I will say that I am sure no one has used the other Cabanas in the retreat area with this weather and high winds. I know that when we had our CC Meet an Greet in the Silk Den on Sunday they were attempting to repair them from what the winds were doing to them. By now they could be ripped apart :eek:

[sail7seas]

Lisa..........

I know your e-mail is on automatic reply but I sent you one.
We may be in FLL overnight as there is snow predicted for Boston.
We may not be flying out on Saturday if flights are cancelled.
You have my cell and I have yours...... we'll speak!

I probably will not be able to come back to this thread as when I leave the ship will not have internet. I didn't bring my laptop.

[Copper10-8]

.............Tonight when we came back to the cabin we had tiles on the bed and Tom was thinking we do not have these but I am thinking we have one from when we exchanged tiles earlier in the year with another CC member. It is the one that says Holland Amerika Lijn and New York in the bottom right corner.

.....................


Must be this one

http://www.hollandamerica.com/images/mariner/tiles/big/2008/NewYork.jpg
Enjoy HMC tomorrow! - Hope you can get in!:)

[Sea Fan]

Lisa, at the suggestion of Carol (mamaofami) I thought I should post this picture of my friend. This was taken in Las Vegas today, it should make your cruise all the more sweeter!:D

Dianne



http://boards.cruisecritic.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=99275&d=1229662087



99275

[whenzuc]

On previous Holland America cruises I have bought a package of three diff't Lancaster suntan lotions. they are in a tangerine colored orangish box. Can you tell me if they still sell it? It should be about $19. All three pieces retail in Europe Duty free for about $75. Can you please let me know if they still sell it. This way, I can buy it on board, instead of packing it. Thanks!!! Great lotion.

[Krazy Kruizers]

Must be this one

http://www.hollandamerica.com/images/mariner/tiles/big/2008/NewYork.jpg
Enjoy HMC tomorrow! - Hope you can get in!:)

We got 4 of those on our Eurodam cruises.

[Krazy Kruizers]

Surf and Turf was served in the dining room on both weeks -- we got friendly with the couples across from us -- neither couple liked their lobster tails -- 2 bites and tough.

The Baked Alaska was on both of our cruises -- they had the green glow sticks then as well.

Notice that you didn't mention anything about a Farewell Cocktail for the suite passengers in the Neptune Lounge. We had one each week -- the last formal night -- Thursday night.

[InTheWASide]

Surf and Turf was served in the dining room on both weeks -- we got friendly with the couples across from us -- neither couple liked their lobster tails -- 2 bites and tough.

The Baked Alaska was on both of our cruises -- they had the green glow sticks then as well.

Notice that you didn't mention anything about a Farewell Cocktail for the suite passengers in the Neptune Lounge. We had one each week -- the last formal night -- Thursday night.

I have difficulty believing this "2 bites" bit.

2 bites is a prawn... unless you're huge... I'm 6 ft and not tiny by any stretch of the imagination and my lobster was a good size, and the fact I had a steak also on my plate surf and turf night with the courses before and dessert to come it was FINE...

Did I have a dinner plate in the dining room overflowing with a single lobster tail? NO. Was it bigger than a prawn? DEFINITELY.

(PS - They let you ask for more if you want it too, so is it really that big of a deal?)

[lorekauf]

I have difficulty believing this "2 bites" bit.

2 bites is a prawn... unless you're huge...
The lobster is very tiny on HAL. KK is right...usually about 2 bites. I wonder why you feel the need to be so defensive to people in most of your posts:confused:.

[InTheWASide]

The lobster is very tiny on HAL. KK is right...usually about 2 bites. I wonder why you feel the need to be so defensive to people in most of your posts:confused:.

I never said it was huge...

But the fact you can ask for more... you can literally walk in and say "I like lobster, gimme twenty of them" AND they cut the meat off the shell for you so it's not even like it gives you more work...

What's the big deal? :confused:

[Krazy Kruizers]

And another reason we won't order lobster in the dining room any more -- it is overcooked. It is plated -- covered with the dome -- brought out to the serving area -- may sit there anywhere from 5 - 10 minutes before it is actually brought to you -- thus it is still cooking -- thus overcooked and rubbery.

Thankfully we live in an area where we get huge lobsters (had a great lobster dinner last Saturday night) -- and once they are cooked they are brought directly to your table -- no sitting around.

[InTheWASide]

And another reason we won't order lobster in the dining room any more -- it is overcooked. It is plated -- covered with the dome -- brought out to the serving area -- may sit there anywhere from 5 - 10 minutes before it is actually brought to you -- thus it is still cooking -- thus overcooked and rubbery.

Thankfully we live in an area where we get huge lobsters (had a great lobster dinner last Saturday night) -- and once they are cooked they are brought directly to your table -- no sitting around.

I know you're on the ships all the time KK...

Have you ever asked that they do that? If so, what was the results?

I know you know as well as I do that the staff will bend over backwards to accommodate any realistic request of them and that seems like one that's easily doable :)

[Krazy Kruizers]

We would never ask the wait staff to run our lobster tails directly out to our table while others have theirs sitting under domes -- we do not ask for special treatment. The wait staff have more than enough to do than just pamper us -- for too often they have more tables than they should have.

[Chivalrygirl]

Kia Ora Lisa. Keep on having a wonderful time, how I wish I was there with you. I am now feeling for you preparing to change staterooms (cabins are yesteryear :)) Its a bit of a let down from my experience, even worse for you posh guys from suite to Main Deck, how the mighty fall :D Joey and Ruffles made me say that :p
Any news of my dear friend Angie, still no email from her, I wonder whats up.
Love from Val and the gang
(hugs, joyful barks and miaows) :)

[RevNeal]

I sure hope that Lisa was able to get ashore at HMC! What a WONDERFUL island! I'm not a beach bum, but it's a great place to visit when cruising the Caribbean. I'll be visiting there on my Noordam Cruise next month! Yippie!

Oh, and as an aside, for those of you who noticed the block on my site by google, it's been lifted. The attack my site suffered has been resolved, and the IP of the attacker is being traced. Thanks for the concern.

[RevNeal]

As for the Lobster tails being too small ... just do THIS! :D

http://www.revneal.org/Resources/lobster1.jpg

They may be small, but four of them makes a nice feast!!!! :D

[RevNeal]

Good deal, Greg. I know it's been a bear having to deal with all this.

Lisa, are you SURE you're ready to give up your suite? ;) Have you heard what you're getting? At least you'll still be on the ship.

Thanks.

Lisa is stepping DOWN from a Suite to an inside cabin!!!??? Or, is it an outside? Inquiring minds want to know. :D

[Chivalrygirl]

Lisa said they had a cabin allocation and had been upgraded from an outside obstructed to a cabin very close to the office on Main Deck. Maybe she has been able to whisper in the Captain's ear since she boarded the ship ;)
Yeah still on the ship but from experience not having the balcony takes a bit of adjustment, but they both have positive minds, so will quickly move on to Christmas and the celebrations. I spent the Christmas of 1963 at Christmas it was such fun.

[shipcafe]

OK I know I mentioned this before but the announcement chimes are bugging the crap out of me. It is not the same sound as ALL the other HAL ship, it is not as loud and sometimes they only ring one chime. I cannot believe that no one has ever mentioned this before lol.

I definitely know what you mean. On the other HAL ships, the chimes seem to more "run together" smoothly whereas on the Eurodam the sound is of three distinct chime tones. It is noticeable.

Also, the single tone is when the announcement is made from the bridge and the three tones when it is made elsewhere.

[Sow There]

Lisa said they had a cabin allocation and had been upgraded from an outside obstructed to a cabin very close to the office on Main Deck. Maybe she has been able to whisper in the Captain's ear since she boarded the ship ;)
Yeah still on the ship but from experience not having the balcony takes a bit of adjustment, but they both have positive minds, so will quickly move on to Christmas and the celebrations. I spent the Christmas of 1963 at Christmas it was such fun.

Last time I whispered in the Captain's ear I almost made myself eligible for an early disembarkation; like maybe a week early! ;)

Not sure what your last sentence means. Can you translate?:confused:

[whenzuc]

I just saved it in my itunes

It's music to my ears.


I downloaded the ringtone last night- somehow my internet explorer and a few other things got fried.I am not making this up- it took a couple of hours to resolve all issues.

[docksider21]

They may be small, but four of them makes a nice feast!!!!That what I say about those Lean Cuisines!

[SDHALFAN]

As for the Lobster tails being too small ... just do THIS! :D

http://www.revneal.org/Resources/lobster1.jpg

They may be small, but four of them makes a nice feast!!!! :D


I'm guessing (educated guess?) that this depends on the ship and on the sailing though. Just a few weeks ago I was still on the Amsterdam's Grand Asia/Australia cruise (65 days of almost total joy) and one evening the very nice lady seated next to me at dinner asked if she could have two Lobster Tails instead of the Surf 'n Turf. Our Dining Room Steward, who obviously has a personality problem (or else doesn't like his job), replied "no, we have to make sure we have enough for everyone". I am, honestly, not one to put in my two cents worth, although I'm more ready to do it now than when I was younger, so I piped up with "well, I didn't order one so she can have mine". Our Steward didn't even acknowledge me but sure enough she did get her second one, albeit it about 15 minutes later.

Grand cruises are long and expensive and to deny someone a second Lobster Tail seems to me to be cutting corners just way too much.

Sorry to hijack this thread but that annoyed me and still does.

Lovely Lady Lisa and Tom: I hope that the weather has calmed down somewhat for you - I know how much you enjoy some motion in the ocean. All the reports you have heard about snow in Las Vegas are true - and then some. Enjoy all that sunshine and do have a stupendous Christmas aboard the ms Eurodam. I will be thinking about you, and heck yes I am truly green with envy but I can't think of any couple who deserves it more.

Valerie:)

[jhannah]

That what I say about those Lean Cuisines!
Good one, David! :D

[fireman845]

As for the Lobster tails being too small ... just do THIS! :D

http://www.revneal.org/Resources/lobster1.jpg

They may be small, but four of them makes a nice feast!!!! :D

Now that's how you order Lobster tails on a cruise!!

[lorekauf]

I'm guessing (educated guess?) that this depends on the ship and on the sailing though. Just a few weeks ago I was still on the Amsterdam's Grand Asia/Australia cruise (65 days of almost total joy) and one evening the very nice lady seated next to me at dinner asked if she could have two Lobster Tails instead of the Surf 'n Turf. Our Dining Room Steward, who obviously has a personality problem (or else doesn't like his job), replied "no, we have to make sure we have enough for everyone". I am, honestly, not one to put in my two cents worth, although I'm more ready to do it now than when I was younger, so I piped up with "well, I didn't order one so she can have mine". Our Steward didn't even acknowledge me but sure enough she did get her second one, albeit it about 15 minutes later.

Grand cruises are long and expensive and to deny someone a second Lobster Tail seems to me to be cutting corners just way too much.


Valerie:)
This isn't the first time I've heard this. To say you can order 20 if you like is simply not true. Good luck to anyone that tries. In my opinion HAL is cutting way too many corners lately. I've noticed it more and more the last few cruises I've taken.

Excuse me too for the thread hijack.

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Friday December 19,2008

We have just sailed away from Half Moon Cay. Today was one of those absolutely PERFECT Days at Half Moon Cay. Not too cool, not at all hot, not windy, sunny with a few clouds and the most pristine turquoise blue water that the Bahamas have to offer. Like when I last posted I truly questioned if we would make it today. Last night’s ride was truly the roughest of the week with the bed vibrating more than a Magic Fingers Bed. This morning when we dropped anchor it was very cloudy but showed signs of clearing and truly ended up being the perfect day. We had rented a Clam Shell and would definitely do it again. We were able to stay out of the sun yet enjoy going out and playing in the waves. We got over to HMC at about 10 AM and got a Clam Shell just below the Massage Hut. Because many from our Roll Call had gotten together to share the Grand Oasis we did take a walk over there to say “Hi” and take a peek. We then headed off to the BBQ which was just like it had been when we were last there in 2005 except we found there seems to be more eating Pavilions and another Bar I did not remember from last time.

After lunch we returned to our Clam Shell to enjoy the sounds of the waves and do some reading.
To my surprise by 2 PM the beach almost seemed deserted and they were already stacking up loungers so at about 2:40 we too packed it up and went and stood in line to get on the tenders back to the ship. It was about 3:15 when we got back to our cabin and in our mail box was an envelope with information about our turn around for our back to back as well as an immigration form and our new passenger/room key cards. In about 15 minutes we are going to meet with Amber the GRM and the others that are doing a B2B (we were told 17 total). It all looks pretty simple and we plan to just throw what is not on hangers in the suit cases in the morning to have one of the stewards take us to our new cabin.

Since we have to leave in 10 minutes I will wait to post this when I write more this evening.
OK we have returned from our evening out. Let me say that I am just so very thankful we get to do this all over again next week. Tonight was yet another great night. I was so thrilled that after not having it on the Oosterdam in October the “Good By” song has returned to the Eurodam. This week on the Eurodam had so many of the traditional and things that Tom and I have so grown to love about Holland America. Not sure if I mentioned previously but the Show Times are also back to what they use to be 8:00 PM after first seating and 10:00 PM show for 2nd seating.

Saying good by at dinner was not near as painful because we told many of them we would see them tomorrow night. We are moving tables though by our request. Rudy who has been a wonderful Wine Steward has to move down stairs next week so we requested to be in Ronald’s section. Ronald is so very special to us. We have had him on numerous occasions as our Wine Steward and it will feel so special having him be with us for Christmas week. Even this week numerous times thru the evening he stops at our table to talk so we will go from table 84 to table 90 which is just a few feet away.

After the dinner this evening they held a Cocktail Party for Suite Passengers in the Pinnacle Bar. (Instead of a Suite Lunch) It was a big turnout and as always great to talk with the Captain, H/M and CD.

Tonight we went to our third show of the week which was Dream Park. Yes we were impressed. The costumes and stage was definitely more impressive than many productions shows that are seen on HAL, plus I did really enjoy the music selections to the show.

OK I have been reporting all week about how wonderful everything is here on the Eurodam and let me say that if I could pick a Dream Team of Crew, almost everyone is here. The Bar Staff is definitely the best they are only missing one of our favorites Bede who was actually part of this team that had been on the Noordam and was actually scheduled to come on board the Eurodam but I had heard from her just before we left on this cruise that she is approx. 18 weeks pregnant and home in the Philippines. Many of the crew that all worked with her were so happy to hear this. I have never met Mark Pells before but we love him he is great and of course many of you know how I feel about Jonathan Mercer. It is such a thrill to get to sail with him for two weeks in a row. But there is one area of the ship that yes I will not give a raving review about. It is not that it is terrible it is just not the level of the rest of the Eurodam and that is….The Pinnacle. We had one dinner and two breakfasts in the Pinnacle and all three times you almost felt as though you were on a different ship. There is a rather Cold attitude and it was not just us, we would watch how many of those that worked in the Pinnacle treated other passengers. Now I am not saying it is terrible but it is definitely just a notch or two below the standard of the rest of the ship. Now if we were a Suite Passenger that only sailed once every two or three years we probably would not know or notice some of the small differences but one prime example is the offering of daily breakfast specials that I know they have but either they are too lazy to offer or do not want to be bothered with it. But they do not offer them, the first morning we went we explained that we knew there was usually a breakfast special and the server acted like she had never heard of it, she returned to our table and told us what it was and I ordered it. This morning I asked about the special and the gentleman was adamant that the Pinnacle never offered any breakfast specials. Maybe we have been spoiled between the last 6 cruises that were on the Noordam, Oosterdam and Amsterdam but the crew of those Pinnacles made everyone feel extra special.
Like I said the general attitude of the Pinnacle is just a minor thing and hopefully they can correct in time but other wise this ship’s Management and Crew are basically the Dream Team of Holland America and I am so thrilled to be able to give you my version of Holiday Week on the Eurodam, so stay tuned the 2nd half is about here.

Signing off from the Beautiful MS Eurodam.:)

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Lisa said they had a cabin allocation and had been upgraded from an outside obstructed to a cabin very close to the office on Main Deck. Maybe she has been able to whisper in the Captain's ear since she boarded the ship ;)
Yeah still on the ship but from experience not having the balcony takes a bit of adjustment, but they both have positive minds, so will quickly move on to Christmas and the celebrations. I spent the Christmas of 1963 at Christmas it was such fun.

Thanks.

Lisa is stepping DOWN from a Suite to an inside cabin!!!??? Or, is it an outside? Inquiring minds want to know. :D


OK when we booked this 2nd half on the 5th of December were able to grab a HH Guarantee, just before we left we were assigned a D which is a good upgrade to 1084 on Main Deck, then to our surprise the Up Grade Fairy decided to work over time and the cabin assignment changed to a VA of 8160:) So while we still do not have a posh S Suite we are still here on the Beautiful Eurodam, with a wonderful crew and a verandah for Christmas week. Now if there was a miracle opening of a S Suite tomorrow I certainly would not mind moving to that either ;) :D But other wise we are very happy cruisers and so very thrilled that we finally get to enjoy 14 days on a HAL ship.

[LAFFNVEGAS]

On previous Holland America cruises I have bought a package of three diff't Lancaster suntan lotions. they are in a tangerine colored orangish box. Can you tell me if they still sell it? It should be about $19. All three pieces retail in Europe Duty free for about $75. Can you please let me know if they still sell it. This way, I can buy it on board, instead of packing it. Thanks!!! Great lotion.
I just now saw your request and we are in for the evening but I have taken note of this and will check tomorrow night and try to report back.

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Lisa, at the suggestion of Carol (mamaofami) I thought I should post this picture of my friend. This was taken in Las Vegas today, it should make your cruise all the more sweeter!:D

Dianne



http://boards.cruisecritic.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=99275&d=1229662087



99275
Diane, thanks WOW, that is totally amazing. We have livedin Las Vegas since 1978 and have seen it snow but never ever that much snow. I am glad that we missed it :D

[RevNeal]

OK when we booked this 2nd half on the 5th of December were able to grab a HH Guarantee, just before we left we were assigned a D which is a good upgrade to 1084 on Main Deck, then to our surprise the Up Grade Fairy decided to work over time and the cabin assignment changed to a VA of 8160:) So while we still do not have a posh S Suite we are still here on the Beautiful Eurodam, with a wonderful crew and a verandah for Christmas week. Now if there was a miracle opening of a S Suite tomorrow I certainly would not mind moving to that either ;) :D But other wise we are very happy cruisers and so very thrilled that we finally get to enjoy 14 days on a HAL ship.

Firstly, Lisa, congratulations on getting the upgrades into a VA! That's just fabulous! It will take a little getting used to ... coming down from a Deluxe Suite ... but it's still a VERY nice accomodation.

Secondly, congratulations on getting into HMC! Ah, what a wonderful day it must have been for you! And ... thus closes the end of a wonderful week aboard the Eurodam. Enjoy the turn-around and your second week! I LOVE staying aboard ship for a second round ... not having to get off is a blast. :D

Blessings, and Merry Christmas to you and Tom on the lovely Eurodam. Remember us, back on land, freezing our rear ends off ... and those of us who wear basic black, having to do multiple services on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. :D Oh, don't shed a tear for me ... I truly do love the Christmas Eve services, and especially seeing the children all excited dring the midnight service.

[RevNeal]

I downloaded the ringtone last night- somehow my internet explorer and a few other things got fried.I am not making this up- it took a couple of hours to resolve all issues.

I'm very sorry about that. As I reported, my site was attacked with malicious spy/ad/maulwear. It had been cleaned, but apparently it was hit again day before yesterday. Macs were not affected, but some Windows machines were. And I known the infection was back I woudln't have posted that link when I did.

Again, I'm sorry. The server has been cleaned by the Host Admins, scanned by my Host and by Google, and proclaimed clean. They also closed the routes that were used to access and attack my domain and the domains of several other clients on the server. And, I understand that the Authorities are tracking the perpetrators IP.

And, before anybody else asks and gets their posts pulled, I do NOT know who did it so don't ask.

[RevNeal]

I'm guessing (educated guess?) that this depends on the ship and on the sailing though. Just a few weeks ago I was still on the Amsterdam's Grand Asia/Australia cruise (65 days of almost total joy) and one evening the very nice lady seated next to me at dinner asked if she could have two Lobster Tails instead of the Surf 'n Turf. Our Dining Room Steward, who obviously has a personality problem (or else doesn't like his job), replied "no, we have to make sure we have enough for everyone". I am, honestly, not one to put in my two cents worth, although I'm more ready to do it now than when I was younger, so I piped up with "well, I didn't order one so she can have mine". Our Steward didn't even acknowledge me but sure enough she did get her second one, albeit it about 15 minutes later.

It may also depend upon the dining time. I always have late seating, and -- If I remember correctly -- Christopher ordered this AFTER he'd finished Surf and Turf ... so ... in other words ... it was after all principle orders had been put in. :) And, no, he didn't eat these alone ... he shared these with his sister (well, he shared ONE with his sister).

[RevNeal]

This isn't the first time I've heard this. To say you can order 20 if you like is simply not true. Good luck to anyone that tries.

Perhaps not 20, but I've seen -- and have posted photographic documentation -- that one can get 4 at one time. :D

[jhannah]

Wow! From an HH to a VA. That's a FANTASTIC upgrade. Good for you and Tom!

[GmaPajama]

Wow! From an HH to a VA. That's a FANTASTIC upgrade. Good for you and Tom!
Amen to that! I'm anxious to hear your comparison, Lisa, and all the little details. We realize we could cruise much more often if we'd give up those gorgeous S Suites - so are really interested in your observations. Photos too, after you get home and have good internet of course.

Glad you're having such a great time!

[lorekauf]

Perhaps not 20, but I've seen -- and have posted photographic documentation -- that one can get 4 at one time. :D
I think it is a little easier to get more lobster at the late seating once they know how much of the supply they have gone through. It was actually another posters remark that I was replying to that said you could order 20. I just wished the tails were a little bigger. I think we could get bigger lobsters in the water around Calgary :D:D.

[docksider21]

the Up Grade Fairy decided to work over time and the cabin assignment changed to a VA of 8160:)

Call me cynical, but I would wager that Captain Mercer or H/M Pells were nudging the Fairy in the right direction. Or since this is a Christmas cruise, maybe it was an upgrade elf!

I am getting excited just thinking of sailing away for Christmas.

"I'm dreaming of a HAL Christmas."

[ugminer]

Lisa, love sailing along with you. Glad you are feeling better and having a great time. BTW I'll bet you have come close to breaking a record if in fact you haven't already. 13,996 views in a week LOL
MERRY CHRISTMAS from your northern Nevada neighbor

[bepsf]

Lisa--

I've just read all of your posts from this past week and I just wanted to say how glad I am for you that you received such a good upgrade for your 2nd half - it sounds like many of Eurodam's birthing pains have been outgrown and for that I'm pleased as well.

It's been absolutely freezing here in SF too, and when I flew up to Portland Oregon yesterday we got some snow flurries - Looking out the windows on the 18th floor during my meeting it was like peering into a gigantic snowglobe!

[richwmn]

Here are the captures from the 3pm wave
http://www.wa70.com/hal/wave-1220/pic1.jpg
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http://www.wa70.com/hal/wave-1220/pic2.jpg
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http://www.wa70.com/hal/wave-1220/pic3.jpg
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http://www.wa70.com/hal/wave-1220/pic4.jpg
=================================================
http://www.wa70.com/hal/wave-1220/pic5.jpg
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http://www.wa70.com/hal/wave-1220/pic6.jpg

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Saturday December 20th, 2008

Are you ready for week two?????:D

Good Afternoon from the MS Eurodam in sunny warm Port Everglades. What a different a week makes. With any luck today’s great sunny weather that is NOT windy is a sign for the week ahead.

This morning was a bit different for us and we were doing the Happy Dance because our packing was only to move cabins not completely leave the ship. We did get up at about 7 AM and it was this morning that we actually packed all our items that were not on hangers. At a little after 10 our cabin steward was able to move all our belongings to our new cabin, we then headed down stairs to the Main Desk where they escorted us off the ship to go down thru immigration. Downstairs we met up with some of the other intransit guests. We were the last guests off and they then recorded a zero guest count and was immediately able to allow those of us going on the B2B to reboard. This time was approx. 10:40 we then headed up to the Explorations Café to relax a while before we had lunch.

Lunch in the Lido was strangely quiet, I kept remarking that I could not figure out where everyone was. Most of the tables were empty and it was about 12:15. I am thinking this is really strange. Well it seems that there was some sort of truck fire at the pier near us not pier 26 but because of that they shut all the piers downs and would not let anyone board or be checked in. There were just a few that were already boarding and had already come on board when this happened. At this time I have no idea if the delay will in boarding will cause a delay in our Sail Away or not. It did cause a delay of when they allowed passengers to go to their cabins for some strange reason. That announcement was not made till a little after 1:30.

We had another Web Cam Wave from the Eurodam. I am embarrassed to say that I was so thrilled to have Mark Pells the Hotel Manager there that my camera hung around my neck the whole time and stupid me did not even think to take a picture. Mark brought with his Julie who I did not catch her title but he said she assists him and does all the work. She brought us out a HUGE HAL flag that we were able to wave for the web cam. I am just hoping that you could see us.
We are settled into our new cabin and in many ways it feels like a branch new cruise, well I guess it really is except with all the crew that we love so much.
Oh one of the crew I kept forgetting to mention is in the Lido, we have from the Zuiderdam Burt Reynolds. He is really fun and loves to sign and remember passengers like Hunky Dory. He was having fun with us at lunch since we were returning.

I will report more later because I want to post this before life boat drill.

Signing off from the Beautiful MS Eurodam in Port Everglades:)

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Rich, thanks :)It is just too bad that we could not have been at the bow like last week but I can make out the flag. We had a few CCers there so we were waving like crazy :D

[NevadaHiRoller]

call me cynical, but i would wager that captain mercer or h/m pells were nudging the fairy in the right direction. Or since this is a christmas cruise, maybe it was an upgrade elf!

I am getting excited just thinking of sailing away for christmas.

"i'm dreaming of a hal christmas."

bingo!!!!!!!!! :d

[Avril]

Hi Lisa, I hope you have another wonderful week!! :D I'm sorry to make you think about the end of your cruise but if it's possible, could you please ask the Captain which way the ship will be facing when you arrive in Port Everglades next Saturday? Then my roll call and I will know where to stand so we can do a web cam wave as well!! We're boarding the Eurodam on December 27th. Thanks and have a blast!!!! :D

[whenzuc]

Rev neal. Any ideas what I need to run to fix my laptop? It is still screwed up any ideas are very wekcome

[NevadaHiRoller]

Rev neal. Any ideas what I need to run to fix my laptop? It is still screwed up any ideas are very wekcome

What happened did it give you a virus? I thought he wrote that he had that fixed?

[RevNeal]

Rev neal. Any ideas what I need to run to fix my laptop? It is still screwed up any ideas are very wekcome

I'm sorry ... I'm a Mac not a Windows person. You'll need to take it to an expert who knows how to clean computers.

[RevNeal]

What happened did it give you a virus? I thought he wrote that he had that fixed?

Yes, the website has been cleaned and scanned by Google. It's clear.
I don't know what to suggest one do about what may have been downloaded prior. Whoever it was that hacked my site has done a number on several people. I regret that.

[NevadaHiRoller]

That is really twisted Rev, can't they trace the IP?

[RevNeal]

That is really twisted Rev, can't they trace the IP?

Yes.
My Server Administrators, who cleaned my site and re-established its security, have a record of the IP of the person who broke into their servers and loaded in the maul-wear onto all the domains hosted on their servers. Since this attack also hit several businesses on the same server as mine, and hundreds of peoples information compromised, I understand that the Feds are now involved with the investigation. Sadly, this kind of thing happens all the time.

[localady]

Lisa-
Thought this might be an appropriate way to start your next week at Sea.......Our thanks to a Yummer friend who posted it!!

'Twas the night before Christmas, and far out at sea
Our vessel was sailing, as smooth as could be

The stockings were hung from the balcony chairs
With hope that St. Nicholas would find them out there

The children were nestled all snug in their uppers
Having just settled down from a Christmas Eve supper

And ma and myself, we were covered in aloe
A bit too much sun, in a pool, warm and shallow

When up in the sky, there arose such a clatter
I leapt from my bed to see what was the matter

To the sliding glass door, I flew like a flash
Well, more like a saunter, and less like a dash

And what to my skeptical eyes should appear
But a great shiny sleigh, and eight flying reindeer

They circled our ship, from starboard to port
As the moon lit the driver, a jolly old sort

Who called to his team, in a happy retort
"Now Dasher, now Dancer," so on and so forth

We raced through our cabin and into the hall
To the very top deck, in time for us all

To be awed by the sight of Old Santa's sleigh
As he lightly touched down, by the midnight buffet

With a bundle of goodies thrown over his back
He rose in the air and dropped down the smokestack

Santa went straight to work, and later we learned
He found every child's cabin, from the bow to the stern

Insides and oceanviews, balconies and suites
Santa filled every stocking, with toys and with treats

Until all his deliveries had been handled with care
Then he noted he still had a minute to spare

So he surfed the wave rider, with nary a fall
While Dasher and Dancer scaled the rock-climbing wall

And Prancer, who had always been fond of the cold
Tried the ice-skating rink, a sight to behold

And then with a whistle, Santa summoned his team
And he bade us farewell, silent nights and sweet dreams

And I heard him exclaim, as he flew out of view
Merry Christmas to all, and to all, a good cruise.

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Saturday Evening December 20th , 2008

This post is in total dedication to the most wonderful Crew Member that HAL has. It almost brings me to tears how wonderful all these crew members are but there is one extremely special one that out of at least 5 HAL Cruises he has gone out of his way to be so very special to us and today he just out did himself. I am talking about Ronald and the exact spelling of his last name I do not know but will tell you later. We have sailed with Ronald on numerous occasions and has always greeted us with a big hug. He has been with Holland America for 15 years he and his wife Romina who is also a Wine Steward work for HAL they have a 9 yr old daughter at home in the Philippines. Words cannot express the true appreciation we have for crew like Ronald, while Ronald was not our Wine Steward last week he was in the section next to us and he helped us to move to his section for this week. Today he took extra time off the ship to do some things for us that he thought we would like. He wanted to make sure we were taken care of for the week. I cannot express how grateful we are to him. Ronald has done so many wonderful things for us. I honestly do not know why he has chosen us to be so wonderful to but we truly love him and have for many sailings. Coming back to do a Back to Back here on the Eurodam is so very special to us. Words cannot express how good we feel about being on here a 2nd week. With getting to know so many crew the first week and to see them again tonight and see how excited they are to see us again.

You know it is not just words but the truth when it comes to why people like Tom and I return over and over and it truly is the Crew of Holland America. There is no way you can be treated like this in a land based resort. I can remember so vividly when we first started to cruise and be a members here on the CC Board. I remember reading so many posts about how many of you spoke of seeing crew members you knew and how it meant so much that they remember you and you them. I can remember still saying to Tom do you think we will ever get to that point where we will know a lot of crew? Well it has now been a few years that we have been at that point and it is amazing. I would have never guessed when we booked this Eurodam and then added on the 2nd weeks that there would be almost all of our favorite crew here on board. Other than not having our son with us I know that this will be a very special Christmas Cruise.
I look forward to giving yet another week of my daily thoughts and comments on the days activities.

Fortunately there is two different ports this week and I am sure some different activities that I will be able to report about.

So here’s wishing everyone a Great Holiday Week.

Signing off from the Beautiful MS Eurodam as we head out into the Atlantic for the Caribbean.

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Hi Lisa, I hope you have another wonderful week!! :D I'm sorry to make you think about the end of your cruise but if it's possible, could you please ask the Captain which way the ship will be facing when you arrive in Port Everglades next Saturday? Then my roll call and I will know where to stand so we can do a web cam wave as well!! We're boarding the Eurodam on December 27th. Thanks and have a blast!!!! :D

Avril, I will try to remember to ask Jonanthan when I see him although because I am not in a Suite this week I am not inivted to as many parties where I have the opportunity to talk with Captain Mercer but I will do my darnest to find out ;)
Lisa-
Thought this might be an appropriate way to start your next week at Sea.......Our thanks to a Yummer friend who posted it!!

'Twas the night before Christmas, and far out at sea
Our vessel was sailing, as smooth as could be

The stockings were hung from the balcony chairs
With hope that St. Nicholas would find them out there

The children were nestled all snug in their uppers
Having just settled down from a Christmas Eve supper

And ma and myself, we were covered in aloe
A bit too much sun, in a pool, warm and shallow

When up in the sky, there arose such a clatter
I leapt from my bed to see what was the matter

To the sliding glass door, I flew like a flash
Well, more like a saunter, and less like a dash

And what to my skeptical eyes should appear
But a great shiny sleigh, and eight flying reindeer

They circled our ship, from starboard to port
As the moon lit the driver, a jolly old sort

Who called to his team, in a happy retort
"Now Dasher, now Dancer," so on and so forth

We raced through our cabin and into the hall
To the very top deck, in time for us all

To be awed by the sight of Old Santa's sleigh
As he lightly touched down, by the midnight buffet

With a bundle of goodies thrown over his back
He rose in the air and dropped down the smokestack

Santa went straight to work, and later we learned
He found every child's cabin, from the bow to the stern

Insides and oceanviews, balconies and suites
Santa filled every stocking, with toys and with treats

Until all his deliveries had been handled with care
Then he noted he still had a minute to spare

So he surfed the wave rider, with nary a fall
While Dasher and Dancer scaled the rock-climbing wall

And Prancer, who had always been fond of the cold
Tried the ice-skating rink, a sight to behold

And then with a whistle, Santa summoned his team
And he bade us farewell, silent nights and sweet dreams

And I heard him exclaim, as he flew out of view
Merry Christmas to all, and to all, a good cruise.


Sher, thank you so much, that is great!!!!

This will definitely be a wonderful Holiday Week!!!
I hope that all my CC friends have a wonderful week, I juwt wish you could all be here to enjoy it with us.

[bepsf]

Lisa--

What a lovely tribute to the staff and crew of the Holland America Line.

If it weren't for that group of lovely people, it would be just a bunch of blue ships.

[sail7seas]

Nice speaking with you this morning, Lisa. SO happy you and Tom are having such a great time.

We had a struggle getting home but were very hay to walk in our front door tonight.
It was a long day at FLL Airport.....thankfullyt we disembarked Maasdam yesterday and had chosen to stay over one night post cruise. If we had tried to go home yesterday, we would not have made it.

More snow expected in Boston tomorrow so we were lucky we got home in the brief "snow free' window.

Continue to have a wonderful cruise.
We certainly could not agree more that crew are what makes HAL so special. Yes, the ships are beautiful, the food is good, the ports are varied..but with HAL, IT IS ALL ABOUT THE PEOPLE. Ther are NO CREWS IMO like HAL's.

[sail7seas]

Quote:
Originally Posted by whenzuc
On previous Holland America cruises I have bought a package of three diff't Lancaster suntan lotions. they are in a tangerine colored orangish box. Can you tell me if they still sell it? It should be about $19. All three pieces retail in Europe Duty free for about $75. Can you please let me know if they still sell it. This way, I can buy it on board, instead of packing it. Thanks!!! Great lotion.



I noticed packages like that in a small store in St. Maarten last week. What was wonderful is that the product sold there is the European version which is said to be better than that sold in U.S.

That little shop only had a few Lancaster products but what they had was very well chosen.

[Chivalrygirl]

Kia Ora Lisa, we have a saying down here for ppl like you it goes like this "lucky bugger" But no one deserves an upgrade to a balcony cabin more that you. Those balcony cabins are fine and plenty of room so you won't quite notice that much of a change. Will be interested to see if you get invited to some of the VIP parties :) Me thinks you must of whispered in a certain Captains ear :D Nope probaby not, just a "Tinny Bugger" :D

BTW, thanks for talking to Angie had a lovely email from her today, how I love that girl.

Love Val and Pals xox

[Avril]

Avril, I will try to remember to ask Jonanthan when I see him although because I am not in a Suite this week I am not inivted to as many parties where I have the opportunity to talk with Captain Mercer but I will do my darnest to find out ;)

Thanks a lot, I really appreciate it!! :D I hope you and Tom have a blast this week!!!! :D I can't wait to be onboard next Saturday.

By the way, that was a wonderful tribute to the crew and especially to Ronald!! :D I hope I get to meet him as well as all the other crew members you have mentioned over the past week.

[InTheWASide]

Lisa--

What a lovely tribute to the staff and crew of the Holland America Line.

If it weren't for that group of lovely people, it would be just a bunch of blue ships.

Wow... that's a rather cold review of an entire Line...

I agree that the crew is fantastic (my Westerdam review is more than proof of that) but to make it come across that the crew is the only good thing about HAL is rather harsh...

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Sunday December 21st, 2008

Good Sunday Morning from the MS Eurodam.
First off I want to say a very Special Happy Birthday to my Best Friend Colleen in Phoenix “Happy Double Nickel” Many of the Yummers know Colleen be cause she cruised with us from our ROV cruise and last years Yummer cruise.

WOW did we ever sleep good last night, the wind is gone and the seas while calm are still giving just a nice sway especially here in the aft. We were a bit concerned being just under the Aft Pool that there would be noise but let me say that it is so quiet. First off I have not said anything but the noise of the creeking of the ship is so very loud on deck 7. The first 5 nights I chalked it up to gale force winds and very rough seas. Finally the last night on Friday we had calmer seas and the sounds did subside but still existed. Tom does not hear a lot of it because after he takes out his hearing aid but even he heard it but we actually like the sounds of the ship. Here on Deck 8 aft it is so very quiet.

I was not going to have breakfast this morning but the Omelet Station looked inviting so had a very small omelet and juice. I am meeting a friend up in the Tamarind for lunch at 11:30 then we have our CC Meet and Greet in the Crow’s Nest at 1:30

Last night after I posted I had the chance to look at yesterday’s daily program and to my surprise we have 3 Formal Nights this week. The first is tonight as usually then the 2nd is normally Sunday but we have yet another Formal Night Wednesday which is Christmas Eve then Thursday Christmas Night it says Formal then (optional) I need to find out if the menus will be different or what is going on. I will say that there were several different items on last nights menu than there was the previous Saturday. I am hoping we did not make a mistake in choosing which nights we would go to the Tamarind and the Pinnacle based on last week’s menus.

There is really so much to see and do and taste ;) here on the Eurodam that I am excited to be able to spend an extra week here. The feel is so different from last week. Those joining in next week will love it.

HAL is definitely a great cruise line over all from every crew member to all those great people working in Seattle. It is no wonder why we continue to return so often :)

Well, I need to get this posted, I will keep you updated on information I find out.

Signing off from the Beautiful MS Eurodam.

[Gatsby LR2]

Just chiming in here instead of starting a new thread. We just returned from the 12/13 sailing. This was our 6th HAL cruise. I am happy to report that 90% of the criticism I have read about the Eurodam is unfounded. The service was as expected. The Lido food and service was excellent. It can handle the crowds just fine. Our cabin steward Andik (we were in SA cabin 7062) was fantastic. Everything we had asked for was delivered (TIP- we give half on the first day and the remaining tip on the last day so that always helps getting good service). Our wait staff (table 54 with Bagl and Yanin) presented our food in a timely manner and at perfect temperatures. They were very entertaining as well.

My only negatives are as follow: The public spaces (inside) were a bit closed in. The ship did roll a bit, but the Captain explained that the seas and wind were the strongest that he had encountered on previous cruises aboard the Eurodam. The Hal Cats band was awful. I also did not care for the Tamarind food. So that's my report. I rate this cruise 4 out of 5 stars. Enjoy!!