I've been on a few other cruises in the past (Carnival, Norwegian, Holland America), but this was my first time cruising with Royal Caribbean International. I loved it!! The Oasis of the Seas is the nicest ship I've been on with regards to service, amenities, activities, and entertainment. I have read a few other reviews that say "if you are ever bored on the Oasis, it's your own fault" and I completely agree. There is something fun and different to do on several decks at all times, so it's pretty difficult to be bored throughout the duration of the cruise. I was traveling with my boyfriend, and he was definitely spoiled on this ship for his first cruising experience. There was so much to explore and do. We didn't get a chance to do several things we were hoping to, so we are already talking about taking another cruise with Royal Caribbean hopefully very soon. Here are a "few" highlights from our trip…

Booking: We booked two months early and got a great deal through ($2,149.10 for both of us) which included port fees and taxes, as well as 10,000 airlines miles, and additional miles for choosing a balcony room, and a free dinner with one of the specialty restaurants. Gratuities were not included, so be sure to either pre-pay (at Guest Relations when on board) or set aside $12.95 per day for gratuities for your bill on the last day. Also, read the fine print on the specialty dinner voucher, because ours excluded Izumi and 150 Central Park, and it could only be used for dinner on port days (not days at sea). You have to go to Guest Services to pick up your voucher, so I recommend doing this on the first day so that you can book your dinner reservation early at the restaurant of your choice.

Pre-cruise: If flying into Ft. Lauderdale, I recommend flying in a day early in case of weather delays (or any other delays). I also recommend getting trip insurance, because anything can happen with flights, cruises, baggage, weather, health issues, etc. We paid under $200.00 to cover our entire trip (including cancellation for ANY reason) through USAA (Worldwide Trip Protector Plus Plan - Underwriter was United States Fire Insurance Company). You can also purchase trip insurance through Royal Caribbean or your travel agency. Read more