I traveled alone for this cruise and it was my first one. I enjoyed every minute of my time in the Caribbean, so much so that I am traveling with my boyfriend in January on the Koningsdam to the Caribbean. Looking forward to the new ship and am sure that we won't be disappointed! I had a balcony cabin and have one booked for this trip as well. The extra that is does cost is more than worth that bit of privacy that a balcony affords you. Starting the day off and finishing it at the end of the day is a perfect way to have it. Enjoy your coffee as the sun comes up! I enjoyed a zip line ride in San Juan and have never spent Christmas Day like that before! I won't travel at Christmas again, but leaving right after New Year's Day in January will be a perfect way to start the year off!! The food was out of this world and every meal was scrumptious! I also appreciate that Holland America does tend to cater to the older crowd so it is nice to walk about the ship without having to worry about a ton of kids running around.