7/14/06 -- We just returned from the Jewel this am @ 0100 so please excuse jet-lag induced mistakes. We began our journey with one night in London. We stayed @ the Melita House Hotel @ 35 Charlwood st. in Westminster. This hotel was expensive : a small and utilitarian room, without a lift or air conditioning. Of course, everything in London is expensive right now. On the day of embarkation, we took the train from Liverpool St. Station to Harwich International Seaport. This was very easy and affordable (30$/per adult 10$/child). The train stop is literally 100 yards from the Jewel. Porters are available on the train platform. Check-in went very smoothly.
As Crown and Anchor members, we had a separate check-in area, with refreshments and no lines. During the complete check-in process,all of the staff we encountered catered to our 8 yo. This behavior was continued throughout the entire cruise. The food on the ship was,for the most part, exceptional. We went to both Chops and Portofino's and would not repeat either stop. However other members of our group enjoyed both places. The Windjammer is a great buffet stop for all meals. The Tides dining room for Lunch ran a little long.
Room service was very convenient for days in ports. Room service was not perfect but very accommodating.