[Drisump]

I'm not going to go through the entire thread but I've been involved in many bathroom renos and in general, tiled showers are the most poorly executed item on the list. There are a few ways do do it right and and almost an infinite number of ways to do it wrong. When disassembling one of these I have found the base and it's seal to the walls and drain, to be a particularly poorly done step. You may want to investigate the Schluder system (I believe that is how it's spelled), it's a German company who have come up with many solutions to solve the problems associated with these showers. Quality and well engineered ....remind you of anything?
Ps. I have seen kitchens with laminate flooring that has survived for some years but the owners have to be very careful....personally I wouldn't, and a bathroom...not a chance. Wood floors are different (assuming not pre-finished), you have the option of putting a clear epoxy over the finish. Much like a finish on a wood strip canoe.