Our cruise was a much needed trip for my husband and me.We have been working so much so it was needed rest. So this year we made sure to book my first cruise (his 2nd). I was recommended Carnival through a friend and booking was easy and painless. My rep even called a few days before to see if I had any last minute questions. (that to me is a nice touch)

Embarkation/Dembarkation- takes about 1hr to get on the boat. Be patient you have security and all the same as if traveling on a plane. We did everything online, so when we got to the desk it was 1,2,3. Then we were on the boat. The first day of course is a little crazy, so just relax. The lines are a little longer at the buffet (we got on around 1:30) because everyone is heading straight there to eat. Rooms don't become available until after 1:30..so we ate and headed to the room. Dembarkation is about an hr long too. We did self assist and we were off the boat by 9:15am. (highly recommend it) It's called by decks so next time we are moving up a few decks. Process was also painless just patience of course.

Rooms- Being my first time I wanted a view so we got an oceanview stateroom. Rooms are clean and exactly what we expected. The view is great..pillows and mattress not so much but hey nothing is ever like home. The room stewards make your bed and turn them down for you and that to me is awesome. Fresh towels and bathroom cleaned everyday. Kinda of wish I was on a higher deck because we felt some vibration (we were in the Riviera deck). Only problem only one outlet for your room and just my luck on captains nite my hairdryer must of been a little to strong because the electrician had to reset it. Read more