This was our 3rd time on QM2 as we enjoy the ship so much, we prefer the refined elegance and the ship itself more than the theme park gimmicks of other Lines, (I am a great fan of the tradition and romance of the great Lines of the past). Embarking was a breeze, had to walk a few steps from the temporary tent to the gangway, a nice touch was the white gloved bell-hops posing for a photo before walking up the gangway. I knew the ship inside out and obviously researched our stateroom location well in advance hence finding our way was no problem, I dont know why some people moan about not being shown to their room, I mean are you 5 years old?
It was first time in a sheltered balcony (previous time was in a glass front, deck 11) and we were very happy with it, I was aware of the issue being the height of the opening and thus it was not a disappointment. It was great to have access to the wind and sun and for the price we paid, it was a steal.
Overall the service was its usual high quality, food superb, possibly the standard was better in kings court for some dishes (lamb cutlets!) , we used to get pre-dinner snacks from KC and take back to our room to go with wine or two. Then to Commodore club for a martini and then the fabulous dinner in Britannia. The weather was a little up and down and one odd thing I have not experienced previously was the kitchen exhaust fumes swirling back onto the pool area out the back, lasted a few days and must have been a following wind. Luckily it was ok for the King Neptune crossing the equator ceremony which the wife and I took part in, a lot of fun!
Standard cabin but very comfortable, the bed was as amazing as ever, one day we spent 12 hours straight in it! Balcony was as expected and while not conducive to lounging it was great for when there were things to look at, especially with berthing early morning. TV could do with better technology, like on-demand programming
OK, guide went a bit fast for some, would do again if in same situation, ie had not been to China before