I was surprised how easy it was to find my way around such a big ship. There are maps everywhere, so you can't get lost! This was my 5th cruise. I was never a big fan of cruising but this can convert you into one. Our 28 year old son came along at the last minute for his first cruise. He had an inside cabin on deck 7 and was very impressed. He loved the rock climbing, flow rider and the shows. They were all first rate. We booked them all in advance. We went to 8. But when we made a change, it was no big deal. Just get there 15 min early and many do not show. The shows were all first rate. That says a lot as we live near NYC & have been to many Broadway & comedy club shows. The service was terrific! These people work 7 months on and 10 weeks off, always with a smile! They work so hard. We made sure tip them extra. The MaîtreD was so accommodating when we brought our son along last minute. However it was no big deal. They found us a table for the 3 of us. This was especially nice as my husband & son both had a birthday while on the ship (yes, same day) so we were able to celebrate together. Our cabin attendant Floyd was attentive and always cheerful. My son said his was great too. The food yes not always hot or tasty. We ate at 1 specialty restaurant, Chops Grille. It was excellent. Highly recommended. Also, have the roast beef @ Park Cafe in Central Park. Also the Solarium is a nice healthy alternative.

Since this was our first Caribbean cruise, all the ports were new. Since we are not beach people we like activities. Labadee was nice & hot (90 in Nov.!) we just stayed on the beach (2 hours)but our son jet skiing & had a blast! In Jamaica, we went to Dunn Falls thru the ship. We had a really fun time. My son could not believe his mom could do it! Nor did the guide who annoyingly called me momma!just make sure you wear good water shoes. You can buy them @ the falls for $10 and looked pretty decent.our final stop was Cozumel. We went on a ship excursion to San Gervasio ruins. Very interesting and it was not too hot, only 84. We also stopped at a quiet beach (forgot the name) for 1 1/2 hrs. Enough for me! Very nice. Cozumel, was the most fun. A nice mix of beach, shoppingJust one caveat. When in Jamaica it is safest to use the ship's excursions as hiring your own taxi can be dangerous.

All in all, we had a great time. My son now wants to go on the Quantum with some friends. So I highly recommend for young and old the Allure. Forgot to mention Character breakfasts of Dreamwork characters. So there were lots of young families. Something for everyone!