I chose this particular cruise because of the convenience and familiarity of the Port of New Orleans. It was a round trip beginning and ending in New Orleans. Embarkation and disembarkation was very smooth and efficient. We did not travel with anyone, it was just the two of us and we chose the week after Thanksgiving.The ship was absolutely gorgeous and spotless throughout our week long cruise.The staff on board seemed much more personable and friendly and eager to be of service than any other NCL cruise we had ever taken. We were treated very special, more special than ever before really. We had a mini-suite mid ship cabin #9194 Port side, and it was very comfortable and everything worked as it should. The weather was really nice during the day with light showers during the night, which we slept through. The food was really good in the specialty dining venues we dined in, except the rib-eye steak I ordered in Cagneys was inedible for it had too much grizzle in it making me wonder what cut of beef it truly was. The buffet lacked a little in flavor and choices in our opinion but was clean and there were always places to sit. They even had crew asking if diners wanted anything form the bar, which impressed us. The bar areas were adequately staffed so there was never a long wait to be served. The drinks were expertly mixed. We experienced the Ice Bar for the first time and it was a lot of fun and loved how the drinks were served in ice glasses. I suggest you wear long pants though. The photographers were excellent on this ship too and the system for locating your photos throughout the journey was easy and efficient. There is a conveniently located bar on deck outside the Mojito bar, near the ice bar, with very comfortable cushioned seating and tables so if the weather is right, you can enjoy from there, which we did. We only explored two ports out of the three visited; Cozumel and Harvest Caye. We loved both ports. This cruise was specifically for rest and relaxation and since we dined later each evening, we did not take in any of the shows on this cruise but rather just sat around visiting with new friends we made on board. The Officers who attended the Cruise Critic Meet and Greet were definitely available throughout the cruise and very visible. The Director of Housekeeping went above and beyond for us and added a great deal to our cruise experience. A post cruise M&G was discussed but if it was scheduled, we missed out of that. Only once on a NCL cruise have we experienced a M&G on the last sea day to discuss likes and dislikes. However, on this particular ship and itinerary, there was only positive feedback to give. Loved this ship and the crew. Oh there was one other thing I want to mention and that is the beach towels. You must now go to the pool area to check out beach towels and if not returned, you are charged a fee. We were not aware of this change as in the past, the Cabin Steward would deliver them to your cabin. There was some confusion about this as we were told the towel had to be returned same day by 8pm, but I think it was just by the end of the cruise and not each day you checked one out. So, this would make you feel apprehensive about leaving a towel unattended on a chair for instance where anyone could pick it up. I suppose too many of those towels grew legs but I can't imagine anyone wanting one honestly! LOL