Last days of the cruise were spent packing and saying long goodbyes to our new friends. We are not big on souvenirs but still we had a difficult time getting things into our suitcases. To my surprise it took a lot more effort to repack then it did to unpack at the beginning of the cruise. Our room was a mess for a couple of days. We had hoped to finish in the morning of the last full day so that we could enjoy Abu Dhabi in the afternoon when we arrived. We did manage to get off the ship in Abu Dhabi but we were tired and had barely made a dent in our packing so we just took a shuttle to the Mall of the Emirates. It was a beautiful drive – the mall was nothing special. Then it was back to the ship to continue our packing.
Some thoughts on long cruises – don’t think we would do it again. We agree in the future 30 days is max. We love cruising – but would definitely break things up by staying on land in-between cruises. We met many people on this voyage that did that. Some would get off on sea days and fly to meet the cruise at the next port. Others got off for more extended stays and met up with the ship later on another segment. New rule for me if we do this is to always wear a mask in case of pesticide spraying.
Things about cruising. On Royal the food is quite good but still you will hear people complain a lot. Some because it is not the way it used to be – you can’t order as much, ie one of every entree – not as much lobster. Some complain because the food is not spiced enough or it’s too spicy. Honestly, I don’t think you can ever please everyone – the food was great especially great after 10 days of not eating – even the mashed potatoes and rice tasted amazing to me. Since getting ill my breakfast became small portions of yogurt, fruit or cereal. It seemed that we were always going somewhere for a meal. I have a small appetite normally and it seemed on the cruise I was always feeling full. No complaints about our room. We opted for a balcony (usual preference). It was plenty big enough and with the help of other blogs on cruises we opted to take some cabin organizing hacks. Yes to 50 lb magnet hooks – they came in handy for many things. We took an over the door folding shelving unit and clothes hamper. Royal has changed their policy on cleaning – they only come in once per day. We actually preferred this.
Dubai is our last stop and then home!
