Samsung's challenges with the Galaxy Note 7 are well known by now, and the effects of this issue are now being felt on the high-seas.  The flagship device was recalled after a number of units spontaneously caught fire (contrary to the misuse of the word, they're not exploding).  Many cruise lines now aren't allowing passengers to power on their devices while on board, and things may not be getting much better.

Gratuities, service charges, or tips – no matter what you call them it’s hard to know what is appropriate and how to pay – especially on cruises.  Cruise lines have long had crew members who work long and hard hours, thousands of miles from family to make your vacation a great one.  Many of these hard working, dedicated people are compensated primarily with gratuities. 

We like to picture ships as most of us experience them - clean, shiny, and new.  The fact is however that ships don't last forever.  How do cruise ships stay so youthful, and what happens when they get a bit long in the tooth?

The 168k gross-ton Norwegian Joy, heading to China in June of 2017, is breaking the mold in a number of ways but showing us that cruising out of Asia is not just moving into the modern era, but perhaps set to outpace the US cruise market in sophistication - just look at Royal Caribbean's decision to move the Quantum of The Seas to China.  The Joy's dining options alone are enough for me to take a second look at what NCL has to offer.

The Pub has moved and on June 5 2021 will be opening in a new location!  You can find the address and more details on their Facebook page.

Over the years we've developed some favorite spots in various ports, and Cozumel is no exception.  As part of the Royal Caribbean Blog group cruise on Freedom of the Seas we spent today in Cozumel, Mexico and hit up a local drinking hole for the second visit in a row, deciding to add it to the growing list of spots we love in Cozumel.