My husband and I booked our cruise just three weeks before it departed. We tried to book online but were told the cruise was sold out. When I called NCL they found us a room, a balcony on the ninth floor. We flew out of Toronto the night before and took a cab to the Marriott Biscayne Bay. I was disappointed with the room for $300. You can't beat the location or view (we watched our ship arrive in the morning) but the hotel is showing its age. We have stayed at other Marriott hotels in LA that were cheaper and nicer. Regardless, we took a cab over to Bayside to shop for a bit and then walked back. Later that night we had a cab take us to a nearby complex with a Target and Marshalls.

The next morning we took a cab over to the port around noon. There was a long line, but good people watching to entertain us. Took about an hour to get on the boat. Our rooms weren't ready until 1:30 p.m., so we went to the Garden Cafe for lunch. We were impressed with the variety of food, but preferred to eat at Summer Palace for the rest of the trip. In my opinion, when on vacation, I'll take fine dining, fancy decor and multiple courses over a buffet any day.

We were very impressed with our room. It wasn't large, but certainly comfortable. The bed was excellent and the duvet was comfy. I loved our balcony and don't think I could ever cruise without one. I preferred sun tanning in private — the crowded pool deck with everyone packed in like sardines was not our scene. Read more