After planning another Singapore-Bangkok work-holiday I had a last minute thought to add a cruise instead of visiting Hong Kong. The local travel agent advised me a cabin was available and it was only later I discovered the advantages of paying the extra for a suite that I had been allocated. Now here is the only complaint you will hear. Live in Singapore and the cost is about half what we foreigners pay.??? Entry on board was amazing. Quick, efficient and our own staff member allocated to look after us. We also had a S$400 credit allocated for additional food and drink on board. THE SHIP.At 76,000 tonnes it is immaculate, the staff are fantastic, and the restaurants and facilities are of the best standards. Our suite was a combination of mirrors, walnut panels, marble and glass. The 42" flat plasma in the lounge with DVD etc, refrigerator and bar area left nothing out. It made our suite in Singapore pale by comparison. STAFF. Daily followup of planned eating excursions, regular visits from the cabin staff, we loved the elephant towels sculptures on our turned down bed each evening, to the smiles and courtesy of ALL the staff we encountered. American and European lines we have travelled with could learn from these multi cultured staff. The cruise staff assigned to us were the BEST we have encountered. Nothing was too much trouble including arranging cars in ports, and even checking during meals that we were being cared for. RESTAURANTS Bella Vista; Great quality, timely service, and quiet. we loved every minute of being pampered by the great waiters. On the top deck the Mediterranean appeared to be a favorite with the younger and families on board, and the catering and quantity certainly provided for them. To my taste it was too noisy but it appeared to be enjoyed by those participating. Remember they could also use the other restaurants on board so it was a matter of choice. On the same level was several other venues as well as the ice cream parlor, a great touch for the afternoon The Italian Palazzo restaurant was the equal best experience of fine dining we have encountered. Congratulations Star cruises, this venue is a real gem. After 5 nights of trying to spend the $400 and we did try, we left the ship with a $37 credit. It was damn hard work eating and drinking and we failed. WOULD WE GO BACK We are in the process of rebooking but have not been successful in getting a suite for our planned dates. We felt like royalty for those 5 days and we both think we want to again. REMEMBER WE paid extra for many of the experiences above but it was great