We stayed at the JW Marriott Marquis in downtown Miami, great place!! I would recommend the hotel to anyone. The hotel was approx. 1.5 miles to the Port Of Miami.

The Carnival Valor is a nice ship, better decor than the Carnival Freedom, easier on the eyes. We stopped in the Half Moon Cay, awesome clear water, where we went jet skiing. I would recommend the jet ski excursion. St. Thomas, San Juan and Grand Turk were also ports of call. Grand Turk was a shocker. I expected more and definitely got less. had a taxi take us to Cockburn (downtown) and there is nothing there. After 2 minutes, we were ready to go.

Do not get a room on the Valor in the area of the casino, such as 6341-6359. The band plays into the night andif you are tired or just want to go to the room for a bit to relax or nap, the band is sooo loud that you feel that you are downstairs with the band. Not a fan of the breakfast buffet though. The eggs taste like powder eggs, and maybe they are. Didn't like the pancakes either, but the french toast is outstanding, even in the Washington dining room. Room service was great and fast. Pools are always crowded as are the hot tubs. At one time there were 12 drunks in the Serenity hot tub, so not so serene. Overall though, the ship was great, the staff friendly and the cruise was fun! Read more