This is our 8th cruise -- last two were on Princess ships but we found them boring and too quiet for our liking. We are young "baby boomers" 57 and 62, and still want to have fun! We had taken a few RCCL cruises back 15 years or so, and we are so glad we gave them another shot! The Independence of the Seas (IOS) is a lovely ship; pristine, stately and well worth the money. Our cabin was huge, by balcony standards, with a well appointed bath with a rounded shower, the balcony itself had plenty of room to stretch out. We were so impressed with the size. First two days are sea days, so had the chance to explore this beautiful ship. We hung at the Solarium pool, was quieter than main pool, but was just a quick walk to the Sprinkles frozen yogurt machine, and the activities at the main pools. It is true -- if you want a spot at Solarium pool, you'll need to be an early riser, thankfully my husband is, and was tasked with getting 2 chairs in the sun.

So what were our favorites -- everything! We did it all, well, except the Flowrider surfing lessons!! There is so much to do in the evening! We loved the singer in the Dog & Badger Pub; his shows were different each night, based on the requests from the audience. The shows were fun, loved the Ice Show (don't miss it!), the band in the Pyramid Lounge always lively and crowded.

Johnny Rockets was a fun spot, made it for a late dinner after we watched the Patriots in the ACS Championship game. Read more