Our first cruise

Well, we are back form our first cruise and we are ready for our next one! It was wonderful to have time just for the two of us, no schedule, no responsibilies (except making it back to the ship on time) and of course no kids! We were on the ship on Valentines, but also "pre-celebrated" our 11th anniversary.

Our ship was called the Mariner of the Seas, one of Royal Caribean's biggest. It holds well over 4500 people, including crew, but it honestly never felt cramped. There were plenty of times were we found ourselves completely alone in some quiet corner.
The Mariner has everything you can imagine onboard, from fitness facilities, to a Spa, movie-theater, "real" theater, shopping, plenty of restaurants (some charge extra, most don't), pools and so much more.

If you've ever talked to a cruiser, you will know that they usually rave about the food. Well, we are not any different! 9 times out of 10 it was delicious and occasionally truly the best we've ever had. The food ranges form buffet style to made-this-just-for-you treats. And yes, if you so desire you can eat 24/7!

We came home and after the realization that the room service and all the waiters stayed behind on the ship, we were ready to go on our next one, but that dream is probably a few more years away. :(

PS: If you ever find yourself onboard a cruise ship, whatever you do, don't shop at Diamonds International or any of there other flavors (Watches International, etc). Those stores are a rip-off, no matter what the (well paid by these stores) "personal" shopping guide onboard says. If you want to hear more, drop me an e-mail.