Flying from Ohio to CA was a very long flight now that it is virtually impossible to get a straight through flight. We usually go in a day early to prevent any problems with the air travel. Stayed at the Embassy Suites South. Great hotel and we were able to get it for under $100 on Hotwire. The provided free transportation from airport to Hotel. They also gave us the name of a driver who transported us from hotel to pier. There were 6 of us traveling together and total cost was $120 including tip. He was prompt and a decent driver. We actually booked him for our return trip back to another hotel after the cruise. He took us on a tour of LA and Hollywood. Approximately 5 hours at $330.00 total cost. We arrived at the port and had about a 20 minute wait before we could board. The process was extremely well handled and we were on board having lunch in no time. It has been approximately 20 years since we sailed on Carnival but after being prompted by my travel agent cousin to give it a try we decided to do so. Couldn't beat the price and this time we elected to try a inside room. Being on the conservative side for this cruise as going again in Jan. We have have gotten accoustomed to balcony cabins and thought this may be a mistake. But no, it was fine. We spend so little time in our room and the location was perfect. The ship does have a peculiar decor in some areas and yes we did laugh at the" fried eggs "on the ceiling in the golden pearl dining room

We were first given an absolutely terrible location for dining the first night. It was back in a hallway area near the service area and waiters coming in and out. My cousin's husband had to duck several times. We felt secluded from other guests and therefore requested another table for the remainder of the trip. I don't know what some of the reviewers expect for food but the food in the dining room was absolutely great. The best prime rib and spareribs I have ever had. There is always something you can find on the anytime menu if you don't care for the main offerings. Service was great and of course they entertained us with singing and dancing. What fun. Buffet food ok but we always seemed to miss it at lunch time and ended up at the hamburg and hotdog line or the Pizza stand. We refuse to pay additional for the resturants that charge. We just don't see the need to do so. Carnival does provide several activites for sea days and we participated in as many as fit into our schedule. I do miss the actual movie theaters some of the old ships had. I dont really care for the big outdoor screens. It has been many years since we visited these ports and found them to be very commercial now. It was over 100 degrees and too hot to walk around much. We did take a tour in Matzalan and it was worth while. Our driver spoke very good English and did a good job. Cabo was a disapointment to us after comparing it with back when. We basically got off the ship walked about 10 minute and then back to she ship to enjoy the pool and the day. If you are prone to shopping do it before you get to CABO they do not deal there.

Our cabin steward was great his name was John and he called everyone by their names after the first day when he saw you in the hall. A very nice personal touch. The entertainment could be improved upon. I think two back to back musical dance shows are too much, needed a different venue in between. The last musical show was great. The costumes in all the shows are beautiful. Just think they could add a little more comedy or something to break up the same type of shows over and over. I also would like to see a little more late night shows for us that like to stay up late. All the musicians and singers were very good and provided enjoyment before and after dinner. All in all we would sail on carnival again. Oops one more thing. The coke card you can purchase at a $6.00 a day charge ends up costing over $52.00 with tax and tip so unless you plan to drink an awful lot of soda better to buy cans. Ice tea and Lemonade are self served most of the day. We don't drink alcohol but drinks are costly and I am sure quite a few people got a big surprise at the end of the trip. Don't think twice about sailing this ship. You should have a great time. A cruise is what YOU make it.