We (myself, hubby) our son (20) and his gf (19) just returned Sunday from our first ever Carnival cruise. We booked Carnival because 2) RCCL left the So Cal region B) haven't had a vacation in 3 years and really needed a break.

Embark: We are locals, got to the port of Long Beach around 10:45am. Checked in outside and got number 2 loading number. With a little help from a friend, we were bumped up to VIP Boarding. We boarded around Noon. Headed to the back of the ship where we munched on some food in the Lido Buffet.

Then off to explore the Splendor. I don't mind the color pink, but the circles everywhere were dizzying at first. Soon enough, your eyes adjust and you're just enjoying this big, beautiful ship. Read more