As usual, our thoughts turn to the question of where will our next travel experience take us? Many thoughts and ideas are discussed. The most recent discussions have been Australia/New Zealand and Northern Europe. As much as we like Viking for their Australia itinerary, we have always had issues on our cruises with them yet they offer the best itinerary along with other included amenities. And the air travel time and cost to begin this cruise is not ideal for either one of us. How do people sit in economy for 15+ hours? Or afford first class/business class where the seats become beds?
On our recent trip to Amsterdam this year we upgraded to Premium Economy, which we found was not much better in the long run than regular Ecomony seating. Karen didn’t receive the upgraded meal and when the person in front of you moves their seat back, it’s still a very narrow space for feet and any movement. I guess the pillow was bigger and the blanket softer, but really, is that what you are paying the additional money for? And if the captain keeps the seat belt sign on…well, you don’t get up for anything. Usually on international flights they are more lenient with the seat belt sign than on domestic flights, however.
We took a Christmas cruise on Oceania a few years ago and loved it. So, right now, we are leaning towards Oceania’s Northern Europe itinerary for next year. Shorter flights, and less $$ for 12 days; 9 countries. More check marks on the world travel map!
So as I often say…stay tuned!
UPDATE (July 1)
Well, I guess it’s no surprise – two women and difficult decisions. BUT! We are not planning to take a cruise right now. Instead, my daughter, Karen, has surprised me with a whirlwind trip to Paris, France! One place that she has been but I have not (other than the airport)! Plans are still in the works but I do believe it’s actually going to happen…in October.
A note about the cruise – Viking wanted the money for December 2023 now and with moving costs and all that goes into relocating to a new apartment (locally), that just can’t happen at this time. The Oceania cruise – well, it’s not that we didn’t want to go, but once again we were let down by not one but two travel agents to further the booking. It’s just sad when you can’t find good customer service out there, even in the discretionary, commissionable field of travel. I even approached the travel agency I used to work for in Rochester, NY. But I guess I’ve been gone too long and they didn’t want my business. Oh well…their loss because we will still continue to travel!
“I’m not always on a cruise, but when I’m not, I’m thinking about a cruise!”
Stuff is great but nothing beats experiences.
–Expedia
Twenty Steps at a Time 