Wednesday, October 26, 2022

To move up or not to move up

 So the move up program gives you an opportunity to bid on a cabin in a class higher than the one you paid for.  You’re told “the minimum bid for this class is $$” and you decide how much you want to bid.   If your bid is accepted you move up to a cabin in that new class.  You don’t get to choose the cabin, but you get an upgrade at a bargain rate.  


This close to sailing, it’s easier for the cruise line to sell the cheapest cabins. So if you bid on a more expensive cabin and you move up, your less expensive cabin becomes available and can be sold to a last minute traveler.


We originally booked an ocean view cabin, and upgraded to a balcony when there was a price drop.   We decided we didn’t need to move up, we’re quite content with the cabin we chose.

Saturday, October 1, 2022

And more excursions

 Grand Cayman


Explore the marine paradise of Cheeseburger Reef and the ghostly shipwrecks of theCaliandBalboaon board asemi-submarine. An expert narrator and fish-feeding divers make it a true adventure. Then, step aboard an air-conditioned bus for a memorable island drive along the West Bay peninsula. Driving along the famous Seven Mile Beach, one of the world’s most spectacular beaches, you will see the Governor’s Residence. A little further down, get off the bus and dip your toes in the powdery sands of Seven Mile Public Beach. Spend a few minutes taking wonderful photos of the turquoise blue waters and basking in the Caribbean sunshine. Continue driving into the residential area where you will see some traditional houses that were restored to their former glory. A brief stop to Hell- an area named for its unusual rock formations to complete your West Bay experience. Here you can take photos of the limestone formations and visit one of its gift shops for some souvenirs. As you head back towards downtown George Town, you will stumble upon a new blossoming community called Camana Bay. Here you can find big corporate offices, banks, retail shops, and restaurants. Your bus driver will talk you through the history and point where the attractions are on in this place. Continue driving into the residential area where you will see some traditional houses that were restored to their former glory. 


Cartagena


Travel to Colombia's National Aviary, where you'll observe Colombia's diverse bird species. On your scenic drive to the aviary, admire views of Cartagena and the surrounding areas. Colombia is celebrated for having the highest bird diversity in the world. Over 1,900 species can be found here. The National Aviary offers an important sampling of this biodiversity. Explore the National Aviary's observation stations and habitats. See macaws, harpy eagles, tangaras, and macaque monkeys in the lush tropical forest aviary, featuring waterfalls and palm trees. Watch for ducks, cormorants, and pelicans in the mangrove aviary. In the coastline aviary, observe herons, doves, storks, and teals. In the desert station see cardinals, partridges, and mockingbirds. Discover owls, eagles, and the famous Andean condor in the Andean region habitat. After marveling at Colombia's incredible ecological treasures and biodiversity, sip a cup of Colombian coffee and enjoy your scenic drive back to the ship.