Why I'm glad I paid an extra $200-ish in gratuities for the Ultimate Beverage Package promotion: You can lay on a deck chair, sit on your balcony, dine in a restaurant, chill at a bar - All while indulging in almost any beer, glass of wine, cocktail or double whiskey...As frequently as you please for $0.00. Do it. Cheers!

Why I'm glad I paid an extra $400-ish for a balcony with Mandara Spa Thermal Suite access included: You get exclusive access to a large heated thermal pool and thermal beds, hot-tub, snow room, multiple saunas and rain showers. From 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM you can escape the crowds and retreat to this serene and soothing space at your leisure. I was skeptical about this splurge because the common Spa areas on other ships seem underwhelming vs. the cost. This is not the case with Escape. It's big, better and worth it.

Why I could have lived without the Ultimate Dining Package: When not taking into consideration the atmosphere and uniqueness of Teppanyaki, Le Bistro or Moderno, The food itself wasn't that much of a step above the other complimentary options on board. Even though we had to pay an up-charge on top of the UDP gratuities, Bayamo was THE exception. Exquisite and delicious. Carnival Vista was our first and previous cruise, and while we loved it, Norwegian's menu overall went above and beyond theirs. Read more