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| my Aunt Mary and my mom on a cruise together, around 1980 |
I just made the final payment for a cruise on NCL that I have planned for the future. This one will hit some of the same ports that I visited in May, but will also stop in Malta, Cannes, Florence, Mykonos, Santorini, and Mallorca. I absolutely love the Mediterranean! It is paradise to me. I have been researching the islands and cities.
For over forty years I have wanted to experience Greece. It just looks enchanting. This afternoon I watched a video by Rick Steves about it, and found the scenery mesmerizing. When I was a little girl, my aunt went there on a trip. She brought me back a sweet little red and white dress that was handmade. I adored it, and wore it constantly. It always made me long to go there. It's like I could feel the energy of that exquisitely beautiful place woven into the fabric.
I received an email from NCL today notifying me that I have received a free upgrade. I now have a balcony on the 13th level. I'm not sure how or why. I booked this cruise well over a year in advance, so they may have been able to sell my cabin. I am also a loyal customer. I tend to travel off season, because the prices are better, and there aren't many tourists. Either way, it was a very pleasant and unexpected surprise! Have you ever received an upgrade?
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Hoe exciting to go on another cruise !
ReplyDeleteI used to watch Rock Steve and dreamed about traveling all around the world. I even took his books when traveling.
One day I’d like to go on a cruise. I’ve received upgrades to business class on flights, and I also don’t know how I got them. I think in my case it’s because they had single seat available and I was traveling alone.
I do the same thing, Nil. You could get really excellent deals on cruises, since you live near the ports. The prices often drop at the last minute, and you wouldn't need to book a flight. How exciting to be upgraded to business class! I bet they could sell your seat and keep everyone happy.
DeleteHow wonderful to get a free upgrade! Maybe it's their way of making sure you remain a loyal customer? It's nice that you are able to plan your trip in advance and learn about the places you will be visiting while you wait for the departure date. I enjoy watching Rick Steve's travel shows. I am definitely an armchair traveler! LOL.
ReplyDeleteI am, too, Bless. I love to watch his shows and dream about visiting those places. I think what happens on the cruise is that the balconies, ocean view, and inside state rooms continue to sell. They may be shifting some of us who bought our cruises early to fill the ship. The more expensive suites and The Haven don't always get booked.
DeleteSounds like a fantastic cruise Stephanie, great news about the upgrade. My daughter leaves for Greece next Monday, she is going to love it there.
ReplyDeleteI have not been on a cruise although hubby is wanting to. So I can see it happening in the future.
xTania
Hi Tania, How exciting for your daughter! It's such a nice break from chores to cruise. I love it. Plus, the sights are just amazing.
DeleteWhat a lovely surprise. The cruise sounds amazing. You're going to have a wonderful time. X
ReplyDeleteThanks Jules. I am really looking forward to it. I always meet such friendly and enthusiastic travelers.
DeleteI often get upgrades because of loyalty programs at one hotel chain and on the airlines. It is always such a treat to get a suite or a first class seat. How wonderful you will have a nice stateroom on your next cruise. We still have 16 months to go before our next cruise. We booked a large one bedroom suite because this will a 12 day trip and I like the space. What a sweet photo of your mom and aunt.
ReplyDeleteHi Anita, Your suite sounds incredible! What a nice space to sit and knit. I love spending time in the cabin. (or state room.) The view of the ocean is so calming. It's fun to see the islands you are approaching early in the morning, too.
DeleteOhhhh delightful news!!!!
ReplyDeleteAnd when will this trip be? Off season of course! Why would anyone travel any other time? :-)
More of Greece... -happy sigh-
It amazes me, that my 20 year old grand daughter has already seen wonderful world places. I do hope she is fully thrilled by this fact. She won't be home till later this month. Can't wait to talk to her!!!
So happy for your news!!!
Hi wisps, This will be my first trip to Greece. It looks incredible. That is wonderful that your granddaughter is seeing the world. I danced in Europe when I was in my twenties, and it was such a memorable time.
DeleteTrust me, Greece is beautiful! I have been there twice, and it’s the homeland of 3 of my grandparents.
ReplyDeleteHi Akasha, It looks magical on the videos. I think it will be so exciting to approach by sea.
DeleteOooh! Congratulations on your cabin upgrade! Greece is one of my favourite places to visit. A lot of walking, so take two pairs of really comfy shoes.
ReplyDeleteI've had a few hotel upgrades. Usually to a junior or other small suite. One flight from Hawaii to LAX upgraded to first class. A couple of flights from/to eastern US and London upgraded from economy to PE (premium economy). Not regular airlines for us, but they might have been affiliated with some loyalty program or other. All were appreciated!
Wish US airlines would add PE as an option for longer flights. The price difference usually is within reasonable range on European airlines--the extra space and amenities are worthwhile on long flights. :-)
Those upgrades sound fantastic, Taja. It sounds like you've done a lot of traveling. It does make a huge difference on long flights.
DeleteExciting times, a free upgrade loyalty pays off sometimes.
ReplyDeleteYes, the build up is as much fun as the trip, mm. I think you are right about loyalty.
Deletehow lovely to get the upgrade. Greece is on my bucket list of places to visit.. Have you ever been to Menorca? It's a beautiful little island with wonderful coves and beaches
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