We've cruised with Oceania, Princess and Celebrity. This was our first HAL cruise. My husband and I were taking a much needed vacation sans kids and thought seeing a new ship would be fun. It was a relaxing and enjoyable time; but, not one we would choose to do again (and certainly not with our young adult children).
There were two times I literally spit the food out of my mouth because it was inedible. The food was "fine," in all the dining except the specialty restaurants. There the food and service was definitely elevated. But, it was a disappointment to not enjoy the dining room more. I think my favorite meal was the Reuben sandwich I ate more than once on the pool deck.
The ship was by all accounts the rockiest ride for many. There were lots of excuses as to why--time of year, weather, where our cabin was located; but, ultimately, I believe they have not figured out the new stabilizers. The stabilizers on this ship are built differently than any other ship and it made a huge difference. Many long-time cruisers were feeling the instability.
Calling the room a "Suite" is a misnomer. But, I would hate to see how small a cabin without the extra room would be. It was about the same amount of space as our celebrity balcony cabin.
We walked along the streets on St. Thomas on our own and went to visit the local Synagogue. This was by far my favorite day in port.
I didn't like the beach or the food.