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@@tinac4178 thanks for your purchase & for letting me know. Please send me an email at lifewellcruised@gmail.com & I’ll make sure you get it and can download it to your computer or device:) ~ Ilana
Great video, as always! Tip, look under the little piece of carpet/felt on the bottom of the safe. Last cruise we found a lovely gold chain and diamond pendant, along with a drivers license. We took them to guest services. There the manager came out , personally took a statement, and when finished told us that there was a couple that celebrated their 25th anniversary that had been on the last cruise in our cabin. They reported losing the necklace, and the lady was very upset. The ship sent us some chocolate dipped strawberries and also, a bottle of champagne. Honesty not only made us feel better but rewarded us too.
Very sweet of you! I would have done the same. If people would just put themselves in that position they would be alot more honest, humble, caring, etc. How would you feel if you had lost such a gift? I'd be devastated as I'm very sentimental. It could have been a dollar bubble gum ring and I'd treat it as a diamond bc it's the moment that counts for me you know. I'm glad the couple were able to get their property back, kudos to you. I guarantee the lady has thought about you turning in the necklace many times as she twirls it in her fingers. Good for you!!!! 😊
The couple should rewarded you also. Found a wallet in Vagas walked all the way to treasure Island.Turn it in gave them our stay place never hear from them. No thanks no nothing. Will make me think twice next time.
@@jeremy2992 no problem not going out of my way next time. If people cannot say thanks no need for me to go out of my way . I am busy also I have things to do. No need to chase anyone down because they lost something. Think about it‼️
Cruise ship safe: disembarkation day. I read a tip which said when you're laying out your disembarkation day clothes, put a shoe in the safe. That way you'll remember to clear your safe when you find the missing shoe.
Top tip! I once left a full memory card in the safe and so have no photo memories of that trip (this was before cameras on phones were any good). Pretty much anything else would have been annoying but replaceable 😢.
I worked building maintenance in a hotel. Most of my job was dealing with guest issues, things like, stopped up toilets, burned out light bulbs, broken beds. I was surprised by the number of broken beds I had to fix. Fortunately they are pretty easy to fix). One thing to keep in mind, if you need service in your room, take down the "do not disturb" sign. If I had something in the room that needed to be done, I was not even allowed to knock. It only happened a couple of times but if I saw a sign up I'd tell the front desk about the sign, then they would wait for the guest to call back, At that time they would tell them to take down the sign. Both times the guest was understanding, so it wasn't a big deal. Another fun fact, In the hotel we had a room that was next door to a machine space. Guests in the room always complained she to room was almost never booked, and when it was booked it was a much lower price (I think it was 75% discounted) At the time I still knew ASL and when I saw a couple checking in, I saw they were signing to each other. I was able to help them check in and after learning they were both profoundly deaf, I told them about the "noisy room." They very much liked the idea and they got that room. The front desk person asked if I had made that suggestion and she said it was brilliant. From then on they would tell deaf guests about the room and asked if they wanted it. Often (but not always) they did. I even installed a "door bell" that would flash the lights in the room letting deaf guests know someone was at the door. If you are deaf, ask if they have a cabin that generates complaints do to noise. Most of the time these rooms are offered at a greatly reduced price.
What a great idea on a possibly reduced room! My parents are Deaf, and they were noisy. Slamming cabinets, tv too loud ALL THE TIME, and let’s just say nights may be a little noisy too 😂
@@rawilliams5881 As an amputee I know that a disability can, in some cases be taken advantage of. In the long run a disability *IS* a disadvantage over all, so you should never feel bad about taking advantage when you can. I even got a "I don't work here lady" with a very nice anti-Karen. She was an older woman, I think she was Indian or from the Middle East. I was traveling home several years ago and as an amputee I get priority boarding. The gate agent was trying to tell this lady that someone would be along to help her soon, but as she did not speak English she was not understanding. The woman was clearly deeply distressed so as I was going that way anyway I offered to help. This made her very happy. I stuck her in her seat then went to mine. After takeoff when the flight attendant had a moment I asked her if I could have a few minutes to get the woman off the plane and she said she would. We landed in Portland and I found a wheelchair in the jetway waiting, and so I sat the woman down and started pushing her to the TSA checkpoint. She was talking to me the entire time but she was calm and happy so I just assumed I was taking her the way she wanted to go, but I was a little worried what would happen if we got to the TSA check point and we did not find someone waiting for her? But it worked out, we met her son, who was my age, and he spoke to her and became confused. The woman thought I had traveled to Portland just to help her. Our flight was getting to Portland very late (1am) and she was worried I had no place to stay. She had been telling me about her grand daughter (who was 15, thinking she would make a good match for me. I was 45!) But we had to tell her I was not working for the airline or the airport. I had a place to go (my home) and I helped her because it was what I would want someone to do for m y mother if she was in such a situation. She was a very sweet lady, and I hope she was thinking I was much younger than I was. Trying to set me up with her grand daughter, and I think I might have been older than her son!
I've never been on a cruise but I have traveled for Business and Pleasure. I keep my room clean. Whenever I leave, I put the do not disturb sign up. I hang my towels up and reuse them. When I leave I nicely fold dirty towels and bed sheets. If they are dry I leave them folded on the floor to the side of the door. If they are wet I leave them folded on the Tub or the toilet seat depending on how wet they are. When I leave, I make it as easy as possible for the housekeeping staff. They don't get paid nearly enough for the work they do. Also during my stay, I always smile and I talk to the staff like I would talk to a friend. I've had hotel staff tell me I've been the nicest visitor they ever met. No matter what restaurant I go to, in a hotel or outside a hotel. When I'm done, I neatly stack my dishes so they are easy for them to carry. Related to tipping. I've had staff tell me they can tell I'm from the US besides my American accident because I tip well. In Europe they don't get that often.
Don’t get at us Europeans. For us, tipping is something we do to show how much we’ve enjoyed something. It’s not something that’s done because it’s expected as in the US. It’s a CULTURAL DIFFERENCE. IT’S NOT BECAUSE WE’RE CHEAPSKEATES.
So you brag in the comments about things that any polite and decent person would NORMALLY do? Noted. Keep your behavior to the same standard, don't forget tipping well, and, perhaps consider extending your courtesy to cleaning the dishes, not just stacking them👏
I don't do any job in a hotel or on a cruise ship. There are people employed to clean, wash dishes, etc. They get paid for it. I never give tip to anyone who are just doing their job. We don't do that in Europe.
Woke up to bad case of motion sickness. Our cabin boy advised getting an apple at morning buffet and eating it right away. Absolutely did the trick!! He got rightly tipped!!
@@carolvonarx2616 next time buy a set of Sea Bands, get the kind with the plastic bead not with metal, as the metal type can irritate your skin. Available at your local major drug stores and of course you know where. They work immediately and they’re reusable/washable. 😃
you can also ask your doctor for a patch you pop behind your ear before you fly, cruise, get on a bus, etc. Lasts for three days and they work like a dream!
@@garrymckinnon4005 On my cruise last year I asked at reception for seasickness tablets, after getting caught out one day. Receptionist didn't have any to give out and recommended eating a green apple instead. Yes, it worked :) I understand it's to do with pectin, which is especially high in green apples.
Some years ago I went on a cruise to Central America; at Guatemala stop I purchased a beautiful wool blanket from street vendor; upon returning to cabin, put blanket down on bed and found a flood of ticks suddenly scurrying everywhere off of blanket. Be careful what you buy.
Good you raise this important issue Tracy. More accurately (but consciously misleadingly labelled by manufacturers) they ARE flushable in that they WILL flush, but are NOT biodegradable and so do, as you say, clog up municipal sewer systems and create a hazard. This is because they contain plastics - commonly polyester. The manufacturers rely on folk erroneously assuming that 'flushable'=OK for the environment. I'm honestly surprised that they still get away with it.
That is true. On one cruise my husband checked the safe again when we disembarked. We had used the safe all the time, but did not notice it at all: there was a ring in a corner - and it was not mine - Quite nice, nothing of value. You could see right away that it is fashion jewelry. Nevertheless nice. I wore it quite often already.
Easier to introduce yourself though.. too bad they don't make privacy curtains.. especially for husband's and wives that would like to use that private space 😅😂
I don't care for cruises. I find being on the ship so boring. But I like cruises because I can wake up in a new country every day! I love that part, only
Great tips! I wish I had seen this before we went on our first cruise. My wife was on the balcony with the sliding door opened, and I walked out the front hall door. The wind was such a force that it pushed me into the hallway with my fingers on the knob which then slammed the tip of my finger in the door but not stuck. Fortunately, my finger was bruised but not broken. The wind tunnel effect is real.
*This is one of the best videos ever. NO stolen videos, stupid sound effects, fake laughs, stupid loud “music” or a narrator who loves to hear his own voice. DIRECT and TO THE POINT. CONGRATULATIONS!!!*
On disembarkation day, we always take a final run through of every space, drawer, nook and cranny. First I go and then my husband goes. We actually almost left a drawer full of clothes once. 🤦🏼♀️ Luckily we had a tote bag that we could jam all the items in. Also, we never put things loosely in the safe. I always bring a ziplock bag and everything goes in there. I’m talking about passports, wallet, money and jewelry holder for jewelry. Everything goes in the bag. We also add our address on the outside, just in case.
yep, i also always double check everything before leaving the room, once my mom and me both forgot the keys to our flats in a hotel safe and only noticed it when we were already back home. thankfully we both had spare keys at other peoples places, because usually she has my spare key and i got hers and that would have been expensive and annoying to deal with, especially after a long day of travelling 🤦🏻♀️ using a bag for the stuff you put in the safe is a great tip to not accidentally miss something when you grab your things, i'll definitely do that next time!
I will add one more thing, if I may: I have never been on a cruise. I am here because my wife and I are considering it. But I am an old US Navy Sailor, so I have been to sea...a LOT! Understand that they are not just being jerks about the small appliances, power strips and open flames. What they are doing there is being meticulous about fire hazards. Fire at sea is quite different from fire on land. At sea, there is no fire department to call. As a Navy Sailor, you ARE the fire department. Therefore EVERYONE is trained in firefighting. Unless you want to take firefighting training before you go on your vacation, just listen to them on this stuff. These seemingly goofy rules are in place for a reason. Remember, even though those cruise ships are beautiful resorts...they are still the only thing between you and the sharks, just like an old grey Destroyer.
I was a nurse on a cruise ship, as well as personally sailing all my life. I don't believe the average person understands just how vulnerable any ship is to fire and how fast it can be overtaken with flames and smoke. Nowhere to go at all. May I suggest you take that cruise? They can be wonderful, just make sure it's geared to your taste. Some of them have so many children onboard it can take away some of the enjoyment, (and silence).
I’m retired Navy and have 15 years with Military Sealift Command (MSC - civil service Merchant Mariner) and I have a lot of sea time as well and agree 💯 with everything you said. Like the Navy, all the officers and crew of the cruise ships (all commercial ships as well) are similarly trained in fire fighting, damage control, and first aid. They have a mandatory recertification every five years or they can’t work on ships; this is an international mandated requirement for all cruise, cargo, tanker, and in my case civilian manned naval fleet auxiliary ships. The Navy and MSC have the advantage over these other ships when they have to suit up and go on air to fight fires because we have more air bottles than we need and have the ability to refill those bottles 24/7. Those other ships only have the bare minimum air bottles which includes the ability to change out one time and they’re done! Because they don’t have bottle recharge capability. Basically, worse case scenario, they have to get that fire under control, out, overhauled, and reflash watch set in half an hour or everyone heads to their abandon ship station to their lifeboat. Fortunately very rarely has a commercial shipboard fire gotten to this extreme. Your room steward is part of that fire fighting, damage control, and emergency response team/fire department as well, so help is never far away.
Poo pouri was the best thing to have! I spray it before poop and once done to just help with the general toilet smell! I also used the tree car air fresheners, I hung a few in the room with magnets. Worked wonderfully.
Odoban is a wonderful spray that removes so many odours. Sometimes the funky smell isn’t from your cabin and a few spritzs in the vents can really help.
As I think about going on my First cruise in February, My thoughts go to people may think they are entitled to being first in line . Your supposed to be on vacation keep the stress level down and enjoy yourself.
Rule: Don’t let your kids run up and down the hallway! We had that happen on a NCL cruise to Alaska. These kids were out ‘playing’ until almost 11pm on multiple occasions. These kids also had a romper room going on in the cabin next to us. It was awful.
I totally agree. Some people do not have kids and don’t appreciate parents who allow their kids running out of control down the halls. I have had this happen in hotels. I ask the parents to control their children and if does not happen management is called. I had one hotel move me to a different floor because the parents did not control their children. I myself have children but I never allowed my children to do that.
The best thing I brought on my recent cruise were those magnetic hooks. I was able to hang up my hat, lanyard, damp (not dripping wet) bathing suit, etc. Kept things convenient and neat. Celebrity Equinox doesn't have a line in the shower, so the hooks became necessary.
Great advice once again!! Thanks! Reference smoking POT on cruise ship. We took 2 cruises in 2024. The 2nd cruise when we got in our cabin around 1pm, we smelt a strong smell of POT, both in the hallway & on the balcony. I knew we didn't need to notify anybody because of how bad it was, everyone knew. An hour later there were dirty dishes outside the door of the cabin next to us. Then at 5pm, the ship sailed and we didn't smell anymore POT. The next morning a new group of passengers were moving into the room next door to so, they said they had a problem with their room and this room just happened to become available.... aka they got kicked off the ship!! lol
I got a cruise etiquette one: please turn your balcony light off if you’re not on the balcony. The last cruise our neighbor left their balcony light on all night so we couldn’t enjoy the night and its darkness
@@amechellec90 having kids who are afraid of the dark ocean is a valid concern. But, there's a middle ground here. A small nightlight in the room can be comforting without keeping the balcony light on. This way everyone gets to enjoy their experience, right?
Please share with parents who come with small children there are other passengers onboard. Parents normally ignore their screaming kids or when they’re running/talking in the cabin area. Running can be heard all the way into the balcony outside. Hold your kids by the hand, the cabin area is not the park. If your kids are screaming in the main dining room REMOVE THEM IMMEDIATELY, bring them back when they are calm, or order room service. The buffet is a great option and noise is abundant there.
Or you just pay to go on an adult only cruise. Don’t make kids and family’s suffer because of what you want!!! Kids are allowed to go on some cruise ships so if you don’t like them don’t go on the cruises 👍🏻👍🏻
@@helenalovelock1030 why are kids making others suffer? Nobody pays to go on a vacation to hear your kids go wild. Leave those kids at grandma’s house!!
I have been on many cruises. I bring clothes pins. If I have to wash socks or something small, I use the back of balcony chair tp hang using 2 or more clothes pins with the backs of chairs facing in. Been cruising 2 to 3 times a year since Christmas 1993 never a problem. My husband would bring his laptop and battery charger for it, along with a power strip. The best cruise was our Alaska cruise, went late July, early August. The helicopter tour was by far the greatest experience.
The airport allowed me to bring on a 3 spot outlet. She asked was I on a sleep apnea machine I told her no but I do have an internal stimulator in my back. The approved me to go through. But it must be in your luggage and not carry on!
I ( not always but when I could remember to ), tipped the housekeeping staff whether it was a motel or a cruise ship. It wasn't alot but it was a friendly gesture and one they appreciated.
Ilana, One way I heard, to not forget to clear out your safe, is to put one shoe in it. It reminds you to look for it. # 2. Regarding putting the do not disturb sign on the door. If you leave it on, for say 24 hours or more, the cabin steward will call security to check that everything is alright. #3. If you need to talk to the cabin steward, before you depart the ship, do not walk ihto another cabin they are cleaning. I was told by the cabin steward they are not allowed to let you to even peek in. You have to wait until they are in the passageway
Defiantly be friendly with your cabin host. You never know if you get locked out the last night of the cruise when putting your luggage out to be picked up. Yes, this happened to me & luckily our host was doing his night route and was 2 cabins down from me.
Had an embarrassing moment in a hotel locking myself out of the room wearing only a towel, as I stepped out of the lift in reception the doors closed behind me trapping the towel, I was then naked in reception.
Binoculars - I brought my own as I know they are really good. My kids enjoyed using them at sea and was fun to look at other ships and land objects. If you have a balcony, bring them! Interior, it depends on the destinations.
Twenty years in the Navy and 15 years in the Merchant Marines and not once have I ever thought taking a cruise is something I want to do on vacation, I did it as a job and enjoy sitting on my porch or balcony drinking a cup of coffee or simply enjoying the view; I’m done with the sea.
If there's beverages in your room are not included then there should be a sign that tells you that. And it's silly that they would put water on the counter and then charge you for it
Another tip regarding the bathroom in your stateroom. Always close the bathroom door when using the shower, particularly if taking a hot shower! The steam can quickly fill the room and you will end up with water running down the walls and I have even heard that excessive steam with set off fire/moisture alarms.
Make sure you ALWAYS push hard on your cabin door to make sure it's 100% closed! Even if you think it's all the way closed double-check! On our last night of the cruise some teens were wandering the halls looking for some last minute fun and ended up pushing on and completely opening our door while we slept. It terrified us, they took off running and laughing, and we had to call security. We had checked the door earlier and it was closed and flush with the wall so we thought it was good but it needed one last push because the latch hadn't engaged fully so anybody walking by would only have to give a small push and the door would open.
@@josephmccord4511 You are aware, that there is a lock on that door, that can only be used from the inside? It depends on how dependable the children are, but this might be a recipe for desaster.
Most cruise lines have a cloths line in the shower. Was on a cruise ship that had a view of the lifeboat woke up in skimpy pajamas and saw maintenance on board and almost died. Yea peek out your window before opening curtains. LOL
Here's one suggestion that may seem dumb but it's just being helpful to the staff of the ship. If something isn't right or if something isn't operating properly tell your steward. On our cruise last month, the shower drain was slow and I realized that if the steward wasn't informed then it may never get fixed properly before someone causes a big mess. Also, look everywhere on the night before disembarkation. Our beds were open underneath and things can get hidden under them, in the bed covers, or behind life jackets, behind the shelving...etc. It's really easy to forget something that last day when a lot is going on.
At All Inclusives, I always do a 2 Minute Tidy, prior to leaving my room, so that it is easier for the room attendant to mop floors, wipe counters, etc... I am a neatnik anyways, and my clothes are always in the closet or drawers anyways... dirty laundry is in my dirty laundry bag, in my suitcase, etc. Remember that sometimes, the attendants are not allowed to touch personal belongings...so they won't be able to do a super nice job of cleaning your room or mopping your floor if there is stuff everywhere...
we didnt get our special treats delivered one day for our splash of romance package on our virgin voyages cruise, so i rang guest services to see where they were, when the cabin steward bought them for us she explained that she had been previously, but we had pressed the do not disturb button by accident thus her not dropping them off. so i apoligised to her and thanked her for coming again with them :)
1. Bring a battery operated night light or flashlight. Someone in our cabin had many night time bathroom visits and the lights kept waking other cabin mates. 2. Put a shoe or wadded up towel or paper between the door hinges or door jamb to the bathroom, because sometimes the door swings shut (the boat might swing) and that door will slam and wake cabin mates and neighbors. 3. If you forgot some OTC medications, or need seasick pills, or need additional supplies like feminine hygiene supplies (menstrual), or even adult depends incontinence supplies, ask your room attendant. Or go to the purser’s desk, or the onboard medical clinic. They probably have some, and they will charge your room. Of course the port you stop at might have a pharmacy to purchase. 4. If you ask, they may have a guest laundry, where you can use to wash dirty laundry and dry some wet things like your swimsuit. 5. Bring several plastic bags. Put your dirty laundry and wet bathing suit in those. Assuming you don’t want to use their laundry machines. 6. Bring a few sandwich ziplock bags. You can take cookie or something portable back to your cabin for some late night snacking. We eat too much during meals, but all I wanted at night was some dry cereal or crackers, tbh. 7. Bring a useable travel coffee mug. You can fill it either a hot or cold drink or water at the ship’s cafeteria. I like to stay hydrated, and a good hot drink without going to the bar or Lido Deck is good. 8. Bring Vaseline or lip balm with sunscreen, because your lips will get very chapped. You are surrounded by salt water which will dry your lips very badly. And the sea is like a magnifying glass, will burn easily. 9. Take skin moisturizer for that same reason, and hopefully something with sunscreen. 10. Don’t leave the ship’s itinerary in your cabin. You need your refer to it all day. If you want keep the old one as a memento, put it in your luggage so the room attendant won’t throw it out. (I put it on the dresser, and they threw it out). 11. Even though there is a room attendant, hang up or pack up your clothes and put your shoes and miscellaneous things neatly in the closet. Try to smooth out the bed a bit. Pile the wet and used towels in a pile in the bathroom. Throw your trash in the designated trash receptacle. Those room attendants have many rooms to clean, and make it easier for them. 12. On debark or port day, don’t leave with either fresh fruit or vegetable. Because the port authority requires no fruit (or vegetable) enter the port, to avoid bug.
Most of these can also be applied to hotel rooms. I've heard that the favorite pastime for the cruise ship workers is to make fun, tell stories, and just talk about the customers Good video
RCL, balcony cabin, I got the laugh of my life and so did half the bridge crew. The wind doubled in a matter of hours so I went back into my cabin. As I'm closing the sliding door my one of my chairs takes flight and is gone. I looked over the rail then up toward the wing of the bridge. 5 officers are laughing and pointing. Looked aft, there went another chair and a table. I talked to one of the Officers that night. Grand total 68 chairs and 43 tables in 35 minutes.
My first cruise we got caught in 2 hurricanes. On the way out, we ran into the winds of the hurricane and the wind was so strong that a bunch of us were all holding onto each other and none of us could walk to the front of the ship. It was impossible! It was kinda fun. On the way back, we were stuck out at sea for an extra 24 hours. Missed my flight. It was a mess!
So funny you posted this! I’m on Celebrity Silhouette right now and our neighbors have been smoking on the balcony. 🙄 Security has been there multiple times, but it certainly is frustrating to continue to smell smoke while we are trying to enjoy our holiday! However, it isn’t ruining our cruise, but certainly inconsiderate (and dangerous!!!).
@@donnaschuepbach3830 We received an update: First offense is a warning; second is another warning and a fine; third is removal from the ship. They received a fine.
Book your cruise while kids are in school, there will be far fewer kids aboard. Eat only in the dining room, avoid the feeding trough they call a buffet. I often would go get a coffee and tea and a couple of breakfast sandwiches (from the snack bar and coffee shop) and bring them back to our room to have breakfast on the balcony with my wife. Speaking of the balcony I highly recommended to get one. It is where I spent most of my time, on a cruise, away from other people. For those times when you leave your cabin please comb your hair and wash your face, put on decent clothes, so others don't have to look at a slob.
I loved the delicate way you handled the topic of not doing things on your balcony. Also putting a posty note on the safe, or setting an alarm reminder on your phone to check the safe before disembarking the ship would be a good way to remember to check that safe.
Re the mini-bar: This policy differs from one line to another. On Viking Ocean, the mini-bar contents are included. If you have a mid to upper tier cabin (penthouse veranda or above), the mini-bar will be replenished daily, or even more often if you ask your cabin steward.
I was going to make a similar comment because my most recent cruise was on Viking and we had free use of the mini bar. We only drink diet sodas, so our cabin attendant even swapped out the sugar Cokes for us!
Just one of the many reasons that we LOVE Viking! On our last Viking cruise, they announced that over 70% of the cruisers on board were repeats. Two ladies were recognized for having been on over 24 Viking cruises. First class service, excursions are included, mini-fridge replenished daily (Standard Veranda cabin), twice daily room cleaning, no extra fees (except for mixed or specialty drinks, unlimited wine and soft drinks included with meals, outstanding dining selections,…. We’ve booked another 2-week Viking cruise for next Spring.
We went on a SilverSea cruise last year. Everything, alcoholic and non-alcoholic, was included. The room steward would replenish anything that had been used.
We have been on 2 Viking cruises, and the minibar is included. Our cabin steward both cruises swapped out sodas and alcohol for diet sodas and sparkling water. The people at Guest Services have all been wonderful.
TIPS - I watch Ilana's video on tipping and brought extra cash to tip at the end of an 8-night cruise. Gave our attendant a C-note and our two waiters $50 each, they loved it. ALSO, I BROUGHT ten Advent calendars for the crew and emphasized these are for the people we don't see. My attendant left them in the Crew mess for all to take and they were really appreciative and happy.
7:19 this is true, I went on a cruise last year, the cabin attendant was really nice and even put effort into learning and remembering my family’s names
Years ago I was staying at a Sheraton and took a shower, my kids turned on a movie and I got charged $15 for watching 15 min. Next year I told them I didn’t want any charges tv or mini bar, I had put a coke in that frig and they charged me 5 bucks for my coke. I’ve had bad feelings about Sheraton ever since and won’t stay there ever again.
If you bring your own food and drinks, fill the ice bucket and put your things there. Write a note and put “Guest brought these.” Check your bill thoroughly before you check out. On a cruise, you can get your bill throughout the cruise, to nip it early. Always bring your own water!
Many hotels nowadays charge the customer as soon as you open the refrigerator door, even though you don't take anything, you just look. So nowadays I don't even bother to look
Very informative video Ilana. Most are very obvious. We both use CPAPs so we always ask for an extension cord ahead of time. The cabin attendant has always supplied one. We bought some non surge protected extension cords you recommended. They were very helpful. Most times people sitting on their balconies speak in a quiet respectful tone though we have heard some rather offensive language being used by people nearby. Be respectful of your fellow passengers and avoid bad language while in your balcony. Happy cruising Ilana!
There are unfortunately some people who simply don't have class. Class has nothing to do with age or income. It has all to do with how you were raised.
Thank you for the updates straight to the point; The lack of : common sense, responsibility, and not able to follow simple rules; please do not attempt to cruise ; thank you for staying behind 😂 as for me I really enjoy cruising the flexibility of having everything to my dispose to have fun is priceless. Those who can do it ENJOY it, the ones that can’t or don’t want too, just applaud.
About the vaping. This surprised me because during game shows and activities, groups of people were vaping right in front of everyone and crew and not one word was said.
If you have paid for any level of drinks packages, the beverages in the fridge should be free and included. The cruise lines have to stop nickel and diming their frequent guests.
Walkie-talkies are quite often used when you stop at a port and wander around needing to keep in touch with other members of your partner y, especially your older kids or senior parents.in many places your cell phone won't work without paying for a phone for each port. Have a secure area to check your radios at boarding and back out when debarking at a port, like checking your gun at the door when going into a barin the 1800s.
Our cabin attendants are Indonesian, and us as Indonesians often brings a lot of traditional Indonesian snacks. Well, we told them to take the snacks we put in the room, and feel free to enter our room to clean it. Well, they did took the snacks we put in a bag for them and our rooms are always stocked with complimentary mineral water, coffee, toiletries, and fresh towels for the rest of our cruise. They are paid well, but a lot of them really felt homesick, and traditional snacks from home could remedy that in a way. Really being nice towards the room attendants could really made a trip or stays felt that bit better.
Yes always do a thorough search of your cabin the last night of your cruise. The only things that you need to leave out of your luggage the last night is your clothes for the next day, medication, and toiletries.Re-pack your suitcase and have them ready to go in the morning. Since it is your last night and after you come back to your cabin for the rest of the night empty the safe.
Several years ago we had another ship docked next to us. As I was standing on my balcony to watch pier runners, there was a couple getting busy in their cabin across the way. Pretty sure the curtains were left open on purpose.
I dry wet clothes on my balcony by using towel clips on the balcony chairs. It was one of your suggestions from a few years ago. Such a great suggestion.
That's what I did on my last cruise; I haven't seen that video, but it just made sense to me. I kept the chair back turned to the inside so it couldn't slip from the clip and fly off! But our bathing suits were just not drying at all in the cabin.
We did the same thing on our two week repositioning cruise to the Caribbean. We snorkeled at several stops and had wet, sandy snorkel gear to dry. We also had soggy shorts, shirts and swimsuits that needed to dry. I brought a bag of strong clips as well as standard clothes pins and never had a problem. And we NEVER hung anything on the balcony railing. Some pieces of clothing just need fresh air to dry properly.
Has to make you wonder about the fine coating of moister from the previous passengers coating every wall and surface in your cabin. Legionnaires' disease anyone? (remember, what happens in internation waters does always have to be reported....) @@sjisom8438
We are two wrinkles going on our first cruise in April and found this most useful. Most of it common sense, but good to have it reinforced. Will watch the others as they come up Appreciate your time and efforts. Thx from Qld, Aus.
Don't go jogging early in the morning on the promenade. Someone is trying to sleep in the cabins right under your banging feet. They have signs saying not to do this before a certain time, obey the signs. If you like to exercise early, go to the ship's gym and use the treadmills.
I recently went on one and did feel it was hell I like going on a place called uncruise which doesn't have the gambling the stupid game shows the failed Vegas singers and that was fine but I did not enjoy the Princess Cruise gimmicks @@dlcarbonneau3750
Thank you for your insight. As a past frequent cruise enthusiast, We don’t cruise any longer. The prices have gone ridiculous, mandatory tipping, general cruise problems have taken the fun out of cruising.
On a Celebrity cruise, I was looking under the bed for something I dropped, and found where the mini fridge contents go….into a trash bag under the bed.
@@LYoung5525 sometimes you need more information to learn whether something is right or wrong for you. This person learned they were right about their preferences after watching this video. End of story.
Ilana, you mentioned that "bathrooms are small and NOT ventilated".... actually this is not so. The humidity in bathrooms would be horrible if ships didn't have a VERY powerful, something that worked getting humidity OUT. This can be found in your video from 12:44 to 12:49. Right on top of the two large white towels is the 5" diameter "humidity extractor" (oftentimes they are on the ceiling of the shower (for obvious reasons). In the case of your bathroom, I suspect that the person designing the extractor, was not the same as the one that decided to partly block this extractor with the large towels in front of it. I always take these towels and put them elsewhere so the round extractor can do it's job, AND close whatever closes the shower so that the bathroom is "cut smaller" when the extractor is doing it's job (it's on permanently) (also, always close the bathroom door so it's more efficient. With anything you have hand washed and the wet swimming suit items should be located closest to this extractor, NOT the line that was put in the shower, by a person who didn't know this dehumidyfier extractor's presence.
Nothing about soaking your hands in hand sanitizer liquid. Cruise ships that carry 3,000 passengers are happy if only 300 get gastro...... Now add to that Cov1d and you had better have an extra week after the cruise to recover before you go back to the office. (How many other bathrooms were wiped down with the same cloth before your bathroom? The fewer wipe cloths used, the greater their profits.
Cruises are the best form of travel ever!! You shouldn't use this video as a guide. This advice struck me as a little "obvious", even if you're in a hotel!!
GREAT information!! We follow all the rules and regulations you mentioned and have always had wonderful cruises. We did have a smoker on the balcony next to us on one cruise and when he flicked his ashes they came right over to OUR balcony. Some people just can't follow the rules! Go to the smoking location if you NEED to smoke. We reported him twice and they came and talked to him and he insisted he wasn't smoking! The third time they told him to leave at the next port.
lol…we haven’t done this but I think it’s funny that you said to not have loud arguments in your cabin or in the balcony. I’m wondering where the allowed place is to have the loud argument. 😂
You're on a holiday, you're supposed to be having fun. Do your arguing at home. Ask yourself If what you are arguing about, is really that important or worth ruining your and your partners or your family or friends cruise?
I haven't thought about there being one hidden back there, I've looked. I always bring an Euro adapter (And check that my power supply is compatible) as well as gaffer tape to secure it to the floor.
If you book a cabin on an MSC ship within the MSC Yacht Club, the beverages in the mini-bar are included in your cruise fare. Your butler will keep the fridge stocked with the beverage of your choice; just let him/her know on embarkation day.
Thank you for all the info, we were considering a cruise but its not for us after watching this.. Far too many rules to remember. Not relaxing at all, although I appreciate the fact its an easy way to glimpse different countries for a few hours.. We are more independent travellers I think. Best part of the holiday is using public transport for the day & getting "lost"... Eating in out of the way places and talking to the local people. Once again, thank you so much.
STAY SUPER ORGANIZED - It's a vacation, I get it. But be super organized with your stuff, it's a lot easier to find things, get ready for that excursion, get dressed to impress, and pack up the last day. I even folded my dirty laundry to use the ships laundry service, I got so much stuff in the bag they couldn't believe it.
On a cruise to Alaska, the attendant came in and took one of our robes without any explanation. We had 2 attendants, so we did not know what to say to the guys. We also had a booklet explaining where we were visiting removed by them. Upon leaving, we wrote this on the card but we never received any comment from the cruise line. Soured us on cruising. I would suggest that when you cruise, you find out where public restrooms are located. If someone has flushed something that stops up the system, you cannot use your own bathroom toilet. At 3:00 AM you need to know where the nearest bathroom is.
Served in the navy, never been on a cruise ship. I don't understand how anyone can have fun with 1000's of people crammed together on a boat? Hey, if anyone reading this thinks cruise ships are a fun experience, I'm happy for you. Me I don't understand it. Took many ferry rides from Belgium, to England, to Ireland. Hated every trip, even Guinness didn't help no matter how many I drank, couldn't wait to get off the damn things.
Too crowded. Can’t get a seat by pool because people hog them first thing in the morning. If someone gets an intestinal virus on the ship, it spreads quickly.
I worked on the Norwegian Cruise line and the crew never received any of the tips that are included in the bill. My monthly salary was $300 working 7 days a week for 16 hours, there are not even one day off during 8 month contract. Working on a cruise ship as a crew member is like being in hell.
Always tip in cash so they get their tips so uncheck that box and tip cash. If your at the bar and pay with a credit card still tip in cash. Usually tip the cabin attendant and the server at all three meals and you can slip something to the Maitre D and busboys if they have them on your cruise too.
Why don't you go to Korea or Japan and work on a vegetable farm.. they pay very well and give you room and board.. rather than do what you do for a little more money I would join the military.. I kind of sort of don't believe what you said but then again I can't say I do not believe it because I would have to walk a mile in your shoes before I I new for sure.. if you sign a contract and you were being treated unfairly fake throwing an epilepsy fit in the dining room and I'm sure they will let you out of your contract.. they might even pay you to leave..hehe..do you or anybody that worked under those conditions for that money have a UA-cam channel showing what it is like? Somehow working like that sounds illegal but I am not calling you a liar because I am familiar with Filipinos and their culture and their work and some of them work long hours for less than a $1 an hour with no tips or overtime pay..check out the Korean and Japanese farms for work.. I wish you well and if you did that I feel very sorry for you but in the long run it will make you a better person I think..
sounds like you agreed to what you got by signing a contract telling you exactly what you would be paid find a better paying more enjoyable job and be happy
@@le3045acp I got to give them credit because it’s better than being homeless and hungry and living on the street. I feel very fortunate that I learned several trades at a young age and also living in America. I made all the money I needed. We don’t have to look for to appreciate what we have.
Just returned from 7 day Caribbean on NCL Encore. Will always have a balcony from now on. It was fabulous! Used a lot of your room hacks and they all worked 😎
Fun, useful video! We tend to use ‘welcome’ rather than ‘make up cabin’ as we’re afraid of sounding like we’re giving orders! Is that us being terribly, terribly British?
This seems like a VALUABLE video for me. thanks! I am considering a cruise, second after many years. I am older and will not be tending children but still, there is a lot of advice and wisdom in your video - thanks! I will save link and revisit before we (wife and I) embark! All the best.
I had mine in the labeled bottles. It prevents any issues that might occur if someone ask about your medications beginning legally dispersed (pharmacy) or illegally purchased. I figured better safe than sorry. I also carried them wherever I went on the cruise. It prevents theft! Especially if you’re on any pain killers!!!
Planning a cruise? Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner. It's a 47 page cruise travel planner with packing checklists, shore excursion planning forms and much more! ($10 off for a limted time). Details here: lifewellcruised.com/ultimate-cruise-planner/
Hi there. I purchased this 47 page cruise planner. I thought it downloaded but am having trouble finding it in my files. Do you have a customer service person that I can talk to that might be able to help me?
@@tinac4178 thanks for your purchase & for letting me know. Please send me an email at lifewellcruised@gmail.com & I’ll make sure you get it and can download it to your computer or device:) ~ Ilana
@@tinac4178hi Tina, I’m following up. Can you please send me an email so I can help? I cannot message you here on UA-cam. Thanks, Ilana
@@LifeWellCruised is there a email address you can post. Sorry if I missed it.
@@tinac4178 hi Tina, I believe I sent you an email yesterday. In case it was someone else, my email is lifewellcruised@gmail.com ~ thanks
Great video, as always! Tip, look under the little piece of carpet/felt on the bottom of the safe. Last cruise we found a lovely gold chain and diamond pendant, along with a drivers license. We took them to guest services. There the manager came out , personally took a statement, and when finished told us that there was a couple that celebrated their 25th anniversary that had been on the last cruise in our cabin. They reported losing the necklace, and the lady was very upset. The ship sent us some chocolate dipped strawberries and also, a bottle of champagne. Honesty not only made us feel better but rewarded us too.
Aresome !
Very sweet of you! I would have done the same. If people would just put themselves in that position they would be alot more honest, humble, caring, etc. How would you feel if you had lost such a gift? I'd be devastated as I'm very sentimental. It could have been a dollar bubble gum ring and I'd treat it as a diamond bc it's the moment that counts for me you know. I'm glad the couple were able to get their property back, kudos to you. I guarantee the lady has thought about you turning in the necklace many times as she twirls it in her fingers. Good for you!!!! 😊
The couple should rewarded you also. Found a wallet in Vagas walked all the way to treasure Island.Turn it in gave them our stay place never hear from them. No thanks no nothing. Will make me think twice next time.
@chipcook6646 wow, so you only do nice things in life so you can be rewarded and praised?? That's kind of sad!
@@jeremy2992 no problem not going out of my way next time. If people cannot say thanks no need for me to go out of my way . I am busy also I have things to do. No need to chase anyone down because they lost something. Think about it‼️
Cruise ship safe: disembarkation day.
I read a tip which said when you're laying out your disembarkation day clothes, put a shoe in the safe. That way you'll remember to clear your safe when you find the missing shoe.
Top tip! I once left a full memory card in the safe and so have no photo memories of that trip (this was before cameras on phones were any good). Pretty much anything else would have been annoying but replaceable 😢.
Great tip.
Works like a charm. I do this all the time.
I was told to do this AFTER I left 3 diamond tennis bracelets and diamond earrings in a resort safe … ( realized a week after checkout) …
@@kathyd1010 And this is why I don't even own diamonds. Silver and semi-precious stones suit me fine.
I worked building maintenance in a hotel. Most of my job was dealing with guest issues, things like, stopped up toilets, burned out light bulbs, broken beds. I was surprised by the number of broken beds I had to fix. Fortunately they are pretty easy to fix).
One thing to keep in mind, if you need service in your room, take down the "do not disturb" sign.
If I had something in the room that needed to be done, I was not even allowed to knock.
It only happened a couple of times but if I saw a sign up I'd tell the front desk about the sign, then they would wait for the guest to call back, At that time they would tell them to take down the sign.
Both times the guest was understanding, so it wasn't a big deal.
Another fun fact, In the hotel we had a room that was next door to a machine space. Guests in the room always complained she to room was almost never booked, and when it was booked it was a much lower price (I think it was 75% discounted)
At the time I still knew ASL and when I saw a couple checking in, I saw they were signing to each other. I was able to help them check in and after learning they were both profoundly deaf, I told them about the "noisy room."
They very much liked the idea and they got that room. The front desk person asked if I had made that suggestion and she said it was brilliant. From then on they would tell deaf guests about the room and asked if they wanted it. Often (but not always) they did.
I even installed a "door bell" that would flash the lights in the room letting deaf guests know someone was at the door.
If you are deaf, ask if they have a cabin that generates complaints do to noise. Most of the time these rooms are offered at a greatly reduced price.
What a great idea on a possibly reduced room! My parents are Deaf, and they were noisy. Slamming cabinets, tv too loud ALL THE TIME, and let’s just say nights may be a little noisy too 😂
Yes! Thank you. I am very hard of hearing and it's a deteriorating condition so this may become useful.
@@rawilliams5881 As an amputee I know that a disability can, in some cases be taken advantage of.
In the long run a disability *IS* a disadvantage over all, so you should never feel bad about taking advantage when you can.
I even got a "I don't work here lady" with a very nice anti-Karen.
She was an older woman, I think she was Indian or from the Middle East. I was traveling home several years ago and as an amputee I get priority boarding.
The gate agent was trying to tell this lady that someone would be along to help her soon, but as she did not speak English she was not understanding.
The woman was clearly deeply distressed so as I was going that way anyway I offered to help.
This made her very happy. I stuck her in her seat then went to mine.
After takeoff when the flight attendant had a moment I asked her if I could have a few minutes to get the woman off the plane and she said she would.
We landed in Portland and I found a wheelchair in the jetway waiting, and so I sat the woman down and started pushing her to the TSA checkpoint. She was talking to me the entire time but she was calm and happy so I just assumed I was taking her the way she wanted to go, but I was a little worried what would happen if we got to the TSA check point and we did not find someone waiting for her?
But it worked out, we met her son, who was my age, and he spoke to her and became confused. The woman thought I had traveled to Portland just to help her. Our flight was getting to Portland very late (1am) and she was worried I had no place to stay.
She had been telling me about her grand daughter (who was 15, thinking she would make a good match for me. I was 45!)
But we had to tell her I was not working for the airline or the airport. I had a place to go (my home) and I helped her because it was what I would want someone to do for m y mother if she was in such a situation.
She was a very sweet lady, and I hope she was thinking I was much younger than I was. Trying to set me up with her grand daughter, and I think I might have been older than her son!
That's a great tip!
👌😊👍
I've never been on a cruise but I have traveled for Business and Pleasure. I keep my room clean. Whenever I leave, I put the do not disturb sign up. I hang my towels up and reuse them. When I leave I nicely fold dirty towels and bed sheets. If they are dry I leave them folded on the floor to the side of the door. If they are wet I leave them folded on the Tub or the toilet seat depending on how wet they are. When I leave, I make it as easy as possible for the housekeeping staff. They don't get paid nearly enough for the work they do.
Also during my stay, I always smile and I talk to the staff like I would talk to a friend. I've had hotel staff tell me I've been the nicest visitor they ever met.
No matter what restaurant I go to, in a hotel or outside a hotel. When I'm done, I neatly stack my dishes so they are easy for them to carry. Related to tipping. I've had staff tell me they can tell I'm from the US besides my American accident because I tip well. In Europe they don't get that often.
Don’t get at us Europeans. For us, tipping is something we do to show how much we’ve enjoyed something. It’s not something that’s done because it’s expected as in the US. It’s a CULTURAL DIFFERENCE. IT’S NOT BECAUSE WE’RE CHEAPSKEATES.
Sounds like the help should be tipping you for mzking their job so much easier.
@@sodorflubbs5000We don't tip in Australia at all. Unlike in US we just pay waiters decent wages.
So you brag in the comments about things that any polite and decent person would NORMALLY do? Noted. Keep your behavior to the same standard, don't forget tipping well, and, perhaps consider extending your courtesy to cleaning the dishes, not just stacking them👏
I don't do any job in a hotel or on a cruise ship. There are people employed to clean, wash dishes, etc. They get paid for it. I never give tip to anyone who are just doing their job. We don't do that in Europe.
Woke up to bad case of motion sickness. Our cabin boy advised getting an apple at morning buffet and eating it right away. Absolutely did the trick!! He got rightly tipped!!
I've heard that an apple works! I was told green apple though. Does it matter? Thanks for this tip 👍🏾🍏🍎
@@carolvonarx2616 next time buy a set of Sea Bands, get the kind with the plastic bead not with metal, as the metal type can irritate your skin. Available at your local major drug stores and of course you know where. They work immediately and they’re reusable/washable. 😃
you can also ask your doctor for a patch you pop behind your ear before you fly, cruise, get on a bus, etc. Lasts for three days and they work like a dream!
@@garrymckinnon4005 On my cruise last year I asked at reception for seasickness tablets, after getting caught out one day. Receptionist didn't have any to give out and recommended eating a green apple instead. Yes, it worked :) I understand it's to do with pectin, which is especially high in green apples.
Cabin boy? Room steward, please.
Some years ago I went on a cruise to Central America; at Guatemala stop I purchased a beautiful wool blanket from street vendor; upon returning to cabin, put blanket down on bed and found a flood of ticks suddenly scurrying everywhere off of blanket. Be careful what you buy.
Yikes!
That gives a whole new meaning of being ticked off
Ewwwww
More likely, bedbugs...
@@johnbrady1211 100% ticks
As a note, there is no such thing as a flushable wipe no matter what the package says. They destroy your sewer system.
And particularly a cruise ships system.
They are also horrible for the environment!
Good you raise this important issue Tracy. More accurately (but consciously misleadingly labelled by manufacturers) they ARE flushable in that they WILL flush, but are NOT biodegradable and so do, as you say, clog up municipal sewer systems and create a hazard. This is because they contain plastics - commonly polyester. The manufacturers rely on folk erroneously assuming that 'flushable'=OK for the environment. I'm honestly surprised that they still get away with it.
True
That is true.
On one cruise my husband checked the safe again when we disembarked.
We had used the safe all the time, but did not notice it at all: there was a ring in a corner - and it was not mine -
Quite nice, nothing of value. You could see right away that it is fashion jewelry. Nevertheless nice.
I wore it quite often already.
Had total strangers next door who liked to look around the balcony barriers and into our cabin. Not acceptable!
Omg
He's probably peeping Tom back home in his neighborhood 😅
I do that. Lol. Meet the neighbours.
Easier to introduce yourself though.. too bad they don't make privacy curtains.. especially for husband's and wives that would like to use that private space 😅😂
anyone who does that is a reprobate!
Thanks for posting. You’ve made it completely clear to me that cruising is NOT my thing.
I don't care for cruises. I find being on the ship so boring. But I like cruises because I can wake up in a new country every day! I love that part, only
To be fair, most of us haven’t seen this.
I wouldn't go on a cruise if it was free. Being an introvert, I can't imagine being trapped with no escape from people.
Sorta like the parochial grammar school I attended; NUN of THIS and NUN of THAT!
I could go on a two week cruise and NEVER stop at a port.
Great tips! I wish I had seen this before we went on our first cruise. My wife was on the balcony with the sliding door opened, and I walked out the front hall door. The wind was such a force that it pushed me into the hallway with my fingers on the knob which then slammed the tip of my finger in the door but not stuck. Fortunately, my finger was bruised but not broken. The wind tunnel effect is real.
*This is one of the best videos ever. NO stolen videos, stupid sound effects, fake laughs, stupid loud “music” or a narrator who loves to hear his own voice. DIRECT and TO THE POINT. CONGRATULATIONS!!!*
Agree. Probably explains the You Tube silver plaque in the background.
YES! I hate all that balony! Right to the point! Hitting Subscribe!
Congratulations! 👍😄 🎈 🍾 🎉 🎉
Why does your comment need to be in bold letters? Desperate for attention?
@@kerel866 Looks like people agree with me. It’s an award. And if it’s attention you crave - it got yours. 😉
Leave a shoe in the safe. That helps me to remember to check the safe. Nothing left behind. 👍
Providing they are the shoes you want to wear on the day you leave! 😂😂
@stellamariayates3776 That goes without saying 🙃😉
On disembarkation day, we always take a final run through of every space, drawer, nook and cranny. First I go and then my husband goes. We actually almost left a drawer full of clothes once. 🤦🏼♀️ Luckily we had a tote bag that we could jam all the items in. Also, we never put things loosely in the safe. I always bring a ziplock bag and everything goes in there. I’m talking about passports, wallet, money and jewelry holder for jewelry. Everything goes in the bag. We also add our address on the outside, just in case.
yep, i also always double check everything before leaving the room, once my mom and me both forgot the keys to our flats in a hotel safe and only noticed it when we were already back home. thankfully we both had spare keys at other peoples places, because usually she has my spare key and i got hers and that would have been expensive and annoying to deal with, especially after a long day of travelling 🤦🏻♀️
using a bag for the stuff you put in the safe is a great tip to not accidentally miss something when you grab your things, i'll definitely do that next time!
And look on the back of bathroom door
I will add one more thing, if I may:
I have never been on a cruise. I am here because my wife and I are considering it. But I am an old US Navy Sailor, so I have been to sea...a LOT! Understand that they are not just being jerks about the small appliances, power strips and open flames. What they are doing there is being meticulous about fire hazards.
Fire at sea is quite different from fire on land. At sea, there is no fire department to call. As a Navy Sailor, you ARE the fire department. Therefore EVERYONE is trained in firefighting. Unless you want to take firefighting training before you go on your vacation, just listen to them on this stuff. These seemingly goofy rules are in place for a reason.
Remember, even though those cruise ships are beautiful resorts...they are still the only thing between you and the sharks, just like an old grey Destroyer.
Well said.
Well said. Out there you are the firefighter, medic, etc
I was a nurse on a cruise ship, as well as personally sailing all my life. I don't believe the average person understands just how vulnerable any ship is to fire and how fast it can be overtaken with flames and smoke. Nowhere to go at all. May I suggest you take that cruise? They can be wonderful, just make sure it's geared to your taste. Some of them have so many children onboard it can take away some of the enjoyment, (and silence).
I’m retired Navy and have 15 years with Military Sealift Command (MSC - civil service Merchant Mariner) and I have a lot of sea time as well and agree 💯 with everything you said.
Like the Navy, all the officers and crew of the cruise ships (all commercial ships as well) are similarly trained in fire fighting, damage control, and first aid. They have a mandatory recertification every five years or they can’t work on ships; this is an international mandated requirement for all cruise, cargo, tanker, and in my case civilian manned naval fleet auxiliary ships.
The Navy and MSC have the advantage over these other ships when they have to suit up and go on air to fight fires because we have more air bottles than we need and have the ability to refill those bottles 24/7. Those other ships only have the bare minimum air bottles which includes the ability to change out one time and they’re done! Because they don’t have bottle recharge capability. Basically, worse case scenario, they have to get that fire under control, out, overhauled, and reflash watch set in half an hour or everyone heads to their abandon ship station to their lifeboat. Fortunately very rarely has a commercial shipboard fire gotten to this extreme. Your room steward is part of that fire fighting, damage control, and emergency response team/fire department as well, so help is never far away.
First, thank you for your service.
I’d a dear friend who perished on a ship many years ago due to a fire and been trapped below decks.
Poo pouri was the best thing to have! I spray it before poop and once done to just help with the general toilet smell! I also used the tree car air fresheners, I hung a few in the room with magnets. Worked wonderfully.
Odoban is a wonderful spray that removes so many odours. Sometimes the funky smell isn’t from your cabin and a few spritzs in the vents can really help.
As I think about going on my First cruise in February, My thoughts go to people may think they are entitled to being first in line . Your supposed to be on vacation keep the stress level down and enjoy yourself.
Rule: Don’t let your kids run up and down the hallway! We had that happen on a NCL cruise to Alaska. These kids were out ‘playing’ until almost 11pm on multiple occasions. These kids also had a romper room going on in the cabin next to us. It was awful.
This is something I would expect in a Disney cruise.
Kids will ruin your life. Just say no.
I totally agree. Some people do not have kids and don’t appreciate parents who allow their kids running out of control down the halls. I have had this happen in hotels. I ask the parents to control their children and if does not happen management is called. I had one hotel move me to a different floor because the parents did not control their children. I myself have children but I never allowed my children to do that.
Go on an adults only cruise, problem solved ! @conniepfannerstill817
We add that happen also last year
The best thing I brought on my recent cruise were those magnetic hooks. I was able to hang up my hat, lanyard, damp (not dripping wet) bathing suit, etc. Kept things convenient and neat. Celebrity Equinox doesn't have a line in the shower, so the hooks became necessary.
Lol, I used magnet hooks on my last 2 cruises and have forgotten to bring them home.😅
I love mine. Best thing I ever brought!
we stuck them on the ceiling and hung our wet clothes on hangers on them. They are brilliant
Great advice once again!! Thanks! Reference smoking POT on cruise ship. We took 2 cruises in 2024. The 2nd cruise when we got in our cabin around 1pm, we smelt a strong smell of POT, both in the hallway & on the balcony. I knew we didn't need to notify anybody because of how bad it was, everyone knew. An hour later there were dirty dishes outside the door of the cabin next to us. Then at 5pm, the ship sailed and we didn't smell anymore POT. The next morning a new group of passengers were moving into the room next door to so, they said they had a problem with their room and this room just happened to become available.... aka they got kicked off the ship!! lol
Think I’ll just rent a Cottage in Scotland again !!!!!
100%
Much better
Oh, that sounds wonderful!
I got a cruise etiquette one: please turn your balcony light off if you’re not on the balcony. The last cruise our neighbor left their balcony light on all night so we couldn’t enjoy the night and its darkness
This is almost as bad as smokers.
They might have kids that are scared of the big dark ocean..
@@amechellec90... and who should care?
@sonjagatto9981 haha nobody but if my kid is scared I certainly won't be turning off my light for you 😂
@@amechellec90 having kids who are afraid of the dark ocean is a valid concern. But, there's a middle ground here. A small nightlight in the room can be comforting without keeping the balcony light on. This way everyone gets to enjoy their experience, right?
Please share with parents who come with small children there are other passengers onboard. Parents normally ignore their screaming kids or when they’re running/talking in the cabin area. Running can be heard all the way into the balcony outside. Hold your kids by the hand, the cabin area is not the park. If your kids are screaming in the main dining room REMOVE THEM IMMEDIATELY, bring them back when they are calm, or order room service. The buffet is a great option and noise is abundant there.
Don't tell me how to raise my kids.
@@Ortzmetstop allowing them to run around high on sugar screaming like banshees and we won't.
Or you just pay to go on an adult only cruise. Don’t make kids and family’s suffer because of what you want!!! Kids are allowed to go on some cruise ships so if you don’t like them don’t go on the cruises 👍🏻👍🏻
@@Ortzmet that’s the problem, you haven’t been doing a good job.
@@helenalovelock1030 why are kids making others suffer? Nobody pays to go on a vacation to hear your kids go wild. Leave those kids at grandma’s house!!
I have been on many cruises. I bring clothes pins. If I have to wash socks or something small, I use the back of balcony chair tp hang using 2 or more clothes pins with the backs of chairs facing in. Been cruising 2 to 3 times a year since Christmas 1993 never a problem. My husband would bring his laptop and battery charger for it, along with a power strip.
The best cruise was our Alaska cruise, went late July, early August. The helicopter tour was by far the greatest experience.
The airport allowed me to bring on a 3 spot outlet. She asked was I on a sleep apnea machine I told her no but I do have an internal stimulator in my back. The approved me to go through. But it must be in your luggage and not carry on!
I ( not always but when I could remember to ), tipped the housekeeping staff whether it was a motel or a cruise ship. It wasn't alot but it was a friendly gesture and one they appreciated.
There's rules for safety reasons. And to keep things from getting so chaotic. I appreciate them
Ilana, One way I heard, to not forget to clear out your safe, is to put one shoe in it. It reminds you to look for it.
# 2. Regarding putting the do not disturb sign on the door. If you leave it on, for say 24 hours or more, the cabin steward will call security to check that everything is alright.
#3. If you need to talk to the cabin steward, before you depart the ship, do not walk ihto another cabin they are cleaning. I was told by the cabin steward they are not allowed to let you to even peek in. You have to wait until they are in the passageway
Defiantly be friendly with your cabin host. You never know if you get locked out the last night of the cruise when putting your luggage out to be picked up. Yes, this happened to me & luckily our host was doing his night route and was 2 cabins down from me.
lol relatable
Definitely!
@@SciTrekMan Most definitely, lol.
Had an embarrassing moment in a hotel locking myself out of the room wearing only a towel, as I stepped out of the lift in reception the doors closed behind me trapping the towel, I was then naked in reception.
Binoculars - I brought my own as I know they are really good. My kids enjoyed using them at sea and was fun to look at other ships and land objects. If you have a balcony, bring them! Interior, it depends on the destinations.
Twenty years in the Navy and 15 years in the Merchant Marines and not once have I ever thought taking a cruise is something I want to do on vacation, I did it as a job and enjoy sitting on my porch or balcony drinking a cup of coffee or simply enjoying the view; I’m done with the sea.
I guess sir, you've seen every shape and shade of the sea....
🌀 🚢 🌞
Greetings from Norway 👩🦳🇳🇴
If there's beverages in your room are not included then there should be a sign that tells you that. And it's silly that they would put water on the counter and then charge you for it
Learn to read. Its also pretty similarly me to ask
Get a life@@eileenmcdonald1599
Another tip regarding the bathroom in your stateroom. Always close the bathroom door when using the shower, particularly if taking a hot shower! The steam can quickly fill the room and you will end up with water running down the walls and I have even heard that excessive steam with set off fire/moisture alarms.
That's why you take very fast showers!
Or it will trigger the room fire alarm.
Ugh! I have low blood pressure and like hot showers. If I don't leave the door open, I will pass out! Another reason I will never go on a cruise.
On carnival, as you said intimate moment. No knock, just walked in. Not one time, not twice, yes 3 times. We had the do not disturb sign on the door.
Getting their "jollies"?
That's what happens when the company hires workers straight from the village.
I put a door stopper or something to block people from coming in. Make sure it's something that doesn't damage the door, though.
I just ignore them and stay the course!
this doesn't sound very safe to me.
Make sure you ALWAYS push hard on your cabin door to make sure it's 100% closed! Even if you think it's all the way closed double-check! On our last night of the cruise some teens were wandering the halls looking for some last minute fun and ended up pushing on and completely opening our door while we slept. It terrified us, they took off running and laughing, and we had to call security. We had checked the door earlier and it was closed and flush with the wall so we thought it was good but it needed one last push because the latch hadn't engaged fully so anybody walking by would only have to give a small push and the door would open.
Yikes. What jerks! Would freak me out too!
@kens805 I usually do but I had gone to bed early and my roommate was still out. She came back later and forgot to secure it.
Sitting on the balcony after putting kids to bed is ok. Put a privacy note on door and enjoy the balcony.
@@josephmccord4511 You are aware, that there is a lock on that door, that can only be used from the inside? It depends on how dependable the children are, but this might be a recipe for desaster.
Most cruise lines have a cloths line in the shower. Was on a cruise ship that had a view of the lifeboat woke up in skimpy pajamas and saw maintenance on board and almost died. Yea peek out your window before opening curtains. LOL
Probably made their day!
Here's one suggestion that may seem dumb but it's just being helpful to the staff of the ship. If something isn't right or if something isn't operating properly tell your steward. On our cruise last month, the shower drain was slow and I realized that if the steward wasn't informed then it may never get fixed properly before someone causes a big mess.
Also, look everywhere on the night before disembarkation. Our beds were open underneath and things can get hidden under them, in the bed covers, or behind life jackets, behind the shelving...etc. It's really easy to forget something that last day when a lot is going on.
The last “cruise” I was on was on an aircraft carrier.
All these pretty much apply on navy ships as well.
Should be 2nd nature to me.
Thank you for your service!
🎉🎉yes Thank you !!
I have been over 3 years on ships, so I don't think here was anything new. Just common sence
At All Inclusives, I always do a 2 Minute Tidy, prior to leaving my room, so that it is easier for the room attendant to mop floors, wipe counters, etc... I am a neatnik anyways, and my clothes are always in the closet or drawers anyways... dirty laundry is in my dirty laundry bag, in my suitcase, etc. Remember that sometimes, the attendants are not allowed to touch personal belongings...so they won't be able to do a super nice job of cleaning your room or mopping your floor if there is stuff everywhere...
we didnt get our special treats delivered one day for our splash of romance package on our virgin voyages cruise, so i rang guest services to see where they were, when the cabin steward bought them for us she explained that she had been previously, but we had pressed the do not disturb button by accident thus her not dropping them off. so i apoligised to her and thanked her for coming again with them :)
Thank you. Have not planned to ever “cruise” u have just made it now even easier. No worries greatful for this service and commitments
1. Bring a battery operated night light or flashlight. Someone in our cabin had many night time bathroom visits and the lights kept waking other cabin mates.
2. Put a shoe or wadded up towel or paper between the door hinges or door jamb to the bathroom, because sometimes the door swings shut (the boat might swing) and that door will slam and wake cabin mates and neighbors.
3. If you forgot some OTC medications, or need seasick pills, or need additional supplies like feminine hygiene supplies (menstrual), or even adult depends incontinence supplies, ask your room attendant. Or go to the purser’s desk, or the onboard medical clinic. They probably have some, and they will charge your room. Of course the port you stop at might have a pharmacy to purchase.
4. If you ask, they may have a guest laundry, where you can use to wash dirty laundry and dry some wet things like your swimsuit.
5. Bring several plastic bags. Put your dirty laundry and wet bathing suit in those. Assuming you don’t want to use their laundry machines.
6. Bring a few sandwich ziplock bags. You can take cookie or something portable back to your cabin for some late night snacking. We eat too much during meals, but all I wanted at night was some dry cereal or crackers, tbh.
7. Bring a useable travel coffee mug. You can fill it either a hot or cold drink or water at the ship’s cafeteria. I like to stay hydrated, and a good hot drink without going to the bar or Lido Deck is good.
8. Bring Vaseline or lip balm with sunscreen, because your lips will get very chapped. You are surrounded by salt water which will dry your lips very badly. And the sea is like a magnifying glass, will burn easily.
9. Take skin moisturizer for that same reason, and hopefully something with sunscreen.
10. Don’t leave the ship’s itinerary in your cabin. You need your refer to it all day. If you want keep the old one as a memento, put it in your luggage so the room attendant won’t throw it out. (I put it on the dresser, and they threw it out).
11. Even though there is a room attendant, hang up or pack up your clothes and put your shoes and miscellaneous things neatly in the closet. Try to smooth out the bed a bit. Pile the wet and used towels in a pile in the bathroom. Throw your trash in the designated trash receptacle. Those room attendants have many rooms to clean, and make it easier for them.
12. On debark or port day, don’t leave with either fresh fruit or vegetable. Because the port authority requires no fruit (or vegetable) enter the port, to avoid bug.
Some good useful tips here thanks 👍
For the towels, I lay out the biggest one on the floor and pile the smaller ones on top. Makes picking the whole thing up much easier.
Most of these can also be applied to hotel rooms. I've heard that the favorite pastime for the cruise ship workers is to make fun, tell stories, and just talk about the customers Good video
They must have stories to tell.
RCL, balcony cabin, I got the laugh of my life and so did half the bridge crew. The wind doubled in a matter of hours so I went back into my cabin. As I'm closing the sliding door my one of my chairs takes flight and is gone. I looked over the rail then up toward the wing of the bridge. 5 officers are laughing and pointing. Looked aft, there went another chair and a table. I talked to one of the Officers that night. Grand total 68 chairs and 43 tables in 35 minutes.
Oh my!!
My first cruise we got caught in 2 hurricanes. On the way out, we ran into the winds of the hurricane and the wind was so strong that a bunch of us were all holding onto each other and none of us could walk to the front of the ship. It was impossible! It was kinda fun.
On the way back, we were stuck out at sea for an extra 24 hours. Missed my flight. It was a mess!
How much did they charge you for the chair? Thanks 👍
You dropped 68 chairs into the sea?
🤣
So funny you posted this! I’m on Celebrity Silhouette right now and our neighbors have been smoking on the balcony. 🙄 Security has been there multiple times, but it certainly is frustrating to continue to smell smoke while we are trying to enjoy our holiday! However, it isn’t ruining our cruise, but certainly inconsiderate (and dangerous!!!).
Celebrity should kick them out at the next port.
@debratrani8583 - yes I agreed
That’s awful!
Why isn't the cruiseline being more proactive in stopping this?
@@donnaschuepbach3830 We received an update:
First offense is a warning; second is another warning and a fine; third is removal from the ship.
They received a fine.
Sticky tak can leave oily stains on wallpaper and surfaces, as well.
Book your cruise while kids are in school, there will be far fewer kids aboard. Eat only in the dining room, avoid the feeding trough they call a buffet. I often would go get a coffee and tea and a couple of breakfast sandwiches (from the snack bar and coffee shop) and bring them back to our room to have breakfast on the balcony with my wife.
Speaking of the balcony I highly recommended to get one. It is where I spent most of my time, on a cruise, away from other people. For those times when you leave your cabin please comb your hair and wash your face, put on decent clothes, so others don't have to look at a slob.
And please don’t use profanity. Contrary to what you might think, real grown ups converse without using swear words.
.
I loved the delicate way you handled the topic of not doing things on your balcony. Also putting a posty note on the safe, or setting an alarm reminder on your phone to check the safe before disembarking the ship would be a good way to remember to check that safe.
Problem is staff all know the master code, so if possible change the code or use ships safe.
If possible put a post it note to check the safe on your stateroom door handle the night before disembarking day.
I've never been on a cruise, but I would think couples might want to become intimate on the balcony. Why the cameras?
@@clydekimsey7503 My guess would be for surveillance just in case somebody happens to fall overboard.
@@clydekimsey7503 A balcony on a ship isn't anymore private than one on a hotel room.
Re the mini-bar: This policy differs from one line to another. On Viking Ocean, the mini-bar contents are included. If you have a mid to upper tier cabin (penthouse veranda or above), the mini-bar will be replenished daily, or even more often if you ask your cabin steward.
I was going to make a similar comment because my most recent cruise was on Viking and we had free use of the mini bar. We only drink diet sodas, so our cabin attendant even swapped out the sugar Cokes for us!
Just one of the many reasons that we LOVE Viking! On our last Viking cruise, they announced that over 70% of the cruisers on board were repeats. Two ladies were recognized for having been on over 24 Viking cruises. First class service, excursions are included, mini-fridge replenished daily (Standard Veranda cabin), twice daily room cleaning, no extra fees (except for mixed or specialty drinks, unlimited wine and soft drinks included with meals, outstanding dining selections,…. We’ve booked another 2-week Viking cruise for next Spring.
We went on a SilverSea cruise last year. Everything, alcoholic and non-alcoholic, was included. The room steward would replenish anything that had been used.
We have been on 2 Viking cruises, and the minibar is included. Our cabin steward both cruises swapped out sodas and alcohol for diet sodas and sparkling water.
The people at Guest Services have all been wonderful.
TIPS - I watch Ilana's video on tipping and brought extra cash to tip at the end of an 8-night cruise. Gave our attendant a C-note and our two waiters $50 each, they loved it. ALSO, I BROUGHT ten Advent calendars for the crew and emphasized these are for the people we don't see. My attendant left them in the Crew mess for all to take and they were really appreciative and happy.
That's great but how about giving it before the cruise starts? You can be pretty sure of outstanding service then.
thats so lovely and kind of you! i bet they absoloutley loved that 😊
An advent calendar? Why?
This is why i keep my Feet firmly planted on the shore. Plus as a Gulf War Veteran i have severe PTSD and don't do well in Crowds .
7:19 this is true, I went on a cruise last year, the cabin attendant was really nice and even put effort into learning and remembering my family’s names
Years ago I was staying at a Sheraton and took a shower, my kids turned on a movie and I got charged $15 for watching 15 min. Next year I told them I didn’t want any charges tv or mini bar, I had put a coke in that frig and they charged me 5 bucks for my coke. I’ve had bad feelings about Sheraton ever since and won’t stay there ever again.
Agree, Hilton pulls same cheap tricks. Both chains on my 👎🏼 list
If you bring your own food and drinks, fill the ice bucket and put your things there. Write a note and put “Guest brought these.”
Check your bill thoroughly before you check out. On a cruise, you can get your bill throughout the cruise, to nip it early. Always bring your own water!
Many hotels nowadays charge the customer as soon as you open the refrigerator door, even though you don't take anything, you just look. So nowadays I don't even bother to look
I’m sure they love me, but if my stay is more than one night, I request that my refrigerator be emptied so that I can use it for my own purposes.
When checking to may sure the safe is empty is also lift the little liner that is in there to make sure nothing slipped underneath it.
Keep all your stuff in a zip loc with your name in it in the safe.
Very informative video Ilana. Most are very obvious. We both use CPAPs so we always ask for an extension cord ahead of time. The cabin attendant has always supplied one. We bought some non surge protected extension cords you recommended. They were very helpful.
Most times people sitting on their balconies speak in a quiet respectful tone though we have heard some rather offensive language being used by people nearby. Be respectful of your fellow passengers and avoid bad language while in your balcony.
Happy cruising Ilana!
Thanks for sharing & for your kind words!
Great tip of watching your language.
There are unfortunately some people who simply don't have class.
Class has nothing to do with age or income.
It has all to do with how you were raised.
Yes, we've had that happen, too. :/
I have always tipped my cabin attendant separately as they are a daily convenience and a tremendous source of information.
Thank you for the updates straight to the point; The lack of : common sense, responsibility, and not able to follow simple rules; please do not attempt to cruise ; thank you for staying behind 😂 as for me I really enjoy cruising the flexibility of having everything to my dispose to have fun is priceless. Those who can do it ENJOY it, the ones that can’t or don’t want too, just applaud.
About the vaping. This surprised me because during game shows and activities, groups of people were vaping right in front of everyone and crew and not one word was said.
Thank you for your presentation. You re-enforce my disinterest in ever taking a cruise.
If you have paid for any level of drinks packages, the beverages in the fridge should be free and included. The cruise lines have to stop nickel and diming their frequent guests.
Walkie-talkies are quite often used when you stop at a port and wander around needing to keep in touch with other members of your partner y, especially your older kids or senior parents.in many places your cell phone won't work without paying for a phone for each port. Have a secure area to check your radios at boarding and back out when debarking at a port, like checking your gun at the door when going into a barin the 1800s.
Our cabin attendants are Indonesian, and us as Indonesians often brings a lot of traditional Indonesian snacks. Well, we told them to take the snacks we put in the room, and feel free to enter our room to clean it. Well, they did took the snacks we put in a bag for them and our rooms are always stocked with complimentary mineral water, coffee, toiletries, and fresh towels for the rest of our cruise. They are paid well, but a lot of them really felt homesick, and traditional snacks from home could remedy that in a way. Really being nice towards the room attendants could really made a trip or stays felt that bit better.
I double and triple check my cabin when I'm packing up the day before disembarkation. Don't want to lose anything!
Yeah, I left my pjs on our last cruise. Had to find a Walmart when I got off and discovered my loss.
Yes always do a thorough search of your cabin the last night of your cruise. The only things that you need to leave out of your luggage the last night is your clothes for the next day, medication, and toiletries.Re-pack your suitcase and have them ready to go in the morning. Since it is your last night and after you come back to your cabin for the rest of the night empty the safe.
Several years ago we had another ship docked next to us. As I was standing on my balcony to watch pier runners, there was a couple getting busy in their cabin across the way. Pretty sure the curtains were left open on purpose.
sorry, I hope you enjoyed. I had a few drinks, and like to show off.
@@Rob-dp3vrDon't worry, we didn't see anything. We would have needed a telescope and magnifying glass in order to do so
🤣🤣🤣@@M_Ladd
@@Rob-dp3vr🤣🤣
I dry wet clothes on my balcony by using towel clips on the balcony chairs. It was one of your suggestions from a few years ago. Such a great suggestion.
That's what I did on my last cruise; I haven't seen that video, but it just made sense to me. I kept the chair back turned to the inside so it couldn't slip from the clip and fly off! But our bathing suits were just not drying at all in the cabin.
We did the same thing on our two week repositioning cruise to the Caribbean. We snorkeled at several stops and had wet, sandy snorkel gear to dry. We also had soggy shorts, shirts and swimsuits that needed to dry. I brought a bag of strong clips as well as standard clothes pins and never had a problem. And we NEVER hung anything on the balcony railing.
Some pieces of clothing just need fresh air to dry properly.
Has to make you wonder about the fine coating of moister from the previous passengers coating every wall and surface in your cabin. Legionnaires' disease anyone? (remember, what happens in internation waters does always have to be reported....) @@sjisom8438
Never seen towel clips, did you use metal clamps or buy them?
I like the way you look after your audience. Thanks for the advice!
We are two wrinkles going on our first cruise in April and found this most useful. Most of it common sense, but good to have it reinforced. Will watch the others as they come up Appreciate your time and efforts. Thx from Qld, Aus.
Don't go jogging early in the morning on the promenade. Someone is trying to sleep in the cabins right under your banging feet. They have signs saying not to do this before a certain time, obey the signs. If you like to exercise early, go to the ship's gym and use the treadmills.
Going on a cruise sounds like hell to me.
I’ve been on five cruises and have never seen hours posted on promenade restricting exercise.
Jog all you want. Wear earplugs if you’re worried about beauty sleep. Every room will have some noise.
I recently went on one and did feel it was hell I like going on a place called uncruise which doesn't have the gambling the stupid game shows the failed Vegas singers and that was fine but I did not enjoy the Princess Cruise gimmicks @@dlcarbonneau3750
Thank you for your insight. As a past frequent cruise enthusiast, We don’t cruise any longer. The prices have gone ridiculous, mandatory tipping, general cruise problems have taken the fun out of cruising.
I’m sorry to hear, I hope things adjust
@@ctlt-pg4tm - Sounds like you have not grown up. Insulting people you don't know.
@@LifeWellCruisedhi a question can we blow dry hair in the room itself ? Do I need a certain plug
@@lisagardner4814 yes you’ll be fine
Sounds a lot like flying 😂
First thing we do after unpacking...ask cabin attendant to empty the mini fridge 😊
Great tip!
Yes i just did this last month on the Beyond..I gave her a list and one of the items was remove everything from the mini bar
I'll be doing exactly that too.
On a Celebrity cruise, I was looking under the bed for something I dropped, and found where the mini fridge contents go….into a trash bag under the bed.
@@truepeacenik😱 no way. Why waste all that?! 😢
Never wanted to take a cruise and this video reinforces that!
Weird…then why are you watching waited for hours?
@@LYoung5525 sometimes you need more information to learn whether something is right or wrong for you. This person learned they were right about their preferences after watching this video. End of story.
I did one, I really enjoyed it. If I had the money I'd go again.
Thanks! Another great video!
Thanks very much for your kind words & generosity 😊
I like to remove my items from the safe the night before debarking. I place them in my carry on.
Ilana, you mentioned that "bathrooms are small and NOT ventilated".... actually this is not so. The humidity in bathrooms would be horrible if ships didn't have a VERY powerful, something that worked getting humidity OUT. This can be found in your video from 12:44 to 12:49. Right on top of the two large white towels is the 5" diameter "humidity extractor" (oftentimes they are on the ceiling of the shower (for obvious reasons). In the case of your bathroom, I suspect that the person designing the extractor, was not the same as the one that decided to partly block this extractor with the large towels in front of it. I always take these towels and put them elsewhere so the round extractor can do it's job, AND close whatever closes the shower so that the bathroom is "cut smaller" when the extractor is doing it's job (it's on permanently) (also, always close the bathroom door so it's more efficient. With anything you have hand washed and the wet swimming suit items should be located closest to this extractor, NOT the line that was put in the shower, by a person who didn't know this dehumidyfier extractor's presence.
This reinforced our never going on a cruise.
Same...👎🏼
I want to but I CCW and wont go.
@@ips7125yeah you can leave your gun home to go on a cruise my husband did. Gese.
Nothing about soaking your hands in hand sanitizer liquid. Cruise ships that carry 3,000 passengers are happy if only 300 get gastro...... Now add to that Cov1d and you had better have an extra week after the cruise to recover before you go back to the office. (How many other bathrooms were wiped down with the same cloth before your bathroom? The fewer wipe cloths used, the greater their profits.
Cruises are the best form of travel ever!! You shouldn't use this video as a guide. This advice struck me as a little "obvious", even if you're in a hotel!!
Amazing how many of these things have to do with the balcony and trying to get high.
GREAT information!! We follow all the rules and regulations you mentioned and have always had wonderful cruises. We did have a smoker on the balcony next to us on one cruise and when he flicked his ashes they came right over to OUR balcony. Some people just can't follow the rules! Go to the smoking location if you NEED to smoke. We reported him twice and they came and talked to him and he insisted he wasn't smoking! The third time they told him to leave at the next port.
I wish MSC would enforce the smoking in the balcony. They say no smoking on the balcony and lots do. 3:08
lol…we haven’t done this but I think it’s funny that you said to not have loud arguments in your cabin or in the balcony. I’m wondering where the allowed place is to have the loud argument. 😂
lol, it’s not easy 😂
Home
You're on a holiday, you're supposed to be having fun. Do your arguing at home. Ask yourself If what you are arguing about, is really that important or worth ruining your and your partners or your family or friends cruise?
At the bar, where everybody argues.
Overboard
Depending on your ship, you could use an EU plug adapter for a plug behind your bed if you have a cpap to avoid trip hazards.
I haven't thought about there being one hidden back there, I've looked. I always bring an Euro adapter (And check that my power supply is compatible) as well as gaffer tape to secure it to the floor.
Cabin crew removed a sleeping child without checking if parents were on the balcony first? Malicious.
really good video, great for newbies and great reminders for us salty old cruisers. thanks,
If you book a cabin on an MSC ship within the MSC Yacht Club, the beverages in the mini-bar are included in your cruise fare. Your butler will keep the fridge stocked with the beverage of your choice; just let him/her know on embarkation day.
SilverSea does this as well.
I've had more than one run in with next door balconies playing loud music and loud obnoxious talking and leaving their balcony light on all night.
I’ve asked my cabin attendant to shut off the lights on my neighbors balcony.
@@Masterchief68 at night? How's that without entering the occupied cabin?
No, when I see them in the passageway or when they’re cleaning my room.
I never have been much into cruise. Now I'm definitely keeping my feet on land. Thank you so much for the invaluable information.
Thank you for all the info, we were considering a cruise but its not for us after watching this.. Far too many rules to remember. Not relaxing at all, although I appreciate the fact its an easy way to glimpse different countries for a few hours.. We are more independent travellers I think. Best part of the holiday is using public transport for the day & getting "lost"... Eating in out of the way places and talking to the local people. Once again, thank you so much.
And don't forget to give your attendant tips! They'll appreciate you.
STAY SUPER ORGANIZED - It's a vacation, I get it. But be super organized with your stuff, it's a lot easier to find things, get ready for that excursion, get dressed to impress, and pack up the last day. I even folded my dirty laundry to use the ships laundry service, I got so much stuff in the bag they couldn't believe it.
Other than those things... "Have a fun Cruise"😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
It's like spending your vacation in a bad neighborhood.
Great video…. All just commonsense which some people can’t fathom…. love cruising 👍
common sense is a thing of the past just look at our government
Really appreciate your tips. Will be sailing Rome to Athens in Sept, Would be grateful for your advice.
On a cruise to Alaska, the attendant came in and took one of our robes without any explanation. We had 2 attendants, so we did not know what to say to the guys. We also had a booklet explaining where we were visiting removed by them. Upon leaving, we wrote this on the card but we never received any comment from the cruise line. Soured us on cruising.
I would suggest that when you cruise, you find out where public restrooms are located. If someone has flushed something that stops up the system, you cannot use your own bathroom toilet. At 3:00 AM you need to know where the nearest bathroom is.
You should’ve asked them directly or talk to their supervisor who is usually the purser.
Yiked
Served in the navy, never been on a cruise ship. I don't understand how anyone can have fun with 1000's of people crammed together on a boat? Hey, if anyone reading this thinks cruise ships are a fun experience, I'm happy for you. Me I don't understand it. Took many ferry rides from Belgium, to England, to Ireland. Hated every trip, even Guinness didn't help no matter how many I drank, couldn't wait to get off the damn things.
Extroverts, that's who.
I agree and I was never in the Navy!
No one is crammed. Except at meal times and the theatre, there is plenty of room for solitude.
Too crowded. Can’t get a seat by pool because people hog them first thing in the morning. If someone gets an intestinal virus on the ship, it spreads quickly.
Thank you for your service!!
I worked on the Norwegian Cruise line and the crew never received any of the tips that are included in the bill. My monthly salary was $300 working 7 days a week for 16 hours, there are not even one day off during 8 month contract. Working on a cruise ship as a crew member is like being in hell.
Always tip in cash so they get their tips so uncheck that box and tip cash. If your at the bar and pay with a credit card still tip in cash. Usually tip the cabin attendant and the server at all three meals and you can slip something to the Maitre D and busboys if they have them on your cruise too.
Why don't you go to Korea or Japan and work on a vegetable farm.. they pay very well and give you room and board.. rather than do what you do for a little more money I would join the military.. I kind of sort of don't believe what you said but then again I can't say I do not believe it because I would have to walk a mile in your shoes before I I new for sure.. if you sign a contract and you were being treated unfairly fake throwing an epilepsy fit in the dining room and I'm sure they will let you out of your contract.. they might even pay you to leave..hehe..do you or anybody that worked under those conditions for that money have a UA-cam channel showing what it is like? Somehow working like that sounds illegal but I am not calling you a liar because I am familiar with Filipinos and their culture and their work and some of them work long hours for less than a $1 an hour with no tips or overtime pay..check out the Korean and Japanese farms for work.. I wish you well and if you did that I feel very sorry for you but in the long run it will make you a better person I think..
sounds like you agreed to what you got by signing a contract telling you exactly what you would be paid find a better paying more enjoyable job and be happy
@@le3045acp I got to give them credit because it’s better than being homeless and hungry and living on the street. I feel very fortunate that I learned several trades at a young age and also living in America. I made all the money I needed. We don’t have to look for to appreciate what we have.
Where do the tips go? That's not right!?
100% Agree! I wish other cruisers would follow your advice!
Thanks!
Thanks so much! I appreciate your generosity & support ☺️
Just returned from 7 day Caribbean on NCL Encore. Will always have a balcony from now on. It was fabulous! Used a lot of your room hacks and they all worked 😎
Fun, useful video! We tend to use ‘welcome’ rather than ‘make up cabin’ as we’re afraid of sounding like we’re giving orders! Is that us being terribly, terribly British?
Seeing someone try to fish off a cruise balcony would we hilarious..😂
Been done many times - it’s against cruise ship rules
They're lucky they didn't catch a big Marlin or Tuna. Maybe there would have only been a flip flop to remember them by.
You might be a redneck if…. 😂
It happens 😂
What will he do with the fish if he catches one?
This seems like a VALUABLE video for me. thanks! I am considering a cruise, second after many years. I am older and will not be tending children but still, there is a lot of advice and wisdom in your video - thanks! I will save link and revisit before we (wife and I) embark! All the best.
What about your daily medications? Is it alright to put them in a pill dispenser case, or, must they be in labeled pharmacy bottles?
I had mine in the labeled bottles. It prevents any issues that might occur if someone ask about your medications beginning legally dispersed (pharmacy) or illegally purchased. I figured better safe than sorry. I also carried them wherever I went on the cruise. It prevents theft! Especially if you’re on any pain killers!!!