MSC Seaside Review
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We chose Seaside twice because it is a beautiful, billion dollar ship at a huge discount.. Yes, there are negatives, but way fewer than there used to be. The positives far outweigh the negatives. Just go. Better still, go Yacht Club. We are doing that next year.
The 5000 people are way too many at the first buffet, and on the sea days. Get past that. There are always deck chairs available. No idea how or why, but in two cruises, this is true. Get back early on Port days, and you have the beautiful Seaside to yourselves. Pure joy..
The Aurea level is a must. The Spa (included) is so fabulous, and the outside space at the Spa is the best lounge area on the ship. The 19 deck Aurea only space works too. The real reason to pay for Aurea is the choice dining. THAT is huge, and the one mistake MSC makes is forcing eating times on the rest of the ship. This was NOT clear to us the first time, and it angers many cruisers. They should section off the two dining rooms into four, with different designs, and different times. Give some flexibility to all.
Cabin Review
Aurea Suite with Whirlpool Tub
We liked the extra space (narrow, and long), and would get this cabin with kids . Sofa becomes a bed, and there is a ceiling bed as well. Hunt for info about this. The walk in closet was a hit as well. One at a time in the bathroom is ok. We didn't use the whirlpool, and wished the deck was bigger instead, but it still was a nice room. Room service breakfast was prompt on the sea mornings. Room attendant was not thorough at cleaning, but got better as we cruised, and responded to gentle requests to fix the things he missed. Previous cruise had a guy we gave an extra $40 to,he was that good. 9201 was nice, but only a 5 on the scale.
Location wonderful, as you can bounce ten steps to stairs, and whip down for what you need in the buffet, or elevator up to 16 for soft ice cream.
Just get a wrist watch to open the door, and focus on the lights outside your door. If you leave your sea pass card in the slot, the light shows, and they will not make up your room. There is a DND light and a make up room light. Pay attention. Enjoy the space.