Let me be the first to say that if you pay a bargain price for a cruise and expect White Star Line First Class service, you will be disappointed every time. However, if you pay a bargain price and go in with the mind set that you are going on a cruise for a fantastic price and make an effort to enjoy the experience, I find that you will have a great time.

For the first time on RCI, I went as a solo as my wife was unable to go because of changing jobs and no vacation time. I could not have been more pleased with the experience aboard the Brilliance of the Seas. The vast majority of the staff was friendly, would speak when passing in the halls (or would speak back if you said 'hello'), and seemed happy. As with any job, not every employee is happy all of the time. The only RUDE employee I encountered is actually not an RCI employee, but an employee of the Shops on Board Vendor. She ignored me going to other customers who walked in for about 15 minutes before coming over to me. I advised I saw her helping other customers who came in after me and also saw her look at me waiting. She rolled her eyes. I thanked her for helping me decide not to pay $2,500 on a Tag Hauer.

Other than that, everything else was great to excellent. At Chops, I had one of the best filet mignons I have ever had. So tender, I didn't need a knife. Cooked so well, I didn't need any sauce. SPECTACULAR. Izumi hot rock was great too. The firecracker shrimp rolls were delicious. Main dining room (although took a long time because we had a new 2nd waiter) was good service and food was really good too. My cabin steward, Abe, was fantastic. My room was always clean and he smiled and spoke every time he saw me. The bartender in Schooner bar was friendly getting me the diamond plus drinks. Smiled and said to come back and see him every day. Gave his a wow card and nice cash tip at the end. The Solarium is really nice on this ship. Spent a lot of time here in the pool and hot tub as well as relaxing in the chairs people watching. Also, cabin 8006 is a bit bigger than most outsides because it is the same length as the balcony cabin beside it, minus the balcony, of course. Read more