I flew in from Las Vegas on a thursday morning on Spirit Airlines (good experience overall). I pricelined the Westin FTL (very near the port) and stayed for 3 nights before my 10/23 sailing. Excellent hotel, great location right across from the beach.

Embarkation wasn't as much of a breeze as I expected but that's because I arrived at the port during a peak time - around 11am. After a short delay at the security checkpoint (always remember to get rid of the water bottles!), I was checked in and heading towards the gangway. Once across the threshold and into the Promenade, I was completely speechless. Everything that has ever been said about these ships is true but it still doesn't prepare you for the size and the beauty. Beyond that, the ship is a masterpiece of engineering: I NEVER felt like I was on such a huge ship due to the neighborhood concept. Crowding was never a problem - just avoid the Windjammer and use the stairs when possible. Allure had the entire Port Everglades to itself so we sailed out right on time....the weather was perfect. Navigating around the ship couldnt be easier....great signage and of course those amazing touchscreens that literally show you the way.

Now to the most important things....food and entertainment. I had vowed to avoid the MDR for the entire cruise so I could sampe as many specialty restaurants as possible. I should say I am most definitely NOT a food snob and have enjoyed RCCL MDR'S in the past (Mariner most recently, also Monarch). BUT if you cruise Allure or Oasis, why not take advantage of the quality and variety?! So many people did not on my cruise....it was their loss. Here goes: Rita's fiesta was tons of fun (great drinks, very good food), Izumi was very good (excellent sushi), Chops Grille was AMAZING and was my favorite meal, 150 Central was mostly very good but I wouldn't do it again (too stuffy), Vintagas Tapas turned out to be one of my favorite meals, Giovanni's was excellent, and to top it all off, the Samba Grille on the final night...also, excellent. If you can eat outside at any of the Central Park venues, do it! It was an experience not to be missed. The Park Cafe was great for salads and sandwiches, Solarium Bistro had very good lite food, and Sorrento's had really good make-your-own pizza. The hot dogs on the boardwalk were great! Cafe Promenade was also quite good. I did not do Johnny Rockets, wipeout cafe, spa cafe or the Windjammer. By all means, GO TO STARBUCKS. I am not a lover of their coffee but the prices are so reasonable - cheaper than my neighborhood store! Buy some starbucks gift cards before you go onboard and you can use them on the ship. I'm not a big drinker but I did hit the bar by the aqua theatre several times....great tropical drinks. Ask the friendly bartender for his recommendation! Read more