We justed completed our 7 day cruise on the Carnival Splendor. We read many reviews before we left and had some concerns going in. In almost every case, the reviews turned out to be either sour grapes or looking only at negatives.We read about embarkation delays. We were on the ship within 15 minutes, eating pizza and enjoying a drink by the pool. We did carry on our luggage. Each person with a carryon bag size. We figure how many clothes do you need. Some shirts, shorts, bathing suit and one "dress outfit". Anything else is a waste. We read about the ship layout and decor. It does have a few quirks, but deck 5 is a key deck and goes all the way across, as does  deck 9, which is the other key deck. But stairs and elevators are everywhere so its really no big deal. The ship looks like Vegas. Hallways are sharp and attractive and other areas are colorful and remind you of a vegas casino. No one complains about Vegas, but I guess some people want more.The covered pool area, with retractable roof allowed a few times when the weather was iffy to still enjoy the largest area on the boat, even late at night. There is plenty of places to sunbathe, swim, hot tub or whatever.The restaurants served food very quickly. The food was very good. Not five star, but 7 days of meals from morning to night at the price paid, I really do not understand what people expect..Wolfgang Puck?  The buffets can have some lines, but only at very prime serving hours and only at a few popular stations (omelets, stirfry, etc). But there are 4 buffet areas so it moves quickly or you can wait about 15 minutes and it dies down.The cabin staff were great, and had rooms cleaned fast. Made towel designs and kept things light! Waiters were friendly and tried to learn names and preferences. They danced on tables each night to entertain and it made it fun for the kids.There are plenty of things to do on ship. Kids club had a few times or days when the activities did not appeal to our kids, but the objective was not to have them 24/7 babysat for us either. Yes there are some "corny" games, karoke, games/activities..just don't go if they are not your style. The shows are fair but the comics were great and the piano bar is also a good time. Casino is not bad and has low limits so everyone can play with little money and get to know your fellow cruise passengers or enjoy time with your group. Drinks are same price as going out. You can buy a pop card and use some discretion to keep your costs down or drink like crazy and know you have splurged on vacation.Mazatlan was best port. Cabo is fair, since there is a lot of construction going on in town, your in port for only a few hours and not much to do. Carnival excursions are pricy but had a blast on both we did.I agree with the reviews that say if you look for negative you will find it, but we had a great time. Ship was nice, clean and fun and it was an experience that made us consider going again soon and definitely exceeded our expectations. Self debarkation seems caotic, but we again were off the ship within 15 minutes and into a cab and at LAX by 10am!If we were do it again, we would book a cabin with a window or balcony, only so we would know day from night. 7th deck is best!!. Have fun and enjoy. We go Caribbean next.