Although it has been just three weeks since we disembarked from our cruise, it was so relaxing and interesting, that we are ready to cruise again. Most of the frustrations occurred the first day and were quickly forgotten.

We had traveled via automobile the day before from our home to the Miami area so that we could board around noon and maximize our time onboard. As Florida residents we had purchased a Sunpass last year. It is a great value for travel on the South Florida highways. We saved a great deal of time and appreciate the new tunnel access to the port. Unfortunately, we had some difficulty figuring out how to get to the Carnival Glory. As we went round and round, we eventually found where to drop off our luggage and where to enter the parking garage about 10:30am. It was a very busy day, and the only available parking spaces were on the top level out in the sun and rain. We weren't happy about that, but we were able to assist a family who had just come off a cruise ship with jumper cables to start their automobile. There were lines to show someone our passports and boarding pass and then lines again to obtain our Sail & Sign cards. No seats to wait to board. Although announcements were made, there was so much echo in the cavernous hall, that it was difficult to understand what was said. Numbers were assigned to board in groups. Unfortunately, when we had obtained our Sail & Sign cards, we were not given a number, so we had to approach a staff member, obtain a number and continue our wait. There were lines to board, but at 12:30pm we did board and the good news was that our cabin was ready. Denik, our room steward, introduced himself. He provided exceptional service the entire cruise. We went to the Red Sail buffet on the LIdo deck. Crowded and no seats, but upstairs on Deck 10, we found space and enjoyed the ceviche and fish at the seafood bar.

After a late muster drill, perhaps because of the incredible rain storm that day, we went for a cocktail before dinner. That day and throughout the cruise, it was difficult to obtain service in the Casino Bar lounge along the window area. To make matters worse, I was told to move my seat and join other passengers I did not know, because a photographer wanted to set up where I was sitting. I refused. We have cruised a lot over the past 20+ years and believe that all the cruise lines are trying to make do with fewer staff, but more intrusive photographers. Disappointing. We enjoyed early dining each evening in the main dining room. Pleasant table mates and service from Lemsem, Charlie and Imyoman. Usually, we visited the Red Sail for breakfast and lunch. At breakfast, we wish items such as milk, cereal and fruit would be elsewhere rather than on the line with hot items. The made to order omelets are great--just have to stand in line and wait. The Blue Iguana serves a great breakfast made to order as well as a great lunch. Guy's Burgers are superb. Read more