We were on the November 13 W. Caribbean cruise of the Jewel. Embarkation was a breeze. We are Latitude so we went right up-sat for a while-sustained by snacks and coffee and then we were taken to our room. We had a mini-suite. It was great although I think balconies are a waste of money. I never see anyone using them for anything but smoking. We had our stewardess bring a bowl of fruit—she was super. She kept our room spotless. We were supposed to have concierge services but she never returned my call (to make reservations for us) so I did it and it worked out fine. I guess she was busy helping the folks (all doctors!!!) in the Garden Villas!
This was the best cruise we have ever taken. The ship was great. We ate at every restaurant and there is not a loser in the bunch. The people are great. There was lots of fun without the sleaziness -----except for Bingo. They had small crowds—no one much played—one had to rent an expensive machine or charge numerous sheets—no buying of a single Bingo Card for $5. I heard a lot of griping about that.
Good Things about the Jewel I will forget -------FoxNews and CNN. Good Movies (Mr. and Mrs. Smith—didn't get to see it—wish they had more—they had a real theater) Tangos and Mama's Italian Kitchen--no surcharge---and best special restaurants-Cagney's-very good, Chin-Chin-very good, Le Bistro-good. Rates were half price from opening until 6:30pm., never crowded, great food all around except for breakfast scrambled eggs--Awful!! get an omelette or fried eggs. The Blue Lagoon--no extra charge--has a hamburger that is restaurant quality. The best I have ever had on a ship. Great food there--never a crowd--great views from the windows. In the Spindriffer Lounge-top deck--decadent lounge daybeds--where you can lie by the window--read or dream-listen to music--few people ever find it---just a great experience. Bread on this ship was great. Rolls, toast, pastries--tasted like they were fresh from the oven. Jams and butters are from Denmark. I could have eaten the blackberry jam by the spoonful. They serve a lot of cream brulee in the specialty restaurants and it is always great. We ate in the Tsar's Restaurant—beautiful. And the Azure. Never a crowd, but we eat early. Around 6 or 7. Mama's was beyond excellent--book it on your first night before it is too late--ditto for Tangos. Chin Chin's was the most unique.