My friend and I are going on our first cruise Spring 2003 -- Eastern Caribbean on Princess. I've burned down the Internet doing my research. This forum is always so helpful; so allow me to ask the experts--what are the 2-3 major pieces of advice you would give us, regarding Princess, the itinerary, or cruising in general, to enjoy the most out of our week, and/or to minimize problems and negatives, too? Like what would you tell your best friend -- "Be sure to..." "Be sure not to ..."

To prevent seasickness book mid ship! I've been on 2 cruises. First one was an inside cabin mid ship, had a wonderful time. Second was an outside cabin near the very front of the ship. I don't think it was the window, it was the motion. It ruined my cruise, got meds and wrist band from ship doc and neither helped. It was awful. I never expected to experience that since I had no problem the first time. Hope this helps, wouldn't want anyone to experience what I did.

<BR>Not exciting but for the To's:<BR>1)Check with your doctor a week or so before trip to get a shot for seasickness or a prescription. You can get help on the ship but that can well be too late.<BR>2) Put one or two changes of clothing in your carryon and bathing suit, too. Easy for luggage to be delayed or lost. Keep your valuables with you, too.<BR>3) Take all the cosmetics/medicines/film, etc. you'll need; not always easy to find on the ship or on the islands.<BR>4) Add up the cash you think you will need; then take 2 or 3 times that much ... good amount of $1s and $5s. Some ships limit the amount of cash you can get daily.<BR>5) Get an outside stateroom (not under or over a noisy area) or better yet, a room with verandah. Had our first verandah a few months ago. Didn't use it nearly as much as I thought we would but it was still very nice to have.<BR>6) Stay out of sun whenever possible. You'll get a nice tan there with just the reflecting sun, and no sun poison to ruin your trip.<BR>Sure I could think of many other things but this is what comes to mind without my wonderful travel list. Enjoy your trip!

Marian-<BR><BR>A few things that came in REALLY handy for us.<BR><BR>Pick up a cheapie (5-10 buck) "over the door clear plastic shoe organizer" at Walmart. It's the perfect place to store your shampoos, cosmetics, suntan stuff, etc. You'll save on ALOT of clutter in the bathroom.<BR><BR>Also...pick up some Downey (?) "Wrinkle Release" spray for your casual clothes. Just spray and tug.<BR><BR>Insulated mugs for cold drinks at the pool.<BR><BR>Have fun, kiddo. You'll get hooked!

be sure to bring sunscreen and use it!<BR>be sure NOT to bring your own alcohol - it's just tacky.<BR>be sure to accept that you will be waiting on line quite a lot, but Princess does a pretty good job with this.<BR>be sure to accept that some people will bitch about everything, and say "this cruise isn't as good as my last cruise on XXXX cruise line." Get away from them before they ruin your trip.<BR>be sure to recognize that your first night with your new dinner mates is likey to be a bit awkward. If they are really horrible, talk to the maitre'd THAT night. Don't wait until the 2nd night to make a change or it will be too late.<BR>read a bit about the ports BEFORE you go and have a plan. <BR>Dont' follow that plan absolutely -- it's a guide to make it less stressful to travel around in a strange town.<BR>Try some of the local food and drink -- that's half the fun of traveling.<BR>Don't get caught up in the "it's dirty here" and "they're are beggars on the streets here." They are everywhere -- even in America. We just don't like to admit it.<BR>Be polite and friendly to the staff -- they work their asses off. And tip accordingly.<BR><BR>More than 2-3, but good advice, I think.<BR><BR>enjoy. Princess does a nice job. You've chosen well.

Jkgourmet, your advice is outstanding and mature. Living by your advice will make this cruise the experience I have hoped it would be. Thanks.