I have just signed up for the June 14th, 11 Day Cruise on the Paul Gauguin. (Papeete, Rangiroa, Tuamotu Islands, Rangiroa, Tuamotu Islands, Hiva Oa (Atuona), Nuku Hiva (Taiohae), Bora Bora, Taha'a Motu Mahana and Moorea) It is as 35th wedding anniversary as well as the 10th anniversary of our first cruise. That makes it pretty special, but from what I have learned so far, this is a pretty special cruise as well as a special cruise ship.

I am also trying to keep this cruise destination a surprise for my wife so I have not told her where we are going nor have I told her which cruise line. I will try and keep it a surprise right up until we board the ship. You might wonder how I will continue with the surprise element when we start checking in at Air Tahiti? Well, we have flown to Florida on Alaska Air so I thought I would use that analogy and see how far that gets me.

Because I am trying to surprise her, I have to get everything correct. Since this will be our first cruise to Tahiti and our first cruise on Regent, I have a few questions for you knowledgeable Paul Gauguin cruisers.

1. Are the electrical outlets in the cabins two prong, 110 volt, US compatible or do I need converter and/prong adaptors? I only need one outlet as we bring an outlet strip.

2. If we are not going to arrive early and spend a few days before the cruise, what is the procedure for transfer from the airport to the cruise ship? Is a taxi available and for how much? How far is it?

3. What to wear for dinner? We are used to a couple of formal nights, but from what I have read it appears that the Paul Gauguin is casual every night. Is this correct? If I get this part wrong I am a dead man.

4. Is there some sort of daily guide as to activities. If there is, how can I get a copy of them ahead of time? Most of the other boards have people who post them. I realize that I am moving up, but if anyone has copies or can save copies from their next cruise, I would love to get them before June.

5. What is the checked baggage allowance at Air Tahiti Nui? I have looked at their web page and it is somewhat confusing. Is it two 50 pound bags per person or one. All of the other flights I have taken from a US airport have allowed two, but ATN says one bag. They do say that if I am on a connecting flight that allows two bags, I get two. If I am leaving from LAX does that count?

I would also love to hear any other advice you may have for this cruise.