This was our 19th cruise, 18 on Royal Caribbean and one on Celebrity, and we chose it to introduce family members to cruising. We had done this cruise in 2009 and knew it was awe inspiring. Our air travel was a nightmare - late out of DFW due to a missing log book (took an hour to locate), we missed our connection in Madrid to Barcelona. Got another flight which was also delayed due to mechanical problems. We spent two nights in Hotel Regina which is near La Rambla. Although sparsely decorated, the room was nice and the staff was friendly. With La Ramblas within easy walking distance, we had plenty of shopping to so and sights to see. We took all three on-and-off bus tours and saw the incredible architecture the city is famous for.
The RC shuttle bus was on time and delivered us to the terminal. Being Diamond Plus, check-in was easy. The ship was in excellent condition, and our JS was large and confortable. We had a table for ten at first seating and were blessed with very compatible companions. Our dining room wait staff struggled to remember names and drink preferences but overall they were satisfactory. Our head water Paul was excpetional, taking charge when he discovered that we were having some problems getting our food at times. The food was standard RC fare, good enough but not momorable. This was true of the other dining venues too.
Excursions were very good. We did a walking tour in Cannes before doing some shopping. Livorno was next, and we did an extended walking tour of Florence before seeing Pisa. The tour guide in Florence persistently ignored several requests for toilet breaks, opting to deliver the last word of her canned speech before directing us to the nearest facilities. Many of us were made very uncomfortable by her insensitivity. Rome was next and the extended tours of the Vatican, the Sistine Chapel, the Bascilica and the coliseum were excellent and well worth the money., The guide was friendly and professional.
Our JS was large. The storage was generous. The balcony and its furniture were excellent. Our Stateroom Attendant was very good - we did noit see him much but he attended to all of our requests with promptness.