NCL Star Review 12-11-11
Some background: DW and I are late 50's , have cruised on 4 different cruiselines, and have sailed on 11 cruises, including this one. We were traveling with some other friends.
We stayed 2 nights pre-cruise at the Marriott Residence Inn, in Downtown Tampa, a few blocks from the Port, Convention Center, and Riverwalk area. It's a great location, and walkable to many restaurants and bars, and a short drive to Ybor City. The Residence Inn / Courtyard runs a free shuttle to the area attractions, including Ybor City. Be sure to inquire about their Park and Cruise package, which is only available by calling the hotel directly.
The Suite was really nice with a Queen bed, large balcony, small living room, and a large bathroom with a tub, separate shower, 2 sinks, and WC. The bathroom had good non-slip tiles on the floor. The shower had a Rain shower head as well as a hand shower head. There was plenty of hot water and excellent pressure. There was plenty of storage space in the bathroom with 3 drawers and 2 open wall storage units, and plenty of counter space. Outside the bathroom were 4 closets, 1 of which was full length. The bathroom door had to be shut to access the 2 closest closets, but there was plenty of storage in the closets. The cabin had plenty of storage in the vanity, 2- 2 drawer cabinets at the foot of the bed, and (2) 2 drawer nightstands next to the bed. There were (2) 110v outlets on top of the vanity, along with a refrigerator, and a wonderful Lavazza coffee / espresso machine (also made great tea). There was a 32" LCD flat panel TV and DVD player on a swivel in the cabin, as well a list of DVDs. The curtains in the cabin were light- blocking, and another curtain, hidden in the wall, pulled out to surround the bed. We had a glitch with the safe, because the previous guest and closed and locked it. A special crewmember had to drill out the lock to get it open. When you end the cruise please leave the safe door open!! For guests with mobility issues, be aware that our cabin, 12010, had a slope at the cabin door, a small step up to the closet area, and another small step up to the bathroom. A beautiful suite!