The sheltered, winding streets of the Financial District have more Old-World charm than the rest of the city put together. - 

The Wall Street Hotel Review

After a few delays (including COVID) we are booked on my birthday,  graduation (and anniversary) present of a 12 NIght Hong Kong, Japan & Vietnam cruise!

We (rebooked) in 2022 & retain all the benefits of The Retreat before the 2024 changes.

Since booking, the cruise has undergone some changes, including an itinerary name change from "12 Night Northeast Asia Cruise."

, one of two with larger bathrooms (separate tub & shower) connected to the Penthouse Suite.

Since most of the cruise amenities were covered in our booking we decided to use the onboard credit towards the following excursions:

Day 1: Back Home Laundry Bag ($119.99 pp)

Day 2: Rabbit Hole Bourbon Tasting ($36.99 pp) -> 

Celebrity canceled on embarkment day. We were given 30% off if we booked another ship excursion.

Day 3: Independent Exploration: Saigon On Your Own ($53.99 pp)

Day 4: Destination Highlight: Nha Trang Countryside Biking ($203.99 pp) -> 

Celebrity canceled this in November 2024.

Day 6: Destination Highlight: Walking Tour of Old Hong Kong ($58.99 pp) - >

 rebooked price dropped to $52.99 December 25, 2024

price dropped to $36.99 December 2024 | Rebooked & moved to Day 2 from Day 10. Price dropped 5 days out to $26.99, rebooked, and moved to Day 8.

Day 9: Small Group: Taipei Lifestyle ($150.99 pp) -> 

price increased to $168.99 December 25, 2024

Day 11: Small Group: Shochu Brewery & Tour ($151.99 pp) --> 

rebooked as the price dropped to $135.99 February 2025. Celebrity canceled on embarkment day. We were given 20% off if we booked another excursion.

We currently have a balance of $148.12 and I am unsure how to allocate it. Current options are:

Celebrity Retreat: 12 Night Hong Kong, Japan & Vietnam Pre-Cruise Story

, the stunning rooftop bar at Andaz Singapore. This alfresco dining spot features 

, a vibrant cocktail menu, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for unwinding above the city skyline. 🍸 #MrStorkSG #RooftopViews #AndazSingapore 

Sharing Platter: Beef Sliders (3)

Sharing Platter: Crispy Prawn Wonton

Sharing Platter: K-pop chicken

Sharing Platter: Pizzette (Margherita)

Sharing Platter: Truffle & Seaweed Fries

Clover Club HH ($13)

Cuban Libre HH ($13)

Old Fashioned HH ($13)

Dance of the Snake HH ($20)

Visiting Mr. Stork in the late afternoon?  It can get quite hot between 5 PM - 6 PM, so opt for shadier seating away from the edge to stay cool while still enjoying the stunning views!

Mr Stork, Singapore Food Review 

) and wanted to try some of their restaurants. We visited, sans reservation, during our weekend stay with the intent of sampling both food and happy hour beverages. Great food with great service marred by unrelenting direct sunlight. Would definitely visit again, opting for post-sunset dining experience.

"Andaz Singapore aims to spark a sense of discovery of the rich culture and heritage of the city and inspire you to experience it with a fresh perspective. Situated at the crossroads of the Kampong Glam, Little India and Bras Basah Bugis districts, our luxury hotel captures the essence of a traditional shophouse-filled alleyway, recreating the spirit of the surrounding neighbourhoods." - 

Andaz Singapore, by Hyatt hotel review

We loved the Andaz Singapore's central location and the exceptional service we received from the staff. Our room was clean and quiet, and we appreciated the well-stocked mini-bar and effective electronic shades. However, we found the light switches confusing and the bed a bit too firm for our liking. While the rooftop bar, Mr. Stork, and the Cantonese restaurant, 5 on 25, offered delicious food, the gym and pool felt small and crowded, and we felt the hotel was expensive for what it offered and would look to stay somewhere else on subsequent visits to Singapore.

"Relaxed pizzeria known for wood-fired pies, plus small plates, cocktails, and a patio." - 

16" Lamb On It ($30)

16" Rojo Tone ($28)

Seasonal Salad ($13)

Check their social media for deals and plan to arrive a few minutes before opening to get a table. 

Cosmo's Snack Bar Restaurant Review

After checking social media & learning about Cosmo's Sunday BOGO 50% off, we decided to try them out. Arriving promptly at 355 pm (they open at 4 pm) allows for the first choice of seating in the intimate dining room. We picked a table near the entrance to the back patio & then promptly went to the counter to order. Overall we had a great experience & would definitely return in the future.

"Located at The Summit, Reno’s premier shopping destination, our new hotel in South Reno, Nevada delivers an elevated experience blended with casual comfort. Stay steps from boutiques, multiple dining outlets and outdoor activities—all in a welcoming space that brings the vibrant Reno and North Lake Tahoe region to life. Surrounded by the scenic Sierra Nevada mountains and just minutes from Mt. Rose – Ski Tahoe resort, downtown Reno and the Riverwalk District, casinos and Reno-Tahoe Airport (RNO), our ideal location places you near the best the area has to offer." - 

Hyatt Place South Reno Hotel Review

We found the Hyatt Place South Reno to be a bit of a mixed bag, but leaning towards positive with a few caveats. The location was fantastic for us, with easy access to shopping, dining, and the ski resorts. We also appreciated the affordable "Members Save More" rate and the clean environment throughout the hotel. The free parking was a nice bonus too!

However, we were disappointed that the service was lacking, particularly at the front desk where we encountered a rather disinterested agent. We also weren't given any information about the amenities, and to our surprise, the pool was closed without any prior notice. The Wi-Fi was advertised as high-speed, but we found it to be quite glitchy. The gym was uncomfortably hot, and we had some concerns about security with the elevator access.

Ultimately, we think it depends on what you're looking for in a hotel. If location and value are your top priorities, and you're willing to overlook some shortcomings in service and amenities, then it could be a decent choice. But if you're hoping for a seamless and well-rounded experience with attentive service and fully functional amenities, you might want to consider other options.

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