We usually cruise in a suite but on this cruise we had a deluxe balcony room. The room was great(plenty of storage) and did not hinder us from having a great time. We chose a room on deck 11 close to the SPA since we always buy the hydrotherapy spa package when cruising ($200 value per couple). HIGHLY RECOMMEND this because it allows you find peace and quiet in a very relaxed atmosphere (saunas, hot tub, hydrotherapy pool, steam room, etc.).
I found the ship fairly easy to navigate which differs from some other critics. Red elevators = red carpet = starboard side. Blue elevators = blue carpet = port side. Main restaurants in the back, Garden Cafe in the front of the ship. Deck 14 is spa and exercise room (which is AMAZING). Deck 15 is where all the fun is (pool, slides, rock climbing). How complicated is that?
I enjoyed the food especially at Moderno (surcharge $20.00 but WORTH EVERY CENT). The meat is fantastic and they keep bringing you more until you say STOP!!! The Chef's special steak cut is better than the filet. If you don't like paying a little more for specialty foods, don't worry; the main restaurants are always available, serving a variety of items and are very good.
Deluxe Family Balcony(11250) was ideally located for me. I was 3 floors below the SPA and exercise area where I spend most of the day and 4 floors below the pool entrance and H20 Spice. I was within 100 feet of the elevators but NEVER heard any noise nor was I ever disturbed.
Room had a tremendous amount of storage space.