I took my two teenagers (19 & 17) on a quick Thanksgiving break, and ended up on the Carnival Paradise because of cost and location. I've been on cruises with Celebrity and Royal Caribbean, both 5 star ships, so wasn't expecting much. Needless to say it at times exceeded my expectations, other times it didn't.
Embarkation was easy and fast; we had been upgraded to an Owner's Suite, so had the VIP status. Checked in about 1:15. Having never cruised out of Tampa things were a little complicated on parking, etc., but since we have moved to the area next time it won't be. Because of orthopedic issues I did Valet parking, definitely worth the price. Check In was a breeze and we were on the ship in less than 20 minutes with the VIP status. That being said there were no lines anywhere excepted to get our picture taking. Even without VIP we would have probably been done in 30 minutes.
The cruise wasn't full, but either way it didn't seem to crowded. Out room was nice; the room was ready when we got on the ship. Guest Services wasn't either very busy or not at all. Never had more than 2 people working so debarkation day they only had 2 people working, so it took almost an hour to get your account settled.
Nice sized suite, Ventilation wasn't the best, could smell smokers next door when inside. Room was either hot or cold had a hard time regulating the air. For a suite it's was just OK. Bathroom showed considerable wear on the fixtures and floor. Same with the balcony. Bed wasn't the most comfortable. Would have expected more out of a suite.