The cruise we took in July 2007 was our very first one. My husband and I were quite nervous about the thought of being on board a ship for several days, and we did not know what to expect. We were, however, very excited about going to the Southern part of California. Next to Hawaii, it is our favorite vacation destination. We live in South San Francisco where it gets a little foggy at times. I love the sun and warm weather, and our cruise from Long Beach to Catalina Island to Ensenada and back turned out to be one glorious experience under the sun.

SHIP INTERIOR AND DECKS: I used to be an international Flight Attendant, and I am used to seeing the beautiful presentations and creative decorating touches in hotels and other places involved in the hospitality industry. I must admit that I was in awe for some moments upon embarking on the Carnival Paradise and seeing its beautiful facade, sun-kissed decks, immaculate staterooms, and the over-all radiant surroundings that makes one forget all the stresses that comes with urban existence. It was like being in a different planet, only it is not covered with rocks or minerals that we see in photos of the moon or other parts of the solar system. It was a place of peace, beauty, and tranquility. It makes one feel like being in Paradise (just like its name suggests).

FOOD: The food was delicious and abundant. The variety was limitless. There was something for everyone and for every palate. Every nation's delicacies had good representation in the menu which changed daily, to the excitement and delight of my family members. Read more