Medallion class made cruising so simple! Embarkation was a dream -- we did not wait in line at all. Wearing the Ocean Medallion, our door unlocked as we approached and we could order a drink or food item from literally anywhere on the ship -- no more leaving that lounger for a drink. That said, my favorite part about the Ocean Medallion was being able to locate my "shipmates," AKA my mother! If we were having trouble meeting up (she'd forgotten her phone at home), I could go to any "Ocean Compass" sign (aka Ship Map) or use the app on my phone to locate her. It will be a huge boon when I cruise with my entire family.

This trip was just my mother and I. We really enjoyed this particular itinerary: we took to the beach on Princess Cays, having reserved a clam-shell, and then shopped in St. Thomas and St. Maarten. The clam-shell set up was more cumbersome than I'd have liked -- you have to walk quite a ways to get a card to get it set up, and then find someone to help you. They ran out of floats -- not too great for those who had reserved them and didn't get them. I do appreciate the cookout Princess does on their island. It's nice to be able to just stay on the island and have a good lunch and keep swimming.

We enjoyed the production shows, as always, particularly BRAVO, and the dancers were amazing. The Cruise Director, Matt, was a hoot - very friendly and accessible. One of the ADs, Andy, was also very visible and fun. Read more