My husband and I traveled with our 2 (1 month away from being 3) year old daughter and some family. We are diamond members having cruised with RCCL on 16 of the 20 cruises listed here.
The embarkation was quick, easy and organized. Stepping on to the ship was the first major disappointment. They had us get on at the outside area of (I believe) deck 5 and dropped us into a stairwell. Not quite the grandiose entry of the centrum you are used to seeing. No big deal.
We wondered the ship getting acquainted. We have sailed on both the Allure and Oasis so the WOW factor obviously wasn't there for the Freedom like I had expected.
Great view from the balcony - we were on the bump out of the ship. Close to the elevators. Directly under the kids pool, kids activity center. Above the dining rooms. Great location!