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SeaBurd

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Everything posted by SeaBurd

  1. I love Princess and wish they had a TA Southampton to Florida at the end of November, 2023. But, no such sailing. Since I'd rather cruise than fly home I found a TA on MSC Divina. I've sailed on her before. I haven't booked YC as I don't have unlimited funds and prefer to sail more often. For the first time I will be in an "ocean view" cabin instead of a balcony. I opted for this since crossing the Atlantic in late November didn't seem like the optimal time to take advantage of a balcony. It is true the food isn't gourmet in the MDR but I've always found something on the menu that was enjoyable. The few times my meal was not to my satisfaction, I was quickly served a substitution. Don't expect to "eat and run" in the MDR as it normally takes 1 hour or so for dinner. On evenings when I wanted to attend the early theater presentation, I went to the MDR as early as possible and told my waiter about my plans. And, I was always finished in time. Service was excellent in all areas, cabin and public spaces well tended and clean. The entertainment was geared to a more European audience but presented professionally by some very talented people. In my experiences, there is a wider variety of cultures represented on MSC cruises than I've noticed on my Princess sailings. Some social customs are different than those I have come to expect. Consequently, some passengers are not aware of the concept of waiting in line at the buffet, bar, or other areas. However, I also noticed that a smile and pleasant greeting are a wonderful antidote to percieved "rudeness." It also helps keep my blood pressure down! If the itinerary and dates are the same, given the choice, I prefer Princess. Then, it comes down to price. As a solo cruiser, unfortunately, the cost is often the final and deciding factor.
  2. You didn't say if your husband is open to cruising with you or not. I am currently cruising solo since I lost my best friend and husband in May, 2022. He lost his right leg above the knee in 2018 at the age of 79. It did take a little more effort to find accessible cabins and arranging (affordable) shore excursions that he could enjoy from his wheelchair but it was worth it all. I now have incredible memories. At his request, I am now taking those cruises we had planned to take together. I just returned from an Alaska cruise and, by choice, dined solo in 2 specialty restaurants for the first time.
  3. I too lost my husband and best friend 1 year ago this month. He wanted me to continue crusing and go to the places we had hoped to see together. So, that is what I am doing... one journey at a time. I am not a very outgoing person but I have found that by using the roll calls for an upcoming voyage and signing up for some of the pre-planned activities I meet some people with shared interests. That makes it much easier to start a conversation and find someone with whom I can share a table at meal time if I don't want to dine alone.
  4. I also recently lost my husband and am taking my first solo cruise next month. I expect to have those moments of loss but I will also have the memories of the joyful times such as standing by the railing, enjoying the sunset as we did together. Or, sitting on the balcony reading. He really enjoyed the MDR so that will probably be my most trying experience but I am determined to do it... that's what he would expect. It's probably easier to think about this solo experience than it will actually be.
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