we booked the cruise as it was a good price and nice itinerary, then I got very concerned by all the bad reviews regarding the food and staff. These concerns was needless. The ship is lovely, the food in both the main dining room and the buffet was always hot, delicious and with plenty of choice. Our main problem was embarkation in venice which was a complete shambles, but once aboard we loved every minute. our cabin on deck nine had ample storage space and was very clean and tidy. Our cabin maid was lovely and very helpful, always had a smile and cheery hello for us. The entertainment was top notch with something for all ages. The ports of call were beautiful but we just walked off and did not book any trips. The only comment I would say is the ship does not give you any information about the port you are visiting. Days at sea did not seem to have have much entertainment apart from on the pool deck which we found disappointing as other cruise lines seem to have daytime entertainment all over the ship. Disembarkation was not too bad apart from you had to leave your cabin by 7.45 am which is a lot earlier than other cruise lines and we were not allowed to disembark till 10.20 am so everyone was just sat around waiting. Overall though a really good cruise which we all enjoyed and we would use MSC again.