LukeJ

Our phones do take over our lives. I do everything from online banking, shopping, organising, everything. However to truly appreciate your vacation, you need to let go. I have no interest in paying bills or arranging appointments when away with my family. These things can certainly wait for my return home.

@3Sisters I agree. Even though we do have wi-fi, I sometimes don't take my phones etc, or if we do, we tend to keep them off in our bags. It does make a world of difference, and your vacations are another level.

I tend to find that most restaurants do sustain a high standard. I accept that maybe sometimes that something can go wrong, where food isn't to your liking, but I honestly believe it's a small occasion.

@Frank Barbaro what did you have and what was so wrong with it?

Yeah that's true. Not often you get the opportunity to relax away from the stresses of the world, and a little respite away from even technology can make all the difference.

This is different I guess. I think it's an original concept, not too sure if I think it's a good idea or not.

I guess it's a ritual and most enjoy the whole preparation and treat themselves knowing they will look glamorous going out. Where I on the other hand, a quick shower and I'm ready for the door. (After getting dressed of course!)

Same thing happened to me. I went up to a dance competition, mainly to embarrass my family, and to their bewilderness I actually won. Even today, I tend to tease them by reminding them on occasions.

@Kendall James-Vargas what would be your absolute bucket list to visit. If you had three locations to go to, where, when and why?

@Kendall James-Vargas I agree with what you're saying and yes as we voluntarily tip, we tend to tip more to the waiting staff that has been dealing with us. And if they do a good job, then they get a good tip. What I don't like is being told I have to tip regardless because the service could be poor, and I'm being told to give money to a unworthy waiting person or bar etc.. there are loads of lowly paid jobs around, and not many of them get tips.

My wife and I have been on about six. We do enjoy going on cruises, and seeing other locations of the world. It's a vacation on a vacation in some respect. We have worked hard and we deserve the break as well. As of all of us cruisers.

The timing it seems is perfect for the companies. I think it's disgraceful that they do this, after everything that we as guests have already paid for our vacation. Being from the UK, we do pay gratuity, only voluntarily if we believe the service is any good.

@3Sisters have a dance off ha ha. I would be keen to know if anyone would get involved in that. Or maybe an art/ painting area where you overlook the whole ship and the sea and just be creative

I certainly know that feeling. But jobs in the house are never completed.

I hope that we are not the only ones who feel this way ha ha. I do get why people prefer VR, and each to their own, but for myself and you, a more natural approach is best.

@Cruising Caribbean thank you for your comments. I do enjoy sailing on P&O, I've always had a good experience with them, and would happily continue that, as @3Sisters also said. I've recently looked at others such as Norwegian cruise line, and despite them sounding like a good cruise, I believe I'd stick to what I know for this particular vacation.

No, I'm with you, I do tend to get dizzy and disoriented as well. I did give it a go once, and it was a rollercoaster VR, and I had to take it off, as it made me feel quite ill. My stomach dropped and I certainly felt queasy from it.

It depends on the location you wish to go to I guess. If we find a particular cruise line suits us then we shall remain with them, but I have no objections at this time trying different companies. Trial and error really. Each one brings its own thing.

I'm not one for VR anyway. Much rather physical sports that you can play without any technology. There is something gratifying about playing sports amongst friends. The competitiveness between mates is a stronger bond created.

Somewhere where I would save to go on. Living the other side of the world isn't helpful, however once retired, it can be something magical to spend a few weeks away on board and take our time visiting all the wonderful locations that would be available to us.

@3Sisters No. Sorry for that.

@3Sisters are you sure this isn't my wife?

I'd even accept a games room and we can only book a certain time like they do in other retreats away. Or maybe pay a deposit for the cue and get it back after.

I would like tips on where the best places to visit NZ are. Obviously I will do my research and get the advice for the tourist traps, but would like tips on the venture outside of these places.

Potentially it can work and be a good idea which will only improve things at the port. You always find that these can be problematic or inconvenient at the start, however looking at the overall picture, it will no doubt be a positive step forward.