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Is hot weather cruising really all sun-soaked bliss, or are there hidden perks to braving the chilly seas? Join us as we unpack the contrasting experiences of hot versus cold weather cruising, sharing personal anecdotes from our adventures with Virgin, MSC, and Celebrity. From the convenience of lighter packing to the festive atmosphere of outdoor sail-away parties, we'll highlight the joys of warm-weather voyages while acknowledging that not every cruiser dreams of endless sunshine. Whether it's exploring vibrant ports or dancing the night away at theme parties, warm climates offer unique charms that can make for an unforgettable cruise experience.

On the flip side, imagine gliding through the majestic fjords or witnessing the awe-inspiring Northern Lights on a cold weather cruise. We'll take you through the serene and scenic landscapes of destinations like Alaska, delving into the relaxed ambiance and exclusive excursions such as glacier walks and husky sledding. Fewer late-night activities and a more casual dress code can be a refreshing change for those seeking a laid-back adventure. And yes, we'll even throw in our amusing story of getting sunburned on an unexpectedly sunny cold weather cruise—proof that sunscreen is a must, no matter the temperature!

Finally, we'll tackle the challenges and considerations of both hot and cold weather cruises. Tips for navigating crowded pool decks, insights into the trade-offs of balcony cabins in cooler climates, and even a hilarious "Cruise Confession" from Jamie involving a naked balcony mishap in San Francisco. Plus, catch up on the latest cruise industry news, including Norwegian Cruise Line's new Prince tribute show and Virgin Voyages' wedding offerings. Whether you're a sun-seeker or an Arctic adventurer, this episode promises a comprehensive look at how weather shapes your cruising experience.

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Cheers, and have a lovely day
Linzi & Mark

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What if you could transform skepticism into delight with just a single experience? Join us as we welcome Gail and Mike, a couple from Liverpool who initially had some BIG reservations about setting sail with Virgin Voyages. Gail, especially, wary from negative press and misconceptions, shares her journey from hesitation to enthusiasm after their four-night trip out of Portsmouth. We'll explore how firsthand experience can radically change perceptions and why giving things a chance can lead to unexpected joys and memorable moments.

 Gail and Mike bust the myths surrounding the cruise's vibe, proving it’s more than just a young party haven. From the Mind Mangler show to vibrant nightclubs, the varied entertainment options cater to diverse tastes. We'll also share some lighthearted anecdotes that made their trip unforgettable, adding a dash of humor to our lively discussion.

Wrap up with us as we savor the fantastic dining experiences aboard, including standout spots like Pink Agave and the potential revamp of Razzle Dazzle into an Asian restaurant. Gail and Mike praise the culinary variety and the ease of making dining reservations, which enhanced their overall cruise experience. Finally, we look ahead to the future of cruise travel, touching on sustainability initiatives and industry growth, making it a must-listen for both seasoned cruisers and curious newcomers.

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Linzi & Mark

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Imagine immersing yourself in an intimate voyage along some of the world's most beautiful rivers. What makes river cruising so different from traditional ocean voyages? In this episode, we dissect our trepidations about embarking on a river cruise, from the smaller vessel size and fewer onboard activities to the financial considerations. We also tackle how river cruising is more akin to a land holiday, given the emphasis on off-ship adventures. Our conversation spans specific river journeys, including the allure of the Nile, while we weigh safety and security concerns.

Thinking about a festive getaway? We turn our attention to planning a Christmas market river cruise, evaluating a £1,200 per person deal with TUI. We discuss the pros and cons of various room types, the social dynamics of shared dining, and our preference for private tables. Comparing top river cruise lines like Viking, Riviera, Emerald, and TUI, we debate the worth of each and discuss the convenience of flying into major airports. The magic of holiday markets, seasonal foods, and festive beverages makes us ponder whether such a trip is worth the investment.

Lastly, we bring a touch of humor as we discuss "riverboat envy" and how to stay entertained on smaller vessels. Future travel aspirations include the dream of cruising the Nile and exploring the Mekong River, all while considering the feasibility of a Christmas market cruise. We share a laugh over a cheesy sausage incident at a German Christmas market before wrapping up with an update on the Princess Premier package and our hopes for moon-themed activities on an upcoming Panama cruise. This episode is a delightful blend of thoughtful travel tips and lighthearted stories sure to entertain and inform.

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If you enjoyed this episode please consider supporting the channel via our YouTube Membership https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNaAHapT85jdtLYwrJhFsCw/join

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Linzi & Mark

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Support the show

If you enjoyed this episode please consider supporting the channel via our YouTube Membership https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNaAHapT85jdtLYwrJhFsCw/join

And please consider subscribing to the channel https://youtube.com/c/suitenatured to keep up to date with all our latest videos, podcasts and live streams

Cheers, and have a lovely day
Linzi & Mark

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Support the show

If you enjoyed this episode please consider supporting the channel via our YouTube Membership https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNaAHapT85jdtLYwrJhFsCw/join

And please consider subscribing to the channel https://youtube.com/c/suitenatured to keep up to date with all our latest videos, podcasts and live streams

Cheers, and have a lovely day
Linzi & Mark

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Ever wondered what makes or breaks a first-time cruise experience? You're about to find out! Join us on this episode as Ant and Glen from Escape with Ant and Glen share their firsthand insights and inspiring stories. 

Explore the pros and cons of various cruise lines as we dissect cabin choices, affordability, and the balance between formality and relaxation. From budget-friendly inside cabins to the plush suites, we'll guide you through the labyrinth of options. We’ll highlight why Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line are perfect for newcomers, while sharing personal anecdotes about luxurious voyages on Cunard’s Queen Mary 2. Dive into the bustling vibes of major ports, the importance of amenities, and how first impressions of new ships can make or break future cruise decisions.

Navigate through the complexities of cruise ship amenities, environmental concerns, and unpredictable weather patterns with us. Learn about the flexibility and safety measures when cruising during hurricane season and the importance of supportive communities for new cruisers on social media. Plus, discover how cruise ships are adapting to environmental challenges and how our special guests, Ant and Glenn, provide invaluable tips to ensure your first-time cruise is nothing short of spectacular. Don't miss out on this treasure trove of practical advice and captivating stories that will have you booking your next cruise with confidence!

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Cheers, and have a lovely day
Linzi & Mark

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As much as you research and plan for a cruise, sometimes things happen, and suddenly the cruise isn't what you expected. 

In episode 10 of the Suite Natured Cruise Cast we take a look at this situations, where unexpected could be good or bad. 

Have you ever found yourself standing amidst Alaska's breathtaking landscapes, completely unprepared for the emotional tidal wave that follows? We start this episode with some playful banter about weather and temperature conversions, but soon dive into the heart of our Alaskan cruise experience that left us awe-struck. As we recount the mesmerizing sunsets and majestic wildlife encounters, we talk about how preparing for the unexpected beauty and profound moments can make your cruise unforgettable—far beyond what any ship's amenities can offer.

From the fluctuating weather of the Norwegian fjords to the surprising atmosphere on Virgin cruises, our personal stories highlight the unpredictability and excitement of cruising. You'll hear about our layered-up adventures in rainy Alaskan ports, finding unexpected sunshine, and the exceptional food and diverse demographic on Virgin cruises that defied our expectations. We share how these experiences enriched our journeys and left lasting memories, proving that no amount of preparation can truly ready you for the unique aspects of each cruise.

In the luxurious realm of MSC Yacht Club, we found ourselves delightfully overwhelmed by the exceptional service and exclusive amenities. Imagine the joy of a mysterious lemon meringue pie appearing in your room or fresh pizza delivered by a butler—these magical moments added to our sense of luxury. We wrap up with exciting cruise industry news, including Horned Riker's collaboration with Lindt Chocolate and Princess Cruises' special VIP packages. Finally, we celebrate our tenth episode milestone with a heartfelt farewell, reflecting on the incredible journey and camaraderie that have defined our podcast. Tune in for laughs, insights, and heartfelt reflections on the highs and lows of cruising.

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Linzi & Mark

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Ready to step outside your cruising comfort zone? Join us as we sit down with Paul C Thornton, the mastermind behind the Joy of Cruising series and podcast, who has been navigating the seas since 1988. Paul brings his wealth of knowledge and personal anecdotes, highlighting the unique appeal of Virgin Voyages' adult-only atmosphere and superb dining. Relive Paul's family adventures on Carnival and witness how his tastes have matured over the years, offering a fresh perspective on why it's worth exploring new cruise lines.

Ever been frustrated by limited dining choices on a cruise? You're not alone. We tackle the thorny issue of complimentary dining, particularly with MSC Cruises, sharing our own trials and tribulations aboard the MSC Meraviglia. From overcrowded buffets to scarce options, we shed light on how these limitations can sour the experience for seasoned cruisers. But it's not all doom and gloom—tune in for our suggestions on how MSC could easily elevate their game and turn first-time guests into loyal fans.

Finally, we debunk some cruising myths and bring you up to speed on the latest industry buzz. Think Cunard requires formal attire 24/7? Think again. We'll clarify those dress code misconceptions and even touch on tuxedo rentals aboard. Plus, learn about NCLs  cost-cutting strategies and the introduction of premium liquors on Princess Cruises. As a cherry on top, discover the latest celebrity branding initiatives on the Sun Princess and Royal Caribbean's new loyalty program extension. This episode is packed with insights, surprises, and plenty of reasons to rethink your next cruise adventure.

Support the show

If you enjoyed this episode please consider supporting the channel via our YouTube Membership https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNaAHapT85jdtLYwrJhFsCw/join

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Cheers, and have a lovely day
Linzi & Mark

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Ever felt like your peaceful cruise was actually a covert operation to empty your wallet? Join us, Linzi and Mark, as we air out the cruise industry's dirty laundry, tackling everything from those aggressive spa sales pitches to the omnipresent upsell lurking behind every corner on deck. We're not holding back as we share our gripes and laughs, revealing the less-than-relaxing aspects of life at sea on both MSC and Royal Caribbean ships. It's a candid conversation that'll have you nodding in agreement or, at the very least, prepping you for your next cruise adventure.

Prepare to cringe and chuckle as we discuss our pet peeves and don't get us started on 'special offers' – we unpack how these sneaky extra costs can deflate the joy of what should be a tranquil experience faster than a punctured baloon. 

To round off our sea-faring saga, we explore the good, the bad, and the downright rude of cruise ship disembarkations. From the universal dread of finding your disembarkation documents piled on your bed, signaling the end of your holiday, to the varied farewells of cruise lines—the goodbyes can be as diverse as the ships themselves. Plus, we're dishing out the latest scoop on airline and cruise partnerships, including P&O's TUI tie-up and why Oceania's Allura is making waves with its early launch. For all this and more, make sure you catch this episode—you might just disembark with a few insider tips to make your next cruise a smoother sail.

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If you enjoyed this episode please consider supporting the channel via our YouTube Membership https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNaAHapT85jdtLYwrJhFsCw/join

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Cheers, and have a lovely day
Linzi & Mark

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Ever wonder if the extra splurge on specialty dining during your cruise is a ticket to culinary bliss or just another hole in your pocket? We've got the scoop, as the legendary Travel Blog Jamie joins Linz and Mark for a no-holds-barred discussion on navigating the tempting waves of cruise ship culinary costs. We're weighing anchor and setting sail to discover if those £40-Plus-a-plate experiences promise enough gastronomic delight to part with your hard-earned cash, sharing our personal threshold for extravagance, and dishing on the exceptional value that lines like Fred Olsen bring to the dining table.

In this episode, our taste buds embark on a tantalizing journey where memories of the most mouth-watering dishes like the Krispy Kreme-esque bread from Veranda Restaurant linger like the scent of the sea. Together with Jamie, we chat about the specialty dining scenes that have us salivating for more, from the risotto at Eden Restaurant on Celebrity Edge to the customised Cunard burgers that are a voyage in themselves. And we’re not just talking about the hits; we also spill the beans on those less stellar dining experiences that left us adrift in a sea of disappointment.

But it's not all about the food – it's the full cruise adventure that counts. We chat about the maiden voyage of Cunard's newest ship, unpacking our strategies for smooth sailing through those inaugural service hiccups. From the excitement of fresh itineraries to adapting to the brisk Alaskan climate, we cover all the elements that shape a the new Virgin Voyages cruises on Brilliant Lady, and chat about P&O's controversial changes to it's alcohol policy and drinks package price increases. 
So join us, whether you're a foodie cruiser dreaming about your next on-board date night or simply love the thrill of the open sea, we've got a first-class ticket to a specialty dining experiences

Support the show

If you enjoyed this episode please consider supporting the channel via our YouTube Membership https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNaAHapT85jdtLYwrJhFsCw/join

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Cheers, and have a lovely day
Linzi & Mark