This review is directed to people like myself - taking a very special vacation of a lifetime and wanting to know as much about it in advance as possible to reassure myself that I made a good choice - not directed at the "pros" who are constantly on the board and/or on the ship. Let me begin by saying we were pleased beyond our expectations and would not have traded a thing about the cruise.

Because of my work schedule, we normally vacation in the Caribbean at a luxury resort where we can just totally relax and enjoy fine dining in area restaurants. I had formerly cruised once on Carnival 14 years ago with teenage daughter in Caribbean and with Celebrity to Alaska with family so this was first with just husband and me on luxury line. We selected this cruise because we liked the ports, we wanted small ship and I couldn't be away too long. We spent 3 days in Istanbul before embarking - good thing - a wonderful city with a lot to see and do and also time to recover from jet lag. First day was a sea day - another good thing - time to rest after touring 3 days and before stopping at 5 ports in 5 days.

Check in was so laid back and easy - turn in our passports, get our picture taken, room keys and go to lunch (we went about 1:00 - no problems). After lunch we went to our suite and our luggage was already there. We were in the least expensive room (Vista 433) which was low and center because of my sensitivity to motion. Suite was spacious with plenty of storage space, walk-in closet, drawers, shelves, desk area, vanity area, loveseat, chairs and table, flat screen tv, plenty of hangars, pillows, bathroom with tub and shower, champagne chilling in the bucket and fresh fruit too. We're not big drinkers so we had made no special beverage requests but there was water, soda and beer in our refrigerator. Our cabin stewardess was excellent, very pleasant, always called us by name, smiled and exchanged pleasantries. Our butler was also pleasant and prompt. Read more