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I find it very easy to find fault with the hospitality industry. I was a meeting planner and have a gimlet eye when it comes to service and cleanliness. I could not find a thing wrong with Royal Caribbean's Serenade of the Sea.
The ship is fantastically clean. It looks like no one has ever used the ship. The crew was always cleaning and repairing, but unobtrusively. Even the tables in the buffet were cleaned as soon as you put down a fork!
The crew was friendly. We always received a greeting, even passing crew in the hallway. Waiters asked what you wanted to be called and remembered for the entire trip. Crew was willing to chat, but not 'in your face.'
The itinerary was interesting, the usual Caribbean suspects, but the salt water pool in the Solarium kept our attention! No kids allowed and rarely used. Piped in bird sound made it feel like outside. The main pool was crowded with Alternative Rock blaring - and a great Caribbean band in the afternoon. It was a fun diversion from the quiet off the Solarium.
Any complaint: overcharges, incorrect charges on a bill, were immediately taken care of. No problem was the standard answer to any request. They even gave me free Internet time when my boarding passes refused to print!
Entertainment was okay. Comedian from Boston, magician, Broadway show tunes, vocal mimic - really something for everyone. Shows were broadcast on in ship TV after live show. Nice touch for people who go to bed early or just prefer their cabin!
Met a third grader on the flight home who was on the cruise. He had a blast. All kids seemed to be having fun and very well behaved.
Highly recommended for fussy people, neat freaks and those who demand great service. We will be sailing with Royal Caribbean again soon!
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