Our 2nd cruise of the Allure. We were very impressed the first time and knew what we would be getting. No way around it, drinks are astronomical. However, we drank when we wanted to and we were not even close to the price of two people getting a drink package. I wish RC would just include the gratuities in the price of the cruise. The food was phenomenal with every type of food imaginable. If you go to the windjammer at peak time and have a large group, you will wait in lines. But we often went in on our own in groups of 4-5 and just watched for someone to get up. Sometimes we took food from the windjammer and found a nice spot on Central Park or at the pool for lunch or a quick bite. Dining room experience was amazing. The staff go out of their way to accommodate you in every way possible.Can't choose between two dinners? Try them both. The entertainment was great - as good or better than a Broadway production. We made all of our reservations for the shows ahead of time. Even if you have reservations, you must arrive at least 15 minutes prior - they let those with reservations in first, so if you are late you will lose your reservation. As far as the pools, yes, they get crowded early, especially days at sea. They do not seem to enforce not saving of chairs, so that is exactly what we did everyday to make sure we could sit together. There was always at least two of us that were early risers.

I highly recommend booking the excursions directly through RC. The benefits are guaranteed safe, luxury transportation. RC know where you are at all times.You should also try to book these ahead of time as well - not only can you save some money but they sell out quickly once you are on board.

The most vital part of vacation is having an open mind and letting go a little - be kind and strike up a conversation with people. You never know who you might meet!