Review of the Mariner of the Seas: TA: Rome to Galveston: October 26-November 11
Having recently (this year) cruised on both Princess and Holland America, we are in an excellent position to compare the three cruise lines and their performances. We chose this TA because of the 16 day length and the opportunity to relax after a very exhaustive fall work schedule. Some new ports (Mallorca, Madeira, and La Palma) but nothing great. Also having Texan roots, the interest in travelling to a Texan port was overwhelming. It has become obvious to me over the last year that each company has their pluses and minuses and as a result, future choice of cruises will increasingly be driven by itinerary and price, not loyalty necessarily.
As they say, the trip to was half the battle. Chicago, a lengthy layover at Heathrow and an uneventful BA flight to Rome got us to the Eternal City. Then our troubles began. Could not find the hotel shuttle site--Rome airport lacks signs or directions. Took a taxi at our own expense only to find the hotel had overbooked and cancelled our reservation (one that had been made nearly 11 months ago). They explained it was because we were on the wrong side of the queue. I was not happy (and neither were the many others) and Marriott will hear about this for sure. They did find another hotel but as our other two couples were staying there (one of which had made their reservation only 2 months ago) and we were to meet them for the transportation to the port, it made for some early morning rush to get together again.