reflection

Reflection:::

This was my fourth cruise, and my second on Holland America Line. I have to say that I rate this experience highly, and that the standards on the Oosterdam have improved over the scant three months since I sailed over New Year's. "Little improvements," such as the Main Deck carpeting being replaced, the quality of the service and temperature (both cold and hot) improving in the dining room, etc� did not go unnoticed. There were a couple of small "glitches," such as only sweetened iced tea on the first day. (Apparently the Stampin' Up passengers from the previous week consumed a great deal of iced tea, as well as lots of food!) The shops ran out of plastic bags and "borrowed" some from the Carnival cruise ship that was also in port in Puerto Vallarta. Unfortunately, some passengers were happy to have a reason to complain.

I hesitate to offer suggestions, since I had an exceptional experience. However, I respectfully offer the following, especially from the viewpoint of a single passenger:

� Possibly adding an additional opportunity to meet solo passengers, maybe in
a venue which includes others traveling in pairs or groups. (i.e. Ocean Bar cocktails, a dance, etc�)
� Passengers traveling together get a discount for the Thalassotherapy Pool and Thermal Suite. It would be nice for a solo passenger (who has already paid a single cruise rate) to be offered the 2nd passenger discount. ($100.00 on the Oosterdam)
� While everyone I encountered on the Oosterdam were extremely friendly, I did not find this to be the case in the Spa. Two Spa employees were actually carrying on a conversation (lengthy) while I waited to inquire about a potential appointment. I finally gave up and left.

I've discovered that "re-cruising" on a familiar ship can be wonderful. Not only does one see the changes, (improvements) but there is a certain comfort in seeing familiar faces and knowing the layout on a ship. While there is always room for improvement, in the offices of Seattle and in the Holland America fleet at sea employees appear to be striving to "get it right." After my wonderful cruise experience on the Oosterdam, I'd have to say Holland America Line is "right on target!"

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