Decided to go on this cruise only 4 weeks before departure. Good price on a Princess ship I had not been on before because I mainly cruise out of Sydney because I don't like flying. The overseas terminal at Circular Quay was no worse than I expected. White Bay is much better for boarding but the newer big ships can't get under the bridge. I was very pleased to be upgraded 2 days before leaving - note to those using travel agents, don't rely on them to keep looking at your cruise personaliser on the Princess website. You must do it yourself and print out your luggage tickets the day before you are leaving. My cabin was a balcony cabin on deck 12, upgraded from partial obstructed view on Deck 8. A bit of a downgrade upgrade because I like to be on lower decks for easy access and use of stairs for dining room, entertainment etc. However it was nice to get a balcony. I do not like the television being up high and was also disappointed not to have movies etc on demand that is now a feature of Sun Princess. I hope it is installed during Golden's facelift. I do not usually go to Horizon but I did use it on port days for lunches. Reminded me why I do not use it. Salads ok, people pushy.

Dining Room - excellent choice of dining companions for a group of 8 solos, thank you Maitre D. We had good food, good service and good fun at dinner every night. I only went to one show in the Princess Theatre, which was ok. Trivia each day was well run and there were fun theme trivias at night in the Vista Lounge and Explorers. When you found the musicians you liked, as usual they were good. Disembarkation was well organised and speedy. Only problem is whoever picking you up at the overseas terminal has problems, not Princess fault. Overall a lovely relaxing cruise (I don't get off at tender ports, have seen them all before) up to Princess standard. Golden Princess nice change and will enjoy her facelift next year.