Although this was my first cruise, and I may have been subject to the amazement that accompanies one's first experience on a cruise ship, I must say that it will be difficult to go back to traveling any other way. This ship in particular is an absolute gem, and my vacation was flawless. The Miracle is indeed a beautiful ship, and the decor, though much-abused on these message boards and elsewhere as too over-the-top, was wonderful. The ship's decor is based on popular references from literature, film, and entertainment. For example, in the Phantom Lounge, large "Phantom of the Opera"-style masks hold back heavy curtain swags on the walls, and ornate sculpture supports the proscenium of the stage. The Raven Library is done is dark jewel-tones and mahogany. It's obvious that the designs were well-conceived and are very imaginative, but I can certainly see how they wouldn't please everyone.

To address cleanliness, as we walked through the ship, there were constantly employees on the outside of our vision cleaning, polishing, etc., so I have no complaints on this count whatsoever. Almost immediately after embarkation, we went to see the maitre d' to request a private table for two, which we got. We then ended up meeting and making friends with another couple, so we requested a table for four, which we also got. At any rate, because of this game of switcheroo (and one casual dinner on the Lido deck), we ended up only experiencing our waiters in the main dining room for four nights instead of the usual seven. They were very attentive, and managed to not only serve us four impeccable meals, but also comment on the next day's activities, make suggestions about shore excursions, and the like. I was very impressed with the quality of food, particularly with Carnival's reputation as a budget cruise line. The food in the main dining room was beyond wonderful, and even the Lido buffets offered delectable temptations, particularly their desserts! The made-to-order burger counter served the single best french fries I've ever eaten.

We had a wonderful balcony cabin, which was much larger than I was expecting. Our balcony was comfortably, if inexpensively, furnished with two plastic chairs and a small flat-topped ottoman for drinks or tired feet. Our cabin steward was amazing! I know it's often said, but it felt as though he was hiding nearby and every time we left the room (on one occasion for only about 8 minutes!) he rushed in and straightened everything up. We saw him rarely, but he did his job well, and when we did pass him in the hall, he always greeted us warmly and by name. Read more