January cruising is a necessity for New Yorkers trying to escape the cold. This cruise was the first leg of a three leg journey. First time on the Allure also. It's a huge ship. (Don't think we saw it all.)

We arrived Port Everglades one day early and stayed at the Garden Hilton. The room was nice and clean but nothing special. The food at the hotel poor. Plenty to do near by.

Arrival at the pier on Sat around 11 AM. The documentation to board the ship took no time at all. We were in a Grand Suite, but no one was tied up at embarkation. I was amazed at how they had everything in hand. Our room 14660, was ready. The suite was large but not the largest we have stayed in. Plenty of storage. The balcony had two lounges and a table and two chairs. Clean and well maintained. We rarely saw the cabin steward or the Butler. Had breakfast in room every day but it was available in the Concierge Lounge also. No one really explained the amenities of the Grand Suite. Found out free drinks every day from 5 to 8 Pm, two days in. Read all you can regarding shows and specialty restaurants and book reservations prior to getting onboard. Read more