This was a little adventure for two retired ladies who are former coworkers. It was her first cruise and my ninth (fourth with Carnival). We had accepted an offer of a (paid) cabin upgrade to a junior suite, and were assured that the cabin would be quiet. Unfortunately, we were directly under the health club, and every time someone got on a treadmill over our heads, we experienced noise and vibration. Fortunately, this didn't happen frequently, though there were a few times late at night or when we were trying to enjoy an afternoon nap.

The food was so-so as compared to my other Carnival cruises (or other cruise experiences). Multiple times, the rolls in the bread basket were burned. (I must admit, I'm definitely a foodie with high expectations.) We had anytime dining, and one evening the DR was full and we were given a pager to signal that our table was ready. After waiting 45 minutes we went to check, and they had cancelled us! Like anything else that happens, you have to be proactive and assertive... we should have checked earlier. The ports were okay, nothing fabulous. Dining room staff weren't particularly attentive, and our cabin steward had to be reminded that we wanted ice.