We stayed in Barcelona for two nights before the cruise. Wonderful city, very glad that I got to see as much as I did! We stayed at the Ayre Hotel - Gran Via. Very nice hotel, overlooked the city, and perfect location to get anywhere! The Magic Fountain was just behind the hotel, a must see! We used public transportation, and the Hop On Hop Off bus for everything! HOHO was well worth the price to see as much as possible, in a short time! Must Sees are Parc Guell, Sagrada Família , and Las Ramblas! The architecture in the city is just amazing! Check out the McDonalds in Passeig de Gràcia. They had table service, wonderful cappuccino and amazing desserts! Nothing like our McDonalds! I would like to go back and explore more of the city!
This was my 6th cruise, but first time to Europe, and first time on Royal Carabbean. I've cruised with Norwegean, and Carnival before. In my opinion, as far as the cruise line, NCL and CCL are both better than RCCL.
We had an ocean view room on the Splendour, sailing April 2-9, 2010. The ship was very nice, however, the service was not up to par with any of the other lines that I've been on. The room steward was good, we had all the normal towel animals, and she always made sure to greet us. Did have to ask for ice most nights, but that is my only complaint.
I have no complaints with the room. Ocean View Window with wonderful Views, plenty of space, good storage space, and comfortable beds.