I know UA-cam wants shorter videos but I and I think lots of your subscribers love the longer videos. Many of us will never get to these places and want to see as much of them as you can show us. Thanks for taking us along on your adventures. I love that you chose an excursion that is a loving animal sanctuary.
Thank you so much for your kind words! 😊 We really appreciate hearing that you enjoy the longer videos-it means a lot to us. We'll definitely keep that in mind as we plan future content. ❤️
@ I know you are being sarcastic. I will be nice and just say UA-cam pushes creators to do shorter videos because people anymore tend to have short attention spans. But in videos like Ben & David they make you feel like you are with them. I have watched them for a good while and they used to do longer videos, which a lot of us that enjoy their content really appreciate. I wanted them to know their subscribers enjoy their videos and the longer the better, UA-cam may be right about some, just like you may be right about some men, but not all.
Thank you for pointing out that the elephant sanctuary is amazing for rescuing elephants and NOT for riding! I love that they now have a chance to be completely free and do whatever they wish. That is truly amazing
Unfortunately this is still not ideal for the elephants! Of course it's better than them being ridden or stuck in zoos but this still seems like a tourist attraction. What benefits do you think the elephants have from being washed/ walked down a path by humans/ touched by humans? The elephants would probably much rather be around other elephants and spend their time how they want without being disturbed by humans. As a rule of thumb - if you can touch the animals it's probably not really a sanctuary.
Absolutely! I used to live in Vietnam. My friends and I used to absolute give it to tourist who were showing off their pics to their elephant rides. Do not contribute to the exploitation of these wonderful creatures. And don't ride Ostriches either while I'm on it.
That emotion you're feeling is the love that these animals exude. Elephants are truly the most gorgeous, smart and loving animals. I've been lucky enough to see them in the wild in Africa and it was a transformational experience.
David - it is not stupid to get emotional about the wonders of nature and it’s beautiful creatures! I did an orangutan adventure and was able to feed them and it is something I will remember for the rest of my lifetime. Conservation cannot be underestimated as it is needed now more than ever.
We have an orange orangutan as a prior and newly presidential elect here in the states. I'm still emotional over it and will carry that emotional scaring for the rest of my life. Conservation of democracy cannot be underestimated as it is needed now more than ever.
@@thomasmoeller3446 This almost made me cry - with laughter. Keep a sense of humour, it may help. We're trying to do that over here in the UK with our 'Givernemnt'. Loose term for sure!. Chin up old chap!
There is no shame to have tears when introduced to such magnificent animals. Seeing the loving way they are treated is making me share some tears too. We had a large, white owl crash land into our busy a few years ago. We thought he was injured but he only wanted to nap. I cried seeing him up so close. It was a reminder from above that any living thing must be treated with respect.
Echoing the comments of so many others...thank you for speaking out against the elephant riding excursions! The way animals are treated in the name of tourism is often horrific. I'm so glad you researched this sanctuary and found a place that's humane. Well done, gentlemen!
I’m so glad you found a place where the health and welfare of the animals is primary. Just enjoying and caring for them is the best experience. I’m also impressed about how chill you two are about delays and inconveniences. Looks like an amazing experience.
Ben and David your nephews are so darling! Ben you look marvelous! The elephant sanctuary made me cry. Glad they are in a better place. Thanks for taking us along. 😊 ❤ 😊
I had a little tears of joy in my eyes and then David said I’m getting a little emotional and I thought I am too! The wonders of nature always do that to me.
The elephant sanctuary was so amazing to see. I can only imagine what it was like to be there. The fact that you got to bath them was the icing on the cake. So glad you all got the opportunity to do this cruise and share it with us. Safe travels and thank you for your honest reviews as they are so helpful.
Ben and David, I have really loved these videos so far! They are edited so professionally and these videos are just so incredible! You have absolutely outdone yourselves! I’m so excited to see the next ones!! ❤
Incredible episode guys, you are my 82 year old Mum's favorite. She loves your cheeky naughty remarks. What an amazing cruise, so much culture, delicious food and stunning locations. $1 for 3 ice creams can't beat that. Can't wait to see your Australian and Nz videos.
Elephants are the most wonderful, beautiful, gentle creatures on earth. They have been so mistreated in their life. This is a wonderful place and I am so emotional right now.
David don’t be embarrassed. My sister had the same reaction when she visited a sanctuary. Elephants are so beautiful, smart and wise. It’s awe-inspiring.
Loving your vlogs of this cruise. It’s so interesting and your coverage is always so comprehensive and professional. I can’t go without an appreciation of Oscar’s input. What a clever, articulate little man he is. Little Teddy is also adorable with those cute curls and don’t the boys look so much like Uncle Ben. Oscar definitely inherited that sense of humour.❤
Hi Ben and David it’s only me - I cannot believe that the nurse is already been in and giving me my medication so soon as your notification be flashed up it means for once I can settle down and watch it - I hope you’re both okay and keeping well as you know my physical health is deteriorating at the moment and I’m now severely severely anaemic. The doctor is coming again tomorrow and to make a plan. What we’ll be going on - it was a really nice Vlog/video last week when your nephews were with you on board ~ I hope you have a great week and I’m looking forward to next Sunday when your next Vlog/video is out - sending loads of love and hugs as always ~ Xxx Xxx
The elephant sanctuary looked amazing! I would have been emotional, too! They are beautiful creatures and it always breaks my heart when I see people riding them or when elephants are made to “perform” for humans. It looked like the elephants enjoyed the TLC they received from you! It is a little like seeing whales performing tricks at SeaWorld and then seeing them in the wild, swimming free. It is an emotional, awe- inspiring feeling.
everything you've ever shown me on these videos confirms my opinion that cruise holidays are not for me. None the less, I am strangely addicted to watching them and you do a great job!
Thank you so much for sticking with us, even if cruising isn't your thing! Your support means a lot, and we’ll keep doing our best to keep you entertained-cruises or not! 😊🚢
Sitting in Hobart, Tasmania, waiting to board Royal Princess and Ben and David walk past! Fangirl moment, poor things 🙃. Hello from down under, Down Under 🤩😃
Oh my gosh, watching that elephant experience brought me to tears! I really appreciate your honesty about your experiences (good and not so) and how you share your journeys. Thanks so much!
Just lovely, what an amazing adventure you’ve experienced. So wonderful these beautiful animals; I would be in tears at the utter joy of seeing them up close and free.
The schedule is the sort of cruise which really does appeal to me. Not so much as a 'cruise' but more of a 'voyage'. Very sorry to hear that the crew was being mis-treated. They work very hard, I am sure, and they are woefully underpaid. Very likely under-tipped by the abusers too, if tipped at all. Glad you spoke up for them, on board and here on your channel. Thank you for the video!
Wow guys this has to be one of your top videos EVER! Seems like a spiritual experience took place. As for Royal and their food, yes it has gone down I agree 100 percent! And Ben you said it, the food tastes cheap. I don’t cruise for food, but I also don’t appreciate being served low quality stuff. My girlfriend and I are not chefs, but we cook at home and can do better than a lot of what they serve, and there’s absolutely no excuse for that! I’ve been on four classes of royal ships between 2022 to 2023 and I liked them all, but the food got progressively worse. I don’t think I’m getting back on until it’s improved, especially for what they are charging these days. By the way Ben, your brother is looking thinner too since I met him on the group cruise. You guys look great!
Further to our post on your part 1, this 3-part series on the cruise was 100% on point. The visits to India were a highlight and touched upon all emotions and senses. The poverty was striking as well the charm and resilience of the people. I'm not sure I'd go back but I'm glad that I visited. The chaos at boarding in Dubai, the inefficient Indian immigration process, the poor quality of the onboard food, the amazing entertainment, the great staff that Royal Caribbean has, the rudeness of the Russian group, the stunning stops in Phuket and Penang, and the end in super Singapore; you captured it all. Thanks and happy sailing.
Poverty? Where exactly? You assume those busy middle class people going to offices in Mumbai, those shops with active businesses on the streets to be in poverty? Yes I agree there are some who sell their items right on the street because they are poor but that's not what you see everywhere. Moreover in this video which shows Kerala I never spotted what you say is poverty. Have you seen Kerala's cities like Kochin? They are extremely clean, wealthy. I mean you can say anything? Moreover those huge skyscrapers in Mumbai, beautiful buildings, train stations, the main Street which looks great with trees, traffic signals, full of cars: all these show a thriving economy. Yes now slums were shown in that Mumbai vlog. But let me tell you Indians billionaire Adani who is rebuilding the Haifa port in my country Israel has undertaken a massive project to redevelop Dharavi into a modern enclave. And the project as far as I know has started.
Hi David, I'm a huge fan of your videos on cruise ship travel reviews and vlogs. A suggestion: there is Cordelia Cruises which plies between Mumbai and Lakshwadeep Islands. You can try it in the future. Your series on India was amazing! I'm from India, and I loved watching your experiences. I just wanted to clarify two things. India isn't a very poor country - most of us are middle class. Around 200 million out of 1.5 billion people live below the poverty line. The busy people you saw in Mumbai were mostly working middle-class individuals. Also, India hasn't had any famines in over 80 years. We have a flourishing agricultural sector and surplus food, and we even export food. I hope you had a wonderful time in Kerala and Mumbai! Your vlogs on Phuket and Singapore have finalized my decision to visit those places on vacation. And little Oscar is so cute and smart! Stay safe and cheers🥂.
These are the vlogs that I love from you guys over the reviews on ships I know they are helpful and informative but your travel segments are so so good
Ben and David, I absolutely loved this video. The places in Asia as well as the excursions were wonderful. It is such a Blessing that you and your family were able to experience it together. Your nephews are so adorable and I enjoy Oscar's commentary 100%. Well done. Looking forward to the next video. God's Continued Blessings.
I was also on this very cruise, absolutely incredible experience! In my opinion Royal Caribbean did everything they could to minimise the disruption with Indian immigration. The authorities kept moving the goal posts. Royal even had Indian immigration on board to complete the biometrics whilst at sea to eliminate the waiting at Mumbai. Was told by one of the immigration officers at Mumbai that this data didn’t transfer correctly hence the madness on arrival! It all had to be done again! The waiting was annoying! But it was worth it for some truly amazing destinations! I personally had no issues with the food at all and found it great as always, but I rarely if every go in the buffet.
Ben and David, I look forward to watching you and your adorable families! I also went to an elephant rescue in Thailand. It was one of the most amazing experiences of my life! Having the opportunity to bathe these magnificent creatures in the river, and play with them. Unbelievable! My next cruise...Buenos Aires to Antarctica.
Ben you look noticeably thinner and healthier! Not that size is the end all be all of health but the two of you really look much more mobile and healthy. Love it!! A phrase I've heard: it's not what you eat between Thanksgiving and Christmas, its what you eat between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Love you both!
Elephants are so beautiful. What a wonderful experience for you and the boys. I firmly believe that the crowd on a sailing can either make or break a cruise. It’s a shame that people don’t have manners and treated the crew and other passengers so badly.
Being with the elephants was such a beautiful experience. I can understand the emotions. Looking at the lines to get off the ship and the rudeness of passengers puts me off of cruising. Stay safe and cherish your time with your family.
Did a Royal Caribbean cruise in 2019, Oasis of the Seas, food great, then again in 2022 food disgusting, entertainment hit and miss, seems still hasn't improved from your experience. Good to know and thanks for your reviews.
Thank you for letting CS know re: the treatment of the servers as imagine it can come down to a "he said, she said" thing. Our last cruise was last April on Quantum. After several carnival cruises, I was so ecstatic for the amazing buffet they have. BUT then in the main dining room, was shocked that 2 nights we had to send back meat that hadn't been cooked. (like cold in the middle). Our specialty sushi dining wasnt much better. Some of the other specialty restaurants were good, and I was happy that the buffet was great. My suggestion to the cruise chefs is not to focus on all the take-aways but make sure the cook on what you're serving is accurate, and appropriate!
Wow great job on your weight loss journey. I don’t know whether that’s the proper (see me trying to be British) thing to say but your dedication and willingness to share this with the audience is inspiring. So I do appreciate that you even speak of it. My partner and I will be going on our first cruise together (after watching dozens and dozens of your videos) in March and although we are watching the pounds we are setting that aside for what for us will be a once in a lifetime adventure for us. It’s nice to see you are not fully restricting yourself despite your journey. I think it’s important to know when to allow yourself to indulge. We only live once after all. But if we can balance the enjoyment of indulging with the attempt to be healthy enough to live as long as possible so we can MAY be here on the planet to continue indulging on occasion than that is the true “Self Care.” Keep being you. You are both delightful and I do feel truly invited on and part of your adventures . That’s when you know you’re doing it right. I wish you continued success.
Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful message! 😊 It means the world to us that you feel invited along on our adventures-that’s exactly what we hope to share with our audience. Your first cruise together sounds so exciting! It’s such a magical experience, and you’re absolutely right to savor every part of it-it’s those once-in-a-lifetime moments that make life so special. We’re so happy that our videos played a part in your planning, and we can’t wait to hear all about your adventure! Wishing you and your partner the best time and lots of amazing memories. ❤🚢
I just LOVE your vids… I haven’t cruised as much as you and we don’t get as many options for cruises from Australia but I have just come off a P&O cruise on Pacific Encounter and would LOVE you to do a cruise with them and rate their ship! I think everyone on the ship would love you to rate this one…. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE 🙏🏽
Oscar getting ready to take over, doing a good job. 😊😊😊. I too got emotional watching you with the elephant's, no need to apologise ❤❤❤❤. Great that you stood up for cruise staff. ❤❤
No David it’s not stupid to get emotional. When I was in Hong Kong we visited the botanical gardens and nunnery, and I came across this huge golden Buddha and I sat and broke down crying it was such an emotional thing to witness.
Amazing ports guys! Thank you for taking us along. 😊 Sorry to hear the food was so bad. I imagine you were all gutted because that's one of the awesome parts of a cruise--the food!
Gorgeous ! Gorgeous ! video. Thank you so much ! Ben and David ❤ By the way I had teary eyes watching you guys with the elephants, emotions can carry a long way my friends.
Ben and David, it is so nice to see your tours in the ports of call. Enjoyed that boat trip and the elephant sanctuary. Cruises are so expensive today that you expect to be served a decent meal. Criminy! Teddy is getting soooo big and coming into his own personality. Oscar is as loquacious as ever. Nice to see your family enjoying themselves. 🫂
I'm so glad y'all got to visit the elephant sanctuary! I've been fortunate enough to visit an elephant rescue here in Oklahoma (of all places!) and it was the most amazing experience. Thank you for inviting us along on all of your adventures!
We were just on Anthem out of Southampton in Sept. I was surprised to hear your food was bad. Ours was really good, much better than a previous trip on Anthem in Feb. But I have to agree about the cruise director. We had the same one and she was disappointing. There were nights with only a movie as the main event entertainment.
Little Teddy is too cute. He has your eyes Ben. Good heavens Ben you have lost half of yourself on your weight loss journey. How does David like his younger looking thinner model of his husband??!! I'm sure he's so proud of you.
Wow, both excursions looked amazing. I would love to travel to Thailand, my brother was there this summer maybe even the same Elephant place you were, he loved it as much as you clearly did.
Ben and David, I love your videos and both of you. You are so outgoing, fun, fair, courteous and polite. Your approach to critiquing a cruise line is honest but never biased. You provide the good and the bad. I would love to try a cruise again. Ben I thought you looked familiar and I remember seeing you on a video as cabin crew on an airplane. Which carrier did you work for. I am so envious of your excursion to the elephant sanctuary, and I too would be in tears as they are such majestic, loving creatures. I look forward to your next videos.
Was on the same cruise with you guys.Only managed to bump into you once for a brief moment as it seems you were in a rush to go somewhere.Shows you how massive this ship was.Enjoyed the cruise very much and Anthem is a great ship.And yes...the immigration process in India whether its coming in on a flight or on a ship is really tedious and lengthy.Its honestly not a great first impression of such a unique country. Totally agree with you about the Russians on board.My companion is also Russian and found them absolutely awful.They were so really rude especially in the the Windjammer Cafe.We were lucky as we were in a suite cabin so we didnt have any problems getting on and off because of our genie.
Nah! They didn't have to single out which country they were from to call them out for their behavior. This is the second video they've posted in less than two weeks where they're trashing Russians. I wouldn't single out any nationality to trash for the obvious reasons. It's bigoted.
@@isabellindlind They specified in both videos that it was the Russians ON THE CRUISE who behaved that way, not the entire country. They were critical of these cruisers because they behaved badly, not because they were Russian. They simply identified this specific group through their nationality which is what just about everyone does with when among foreigners they don’t know.
@@mpb3481 Don't put words in my mouth. No where did I say they claimed the entire population of Russia behaves this way. I haven't a clue what kind of defense you've dreamed up on their behalf. You said it in black & white! They simply identified their nationality which is what just about everyone does among foreigners they don't know! Way to go! If they don't know than don't single out specific populations of people when it serves no purpose but to paint particular populations just as the OP pounced on, as awful people.
@@isabellindlindThey didn’t trash the entire country or the whole Russian population. They were critical of a specific group of badly behaved people on board the AotS. Identifying them by their nationality is not being bigoted. That they were Russian is unfortunate but not the point. They could have been Americans, Brits, Italians, Swedes, Chinese, Mexicans, South Africans, etc. and that’s how many people would have identified or described them - by their nationality or maybe ethnicity.
@@mpb3481 Stop putting words in my mouth so you can try and use it against me! Not once have I accused this podcaster of trashing an entire country. And unless this podcaster ruled out these people he singled out as Russians weren't from Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, Romania & Transnistria or any other Russian speaking countries, he's a bigot. Only he can answer the question. Not you or anyone else!
When beauty makes you weep, I can only think you're a beautiful soul yourself :) It means you appreciate it deeply and it's touched your heart. That can apply to music, physical art, landscapes and yes, elephants. Also: Watch out! Those nephews are gonna steal your channel ;)
Good honest review. We won't sail on mega ships due to some of what you experienced. We've settled on Windstar as they are a great fit for us. No crowds, great crew, really good food and out of the way destinations.
Great video guys, and Ben your diet is working, looking good. Sadly I have also noticed a big drop off on RCCL's food and restaurant staff/service shortages.
I live on Dissabillity in Sweden so I will probably never be able to afford a cruise so I live vicuriously through cruisetube, dreaming of a 12-14 night sunny cruise on Princess.
Oh my what wonderful memories, the elephants looked amazing and loved how you all became emotional with them, is it just me or do they always look like they are smiling? beautiful animals. We took a short cruise on Anthem and got to see We Will Rock You and agree it was one of the best shows we've seen on any cruise.
Thank you! Elephants really do have such a special presence, and we agree-they always look like they're smiling! 🐘 So glad you got to see We Will Rock You on Anthem; it’s such an incredible show, isn’t it? Definitely a highlight for us too! 😊
Wow, you are all so lucky. What a wonderful once in a lifetime experience. No wonder you were emotional David. It would be hard not to be. Loving your videos so far of your trip and with family. Just makes me want to go on another cruise. Xoxo
What a wonderful experience with the elephants. I got a little emotional myself and I was t even there. Thank you for sharing your family adventure with us.
Wow that was perhaps my favorite video of yours so far! The elephants were absolutely stunning. So cool seeing the fascinating culture and food - more of these types of vlogs please!!
I know UA-cam wants shorter videos but I and I think lots of your subscribers love the longer videos.
Many of us will never get to these places and want to see as much of them as you can show us.
Thanks for taking us along on your adventures.
I love that you chose an excursion that is a loving animal sanctuary.
Thank you so much for your kind words! 😊 We really appreciate hearing that you enjoy the longer videos-it means a lot to us. We'll definitely keep that in mind as we plan future content. ❤️
@ You’re welcome and thanks. 🐾🐾❤️❤️😺😺🐾
males like longer videos according to stats: longer, harder and uncut.
@ I know you are being sarcastic.
I will be nice and just say UA-cam pushes creators to do shorter videos because people anymore tend to have short attention spans. But in videos like Ben & David they make you feel like you are with them. I have watched them for a good while and they used to do longer videos, which a lot of us that enjoy their content really appreciate. I wanted them to know their subscribers enjoy their videos and the longer the better, UA-cam may be right about some, just like you may be right about some men, but not all.
Thank you for pointing out that the elephant sanctuary is amazing for rescuing elephants and NOT for riding! I love that they now have a chance to be completely free and do whatever they wish. That is truly amazing
Unfortunately this is still not ideal for the elephants! Of course it's better than them being ridden or stuck in zoos but this still seems like a tourist attraction. What benefits do you think the elephants have from being washed/ walked down a path by humans/ touched by humans? The elephants would probably much rather be around other elephants and spend their time how they want without being disturbed by humans. As a rule of thumb - if you can touch the animals it's probably not really a sanctuary.
The fact that so many elephants tolerate our attention with such patience and gentleness is amazing. Beautiful animals 🐘
Absolutely! I used to live in Vietnam. My friends and I used to absolute give it to tourist who were showing off their pics to their elephant rides. Do not contribute to the exploitation of these wonderful creatures. And don't ride Ostriches either while I'm on it.
That emotion you're feeling is the love that these animals exude. Elephants are truly the most gorgeous, smart and loving animals. I've been lucky enough to see them in the wild in Africa and it was a transformational experience.
David - it is not stupid to get emotional about the wonders of nature and it’s beautiful creatures! I did an orangutan adventure and was able to feed them and it is something I will remember for the rest of my lifetime. Conservation cannot be underestimated as it is needed now more than ever.
We have an orange orangutan as a prior and newly presidential elect here in the states. I'm still emotional over it and will carry that emotional scaring for the rest of my life. Conservation of democracy cannot be underestimated as it is needed now more than ever.
@@thomasmoeller3446 Hopefully We'll Survive the Clown Circus that has come again to our Capital!
❤Thank You We are not alone ❤ This is madness and sadness
@@thomasmoeller3446 This almost made me cry - with laughter. Keep a sense of humour, it may help. We're trying to do that over here in the UK with our 'Givernemnt'. Loose term for sure!. Chin up old chap!
@@thomasmoeller3446you are free to go fight for Ukraine.
I love how adventurous Oscar is. The two boys are living large seeing the world with you and creating amazing memories.
There is no shame to have tears when introduced to such magnificent animals. Seeing the loving way they are treated is making me share some tears too. We had a large, white owl crash land into our busy a few years ago. We thought he was injured but he only wanted to nap. I cried seeing him up so close. It was a reminder from above that any living thing must be treated with respect.
Echoing the comments of so many others...thank you for speaking out against the elephant riding excursions! The way animals are treated in the name of tourism is often horrific. I'm so glad you researched this sanctuary and found a place that's humane. Well done, gentlemen!
That visit to the elephant sanctuary looks absolutely amazing. How lucky are you and the nephews!
I’m so glad you found a place where the health and welfare of the animals is primary. Just enjoying and caring for them is the best experience.
I’m also impressed about how chill you two are about delays and inconveniences.
Looks like an amazing experience.
Ben and David your nephews are so darling! Ben you look marvelous! The elephant sanctuary made me cry. Glad they are in a better place. Thanks for taking us along. 😊 ❤ 😊
I had a little tears of joy in my eyes and then David said I’m getting a little emotional and I thought I am too! The wonders of nature always do that to me.
The elephant sanctuary was so amazing to see. I can only imagine what it was like to be there. The fact that you got to bath them was the icing on the cake. So glad you all got the opportunity to do this cruise and share it with us. Safe travels and thank you for your honest reviews as they are so helpful.
So cool how so bright little Oscar seems to imitate his uncles. It
is clear that he admires them. Great video as always. Thank you.
Ben and David, I have really loved these videos so far! They are edited so professionally and these videos are just so incredible! You have absolutely outdone yourselves! I’m so excited to see the next ones!! ❤
Incredible episode guys, you are my 82 year old Mum's favorite. She loves your cheeky naughty remarks. What an amazing cruise, so much culture, delicious food and stunning locations. $1 for 3 ice creams can't beat that. Can't wait to see your Australian and Nz videos.
Thanks so much!
Elephants are the most wonderful, beautiful, gentle creatures on earth. They have been so mistreated in their life. This is a wonderful place and I am so emotional right now.
This was my favorite episode of all time. The elephants did it for me. Thank you.
No offense to Ben and David, but Oscar is the star of every video he is in!!!❤️
He's a major, big-time UA-camr in the making!!!!
The little kid you mean? I thought this was a cruising channel!
It's not stupid, David. I cried through that whole clip. They're so amazing.
David don’t be embarrassed. My sister had the same reaction when she visited a sanctuary. Elephants are so beautiful, smart and wise. It’s awe-inspiring.
What a great idea to make loving and caring for the elephants part of the excursion. You CAN blend kindness with tourism. And this has proven that.
The sanctuary in Thailand is now on my bucket list, I was crying right along with you. Such beautiful animals!
Can’t believe how incredible that sanctuary excursion looked. That has to be one for the bucket list. Love how it’s all about the elephants ❤
I would have been crying my eyes out at that elephant sanctuary, so David I completely feel for you. What an amazing trip❤❤❤
Loving your vlogs of this cruise. It’s so interesting and your coverage is always so comprehensive and professional. I can’t go without an appreciation of Oscar’s input. What a clever, articulate little man he is. Little Teddy is also adorable with those cute curls and don’t the boys look so much like Uncle Ben. Oscar definitely inherited that sense of humour.❤
Hi Ben and David it’s only me - I cannot believe that the nurse is already been in and giving me my medication so soon as your notification be flashed up it means for once I can settle down and watch it - I hope you’re both okay and keeping well as you know my physical health is deteriorating at the moment and I’m now severely severely anaemic. The doctor is coming again tomorrow and to make a plan. What we’ll be going on - it was a really nice Vlog/video last week when your nephews were with you on board ~ I hope you have a great week and I’m looking forward to next Sunday when your next Vlog/video is out - sending loads of love and hugs as always ~ Xxx Xxx
❤🙏🏾 Sending you love and hugs Mrs. White 😘
I’m very anemic also. Friday I’m having my second IV iron. It’s 3 hours long. Hope you feel better soon ❤❤❤.
Sending you love & healing energy 💞✨
Sending you hugs ❤
Sending prayers, love & hugs ur way u feel better soon ❤
The elephant’s were breathtaking !! Something you’ll never forget !❤
Hands down the best cruise excursion we have ever done!
The elephant sanctuary looked amazing! I would have been emotional, too! They are beautiful creatures and it always breaks my heart when I see people riding them or when elephants are made to “perform” for humans. It looked like the elephants enjoyed the TLC they received from you!
It is a little like seeing whales performing tricks at SeaWorld and then seeing them in the wild, swimming free. It is an emotional, awe- inspiring feeling.
To be able to interact with the elephants has to be a lifetime memory. Very few people get that opportunity. You are really fortunate. ❤😊
everything you've ever shown me on these videos confirms my opinion that cruise holidays are not for me. None the less, I am strangely addicted to watching them and you do a great job!
Thank you so much for sticking with us, even if cruising isn't your thing! Your support means a lot, and we’ll keep doing our best to keep you entertained-cruises or not! 😊🚢
I am glad you went to a sanctuary where the animals are well treated properly.
Oh your time with the elephants made me cry, so incredible ❤️ they are the most amazing creatures, thank you for sharing such a lifetime experience!
Sitting in Hobart, Tasmania, waiting to board Royal Princess and Ben and David walk past! Fangirl moment, poor things 🙃. Hello from down under, Down Under 🤩😃
Hello! 😁
That is an epic moment xxxx
Oh my gosh, watching that elephant experience brought me to tears! I really appreciate your honesty about your experiences (good and not so) and how you share your journeys. Thanks so much!
Just lovely, what an amazing adventure you’ve experienced. So wonderful these beautiful animals; I would be in tears at the utter joy of seeing them up close and free.
As a grandfather I love the extraordinary opportunity this sweet family is experiencing together. Unforgettable memories.
Ben you look great!
The schedule is the sort of cruise which really does appeal to me. Not so much as a 'cruise' but more of a 'voyage'. Very sorry to hear that the crew was being mis-treated. They work very hard, I am sure, and they are woefully underpaid. Very likely under-tipped by the abusers too, if tipped at all. Glad you spoke up for them, on board and here on your channel. Thank you for the video!
I went to the Elephant sanctuary in 01 and it was just amazing, we got to see a calf getting born to it was so special.
I cried at the elephant sanctuary I visited in Thailand as well. They are such beautiful and intelligent animals, and it was a wonderful experience.
Wow guys this has to be one of your top videos EVER! Seems like a spiritual experience took place.
As for Royal and their food, yes it has gone down I agree 100 percent! And Ben you said it, the food tastes cheap. I don’t cruise for food, but I also don’t appreciate being served low quality stuff. My girlfriend and I are not chefs, but we cook at home and can do better than a lot of what they serve, and there’s absolutely no excuse for that!
I’ve been on four classes of royal ships between 2022 to 2023 and I liked them all, but the food got progressively worse. I don’t think I’m getting back on until it’s improved, especially for what they are charging these days. By the way Ben, your brother is looking thinner too since I met him on the group cruise. You guys look great!
Further to our post on your part 1, this 3-part series on the cruise was 100% on point. The visits to India were a highlight and touched upon all emotions and senses. The poverty was striking as well the charm and resilience of the people. I'm not sure I'd go back but I'm glad that I visited. The chaos at boarding in Dubai, the inefficient Indian immigration process, the poor quality of the onboard food, the amazing entertainment, the great staff that Royal Caribbean has, the rudeness of the Russian group, the stunning stops in Phuket and Penang, and the end in super Singapore; you captured it all. Thanks and happy sailing.
Poverty?
Where exactly?
You assume those busy middle class people going to offices in Mumbai, those shops with active businesses on the streets to be in poverty?
Yes I agree there are some who sell their items right on the street because they are poor but that's not what you see everywhere. Moreover in this video which shows Kerala I never spotted what you say is poverty. Have you seen Kerala's cities like Kochin? They are extremely clean, wealthy.
I mean you can say anything?
Moreover those huge skyscrapers in Mumbai, beautiful buildings, train stations, the main Street which looks great with trees, traffic signals, full of cars: all these show a thriving economy.
Yes now slums were shown in that Mumbai vlog. But let me tell you Indians billionaire Adani who is rebuilding the Haifa port in my country Israel has undertaken a massive project to redevelop Dharavi into a modern enclave. And the project as far as I know has started.
Bro you are too harsh on India. I am an Indian. I don't agree with you.
Hello from 🇨🇦 Hewitt. I truly think that this has been my favourite B & D video, children and animals are the best. Thank you for posting.
21:00 I am emotional watching you become emotional! Beautiful creatures. Adding this to my bucket list ❤
Elephants are brilliant creatures. That sanctuary tour is a dream!
Hi David,
I'm a huge fan of your videos on cruise ship travel reviews and vlogs. A suggestion: there is Cordelia Cruises which plies between Mumbai and Lakshwadeep Islands. You can try it in the future. Your series on India was amazing! I'm from India, and I loved watching your experiences.
I just wanted to clarify two things. India isn't a very poor country - most of us are middle class. Around 200 million out of 1.5 billion people live below the poverty line. The busy people you saw in Mumbai were mostly working middle-class individuals.
Also, India hasn't had any famines in over 80 years. We have a flourishing agricultural sector and surplus food, and we even export food.
I hope you had a wonderful time in Kerala and Mumbai! Your vlogs on Phuket and Singapore have finalized my decision to visit those places on vacation. And little Oscar is so cute and smart!
Stay safe and cheers🥂.
These are the vlogs that I love from you guys over the reviews on ships I know they are helpful and informative but your travel segments are so so good
Ben and David, I absolutely loved this video. The places in Asia as well as the excursions were wonderful. It is such a Blessing that you and your family were able to experience it together. Your nephews are so adorable and I enjoy Oscar's commentary 100%. Well done. Looking forward to the next video. God's Continued Blessings.
Hit me with a light bulb and call me electric! I’m stealing that line! 🤣🤣❤️
I was also on this very cruise, absolutely incredible experience!
In my opinion Royal Caribbean did everything they could to minimise the disruption with Indian immigration. The authorities kept moving the goal posts. Royal even had Indian immigration on board to complete the biometrics whilst at sea to eliminate the waiting at Mumbai. Was told by one of the immigration officers at Mumbai that this data didn’t transfer correctly hence the madness on arrival! It all had to be done again! The waiting was annoying! But it was worth it for some truly amazing destinations!
I personally had no issues with the food at all and found it great as always, but I rarely if every go in the buffet.
So happy you guys get to experience the elephant sanctuary!
Ben and David, I look forward to watching you and your adorable families! I also went to an elephant rescue in Thailand. It was one of the most amazing experiences of my life! Having the opportunity to bathe these magnificent creatures in the river, and play with them. Unbelievable! My next cruise...Buenos Aires to Antarctica.
Ben you look noticeably thinner and healthier! Not that size is the end all be all of health but the two of you really look much more mobile and healthy. Love it!! A phrase I've heard: it's not what you eat between Thanksgiving and Christmas, its what you eat between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Love you both!
Elephants are so beautiful. What a wonderful experience for you and the boys.
I firmly believe that the crowd on a sailing can either make or break a cruise. It’s a shame that people don’t have manners and treated the crew and other passengers so badly.
Being with the elephants was such a beautiful experience. I can understand the emotions. Looking at the lines to get off the ship and the rudeness of passengers puts me off of cruising. Stay safe and cherish your time with your family.
Wow! One of your best videos ever. The elephants! If I were there I would be sobbing non-stop with joy and appreciation.
Ben you look fabulous!! Your weight loss is impressive and you repaired your front tooth! I’m so proud of you!!!
Did a Royal Caribbean cruise in 2019, Oasis of the Seas, food great, then again in 2022 food disgusting, entertainment hit and miss, seems still hasn't improved from your experience. Good to know and thanks for your reviews.
Thank you for letting CS know re: the treatment of the servers as imagine it can come down to a "he said, she said" thing. Our last cruise was last April on Quantum. After several carnival cruises, I was so ecstatic for the amazing buffet they have. BUT then in the main dining room, was shocked that 2 nights we had to send back meat that hadn't been cooked. (like cold in the middle). Our specialty sushi dining wasnt much better. Some of the other specialty restaurants were good, and I was happy that the buffet was great. My suggestion to the cruise chefs is not to focus on all the take-aways but make sure the cook on what you're serving is accurate, and appropriate!
Wow great job on your weight loss journey. I don’t know whether that’s the proper (see me trying to be British) thing to say but your dedication and willingness to share this with the audience is inspiring. So I do appreciate that you even speak of it.
My partner and I will be going on our first cruise together (after watching dozens and dozens of your videos) in March and although we are watching the pounds we are setting that aside for what for us will be a once in a lifetime adventure for us. It’s nice to see you are not fully restricting yourself despite your journey. I think it’s important to know when to allow yourself to indulge. We only live once after all. But if we can balance the enjoyment of indulging with the attempt to be healthy enough to live as long as possible so we can MAY be here on the planet to continue indulging on occasion than that is the true “Self Care.”
Keep being you. You are both delightful and I do feel truly invited on and part of your adventures . That’s when you know you’re doing it right. I wish you continued success.
Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful message! 😊 It means the world to us that you feel invited along on our adventures-that’s exactly what we hope to share with our audience.
Your first cruise together sounds so exciting! It’s such a magical experience, and you’re absolutely right to savor every part of it-it’s those once-in-a-lifetime moments that make life so special. We’re so happy that our videos played a part in your planning, and we can’t wait to hear all about your adventure! Wishing you and your partner the best time and lots of amazing memories. ❤🚢
I have the biggest smile on my face after watching you with the elephants
This is the greatest shore excursion I’ve seen you do! I’m going to plan my next cruise around it! What a beautiful thing to do
Those temples are incredible!!!
I just LOVE your vids… I haven’t cruised as much as you and we don’t get as many options for cruises from Australia but I have just come off a P&O cruise on Pacific Encounter and would LOVE you to do a cruise with them and rate their ship! I think everyone on the ship would love you to rate this one…. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE 🙏🏽
Aww teddy on the boat so sweet ❤
Oscar getting ready to take over, doing a good job. 😊😊😊.
I too got emotional watching you with the elephant's, no need to apologise ❤❤❤❤.
Great that you stood up for cruise staff. ❤❤
My hubby and I were on that cruise too. What an awesome time we had! So glad we chose it.
What did you think of the food? Cheers
No David it’s not stupid to get emotional. When I was in Hong Kong we visited the botanical gardens and nunnery, and I came across this huge golden Buddha and I sat and broke down crying it was such an emotional thing to witness.
Amazing ports guys! Thank you for taking us along. 😊 Sorry to hear the food was so bad. I imagine you were all gutted because that's one of the awesome parts of a cruise--the food!
Gorgeous ! Gorgeous ! video. Thank you so much ! Ben and David ❤ By the way I had teary eyes watching you guys with the elephants, emotions can carry a long way my friends.
OMG! I’m so excited to be enjoying this cruise through your eyes!!! Yay!!
Ben and David, it is so nice to see your tours in the ports of call. Enjoyed that boat trip and the elephant sanctuary. Cruises are so expensive today that you expect to be served a decent meal. Criminy! Teddy is getting soooo big and coming into his own personality. Oscar is as loquacious as ever. Nice to see your family enjoying themselves. 🫂
Glad you enjoyed it
I'm so glad y'all got to visit the elephant sanctuary! I've been fortunate enough to visit an elephant rescue here in Oklahoma (of all places!) and it was the most amazing experience. Thank you for inviting us along on all of your adventures!
Your footage of the elephant sanctuary is amazing. Thank you for sharing.
❤ Ben and David, thank you so much for sharing this wonderful adventure! I loved the elephant sanctuary and want to go! ❤🐘
We were just on Anthem out of Southampton in Sept. I was surprised to hear your food was bad. Ours was really good, much better than a previous trip on Anthem in Feb. But I have to agree about the cruise director. We had the same one and she was disappointing. There were nights with only a movie as the main event entertainment.
Little Teddy is too cute. He has your eyes Ben. Good heavens Ben you have lost half of yourself on your weight loss journey. How does David like his younger looking thinner model of his husband??!! I'm sure he's so proud of you.
Wow, both excursions looked amazing. I would love to travel to Thailand, my brother was there this summer maybe even the same Elephant place you were, he loved it as much as you clearly did.
Oscar has really grown up. He’s acting so chill good Ladd.
Ben and David, I love your videos and both of you. You are so outgoing, fun, fair, courteous and polite. Your approach to critiquing a cruise line is honest but never biased. You provide the good and the bad. I would love to try a cruise again.
Ben I thought you looked familiar and I remember seeing you on a video as cabin crew on an airplane. Which carrier did you work for.
I am so envious of your excursion to the elephant sanctuary, and I too would be in tears as they are such majestic, loving creatures.
I look forward to your next videos.
wow guys what an adventure your emosh with the elephants warmed my heart x
Was on the same cruise with you guys.Only managed to bump into you once for a brief moment as it seems you were in a rush to go somewhere.Shows you how massive this ship was.Enjoyed the cruise very much and Anthem is a great ship.And yes...the immigration process in India whether its coming in on a flight or on a ship is really tedious and lengthy.Its honestly not a great first impression of such a unique country.
Totally agree with you about the Russians on board.My companion is also Russian and found them absolutely awful.They were so really rude especially in the the Windjammer Cafe.We were lucky as we were in a suite cabin so we didnt have any problems getting on and off because of our genie.
Nah! They didn't have to single out which country they were from to call them out for their behavior. This is the second video they've posted in less than two weeks where they're trashing Russians. I wouldn't single out any nationality to trash for the obvious reasons. It's bigoted.
@@isabellindlind They specified in both videos that it was the Russians ON THE CRUISE who behaved that way, not the entire country. They were critical of these cruisers because they behaved badly, not because they were Russian. They simply identified this specific group through their nationality which is what just about everyone does with when among foreigners they don’t know.
@@mpb3481 Don't put words in my mouth. No where did I say they claimed the entire population of Russia behaves this way. I haven't a clue what kind of defense you've dreamed up on their behalf.
You said it in black & white! They simply identified their nationality which is what just about everyone does among foreigners they don't know! Way to go! If they don't know than don't single out specific populations of people when it serves no purpose but to paint particular populations just as the OP pounced on, as awful people.
@@isabellindlindThey didn’t trash the entire country or the whole Russian population. They were critical of a specific group of badly behaved people on board the AotS. Identifying them by their nationality is not being bigoted. That they were Russian is unfortunate but not the point. They could have been Americans, Brits, Italians, Swedes, Chinese, Mexicans, South Africans, etc. and that’s how many people would have identified or described them - by their nationality or maybe ethnicity.
@@mpb3481 Stop putting words in my mouth so you can try and use it against me! Not once have I accused this podcaster of trashing an entire country.
And unless this podcaster ruled out these people he singled out as Russians weren't from Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, Romania & Transnistria or any other Russian speaking countries, he's a bigot. Only he can answer the question. Not you or anyone else!
THE THAI FOOD LOOKED GOOD.
AND NO FLIES!
Your crying, I'm not crying..... The sweet gentle giants - elephants. What a magical and life changing experience!
When beauty makes you weep, I can only think you're a beautiful soul yourself :) It means you appreciate it deeply and it's touched your heart. That can apply to music, physical art, landscapes and yes, elephants. Also: Watch out! Those nephews are gonna steal your channel ;)
Going to try Shore Excursions seems like a good deal. Oh those elephants need to visit at some point in my life. Wonderful.
Good honest review. We won't sail on mega ships due to some of what you experienced. We've settled on Windstar as they are a great fit for us. No crowds, great crew, really good food and out of the way destinations.
I would tear up. Elephants are magnificent and so intelligent.
Great video guys, and Ben your diet is working, looking good. Sadly I have also noticed a big drop off on RCCL's food and restaurant staff/service shortages.
Love shore excursion! I use them all the time! ❤
I live on Dissabillity in Sweden so I will probably never be able to afford a cruise so I live vicuriously through cruisetube, dreaming of a 12-14 night sunny cruise on Princess.
Oh my what wonderful memories, the elephants looked amazing and loved how you all became emotional with them, is it just me or do they always look like they are smiling? beautiful animals.
We took a short cruise on Anthem and got to see We Will Rock You and agree it was one of the best shows we've seen on any cruise.
Thank you! Elephants really do have such a special presence, and we agree-they always look like they're smiling! 🐘 So glad you got to see We Will Rock You on Anthem; it’s such an incredible show, isn’t it? Definitely a highlight for us too! 😊
Wow, you are all so lucky. What a wonderful once in a lifetime experience. No wonder you were emotional David. It would be hard not to be. Loving your videos so far of your trip and with family. Just makes me want to go on another cruise. Xoxo
What a wonderful experience with the elephants. I got a little emotional myself and I was t even there. Thank you for sharing your family adventure with us.
Wow that was perhaps my favorite video of yours so far! The elephants were absolutely stunning. So cool seeing the fascinating culture and food - more of these types of vlogs please!!
Absolutely fabulous coverage. Loved, loved your incredible footage of the elephants. Incredibly cool! Well done.❤
I’m so excited whenever your videos come available! You take us with you on your grand adventures
Looking great Ben
Skinny bugger! It’s hard, great job
Wow Ben, you look fantastic!
thanks for putting me on t shore excursions group