My husband and I had been looking forward to cruising on the Pearl every since we docked next to her a few years ago while cruising on a different line and it was well worth the wait. From the moment we entered the terminal, we were treated like with extra care and consideration. The staff in VIP check-in greeted every passenger with smiles and exceptional service. On board the ship, we met our concierge, Ana Marie, who was our personal guide to an extraordinarily relaxing and stress-free vacation. Since we had sailed previously on Jewel (awesome), we choose to book the same suite as before because of the amazing view. With ample space, our suite had fresh flowers, surprise treats delivered by our butler, Denny, a large walk-through closet and over-sized bathtub in a separate compartment from the sink and commode. There is nothing like watching a peaceful sunset on the corner balcony while relaxing on comfy chaise loungers. We tried four of the specialty restaurants: Cagney's, Mambos, La Cucina and Lotus Garden. Outstanding meals every time. Bought the VIP spa package and loved the separate tranquil space for men and women. Tried acupuncture, got my first pedicure and just melted away in the Jacuzzi baths. Second City was funny but I was sorry I missed the opportunity to participate in their mystery luncheon. Needed more reservations slots. Their late night Improv show was fresh and very audience interactive. I learned to Latin dance, partied with the white hot angel dancers and enjoyed closing out the days at the Great Outdoors. There were a couple on negative such as some of the waitstaff at Indigo and Summer Palace seemed as if they did not want to serve us, the temperature in those restaurants were always too cold to enjoy your meal. The pillows were a little lumpy, unlike those on the Jewel which were heavenly and last, some of the items in the gift shops need to be changed out. Seems like the same stuff was there when we sailed in 2009 on Jewel. All-in-all, it was worth the money, definitely worth the wait and we look forward to sailing Epic in 2013. This time we are taking our families with us. Experiences like these, needs to be share.