Milenomics ² Podcast - No Annual Fee Edition TravelStories Episode 76: Tom Returns to the High Seas
Apr 6, 2026
They compare two very different cruises, focusing on ship design and how layout affects the experience. Ports of call like Grand Turk, Costa Maya, Cozumel and CocoCay get detailed attention. Dining scenes are highlighted from buffets and lobster nights to specialty restaurants. Onboard entertainment, casinos, and tips for managing large groups and early pool access round out the conversation.
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Rudy's Seafood Hit On Star Princess
- Tom ate at Rudy's seafood specialty restaurant on Star Princess and praised the surf and turf and prawns.
- He disliked the cioppino's lack of fennel and described Rudy's as a solid recommendation.
Use Discount Gift Cards For Casino Credit
- Buy discounted Princess gift cards (~5% off) and load them as onboard credit to gamble fee-free at the casino.
- Tom used GCX-type resellers, then redeemed at guest services to fund slots and tables with no transaction fee.
Icon Expands Oasis Concepts With More Density
- Icon of the Seas feels familiar to Oasis-class but squeezes in more amenities and neighborhoods, so scale is overwhelming yet navigable.
- Tom says Icon keeps Central Park and Royal Promenade analogs but adds Surfside and an indoor Aquadome.