If you want to shop this is the place for it. Shops, shops and more shops! I actually just got burnt out of shopping, because it is almost the same thing over and over.You really need to know what you are looking for first. We then headed to the beach front and stopped for beers and food.

St. Maarten

We just got off and walked... I just felt that I was missing something... The map that you get from the ship did not fully explain where all the "good" shopping was.In the park near the pier we ate empanada's from a street food truck. Yum! But, you could not get a cold beer anywhere before noon. Except at Senior Frogs. Which was hopping.BUT... They did not sell the San Juan "native" beer... Apparently, the company is in a disagreement with the government.

San Juan

We were definitely not prepared for actually how big it was. We were a party of 10, thank god, one of us said, "Lets meet at Columbus Cove". Because if you get said, you would meet "on the beach" you will never find ANYONE! It is that huge. Columbus Cove was very nice as compared to South side where the waves were rough.The BBQ was FANTASTIC!The water slide was terrible... My nephews and niece went down it... Heard from someone... "That was the WORST slide ever!" There was no water pressure. If you must go one it. try to "barter" with the guy if no one is around... Slip him some money instead of full price...

Labadee

Booked in on-line and not on the boat.It had seating for a lot more people than we actually had. There were full sized restrooms, a sunning deck on the roof and trampoline nets at the bow. They also have an open bar with beers, soda and liquor beverages.After we were well away from shore they put the sails up and shut down the engines for a nice quiet cruise. We moored near the shoreline and they gave everyone time to swim or snorkel. They also served a light lunch consisting of some local dishes.

On starboard side. Nice view facing the ocean when docked, and you get the sun for the first two at sea days. Shade on last at sea day.The room was bigger, the bed was bigger, and there was ample storage space. Shower was fine. No complaints.Bed was big too.

Plus, with it so small, there was one day that I went in, and when the boat rocked, I rolled and banged into the other 30 people that swayed to the one side of the pool...There were a couple of days where we only wanted to go to the dinner the two of us, so we decided to go to "anytime" dining.

Independence of the Seas Review

Feb. 15 Cruise review - would do it again

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