We booked this cruise last october after a cruise on the freedom of the seas in september our first cruise,loved it so much that we went on the adventure of the seas in november.It was our first time going from southampton,and what a pleasure it was,no airports and as much luggage as we could carry.we travelled down the night before and stayed in the holiday inn express at junction 7 on the M27 about 5 miles from the port,what a find,50 pounds with breakfast for the room and a great view overlooking the rosebowl cricket ground.EMBARCATION. We had free parking at the port,turned up at 10.40, porters took our bags and by 11.20 we were on the ship ,fantastic.STATEROOM. Booked a balcony,deck 8,room 8304,not disapointed with loads of room massive comfy bed,32in tv plenty of wardrobe and drawer space,good bathroom with a powerfull shower.DINING. Never used mdr,only windjammer,only because we dont like to be tied down when we eat and we like to do our own thing.Never a problem finding a seat,and food was varied,hot, and of good quality.The staff in the windjammer are excelent.EXCURSIONS. Did not book any trips,just did our own thing. BARS. Loads of bars to choose from,quiet to livley something for everyone,we liked bolleros on deck 4,thanks to hassan and alex,the barmen,who always remembered your name and always had a smile.ENTERTAINMENT. Ice shows,west end shows,singers,bands,quizzes talks on various subjects,even bingo,this ship caters for everyone.STAFF. All the staff on this ship are excellent,from our stateroom atendant ALBERT,who kept our room sparkling,to maintenance guys,who allways said hello and had a smile.OVERALL. My wife and I had a great cruise,yes you did have to wait for a lift sometimes and you had to queue for ice show tickets,but not for long we found it no problem.We met a lot of nice people from all walks of life,and we also met a lot of people who i can only describe as snobs.These people think anyone who wears a football shirt or has a tattoo are scum,p&o are better,cunard are better,to many kids,get a grip if david beckham was on the ship would you complain,no i dont think so.We are both in our 50s and have traveled all over the world for the past 20 years,both still work full time,our only regret is that we didnt cruise 20 years ago.Go on people give it a go youll love it.......