My in-laws were looking for an affordable way to celebrate their 50th with their children and their spouses. 14 of us in all. For over a year we planned, saved, e-mailed and planned some more. We settled on a winter cruise to the Caribbean. What could be better than the Caribbean in late January? We made it to the ship with little trouble and were even able to spend some time in Old San Juan before leaving port.

From this point the journey takes a turn for the worse. On day one we had no soap or shampoo in our bathroom. No big deal, let the folks at the desk know and we will be good to go. It's hot, what could possibly be better than an ice cream cone? I race up to the 11th floor with childish anticipation. The machine is locked up. No sign, no set schedule just locked. Oh well, maybe later. We head to the deck for a look around and I almost take a spill on a loose stair tread. Can you say LAW SUIT.

Later on that evening we meet for dinner with the whole group. I understand that 14 people is a large group to try and accommodate but after multiple attempts to communicate with Royal Caribbean we thought they would have it figured out. No such luck, we were scattered all over the dinning room and at different times. Wait in yet another line to see if we can get it straightened out. No luck, maybe tomorrow night. As we head to the show we are confronted with the omnipresent drink salesman. No big deal, we have cruised before and know the drill only Royal plays the game a bit differently. They have levels of drink offerings all in an effort to get more money out of you. After several minutes of negotiations with a nice man who doesn't speak English I walked away with a fancy drink mug and what I hoped would be a reasonable charge on my bill. They are happy to give you a mug but good luck getting them to put anything in it. Read more