I've been on the reverse end of these 'specials' before and understand people's frustrations.  My partner and I both paid full price for the Greek Isles cruises last summer (along with the four day pre-trip package).  Imagine my frustration when I heard of the 2-for-1 offer that was being offered for rooms with a view (and I was stuck with standard inside room with no chance of upgrade).  My request to Olivia to be offered at least an upgrade due to the full price payment was met with rejection - nice try I guess. 

 

StephBoston is correct, however, in stating that the last minute plane ticket prices knock you down a few in the end.  The specials are not always a guarantee either, and you could end up missing out on a fantastic trip if you wait to book in hopes of a special being offered!

Hi to you on the Cancun II trip.   Just for information:  i.e., for those especially from Seattle or Tacoma, Washington,  The RT airfare on Cheap Tickets is @$650 per person (leaving on the 13th with 2-3 stops each way leaving in the early morning and getting to Cancun after 7 pm).  So, for you and the others, too, the total trip pricing probably "evens out" for late bookers.  Since if you booked early, you usually got a much cheaper (I hope!!!) plane ticket. The same would likely hold true, even if you left to go to Cancun, on the 10th, probably more expensive overnight flights, long layovers, etc.   I learned this going to Greece last spring!!!!  Great deal from Olivia and fabulous time, but I just waited a little too long to get the flights which were very pricy even from the East Coast, compared to those who booked with Olivia ahead of the specials.