We took the hotel private transport to the pier but was not allowed to be dropped off at the terminal itself. The guards wanted us to stop at the gate. Eventually, we 'negotiated' our passage and were allowed to drive all the way into the terminal for drop off. Embarkation in Shanghai was smooth although we were delayed for quite a bit. There was not enough signs around to show directions. They took our passports and kept them for the whole journey since different authorities needed them inspected along the way.
Ship is showing its age, rust and chipped off paint everywhere. Outside widows are dirty. The newly renovated areas are clean and nice though. Original designs are a bit strange looking, eg colors of rest room tiles look odd and old style. The ship is kind of dark inside because of its dark brown paint around. The ship was mainly clean although there was bad sewage smell coming off once in a while and they could keep the public rest room floor cleaner.
Since they added new cabins on the top deck, they cut off the original running track which has become very short. They also removed the original cinema and card room. They also cut off part of the main dining room to accommodate en-suite guests and as a result, the tables are very crowded together. Looks like anything they can remove to make room for money making specialty restaurants or new cabins, they will do so; so much for 'Solsticising.'
Location is good and room is clean and well appointed. Sliding door frame is old and dirty especially on the outside. Minimum noise from steward's storage. No noise from hair salon above. Sky blocked a bit by extension on deck 10.