First let me say I had set my expectations rather low because I have only sailed on Holland American and Disney Cruise Lines. I honestly thought that no cruise could ever match a DCL cruise. I was wrong!
About us: Just married 44 and 49 years old, both have cruised 3 times together and me 8 total cruises. We are a lesbian couple, no children.
Night before the cruise we stayed at Baymont Inn in Galveston. It was ok, nothing fancy, and was clean. We were allowed to park the car there while we cruised so for that it was good. Too expensive though for this older hotel.
Loved this area, super easy to get to activities all around the ship. Quiet even though it was close to everything. Plenty of room and storage spaces. I would book this room/location each cruise if I could!