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JENNIFER FLINK
Travel Consultant - Royal Caribbean Expert
Destination Specialist for Southern Europe
Destination Specialist for Spain

Direct Line: 503.863.5411
j.flink@finevoyages.com

I recently had the pleasure of spending a day in the life of a passenger on the Serenade of the Seas, one of four ships within the Radiance-class in the Royal Caribbean fleet. The Radiance-class ships are known as the "ships of light" due to the vast amount of open space and glass paneling found throughout the vessel. As I walked through the public areas it was apparent why they received such a nickname; no matter which public area I was strolling through there was always a fantastic view of the sea - even the glass elevators give you a sweeping view of the ocean!

The Serenade was first released in August of 2003; she wears her age extremely well due to a complete refurbishment in March of 2007. The furniture and decor remain fresh and up to date. One of my favorite public areas was the uniquely decorated, Indian Raj-themed Solarium Pool which can be covered during inclement weather. I felt as if I was immediately transported to an exotic part of the world without even leaving the ship.

I had the privilege of enjoying cuisine in the main dining room, Reflections, during the lunch hour while on board. Reflections offers breakfast and lunch in an "open seating" style and dinner is served in a more traditional two-seating style. I ordered a seafood appetizer, chicken marsala, and banana cream pie for dessert - all of which were fantastic! The attentiveness of the wait staff should also be noted - neither my water nor my wine glass was ever below half full!

Another dining venue not to be missed is the Windjammer Cafe, which offers buffet-style dining for breakfast, lunch and dinner. I expected this venue to be anything but special with a cafeteria like setting equipped with generic standard furniture. However, as I made my way through the entrance I was very pleasantly surprised at the beautiful decor. I felt as though I was stepping into a fine dining restaurant rather than a casual buffet.

The cuisine was anything but what you would expect to find in your typical buffet line. There are stations where you can choose from Italian to Asian and everything in between! You'll also be pleased to find ample seating available both inside as well as outside, which is enclosed in glass to protect you from any wind.

As I continued my exploration of the Serenade I found myself on Deck 12 wishing that I was a kid again! Royal Caribbean has one of the best children's programs at sea, the Adventure Ocean® Youth Program. They have specially designed programs for each peer group with age-specific adventures and private kids and teens-only areas which will keep everyone of all ages entertained. They even have an Adventure Beach water park equipped with a kids' slide and other fun activities. And the best part is that it is all included in your cruise rate!

I encourage you to consider an Alaska cruise with Royal Caribbean. Your ship will dock conveniently at Pier 66 in the heart of downtown Seattle with easy access to Pike's Place Market, Pioneer Square, the Space Needle and many restaurants along the waterfront. The historic Edgewater Hotel is just steps away from the pier with cruise parking available directly across the street for a nominal fee - the hotel also offers a cruise package that includes the cost of parking!

As your Royal Caribbean Specialist, I would be delighted to chat with you about any of the destinations on your must-see list. Chances are Royal Caribbean can take you there!

Jennifer Flink