Just took my first cruise on the Carnival Valor and had an absolute wonderful time, the best vacation I have ever been on! We left Miami on Dec 3rd for the Eastern Caribbean Cruise, embarkation was quick, but we had VIP check-in so did not have to wait in line, I am not sure how I guess our travel agent hooked us up; or maybe because we are military. We had a balcony cabin and it was awesome, complete with a jet tub! A lot of closet space and plenty of room. Just so you known Carnival provides you with beach towels so you do not need to pack your own if you do not want to take up the extra space. Departed about 4:30 and we where on our way, the casino opened up once we where in international water and hubby and I played a few slots, and then I headed up to the gym. The gym was really nice with plenty of equipment that looked brand new. There is also a pool and hot tub located up in the gym (no children where in it). There where a few free classes, but most seemed informational and not workout classes; some classes cost $10. I thought the personal training sessions where really pricey, about $75 a session. I booked a hair appointment for an updo, they do a special on the formal nights (Mon & Fri) that includes the updo, a barrette, and a bronzing powder for $65 and it does not matter how long your hair is. We had the late dinner seating in the Lincoln dinning room 8:30, we had a booth with another couple who happen to have the same wedding date as us. The first night our head waiter seemed to be having a hard time, but there was also a rowdy table next to us; he got much better in the nights to come. Dinner was fabulous and they will bring you extra appetizers, entrees, or desserts if you do not like yours or are still hungry. You must try the warm melting cake; it is offered every night and is excellent!
Nassau- Hubby and I decided to do our own thing such it was such a short time. We ended up taking a taxi to Atlantis ($4 pp), and renting a jet ski for an hour. I think we where on the hotel's private beach but no one said anything and we went swimming after returning the jet ski. I have never seen water so blue and clear in all my life. After we walked around the resort and then took a taxi back to shop. Went to the straw market, be prepared to barter and be hassled, it was an experience but got some really cute souvenirs. Be aware that you need to be back to the ship a half hour before it leaves port and there was a line, so give yourself plenty of time. First formal night had our picture down and dresses up. Started to feel sea sick, I think it was the speed of the ship and our dinner companions also said they where feeling a little sick as well.
Day at sea- got up for the shopping talk for St Thomas, but was still not feeling well. Andrew the ship personal shopper gives a talk about buying diamonds and gems, and they give you a map of the islands and tell you where to shop. Went to breakfast when it was over, pretty good lots of selection. There was also a talk on immigration and the tours that where available. These are also available to watch on TV if you do not want to go. Just keep in mind that you stay on ships time in St Thomas, which is an hour behind. Shopping closes around 5, which is 4 ships time; so plan accordingly if you want to shop and take a tour. Hubby wanted to shop and we decided to snorkel. They said St Johns was best, but it did not start until after 12, so we decided to do Captain Nautica's powerboat expedition which started a 9:30.