malony33

I just read that AZAMARA, along with a few other lines, is skipping Bermuda for the time being.

In a conversation with a travel agent, I got a final quote for my chosen cruise, including travel insurance. I was about to book, then the agent tacked on an extra $700+. When I questioned that, he could not give me a straight answer. Has this happened to any of you? I travel solo, so with the 20% off (the current special), this is a great opportunity for me. The agent said the extra charge (from AZAMARA, BTW, the agent said) is probably because I'm traveling solo, and the extra money makes up for what WILL NOT get spent during the cruise by a companion...SAY WHAT? I'm already paying a single supplement, so that seems redundant. Can anyone give me the lowdown on this? I have sailed many times on 4 or 5 different lines, and nothing like this extra "mystery fee" has been loaded on. Am I being taken? HELP! Today is the last day for the 20% off, so I'm pressed for time. Many thanks from an AZAMARA newbie.

Has anyone sailed on the Noordam recently who knows if it has ever been refurbished? I think it was launched in 2006. If it has been spruced up, about what year? A few questions that are a bit more specific: 1. Are the showers glass enclosed? 2. What's the smoking policy - for instance, in the casino? 3. How's the food? 4. What's the pre-cruise COVID testing policy? Are any passengers or crew permitted to sail if they have not been vaccinated? 5. I usually take Celebrity - has anyone been on Celebrity who can supply a few words of comparison between Celebrity and Holland? Thanks very much, everyone. I hope you are all well and cruising, or planning your next sailing.