Avoided Carnival cruises for a long time but they have come a long way judging from the beautiful ship Freedom. Although the ship decor was a little dark and maybe not as classy as other Royal Caribbean cruises we were on. It was still a beautiful ship with many positive aspects. Many rooms like the disco and other bars like the Hubana bar and beautiful showroom exceeded my expectations. The entertainers singers and dancers were close to 4-1/2 and 5 star category. They're shows were exceptional and they went out of the way to keep the audience entertained. The Atrium which is a little dark but still beautiful was made purposely that way to bring out the accents of different time periods. The showroom was beautiful and the shows were Las Vegas like. The food was also better than expected from the breakfast buffet and omelettes and lunch and dining room dinners. Although our dinners were scheduled anytime of the day because this is what we preferred all the waiters were exceptionally friendly helpful and willing to please you. The casino the bars, there was always something to do, karaoke or comedians or just sit and listen to the Piano player sing at the Piano bar.The pools were a little small but we always found some peace at the adult only pool in the rear of the boat. With easy access to the dining room on the Ledo deck. Although sometimes the lines were big in the dining room carnival handled all of us well. Never a long wait for an omelette at breakfast or any of our meals. Also we found the crowd to be a friendly crowd from all different states. We all hung around in the pool and exchanged stories and experiences we shared with one an other. This was not a cruise that Carnival was once famous for with screaming kids out of control and people stumbling about. Carnival stepped up to the plate and produced. The crowd was fun and a step above. The crew on the Freedom works very hard, they clean and dry the floors constantly and are always willing to lend a hand whether in the dining room or in your room or on deck. They worked extremely hard even though most people chose to have they're tips included in the price. They were not 1/2 as pushy as other cruises I have been on. We were very comfortable. Entertainment a beautiful ship with plenty to do and much value for your money. Carnival you sold me on the Freedom. I have not cruised Royal Caribbean since 2005 or 2006. I always loved Royal Caribbean and will give them another chance someday. But Carnival sold me on the value, Entertainment top notch and also the food was much better than expected. Along with service and a wonderful bunch of people cruising Carnival out of Fort Lauderdale and staff how can you go wrong. Go Carnival the Freedom has my applause.