Well, to begin with, the CC description of the Jade is mostly incorrect. Prices have changed, and the Penhouse Suite we had (and visited others) was one room and a bathroom, no second rooms, extra TV's, etc. That all comes at the Garden Villa level. Tipping charges have increased to $12 per person per day. Water and sodas in the cabins are NOT free, nor is Internet which is interminably slow. Never heard any priority embark/debark until we asked. Ship decor is best described as Hawaiian Hideous. Room 9172 is handicapped access (supposedly) but sadly, it made US sick. The bathroom flooded with 3-4 inches of water every time we showered (there is no tub) On the third day, the room stweard gave us more towels " in anticipation" of the sewage problem we were about to discover. The rank mildew stench coming from the drains in the bathroom was nauseating. We asked and asked the steward, butler, and the non-responsive concierge for help. Finally, the hotel Director, Dallas Easterly, when encountered mid ships, said he'd look into it. Nothing was done. The headaches started. We left the ship ovenight in Cairo and hoped for improvement on our return. It was worse. The headaches continued. On our last day at sea, I managed to find the concierge and her boss. Once again, nothing was done. This is a continuing problem on the ship, and nothing was done. No apologies or suggestions or offers were made by NCL. Been off the ship for 5 days and we're still sick.

We booked our own excursions with people we met on CC boards. Brief opinions:

Before the cruise: Flew into Madrid. Took van transfer located as you exit the airport on the lower level....about 20 Euros for both and luggage. Stayed at Husa Paseo del Artes which was great location for touring and a nice hotel. Great breakfast, nice beds and right across from Atocha atation. Free Wifi! Two HOHO bus stops within 2 blocks made for easy sightseeing. Loved the Prado ( hire an English speaking guide for $15, hand held recorders are not sequential with the art) Great gift shop with easy to carry items for anyone. Loved the English section with fantastic marquetry tables and original plans displayed above. Took the Ave train to Barcelona, easy and very convenient from hotel. Read more