I don't know where to begin! This was my first cruise experience, so I was very skeptical, especially since the pictures posted of the Jade were prior to the renovation (we were second cruise subsequent to renovation) - needless to say, on ALL accounts, the experience blew my expectations. We live in Charleston, and I have to admit, I'm a total hotel snob, am completely OCD, and have very high expectations (working on this in therapy). The interior of the boat was five-stars in my book - truly. Impeccably clean, constantly (every glass door was spotless always) in all areas. The common areas, the hallways, the restaurants (all of them, including the buffets) were spotless. Even bathrooms were relatively clean considering our cruise date was oversold by 900 people due to spring break! We had a mini suite with balcony - the stateroom was incredible, and we had the nicest room-keeper (Don). We left him a $100 tip as he came 17+ times and really took the time to pamper my two kiddos (my view is if you can't afford to leave tips for the many people that memorialize your vacation, then you shouldn't be going). We had the all-you-can-eat-drink-package, which, honestly, I don't know how they make money. Le Bistro we ate at three times it was so incredible (the décor was sublime, too). All of the "free" restaurants were amazing too, as were the staff. Of the 1100+ crew, only 30 of them are Americans. They're primarily from poor countries and are so appreciative of their jobs - they were the nicest, most patient (I don't know how they do it), responsive, courteous bunch of employees I have ever encountered - even faced with rude, demanding and grouchy Americans (who can be grouchy on a cruise? - it amazes me!). There is so much to do and so many activities onboard - my kiddos were always too tired to do any of the shows since we capitalized on all of the daily port excursions, however, we still took advantage of afternoon activities. If you go to the spa, make sure you book with Dadrian - she's so lovely! Look for Glen at the martini bar next to the casino (the casino rivaled that of LV I couldn't believe how nice it was). Director Dan was always so cheery and accommodating. As for the excursions, wow! My children rode the back of dolphins, swam with sea lions and manatees, experienced beaches in three different countries, zip lined and water-parked it up in Costa Maya, witnessed how blessed they are in Roatan, held sloths, monkeys and parrots, and enjoyed paradise on JCL's newly finished private island (and I wonder why they're spoiled!?). It was truly such a delightful experience. I am booking another cruise hopefully this summer to the Mediterranean, especially since I took advantage the last day for 'cruise next', which I paid $750 to have a $350 credit onboard next cruise.