Exemplary Options

First, you can go an inexpensive way with the Escape or invest a little money and have different exposures you would not normally experience.  The free part:  Dining - the food in the regular restaurants were very good.  We did the buffet a couple of times, dined for breakfast and lunch in the Savor and Taste several times, and spent one night in the Manhattan Room.  There was plenty of variety and taste in all the free places.  Entertainment - the shows were amazing.  I did not think I would like the show "After Midnight" but I was pleasantly surprised.  The dancing was amazing and the singing and choreograph was splendidly put together.  The "Brat Pack" was even better.  I grew up during this era so I knew I would be engaged in this show.  The performers were so passionate and had extraordinary talent.  I have seen several Broadway shows in New York and Chicago and this show measures up to that talent.  I suggest sitting near some of the platforms they have set up in the auditorium.  There will be three platforms set up about four or five rows from the front.  One to the left, another to the right and one in the middle.  Sit by one of these platforms and you will be able to experience the show in a more intimate setting.  I really did love it.  The Glow party is a must regardless of the age.  The music and lighting was invigorating.  I seen people from 8 to 80 dancing to the evening skies.  Everyone was having so much fun.  Check it out, even if it is only for a few minutes because that is what I thought and ended up staying much much longer.  The Pool - there is several complaints about seating by the pool and certainly I validate this as an issue.  However, I politely asked people with a smile if I could squeeze in and sit on one of the stools in the pool and was obliged both times.  Finding a chair, well that is a whole other issue where it was pretty packed during prime time afternoons.

The investment part:  One rather inexpensive option is the "Wine Lovers the Musical."  It is $20 per person and offered twice on your cruise.  The show is entertaining and extracts the talents from the "Brat Pack."  You are served a descent lunch but an extraordinary amount of wine.  I believe it was 4 or 5 glasses, perhaps not officially full glasses but pretty close.  The show was great and I definitely was feeling the wine as well, in a good way that is.  We had the ultimate dining package (UDP) for five of the nights.  The service and flavor in these restaurants were exemplary.  We did the Tappanyaki, Cagneys and LeBistro.  Treat yourself to it if you have the option.  There is enough reviews on this app about the speciality restaurants so I defer to those.  The spa was my favorite excursion on my entire trip.  The cost is about $200 and there is a Japanese pool, a salt room, steam room, two saunas and a snow room.  I would literally stay in the thermal suites (the other name for the spa) several hours of the day without any regrets.  There are heated chairs and two oversized couches you can cuddle with your sweetie.  I did post pictures of the spa on this app for your viewing.  If you are looking for a place to unwind, read or distress, then this is the place for you.  The first night of the cruise the spa offers a free tour of their thermal suites.  I think it was about 5pm, at the least check the tour out.

I really do love this ship.  There is so much to do.  You can get the party atmosphere at the pool and then unwind in the thermal suites.

I hope this review gives you some options to consider when you embark on the Escape.  Enjoy yourself!!