Explorer of the Seas Review
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Overall cruise was very good. Stewards great, food good (mostly, Chops was a let down - too much pomp, not enough substance - and Izumi was deplorable - and had run out of things).
Much of the entertainment was naff, and aimed at old people who were easily pleased (the Boys in the Band were a shocking trio of cheese - but some people seemed to love them....).
And for goodness sake - I don't care how much they pay to be there - get rid of those awful 'art' auctions...they are embarrassing - and the paintings are like paint by numbers pap.
Cabin Review
Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Balcony
Exceeded expectations - immaculate and comfortable.
Port Reviews
Port Vila
Excellent way to kill a few hours - and the $20 cost of going there is reimbursed with food/drink vouchers
Mare
Just snorkelled, and laid on the beach - lovely day
Isle of Pines (New Caledonia)
Amazing snorkelling - great restaurant at the end of the beach.....glass bottomed boat, food vendors AND proper toilets (but take your own toilet paper)
Noumea
Noumea is an ugly place, the people in the shops other than the market at the bus terminal are dismissive and not at all friendly (much like their Parisian counterparts).
One shop we went to told us they take American or Aussie dollars - but they don't give change..
Town itself is full of graffiti and rubbish.
It is unfortunate however, because the tourism people (especially the red shirts) are all lovely.