KathyC

We're not huge pool people. In fact, we have been known to not even put a swimsuit on once during an entire sailing. While we do enjoy the hot tubs, we have one in our backyard so no big reason to get in one on a ship. We're all about experiencing the culture of the places we visit as opposed to sitting on their beaches (which we can also do at home, albeit not year round.) LOL So having a less crowded pool area isn't a big benefit to us. But not having to wait as long for a drink...hmmmm... ? Sounds like Fantastica is the place for us to start. Thanks!

Our sailaway on Summit was in rainy/misty weather, and barely anyone was able to hang out there because of those slats. I may have caught it in my sailaway periscope, I'll have to go back and look.

We've been thinking about trying MSC for awhile, and today I had some time so I started looking at some options for 2021. Their pricing is very different than the other cruise lines we've sailed, and I was wondering about the different "experiences" and which were better over others. If I'm reading the descriptions correctly: Bella - just a regular cruise, worst cabin locations, leftover dining times - room service not complimentary, no spa access, special lounges, etc Fantastica - better cabin location, better timed dining room seating - room service is complimentary during the day, discounts on fitness classes Aurea - spa access, free massages - exclusive deck area - best time dining seating, Easy Drink Package included (lowest level) Suites have additional perks for Fantastica & Aurea experiences. We're not looking at Yacht - that's above our budget and quite frankly don't sail in suites as I'd rather spend my budget on a high price cabin I'm never in anyway! ? It looks to me like the regular cruiser doesn't really need more than Bella or Fantastica. I don't see much value in a drink package that covers drinks up to $6 for Aurea, and unless your a spa fan there doesn't seem to be any other reason for Aurea. So is Fantastica the better choice? Is there a reason not to book Bella? I'm thinking Bella is okay maybe for port-intensive itineraries, where you're there to sleep and probably eat in port? Or am I reading it to be worse than it is? Any and all opinions welcome - but no "gotta do yacht club" replies. Not in the budget. ?

Really don't like the new slats over the Oceanview Bar. Pretty much makes the bar useless in bad weather.

I just found a new job, and I can't wait to get started so I can make my 2021 vacation plans. One will week will be celebrating my baby's college graduation, one week will be a Celebrity ship, and the other probably a group cruise. I can't wait!!

For us, Royal is for group cruises, Celebrity is for couple cruises. Of course, most of our friends only cruise Royal...so that is part of it. ?

We loved the Martini Bar on Summit. Second best thing about that class was the Sunset Bar and it's proximity to the Oceanview Cafe. Late night snacks while enjoying the aft view. And drinks. Can't forget the drinks.

Very excited to be your very first poster on your brand new boards!!! Do I get a fancy badge or title? ?