BACK TO CRUISE PORT ITINERARIES
It's the first 62-foot all-encompassing park at sea. Flanked by
five balconied decks and open to the sky, it is a beautiful, quiet retreat
where you can lounge, walk or even take your picnic lunch from the Casual
Park Cafe. And even though it is only the
beginning of December, Christmas poinsettias intermingled with trees,
shrubs, and tropical flower gardens growing along winding pathways
added to the festivity. At night one could dine under the stars
at one of the three restaurants, exclusive 150 Central Park, Giovanni's
Table, Park Cafe and Chops Grille. Or, savor a fine glass of wine at
the Vintages.
The plantings are arranged in thousands of boxes, or modules, that fit together like a giant jigsaw puzzle, with drainage and irrigation underneath. The attractive undulating walkways make the scenic walk a little longer and enjoyable. Very different... very complex... very beautiful!
The glass canopies allow you to peer down several decks into parts of the enclosed Promenade. Similarly, guests on the Royal Promenade can look skyward to enjoy natural light and a view of some of the foliage of Central Park.
The Central Park and
Boardwalk balcony staterooms offer views of their respective areas which
just might be worth giving up a private view of the ocean for some.
For one thing, non-smokers will benefit greatly as these are totally
non-smoking accommodations-- meaning adjacent balconies with guests smoking
will not be bothersome.
I would imagine that the Central Park balconies would be perfect for those
wishing serenity. For our family with younger children, balcony staterooms
overlooking the Boardwalk and Aqua Theatre proved to be a hit. If one has a
concern about the noise level below, don't worry. Once the balcony door is
shut and locked the interior is sound proof. My favorite is-- and will
remain-- the oceanfront balcony with total privacy in the morning while
having breakfast on the balcony in my robe and no makeup!
I do wish, however, they would figure out a way to book all the smokers
together on one side or the other of the ship so I could enjoy my breakfast!
(Hint, hint, Mr. Fain)
THE ROYAL PROMENADE
The many Royal Promenade shops include duty-free liquor and tobacco, gifts and souvenirs, wine and champagne, high-end jewelry and watches, perfumes, cosmetics and clothing in a variety of styles.
If you are in the mood for food, there is Mondo Coffee Bar (open around the clock), Sorrento's Pizzeria (New York Style - or made to order) and Cafe Promenade (Starbucks coffee, fruit shakes, pastries and sandwiches served all day).
The Rising Tide Bar
This gives new meaning to getting "high" at a bar. An entire bar takes you from one deck to another while you relax and enjoy the scenery. The bar glides between Royale Promenade on Deck 5 and Central Park on Deck 8. The ride is so smooth, you don't even know you're moving. (And so is the signature drink!)
