Celebrity Cruises, Summit, Panama Canal

Let me be quite clear at the beginning of this missive, that my wife and I had a simply wonderful time on the Celebrity Cruise ship Summit sailing through the Panama Canal. However, to simply trot out a diatribe of superlatives about the food, accommodation and service would although true, (especially with regard to our stateroom attendant Suarnica), be somewhat boring and sound like the brochure. There are just a few minor points of which travellers on the Celebrity cruise ship Summit should be aware. Firstly, this is an American ship and was, therefore, generally full of Americans. Not really a problem as they are a very friendly race, but they do have a very strange view of the world outside the USA. So be aware, the view that they start wars to teach their population geography may be true. Secondly, being outside teritorial waters does not mean drinks are cheap. With a 15% service charge on top of prices that are already somewhat excessive, especially wine, you will either need to be teetotal or have a healthy budget for this part of your holiday. Lastly, be aware that once you have left the ship, and have handed in your glowing customer survey at the ship's dis-embarkation point, the arrangements to transfer you to the airport are not part of the superior service. I am sure Celebrity Cruises will have heard from many dissatisfied customers, especially those who never did find their luggage at the airport, regarding the disorganised chaos that was the transfer from San Juan docks to San juan Airport. I will not dwell on it, but shades of the Keystone Cops comes to mind. On balance, my wife and I still give the holiday 9 out of 10, especially the onboard service, accommodation, and food, but we still await perfection. David Dungate, Northampton, England.