Arriving the night before the cruise, we stayed at the Crown Plaza right out side the cruise terminal. Nice, new and convenient - you couldn't beat the location. Very close to some last minute shopping.
Our cruise started off with the easiest embarkation experience ever. From the time we arrived via cab to sliding our key in the door was no longer than 15 minutes. We met the two other couples we were traveling with and departed for some more last minute wine shopping. Before we left though we stopped off at the spa to register for the thermal suite (more on this later) Walked right off, into a cab and returned with no hassle.
We then checked out our cabin, unpacked and explored the ship. She's in excellent shape, clean throughout and the atrium is stunning. The crew was very friendly and our cabin steward Morvin from India was the best. It took a some time get seated at our first anytime dinning experience in the Bordeaux, but that took care of itself over time and the food was always good. A little rainy and breezy upon departure, but otherwise a great day.
A great room location, the balcony is somewhat covered (not directly, but two floors above) and with the exception of the bridge it is very private. It is very close to a large area at the front of the ship that few know about. Walk through two doors and you get a great view from the front of the ship This is the best location to watch the canal transit. Good size room, although the couch is worn.