Before I begin to provide details of our cruise, I would like to give kudos to Shawn Bussey who retired today from the cruise director position on the Legend. She is definitely an asset to CCL and a solid CD - and will be missed (perhaps she will come back sometime in the future). I was glad to have cruised on her last sailing with Shawn and her team. She is very approachable, fun, has a big personality, great sense of humor and very visible. One example - after the lifeboat drill, my daughter and I headed for the coffee barista on deck 2 while my husband took the life jackets back up to the room. As everyone was struggling to get back to their room, we were enjoying the quietness of the coffee area when we heard someone ordering tea and a cookie behind us. My daughter commented on her headband and bow, I commented on her cute earrings. We started talking about how this was the best time on the ship as it was quiet and we stated how sometimes we stay on the ship while it is in port as it can be so peaceful. She asked us if it was our first time on the Legend - and we responded it was our third time. As she was dressed in civilian clothing, I had no idea we were conversing with Shawn Bussey - until her entourage of staff began to surround her. What a nice person - we enjoyed our encounters throughout the cruise. Shawn, we wish you the best!!

So, back to the cruise. We had VIP embarkation privileges and zipped through the terminal, got to our room with the luggage right behind. We were all settled in - in no time - very efficient with no issues. We had flown in from NYC the night before - so all was good in getting to Tampa and on the ship.

We had the usual great cruise experience - shows, food, beach in Grand Cayman,Belize and Roatan, etc. I would be remiss if I did not tell you of one of the best excursions I have been on. We booked the Mexican cooking and beach break at Playa Mia. WOW - what a hoot. We cooked our own Mexican lunch - fish, appetizer and dessert. During the cooking lesson, we did shots of Tequila and had all we could drink. It was so much fun. Luis, Moises and their staff made it fun, fun fun. After our lunch, we spent time at the beach park at the pool, beach, more food (we did not eat) all you can drink, beach massage, etc. Very nice day and the cooking experience was one of the most fun excursions I have experienced. Great idea Carnival! Read more