My husband, and his family, cruised on Carnival 1/4/10. The weather was terrible, but not much Carnival could do about that. We were in a Penthouse suite so embarkation was quick, and we were on board in about 10 minutes. Our first impression of the ship was it looks worn, and tired and that was the impression throughout. The staff were excellent, nicer than any cruise we have been on before, almost everyone greeted us as we walked along or entered public rooms. Our waitstaff, and room steward, were excellent. Our suite was large, but no amenities, but as this is Carnival we weren't expecting any. We had one of the few balcony cabins, but didn't use the balcony much as it was very cold the entire cruise. Food options are limited, dining room, room service or buffet, but the food quality was very good. We had a good time with our family, but the other guests on Carnival were the rudest, most obnoxious group of cruisers I have ever run into. We have cruised 8 times before, and I was really surprised by this. Could have been the weather really dampening down spirits. We would cruise again, if our family was with us!! The best thing about this cruise was the incredible value!