I was just thinking recently we should consider a med sailing next year for our anniversary. We can't really get away without the kids and we both want to do Italy. It is a milestone year, so seems like a good time to do it. Did you prefer
DCL or RCCL for Europe?
We’ve done 2 Europe cruises with DCL, Western Med out of Barcelona and Norwegian Fjords out of Dover. We loved both. Norwegian Fjords had the rugged beauty of Alaska but the charm of European cities.
We’ve only done one RCCL Cruise on Oasis, the Western Caribbean itinerary. We had a wonderful time and it’s our favorite ship so far. The service was not as good as Disney, there were no pixie dust moments or memorable interactions with the crew, however the service wasn’t bad, I’d compare it to what you get at most Caribbean all inclusive resorts. The Oasis class ships are amazing and there is so much to do. It really is like a city at sea.
Price was also a major factor for us. I’d sail DCL again in a heartbeat but the prices are so far above the other lines (for our family of 3 and when we’re able to travel) and honestly the experience just isn’t worth double the cost to us. If we can squeeze in an off peak cruise we will definitely go with DCL but for the next 14 or so years we’re locked into traveling around school breaks.
Do you like OKW? I really hemmed and hawed whether I should do a 1 bedroom there for my may trip. It was about the same cost as my BCV studio and a bit less than my Poly room. I couldn't get past the internal bus loop, after remembering how annoying that was at POR in March. If you've stayed at Poly and OKW, which would you choose...the space or the location?
We’ve stayed at OKW once and loved it. In fact, it was the determining factor into buying into DVC. Since it’s usually the resort with the most availability, once we knew we’d have no issue staying there if it was “all” we could get, we went ahead with the purchase (we bought Boulder Ridge as it’s our favorite resort right now).
The rooms are huge, the complex is so relaxing and a nice break from the pace of the parks. The main pool area is very nice and a great sit down restaurant too.
As for buses, that is a concern of ours. We stayed near hospitality house last time which was awesome. We couldn’t get that room class for our upcoming trip so we’ll see how we handle the bus issue in the heat of August
I’m sure it will be fine but it is a minor (very minor) worry/concern for the trip.