We were a group of 8 traveling from the U.S. The other six individuals have done one or two cruises each. We were excited to sail on our first Princess cruise and also very excited to cruise the Norwegian Fjords and North Cape. We became interested in this cruise when on a previous Baltic Cruise (RCCL Jewel of the Seas) and subsequently sailed Alaska two summers ago (RCCL Radiance of the Seas). As this was our first Princess cruise, I will provide what we found to be our pros and cons throughout.

We all arrived in London several days ahead and stayed at the Rubens Hotel. This was a wonderful hotel, very charming in a great location. The rooms are all very different and while not large - some are easier to manage than others. One couple had a room that required them to store their suitcases in front of the closet as there was literally no other space for them and there were items (safe, tea service) on the floor of the closet). We had a king room and it had plenty of space for us, was very quiet and the bed was very comfortable. The elevators are very small, so it does help if you are able to take the stairs periodically. There are some confusing things with this hotel. No one told us that breakfast was included. We opted to eat at the hotel the last morning. Two chose the cold breakfast and two the hot buffet. All was free - but we had no idea until we checked out. One couple received cold champagne in their room, some received tickets to things in the area - but we were not clear who was receiving what and it was not consistent. If you book here - make good notes of what is included and then follow up on arrival. The internet was free and much appreciated.

We booked Smiths for Airports based on CC reviews. We used them for a total of six transports throughout and were very pleased and impressed with their promptness, professionalism and friendliness. When we arrived at Heathrow, as we exited from gathering our luggage, our driver was in the exit chute holding a sign with my name on it. All of their vehicles were comfortable and had plenty of space. Smiths charged my credit card several days before we left and then we just needed cash for driver tips. Read more