First let me say I have cruised with several, very different,cruise lines - Cunard (on the old QE2), P&O, Norwegian, Celebrity (twice), Airtours (20 years ago they briefly dipped their toe in the cruise market and we were lucky enough to get an introductory offer) and Thomson (5 times) and it is important not to try and compare. Yes Celebrity have newer ships which we love but that doesn't mean Thomson ships are inferior, just different. We always set out to take things as we find them and are generally more than happy. Some reviews of the Dream are so negative it must be distressing for people with bookings who must be feeling anxious that they have made a mistake. We have recently returned from back to back cruises, 'Mediterranean Secrets' and 'Highlights of the Med' and, helped by the fantastic weather for late October, had a wonderful time.

We didn't notice any sign of a reduction in standards. The ship was immaculate, the food good and the staff were brilliant. Considering tips are included the staff couldn't have been more pleasant and efficient. This can't just be down to them all having lovely dispositions, excellent staff training must play a part. Our deck 6 cabin was spacious. We were able to regulate the temperature to allow for the cool autumn mornings and evenings and hot days. Having a bath was a plus.

Having open dining was a big improvement on early or late sittings and we adapted so that we didn't hit the dining room at its busiest time if we could help it. We prefer to sit as a couple and this was always possible, perhaps requiring a 5 minute wait but nothing excessive. I was surprised at how happy the staff were to accommodate us as in past cruises I've felt that twosomes were a bit of a nuisance. Read more