This was not my first cruise with Carnival so I was not trying to compare it to any other cruise line than itself. The ship was beautiful, well maintained, and my balcony was so enjoyable. But from the first night to the last, I felt the main dining room food was well below average. All menu selections were bland. Beef was the worst selection whether it be a steak, prime rib or whatever they called it. It was totally tasteless. One night I tried beef stroganoff but they didn't even place the beef over a bed a noodles. Apple pie required all three of us at our table to remove the top crust and just eat the apples with the ice cream. In the reverse the lido deck buffets were far better than expected. The variety of food from hamburgers to seafood, to Asian, to Mexican to salad bars was excellent. The desserts on this level also far exceeded what was available in the dining rooms. This was the first time I booked a balcony suite and it was the best. The room is so bright and cheery. The lay out of the room provided everything we needed and didn't feel cramped. We had a sofa bed and small cocktail table in addition to the bed. Even the lighting was great . You could have subtle or bright lighting. We sat on the balcony a lot even when at sea. What a great place to read a book or take in the sun. One real windy day on deck we went back to our room and used the balcony which was much more sheltered. When in port we lucked out to be on the scenic side but that isn't always the case. The bathroom was well designed and everything functioned as it should. The bed and bedding were all top shelf as to quality. Now on to more good stuff. The comedy clubs were a great, offering both PG and R rated shows. Bands were everywhere. Getting on and off the ship was effortless. Disembarkment went the smoothest I ever remember. As always the talent show using passengers was great.