This was our 3rd time on Solstice, but our 9th with Solstice Class ships, which is always our favorite. There are no water slides, wall climbing, or belly flop competetions so if this is what you enjoy, don't pick Celebrity! This is also the longest cruise we have taken! There were many sea days but I enjoy the relaxation of reading on our Veranda, just listening to the ocean and relaxing or sitting aound the Lawn Club.

Our trip began in Sydney, where we arrived 2 days before the cruise. If I had to do it again, I would add 2 more nights to our stay. Sydney is a beautiful, welcoming city. We stayed downtown, walked everwhere once we got to the hotel from the airport. Taxi fare was about 60 US$, very congested traffic from airport to downtown. Credit cards are accepted in the cabs and easily throughout the city. In fact, we did not convert any US dollars prior to our trip, visiting New Zealand, Tahiti, Bora Bora and Moorea (the last 3 accepted US dollars for taxis and convenience stores for water, etc). So don't be swayed by some reviews that say you need to bring all local currencies!

One of the days from Sydney we took a ferry to Manly Beach (about 14 Australian $ per person round trip). From the Ferry terminal it is a beautiful 30-45 minute ride to Manly and then a 15 minute or so walk down the pedestrian street to the beach itself. There are many restaurants and shops along the way, so much to see. A walk along the beach to "Shelly Beach" is worth while, along a winding beach road. Read more