ssawjo

LA, Cabo, viewed the TSE, Huatulco, transited the Panama Canal (new locks), Cartagena, Grand Cayman, and Ft. Lauderdale.

Princess made it possible to view the TSE, along with Discovery, in the ocean directly in the path of the TSE. It took a lot of planning, from what I was told by some folks involved, including the ship captain. They also provided special glasses in order to view the eclipse. Agree that weather is always the X factor in these situations. We, fortunately, had excellent viewing weather. In Europe, who knows.

Definitely agree about Oceania.

We were on the Emerald TSE sailing, and it was amazing! We are definitely planning on this Sky Princess sailing in two years. Don't delay if you are interested in going.

Thank you. This was the answer I was looking for.

Not really talking about FCD's. For example, on Oceania, if you book a cruise while onboard, you receive a reduced deposit and OBC to be used on the present cruise or on the newly booked cruise. There is also a slight price reduction for booking the new cruise onboard. Besides, the cruise I want to book is two years away and a FCD would expire. It doesn't matter how far out the cruise sails. Sorry I was not clearer in my original question as to what I was looking for information wise.

I was wondering if I booked a future cruise onboard, are there any advantages to doing so? For example, reduced deposit, OBC, etc. Thank you.

You have to get there very early in the morning in order to see the forest elephants. There may be monkeys hanging around, LOL, but the forest/jungle itself is fascinating as is the canopy walk. Also, strongly recommend visiting the castles along the coast. A lot of history there, mostly sad. Unfortunately, you probably wouldn't have time to do both, Kakum and/or the Castle. Try the Star Beer if you can. It is very good.

Thank you for the update. When we were there, December 2022, we walked past it with the usual police presence outside and a flag waving. Long way to go or call if you have a problem in Sao Tome!

There is also an US Embassy in downtown Sao Tome. If things were that bad, they should have gone there for assistance and/or the port agent. Also, not having a credit card, preferably Visa, then they were incredibly stupid. I was in Sao Tome in December 2022 and found it to be a third world country with a colonial Portuguese legacy. Some interesting colonial history. They also enjoy practicing voodoo even though it is a Catholic country. However, the people were very friendly and helpful if needed. We were on a Regent sponsored tour, so no worries there. The tender dock is nothing but a set of stone steps that are very slippery. It was an experience and I am glad we visited but that is all.

I see that there is no grilled chicken sandwich on offer. Too bad. It is a nice alternative to a burger.

Had a great time in Saigon with you and Cathy. Very good review and the pictures are great. Take care, Bill and Kathi

Actually, the engine problems started in Mumbai where we boarded and continued up to our disembarkation in Bangkok.

Uh, ya think?