Twosidesofacoin :-)

Many apologies from the rest of us who might actually want to look classy on occasion for infringing on your freedom.

(edited 8/2/99)
Let me expand a bit, since it seems that my opinion may be somewhat harsh, and thus requires some clarification.

Similarly to what Barryboat had said, the possibility of formal attire allows us to pay homage to the golden age of ocean travel. I relish the opportunity to do so, as I am an ocean liner enthusiast, albeit unfortunately misplaced by time to have truly enjoyed those classic vessels of yesteryear. Perhaps my ire is overkill, or perhaps I am simply being defensive of a custom that I wish to remain part of cruising in the face of a growing social movement away from any sort of rigidity. Forgive me if I have come off as snobbish, but remember, we aren't saying that people should be dressed to the nines for the duration of the cruise. It's only one to two nights after all. Is that so much to ask?

[This message has been edited by Joe at PwC (edited 08-02-99).]

Treat yourself to dressing up. You may just enjoy it!!

Boy, I bet I'll hear it for this post,but
here it go's anyway. My wife and I love the
sea and ships,the great liners of past and present, the nostalgia, the romance,the salt
air,the wonderful experience of sailing on
a large ship, the memories, and above all
good company ! Does anyone really feel that
to experience all of this, that dressing up
really matters ? Do clothes really make a
you a better person ? Does a Tux or suit
help you become a better person ?

It seems to me that if a person is willing to spend a lot of money on a vacation it should be just that.... A
vacation. A lot of us are forced to dress
for work so why would we spend a lot of money to go on a cruise vacation and do
the same thing ? As far as some people
are concerned dressing up is part of the
fantasy and something they enjoy and we
respect that, but my wife and I believe
that clothes do not make a real person and
it's whats inside that really counts.

With that said, my wife and I will
continue to dress the way we fell like because our money is as good as anyone elses. We do not live in a fantasy world, and
we believe that what is important in life
are the things that you know, and not what you show........

If the cruise snobs feel that anyone
who dresses up less formal then they do
(actually more comfortable) then need to get a real life. Who are they trying to kid ?
did it ever occur to them that very few
people are really interested in what they are
wearing but more interested in how they look
to everyone else. If cruising has to be a
fantasy experience then it would be a experience that most real people could live
without. Luckily, there are plenty of real
people out there that believe that having
a good time does not require dressing to the
hilt and and trying to impress everyone with
your clothes and jewels.
I apologise for my outspokedness,but
I have always felt strongly about this.
I really do not care for pretentious people,
and their snobby attitudes because they perceive someone to be less then them.
I hope that you have a good trip and continue to be free spirits and remember---- I'ts not what you show, it's it's what you know.

I hope that I did not offend anyone who chooses to be different then myself. The point
that I was trying to make is, that we are all
individuals and should be able to wear what
we feel like (reasonable guidelines apply of
course) The term snob would apply to only
those individuals who would look down on
someone else who they felt was not dressed
as well as themselves. If the shoe fits wear
it, because only the guilty would be offended
by the truth. If you were implying that I
might be a redneck and have no class, then
my Question to you would be what defines class? Some of the most sincere,kindest people I know could care less about who
they impress. If I cut a hole in a sheet and
stuck my head through it would I be less of
a person?..As far as my tirate goes, my
opinion comes from many experiences and
knowing of many situations where people have
been judged by what they are wearing and
I think it's unfair. As for your comment
about not wanting to cruise with me, then
we would both probably be better off.
I like to think of myself as being
honest both to myself and everyone else.
I am sorry if you were offended

Really appreciate your comments, I hope
this means that I'm off the hot seat.
I guess it doesn't hurt to stir up a little
old fashioned controversy. In this day and age it would do many of us good to relive
the glory days of sailing on the grand liners
and a chance to to experience the atmosphere
and all of the ambiance that goes along
with it. The next time we cruise we will follow
the dress codes and will enjoy ourselves as
well, Example: Norwegian says that for a twelve day cruise that there will only be
two formals, one semi, and one or two smart
casuals. I personally think this is very liberal and most people should have no
problem complying. I do not have a tux, but
my double brested dark suit should do (I guess I could rent a tux ) I have to be
careful though, because I am allergic to
polyester(it breaks me out) On the other side
my wife thinks it's a cruise conspiracy to
make you dress up so you won't eat as much.
You know, cumberbuns, tight trousers,tight
hose, girdles and whatever else! She laughs
and says that if everyone were allowed to wear comfortable clothes (expandable) it
would cost them a fortune just to feed us!

So in closing I would like to say,
live your life, do what makes you happy,
respect the rights of others, and have
fun because life is to short. Nuff said....