Main Dining Room Explained - Royal Caribbean Cruise Food

[@davidroden3799]

Dinner in the MDR has always been a highlight for us. The food is excellent, the wait staff pampers us, and for the most part, we've enjoyed our table companions.

[@ValMarty]

Same here

[@treasure2behold282]

A dress code is nice, it is a sign of respect for oneself and the venue. We don't need to wear ball gowns, but some semblance of formality is good.

[@kimmcallan8287]

Your video captured the feel of the room as well as the food, which looks delectable. I’m cruising again next year and can’t wait.

[@richardowens9061]

The main dining room tends to make me feel more special than dining in the Windjammer. But, I do like being able to just walk into the Windjammer and start grazing - especially, if I have a busy itinerary for the day. And, the food in the Windjammer is also good and visually appealing.

[@iluvutube4886]

I ate at the buffet almost every night! The food was better and much more relaxed!

[@marthaworc7873]

@@iluvutube4886 And eating lobster or escargot makes me feel great if I am more relaxed in comfortable clothes. You wear what you want. I'll do the same. You don't have to look at me if you don't want to. Bon appetite -- for everyone.

[@MegaKrason]

@@marthaworc7873 hey there trolly, why are you picking on @lluvtube for enjoying a more relaxed venue? I happen to love the windjammer at times. That's the wonderful thing about cruising. So many options so little time, lol. You sure do love to stir that pot, don't you.

[@marthaworc7873]

@@MegaKrason Why doesn't lluvtube talk to me if luv has a problem. You putting words in Luv's mouth now? Not cool Meg, not cool. The trouble is this: I say I want to eat the expensive food on my cruise, I don't want to dress up to do it. So many people have said to me, well you can always go to this or that place to eat. I don't want alternatives to eating in TMD I just want to know I can. Looks like I can. I am happy.

[@sharonsteward-howell900]

I HAVE BEEN ON RC BEFORE AND I LOVE IT!!! WE HAVE ANOTHER ONE BOOKED FOR OCTOBER OF 23. I THINK THAT IF YOU DINE IN THE MDR. YOU SHOULD DRESS THE PART ON FORMAL NIGHT. THATS PART OF THE FANTASY DREAM OF CRUISING.CRUISING IS THE BEST VACATION TO ME!!!!! THANKYOU FOR YOUR TIPS!

[@TravelingFlamingo]

We hope you have a great cruise. Thanks for watching and commenting

[@aimeemaurer4862]

We do our version of dress up for formal night, it means dressier than casual for us. We love the main dining room.

[@smb2a587]

I do like early traditional dining and I do wear evening gowns on formal nights

[@juliettebryan3806]

I have cruise on RC before and I love to dress up .

[@michellefromcanada7394]

We are booked for our 3rd Royal Caribbean cruise, we love dressing up and eating at the MDR every night

[@jerrym5802]

Great video re MDR here. While casual is fine for earlier meals, wearing a ball cap is a poor choice and disrespectful to others!

[@isitsummeryet4338]

I always remember “dressing” for dinner & wearing black tie gowns on formal nights. My son at the time was 2 years old & I rented him a tuxedo for the formal nights.

[@GLOCKDPLUSFlowriders]

Thanks! Over 30 cruises with Royal, and we didn't know about the lemonade in the MDR! (Assumed it was the same as the W/J's) The only time we had dress code enforced was on a Transatlantic.

[@TravelingFlamingo]

We want to do a transatlantic cruise sometime. Thanks for sharing. Happy travels 🦩

[@F-N-C]

First time cruisers and we're having trouble deciding what Caribbean Cruise to take. I'm liking Oasis of the Seas. Great info thanks.

[@bigscottishmac572]

The food looks great and more varied than i expected for the main dining room. I like the relative spaciousness. Thanks for the dress code reminder, I will be sure and pack long pants. As always from you 2, an enjoyable and useful video

[@TravelingFlamingo]

We were really impressed with the menu. The rotation of daily options and the classic items meant we always found something we liked. Thanks for watching and commenting ❤️ 🦩

[@mikeodonnell9199]

We sailed once with RC on board "Symphany of The Seas " and loved the service in the MDR. We are booked for next spring to Alaska and look forward to our next cruise.

[@owlscoffeecats]

So thankful for your channel! Nice, quiet explanation and beautiful video you both provide.

[@TravelingFlamingo]

Thank you 😊

[@peggygatlinrice5148]

I recently found out you can also ask for half sized portions!

[@carolfgordon4471]

Yes, I dressed up for formal nights. Everyone should.

[@andreatuckman1084]

On our last cruise aboard the Wonder ots, we bought the Ultimate Dining Package. On one particular night we had early reservations at a restaurant because that was the only available time. We came back from Coco Cay late and had to cancel, so we ate in the MDR. The meal that night was lobster or filet mignon. Our server recommended the combo. It was just as good as any of the specialty restaurants. So we decided to forgo paying the extra money next time. Tip… if you buy any of the dining packages make sure you reserve your restaurants and times as soon as possible especially if you are aboard an Oasis class ship. They sell out almost immediately.

[@davidkong3062]

"especially if you are aboard an Oasis class ship. They sell out almost immediately." Thanks, I will do that accordingly.

[@rogerh2694]

You must do cruises a lot? From what I see, the complimentary stuff is way more than you need! Buffet and formal dining option?! AND 24 hour cafe? Quite impressed.

[@hotwig68]

We have dining package for our cruise on Oasis in Sept. However, they do NOT let you reserve in advance for the Dining package.....you must do it when you board the ship.....So that isn't so great. I am not a fan of MDR in general...food and service is usually slow and sub par....

[@katcalico9142]

“Avoid….bare feet.” 🤣🤣🤣 You two are kind of subtly hilarious. I love your videos. I am not really a formal person, and I do not go all out for formal night. BUT shoes should be a given. 🤣🤷🏻‍♀️

[@TravelingFlamingo]

Lol 😝 thanks ❤️

[@nursecatorn3449]

As a nurse I deplore formal nites; my feet/toes love my walking flats & heels on rolling seas were a nightmare when we sailed on Mardi Gras, at least Ms Mardi had higher elevations for MDR, so motion of the ocean were minimal.

[@marthaworc7873]

Aggred cat. I cannot walk into a restaurant in bare feet on land. I wouldn't do it on a cruise ship.

[@TeufelHandlanger]

We used to dress up for formal nights, but on a recent cruise there were guys wearing T-shirts and ball caps. If RCL isn't going to even pretend to enforce dress codes, we're not going to bother any more. I'll bring long pants and a shirt with a collar, but that's about all the effort I'm going to make from here on. Several years ago it seemed more folks were dressing for formal nights and it was fun, but I guess that's history.

[@iluvutube4886]

Yes, it is history, thank God! Now we can relax and don't have to worry about packing and buying formal wear for VACATION!

[@nursecatorn3449]

@@iluvutube4886 dont stoop to their barbaric: I love seeing guys $ gals obeying captain& honoring formal nights .

[@iluvutube4886]

@@nursecatorn3449 If you think dressing comfortably every night for a cruise you paid thousands of dollars for is barbaric, then you have mental problems! You’re on the wrong cruise line. You need to go on Celebrity or Princess where people are okay with being forced to dress up for formal night in order to get the food they already paid for! Good luck!

[@nursecatorn3449]

@@iluvutube4886 wow! W/out a MD behind my nMe I would never diagnose or in your case misdiagnose another human being. I don't harbor a mean spirit & I have neither the time nor inclination to spar -especially with complete strangers via you tube. Take care & happy sailing.

[@iluvutube4886]

@@nursecatorn3449 Well, you're one of the mean-spirited people on here whining about OTHER PEOPLE not dressing up to YOUR standards. Mind your own business! I'm not against people who want to dress up if they WANT to, but don't judge people who choose not to dress up on THEIR vacation! A vacation destination that has a mandatory dress up code is not where I go on vacation. Like I said, there are other cruise lines where dressing up on formal nights is mandatory so I don't go on those ships. Maybe those cruise lines would be better for YOU! What gives you the right to judge what other people are wearing? There's nothing wrong with going to dinner on YOUR VACATION in shorts, jeans, a sundress, shirt, shoes, etc.

[@marci2225]

I wear my Sundays Best to MDR and Specialty dining venues. I typically go with the My Time option and pre book as soon as I finish the muster drill, in other words as soon as I step on the ship. Thanks for sharing, your videos are detailed and great for helping new cruisers and refreshing seasoned cruisers.

[@samph3315]

We were on Jewel Of The Seas from Amsterdam to Iceland and Ireland in May and June. It felt like the dress code wasn’t enforced that strongly. Most people seemed to dress decently but a lot of us dudes going tieless.

[@timthorman7029]

I was on that same cruise! Great staff, great food, and the dress code was indeed flexible.

[@gatoreuph]

We just got off the Allure yesterday, and formal night wasn't observed very closely. My brother and I wore a tie and sport coat, but the vast majority of men wore neither. We saw ONE man in a tuxedo.

[@TravelingFlamingo]

We hope you had a great cruise. We noticed it was pretty casual. I think it’s great people can do what works for them

[@teresa978]

The best detailed video…. thank you

[@TravelingFlamingo]

We are so glad you liked the video. Thank you for watching and commenting. Happy travels 🦩

[@Bluenoser03]

This meals look absolutely delicious

[@TravelingFlamingo]

We were impressed with the main dining room on Royal Caribbean. It was a great selection and we really appreciated being able to customize our meal. Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy travels 🦩

[@edw5208]

Rc fan, and I think you nailed it

[@TravelingFlamingo]

Thank you ❤️

[@NoBSEateries]

The main dining room gets a bad rap sometimes but I always enjoy it. I love getting to know the severs and like with Aron getting the French onion soup, sometimes they just automatically bring it because they know you’ll want it! -S

[@sophiayelverton1553]

Very nice video very detailed and informative. Thank you !😊👍💯👏

[@KS-kr4ok]

ask your cabin steward for wine glasses. I bring a cork screw or buy wine with a twist cap. Open your bottle of wine in your room and fill your glasses and take them to dinner, or just carry the bottle with you. I do this all the time and I am never charged a fee to open the bottle because I opened it myself before I went to the dinning room. I have not taken dress clothes on last 4 cruises. My husband wears black dockers and a shirt with a collar and I wear black jeans and a nice shirt to dinner. I wear tennis shoes the entire trip. Life is too short to be uncomfortable. I always tip extra to waiters and cabin stewards. They work very hard.

[@TravelingFlamingo]

That is a really good plan! My friend is a wine drinker and said she is going to try this on her next cruise. Happy travels 🦩

[@mstinamichele]

Some cruises do charge a corkage fee even if the wine bottle is open if you take it to the dining room. Its best to just pour in the cabin and take the glass with you.

[@johndittmer8488]

My wife and I prefer to get the Unlimited Dining Package since we are introverts and we prefer to dine by ourselves plus we like the upcharge restaurants better anyways. A note for the Oasis class ships. Those ships no longer provide tuxedo rental services. if you want to rent a tuxedo, I suggest going to the Men's Warehouse near where you live and they can set you up with a tuxedo rental from their store in Miami, so you'll only have to rent for the days of the cruise themselves. I had to find out the hard way for a wedding on the Symphony of the Seas and that was my solution.

[@TravelingFlamingo]

There are some really nice specialty restaurants on board. Dang learning anything the hard way is no fun. Thanks for the heads up about the tuxedo rental.

[@AronRoss72]

Do you have a favorite specialty restaurant?

[@johndittmer8488]

@@AronRoss72: Yes, Izumi, 150 Central Park, Giovanni, and Samba's

[@AronRoss72]

@@johndittmer8488 Just got back from a 4 day on Freedom of the Seas. My girlfriend and I only did one specialty and that was Giovanni's for lunch. We loved it! We will be sailing on Harmony in November and purchased the 3 night dining package. There is no Samba's on that ship, but Izumi and 150 Central Park are definitely on our list. Just trying to figure out which we should do for the third. We have never been to Chops but hear it's overrated. We did enjoy the filet up-charge in the MDR so we are considering Chops. Wonderland looks too over the top, as for Sabor - well we live in Los Angeles so we get great Mexican as it is, and so that leaves Jaime's Italian. Anyhow thanks for your reply.

[@johndittmer8488]

@@AronRoss72: FYI, I was referring to Samba, not Sabor. Samba's is the Brazilian steakhouse on the Allure (and I think on the Radiance too, only two ships have it.) I've never been to Chops. I tried getting in for lunch on a sea day and even though the place was mostly empty, they said that it was booked. I have heard mixed reviews on it too. I'm that you two enjoyed your cruise and I hope that you enjoy your next one. We're going on the Symphony again in October.

[@summerwinter4]

Thank you for all the great information!

[@gildongkim5817]

자세한 설명에 감사 드립니다. 나중에 크루즈를 탈 때 참고할께요.^^

[@TravelingFlamingo]

안녕하세요 김길동 님, 한국어를 못해서 죄송하지만 Google 번역이 도움이 되었으면 합니다. 크루즈를 즐기며 멋진 하루를 보내시기 바랍니다. 봐주시고 댓글 달아주셔서 감사합니다. 행복한 여행 🦩 (Hi Gildong Kim, apologies I don't speak Korean but hopefully google translate can help. We really hope you enjoy your cruise have an amazing day. Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy Travels)

[@jakepatchogue9478]

I’ve been on 2 NCL, 2 Carnival, and 1 RCL cruise. Although RCL had pretty good main dining food, it was considerably longer than Carnival and NCL. Dinner took more than 2 hours on some nights

[@judibiggerstaff8054]

We ate at 5:30 and it took a lot less time and then we went to shows Also if you want you can have an assigned table and not have to wait in line We did at dinner. If we went there for earlier meals we would request a window seat. We never had to sit with others.

[@Nanasphotos]

Thank you for mentioning Gluten-free options. That had me worried, thought I would have to be stuck on a bland vegetarian diet.

[@TravelingFlamingo]

They were pretty good. Definitely let them know :)

[@kyoudoo]

Who really wants to bring a suit & tie or tuxedo on your vacation. Vacations are for relaxing and de-stressing. The last thing I want to wear is something that reminds me I am back home or, even worse, at work! It is a more casual wear era. Sail on Cunard or HAL for all the glitz and glamour. My days of silk and satin are over!!

[@kvom01]

On my recent solo transatlantic cruise I bought the unlimited package as there were 9 sea days, so good value on the package. I had dinner at the MDR only on the first and last nights. On neither night was I very hungry. Caesar salad is good, and I asked for extra anchovies, which they provided. French onion soup was good, but I didn't like the same cheesy covering on the escargot. I ate breakfast every morning in the Windjammer; I enjoyed not having to wait to be served, and the selection there is wide. My only complaints on Windjammer breakfast fare were on the bagels (bland) and biscuits (awful). On a shorter cruise I might buy the 3 meal package and eat more often in the MDR.

[@judibiggerstaff8054]

Agree the biscuits were hard as rocks.

[@tonypeters9073]

Vacation for us means no formal anything. That requires too much planning/prep for an experience where we want absolutely zero stress. So, we skip the MDR on formal nights.

[@aimeemaurer4862]

Our waiter told us that we are not required to dress us up on formal night, and that if we choose not to dress up we are more than welcome in the MDR.

[@robertbaty6939]

No need to dress up and if you skip formal/dress your best nights you'll also miss out on lobster night.

[@iluvutube4886]

@@aimeemaurer4862 And that's how it should be!

[@iluvutube4886]

I am totally with you! I rather eat at the buffet anyway and that's exactly what I did!

[@dianadowdy3043]

I agree. I don’t have formal attire anymore and I don’t want to buy it just for the cruise. I will something very nice......but not formal. I love skirts and I have a few dresses to choose from.

[@edci9370]

I am going to a 7 day cruise with wonder of the seas. I see two lobsters on your plate at the MDR. Is there extra charge for those? And is it difficult to reserve a table for 4 at MDR for dinner? Thanks.

[@esciteach7997]

And that is why we love Carnival (have been on RC also) where "formal night" is not enforced in summer in Caribbean. WILL seat you in MDR in shorts and tee--- there are a lot of teens (my son) who did not bring pants or button shirt. Nice you don't have to and can still eat in MDR. Pre kids went on Cunard; now that's dress up !!!!!

[@TravelingFlamingo]

Oh yes Cunard is next level. We have not sailed with them yet but would like to. Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@esciteach7997]

@@TravelingFlamingo Cunard very popular with retired (active and some not). The Trans Atlantic crossings are said to be amazing, harkening back to older times!

[@kathleencraig3804]

I like windjammer after we board for lunch. dinner I prefer MDR but dislike how long it takes for food to arrive....at times we miss shows ...breakfast I am alone eat by myself and hate that everyone else is with spouse me alone. We have GS booked so will be ordering from room menu for me to have it delivered to room and I will eat it alone lol. Lunch we go to buffet for quick bites, dinner MDR since have friends

[@TravelingFlamingo]

Sounds like you have a good plan. It can be frustrating when service is slow and you miss a show or activity. Aron doesn’t usually have breakfast before excursions so on those days I eat breakfast alone too. I try to enjoy the calmness before a busy day :) thanks for watching and commenting.

[@kathleencraig3804]

@@TravelingFlamingo Got question. we are booked in grand suite I know most of perks, day of embarkation where is best place to eat once onboard for gs (grand suites?) radiance of seas has no coastal kitchen so if we want something besides windjammer what do you recommend? thanks

[@boomboomboom4160]

Loyal to royal

[@thatplace1]

5 weeks till RCL Caribbean cruise boarding. Thanks

[@TravelingFlamingo]

That is so exciting. We are sure you will have a great time. Happy travels 🦩

[@Alterraingirl]

Is there an entrance on each level to go into the main dining room?

[@jennifercoates4226]

I have always done Caribbean cruises. The dresses I wear to dinner are island print, brighter colors. I am about to go on an Alaskan cruise for the first time. Is the dinner attire more black dresses?

[@TravelingFlamingo]

In our experience it was not more black tie. I just wore more layers and heavier materials. When are you going to Alaska? Have a great cruise 🚢 ❤️

[@jennifercoates4226]

@@TravelingFlamingo thank you for the tip! We are going in the middle of July! We are so excited!

[@rogerh2694]

Going to Navigator of the Seas cruise in August. So is Main Dining opened for breakfast, lunch, & dinner?? If so, how do you choose between that and Windjammer which their buffet looks just as good? Feels like if you choose one over the other, you feel like you missed out on the other one is the feeling I'm getting. Feels like going to free breakfasts at hotels, but they also offer an additional formal option. Yes, actually thinking critically about this...lol!

[@TravelingFlamingo]

Very good point. To add to the decision making, often there are other restaurants that also offer breakfast. The food offering is very similar, some may have more variety. The main difference will be the vibe. The windjammer can be very busy but is great if you want to grab food quick and has the largest selection. The main dining room can be a bit slower paced and more relaxed. Maybe instead of thinking about missing out, it’s more about what fits your day 😊 hope that helps. Have a great sailing. Happy travels 🦩

[@rogerh2694]

​@@TravelingFlamingo Cool sounds good! Thank you! I just remembered another youtuber going to both dining halls for dinner so there's nothing stopping you from doing that if you didn't feel the food hit the spot huh? :P

[@robertbaty6939]

The MDR is only open for lunch on sea days.

[@MegaKrason]

So many delicious options, so little time...even on the longest journey!

[@thomasauto4862]

We eat early dinner in the Windjammer them got o the show, after the show we eat in the main dinning room. It's all about the food! I find the food and service 5 star! I give NCL 2 start.

[@vondaturner7141]

Are bottle of wine very expensive on ship ( champagne)? If it's a swist off top will they still charge the extra fee? Or if you bring your own?

[@TravelingFlamingo]

I believe, as of today there was a bit of a change in their policy: (whoops pressed enter to fast) "A corkage fee does not apply to guests with the Classic Beverage Package or Premium Beverage Package. Security may inspect containers (including water bottles, soda bottles, mouthwash, canteens, etc.) at any time and will dispose of alcohol concealed in such container." Interim of onboard is about $10 more than most bottles you would buy on land.

[@djlesher]

Love the French Onion and really love MDR as do my kids who went there every dinner

[@TravelingFlamingo]

Yes another French onion fan :)

[@chriscudd2974]

If you are still hungry can you get more food? Especially at breakfast it looked like small portions..

[@TravelingFlamingo]

Absolutely :) Just ask your waiter and they will bring you whatever you would like. Some cruise lines may have some restrictions but generally speaking you can just ask for more and there won't be any issues. Hope that helps Chris, happy travels! 🦩

[@Ddnhan9876]

Can you order multiple entree and appetizers? Thank u

[@TravelingFlamingo]

Yup you absolutely can (provided its not one of the entree's that cost extra money, then you will have to pay 2x). Hope that helps Dung Ho! Happy Travels 🦩

[@kat64470]

Is it true you can ask for more than one entree? When do they have Lobster on the menu at RC? Is it seven day trips only? Is it Fridays? Etc

[@TravelingFlamingo]

Yup, lobster can vary, and what I mean by that is it depends on your sailing (for example north eastern seaboard cruises have lots of included lobster) however not all itineraries do. You can usually have at least one "lobster fest" day where its included but beyond that there is usually an uncharge for it. Beyond seafood and "premium" steak (which personally I've never noticed a difference with) you can ask for second entrees :) So load up! If it is a sea/lobster day then yes, you can generally ask for more as well. Generally speaking when they seat you they will explain any restrictions and the menu will identify up-charge items. Hope that helps Let the redeemed say so! Happy Travels 🦩

[@robertbaty6939]

The MDR is not open for lunch on port days.

[@colormetakenaback]

How many royal caribbean ships have the skydiving sim? I have to do that 😂

[@TravelingFlamingo]

It was a lot of fun 🤩 I’m glad Aron convinced me to do it. It is on the Quantum and Oasis class ships. So those are ships like Allure, Oasis, Odyssey, Wonder, and Ovation. Hope you get to try it! Happy travels 🦩

[@ceesee3153]

I actually wished they enforced the dress code, I expect to not see shorts and graphic tees when I’m doing a nice sit down meal. But that’s just me.

[@iluvutube4886]

Mind your own business and don't look at other people, simple solution to your pettiness!

[@nooblikescake2770]

@@iluvutube4886 lol

[@lijerry2985]

How many appetizers, mains and desserts can I order?

[@TravelingFlamingo]

I’m the main dining room as many as you want!! Enjoy 😋

[@realcdcruze3558]

I always wear nice jeans and t-shirt. On formal night I add a golf shirt. Wear what you want and just no shorts / tank tops.

[@TravelingFlamingo]

Very true! I’m all for keeping it simple.

[@michaelboccanfuso826]

Did not have a jacket but woe long pants and a collared shirt

[@miriam123]

QUESTION 🙋🏼‍♀️ if I wanted to bring some food to my stateroom to eat later, how do I heat it up? Is there a microwave? And fridge?

[@TravelingFlamingo]

There is usually a fridge but no microwaves or other ways to heat up a meal, however you can order room service (depending on the line for free or for a small charge) and they will delivery right to your stateroom. Hope that helps Mir iam, Happy Travels! 🦩

[@miriam123]

@@TravelingFlamingo thanks for helping me. Could you answer one more question: is there food available all through the night? Can I go some where’s on the Royals Rhapsody of the Seas and eat at 3 am?

[@TravelingFlamingo]

@@miriam123 Although hours do change somewhat frequently now (due to covid / low staffing levels) "generally" you won't have 24x7 dining however venues like Sorrento's Pizza will be open until 3am. Additionally room service is 24x7 and although not usually night-owls we have on several occasions taken that food to eat up on the lido decks at night. I hope that helps, apologies for not having all the hours but you usually have 1 or 2 late dining options and usually always pizza lol. That said room service is also a good option and they can usually make you whatever you want. Pro tip, depending on when you order the pastries are usually made that minute :) (they do all the baking at night). Happy Travels 🦩

[@miriam123]

@@TravelingFlamingo Thank you!

[@narnianiche9585]

I liked the video but for an 11 minute video, there were too many commercials.

[@Fritha71]

Ugh, sitting with strangers at a dinner table is not my idea of a relaxing vacation meal... I sometimes dream of taking a cruise all by myself since I don't have anybody to go with ( friends and relatives can't afford it and nobody else is as keen on cruises as I am ) but I still don't want to sit with strangers at a dinner table, trying to make conversation.

[@mstinamichele]

Do MTD and ask for a table for yourself.

[@marthaworc7873]

At 7:05 timestamp: It did say long pants were required but it was not enforced. So why did "Aaron"? have to go back to his room to change, sounded like a pain for "Aaron" huh. So, it looks to me like the dress code was enforced, otherwise why would Aaron go all the way back to his room to change? Please clear this up for me.

[@TravelingFlamingo]

Good question, this review is about Royal Caribbean and their dress code. Our story is about NCL which we state at 6:50 (kzbin.info/www/bejne/rqG0ZKGqrryre80) that we called to verify the dress code due to our situation on NCL. To break up the video a little and to give a personal story we thought we would add that in as a humours if not light hearted example of why checking about the dress code is important. Sorry it did not land. Hope that clarifies Martha. Happy Travels 🦩

[@marthaworc7873]

OK Thanks,

[@dielleikuzwe9210]

Does anyone know how to ensure you aren’t sitting with strangers with traditional dining?? It’ll be 2 of us and don’t really want to sit with others.

[@TravelingFlamingo]

My suggestion would be to talk to the hostess when on board. They may not be able to do something for the first night but hopefully they can accommodate you.

[@gbp56h14]

IKR...hubby & I (we're AA & were seated with another couple, the hubby talked about Trump, Jan 6 etc, it was awful) never again. We were by the window from then on.

[@robertbaty6939]

Suggested dress code.

[@bradsikkema4865]

I don’t know if I would like sitting with strangers, we sat alone on our first cruise.

[@TravelingFlamingo]

We have done it the odd night but we haven’t chosen traditional dining and had the same table mates the entire trip. If you are interested in meeting people it’s a fun way to go.

[@JulieWallis1963]

It’s a nice way to meet people. Don’t forget, strangers are just friends we’ve yet to meet.

[@jowhiteoak7175]

I was on a RC cruise ship last week, in Europe. If you don’t want to do formal, please go to windjammer. We saw people in shorts, jeans etc. on other lines these people would have been turned away. Another night two American guys thought it was ok to eat their entire meal wearing baseball caps. Not good.

[@patricktaubenheim7688]

Where is the problem?

[@marthaworc7873]

Why do you care so much? Really, why?

[@missmarymary6506]

@@marthaworc7873 lol. I have never heard so many people worried about what others are wearing...one person's casual is another person's formal...if my choice of clothing causes someone to have a poor dining experience a session with a licenced therapist may be in order .. everyone pays to have the vacation they want...it's a shared ship ..if you want everyone around you to think the same way..then go to your personal island

[@marthaworc7873]

@@missmarymary6506 I don't care what people wear. I don't understand why people seem to care what I wear.

[@lanidavis8925]

Maybe it didn't photograph well, but a lot of the food looked bad. Some grapes had black spots on them.

[@rickjames302]

I was on H.O.T.S. 2 weeks ago. It was my first cruise. Everyone always rants and raves about the quality of food in the main dining rooms on cruises. Honestly that was the most bland food I have ever eaten on any of my world travels. I had a much better experience in the WJ. The food had flavor and also a better selection. I am unsure if the cooks lost their taste buds due to possibly previously having covid. The servers were great. There was just no "love" given to the food (like it was straight from a can.)

[@colonial6452]

I am a retired diplomat and wore a suit every day for decades. I am sorry, but my formal dinner nights are over. I will dress in business casual.

[@TravelingFlamingo]

That is a very good point. It will be interesting to see how it changes over the next few years.

[@marthaworc7873]

Look, if people are horrified by other people's dress, why not split the main dining area into 2 sections? 1 for dress up and 1 for no dressing up. There is precedence for this, smoking and non-smoking. Of late, guns and no guns. I want to eat the best food on the ship and be comfortable doing it. If I have to get dressed up to eat, it's a deal breaker for me. I won't cruise. I was simply doing research to see if a cruise was right for me. I found out *a lot* more than my original research goals were about cruisers. For instance, people get *horrified* by the way other people dress. smh. Anyway my research is done and I may take a cruise -- or not.

[@AceGoodheart]

Other than swim wear attire I'm all for wear what you want. If shorts, T-shirt, and a baseball cap is your style then wear it. If a suit and tie fits you best then wear it. One's clothes doesn't define who you are so I could care less about formal dining. I don't live my life trying to impress anyone and I don't wear clothes to pretend I'm something I'm not. I wear what I feel comfortable wearing. For me, it's nice jeans and a polo shirt for dinner. Now where's my drink?

[@iluvutube4886]

No, I don't dress up for formal night, dress codes or themes should be optional. I'm spending thousands to go on this cruise and I'm entitled to the food I paid for. Couples on a romantic vacation may like this, but not the thing you want to do when cruising with kids. I want to be comfortable.

[@TravelingFlamingo]

You have a good point. On our last cruise with NCL that is how they did it. You could make any night formal night if you want, or no night. Thanks for watching and commenting

[@marthaworc7873]

A tie on vacation?!?!?!?!? People don't even wear ties at *work*!

[@marthaworc7873]

@@ghostlygent Look ghostlygent, those 1/2 of the people you are talking about are now working *at home* because of covid. Get with the program gent!

[@caliscribe2120]

In the US, I definitely think it's generational. I'm 63 and when I started working full time in the head office in the 1980s, suits and ties were expected to be worn. During my earlier work life, we transitioned to slacks, dress coats and ties. In my later work life it became khakis, button down dress shirts or even polo style collared shirts. I always wore a tie until I retired at the end of last year.

[@ruthhogg6423]

@@ghostlygent You’ve just done the exact thing you accused Martha of doing. If you don’t want to be judged for wearing a suit and tie, then don’t judge others for wanting to wear shorts and a T shirt to dinner. NO ONE should be commenting negatively on what anyone else chooses to wear. Personally I have no time for dress codes, for the reason I have just given. They are pretentious and dividing. I think you were overly harsh on Martha, you didn’t come across well.

[@ruthhogg6423]

@@ghostlygent Oh dear, I think that went right over your head. I’m going to leave this here, you and I are completely different people. Goodbye.

[@Em_Dee_Aitch]

I’d never go to dinner on a cruise ship without one!

[@JeffBurow]

Headed on our first cruise in September. I am very much disliking what I am hearing in regards to dress codes and not being enforced. It feels like that would ruin some of the "special"ness of the dinners.

[@TravelingFlamingo]

I understand that. A lot of people want more enforcement on the dress code. Hopefully you guys have a great time. There is lots to see, do and enjoy.

[@amikailua9504]

You should always dress for dinner! ALWAYS. No excuses. Those who don't dress for dinner cheapen the experience for others.

[@rickjames302]

Or maybe YOU are on the wrong cruise line? If i am not dressed inappropriately but also not dressed up, then how i dress shouldnt affect your dining experience one bit.

[@itsrojas]

Upgrade to a different cruise cheap ass if you want to be fancy

[@apooh3051]

Such arrogance. Times change. Wearing formal are also no longer required in many work places unlike 20 years ago. Not wearing formal doesn't affect any dining experience and the food that they served.

[@lindamayans5441]

People are getting cheap 😖

[@deneedalton4151]

always dress for formal nites or you really miss out

[@Landmantx]

I can’t stand it when people wear gym shorts to the main dining room. Part of the fun of cruising is dressing up and having a nice dinner.

[@napqueen9938]

As long as its tactful why care?

[@Landmantx]

@@napqueen9938 the fact that there are people that think that gym shorts are tactful for the dinner table is the very heart of the problem. These are the same people that walk around the ship in their pajamas all day. I guess I was just raised differently.

[@treasure2behold282]

Agree 💯

[@marthaworc7873]

Well, you feel free to dress up all you want!

[@marthaworc7873]

@@Landmantx Have you ever seen people walking around in their pajamas all day?

[@cakienudge]

Horrified at the people who blatantly post that they will violate a requested dress code. If they say black tie, I don't want to be looking at polo shirts. Folks should be refused entry if they show up in gym clothes. Good reason for me to avoid cruising. You were convincing me with the food and decor. Lost me at failure to comply with reasonable requests. Thank you for the information.

[@TravelingFlamingo]

Thanks for watching and commenting. The food and decor were really nice. We were surprised that they weren’t enforcing the dress code as we are used to it with other cruise lines. But it didn’t ruin our experience. To each their own :)

[@iluvutube4886]

It's none of your business what other people are wearing. I f I'm spending thousands of dollars for a vacation, I'm going to dress how I want and be comfortable. I would avoid cruises all together if I had to "dress up" to eat the dinner I've paid for and am entitled to! People like you who are "horrified" shouldn't cruise! Mind your own business.

[@newsalemcemetery2634]

It depends on the cruise line. If you prefer a more formal experience perhaps a cruise with MSC, Holland, or Princess would be more to your liking as those lines tend to be more traditional and far more likely to enforce dress codes. Cruise lines like Royal, NCL, and Carnival tend to cater more to families and people who prefer a more casual feel.

[@berniehanlon8248]

If what other people are wearing to dinner bothers you that much, then don’t cruise. People pay a lot of money for a cruise and shouldn’t be denied dinner because some guests are offended that I wore a nice collared shirt and casual pants…get over it!

[@iluvutube4886]

@@berniehanlon8248 I agree Bernie. Well said!

[@TheSoaphippo]

I refuse to wear a suit on a cruise ship, i wear uncomfortable clothes all year

[@TravelingFlamingo]

lol I definitely understand :)

[@marthaworc7873]

Tell me, who wants a *stupid* dress code on their vacation?

[@napqueen9938]

DISGUSTING FOOD