AwkwardJen

Do I tip the childcare workers? If so, how much?

Thank you, Cruise News!!!!!

Jen

I haven't had a vacation in three years. Coincidentally, I am a solo parent to a three-year old. A couple of weeks ago, during a bout of insomnia, I chose to have a glass of wine. Insomnia, wine, exhaustion, and the internet are dangerous combinations. I purchased two nonrefundable tickets on the Noordam for the repositioning cruise, from Vancouver to Hawaii. (Some people impulse buy blankets with arms, then there is me.) So, I am flying across the country with a toddler to board the Noordam for eleven nights. Then I get to fly nine hours back with said toddler. (Sometimes, I don't think things through.)

I started reading the posts on page one. I have managed to utterly confuse myself. I apologize if these questions are moronic or repetitive. At this point, I am not sure what was posted this week and what was posted in 2014. This is my first HAL cruise [insert Dave joke here].

1. The word Orange is used frequently and in confusing contexts. I believe Code Orange is the safety drill but is Orange used for other things? If so, what?

2. Do I need to pre-register my child in the children's program?

3. Do they still provide shampoo and conditioner? (I have the cheapest balcony room on the ship.)

4. I am confused about the drink packages. I do drink alcohol and wine, but I live on club soda and sparkling water. I anticipate having wine with dinner and probably a couple of alcoholic drinks during the day. But I will suck down bubbly water all day. Which drink package should I get?

5. I read in several places that people brought magnets. I never gave it much thought, but will the magnets stick to anything other than the doors?

6. I have no idea how to pack for this. From late September in Canada to Hawaii in early October... Did I mention the toddler?

7. We will not be participating in the ship's excursions. I don't want my daughter to ruin anyone else's excursion. I also want to be able to return her to the ship at any time if need be. On my previous cruises (Carnival, Princess, and Norwegian), I always took ship excursions. In fact, they had to hold the boat for us on the last cruise I took, lo those many years ago. Any advice on going it alone in port?

8. People keep referencing things that you have to purchase on the ship such as cabanas, hydropool time, etc. I know drinks, specialty dining, and purchase of goods (art, cruises, etc.) are not included in the cost. But what other things should I be aware of as a first time HALer?

Nervously and neurotically yours,

AwkwardJen