willisonboard

Wow, thanks everyone for all the responses! Lots of great tips. I will definitely look into pre-xmas timing. As far as getting that precious alone time with the 2 rooms -- unfortunately, doesn't usually work out that way for us on trips! I just know my 10-yr old will want to sleep with one of us in the room. So even if we had 2 rooms, it more than likely would be one parent/one child in each for the actual sleeping. Also, I'll read the reviews on this site -- I didn't realize they were there. I remember hearing that most people don't like Carnival, so I was actually thinking Royal Caribbean was the way to go. Why is it that Carnival is unpopular? Is it because there are too many young children, or is the service poor, amenities sparce? Anyway, I will go thru the reviews. Thanks again for all the help! Mo

Thank you. I'm glad I gave up on it -- I would never have guessed that. Mo

Hello all. We have never cruised before. But we are ready to take the plunge -- if we can get a good price! We'd like to take a 7-day Caribbean cruise this December, leaving after Xmas and returning sometime before Jan. 6. I realize that's an expensive time to go, but I'm hoping for a last-minute deal. Am I totally out to lunch on this? We are a family of 4 -- 2 daughters aged 10 & 13. So we want a large cabin with a balcony. I figure that would be cheaper than 2 rooms (one having a balcony). I'm hoping for suggestions on what I should be looking for re the ship and cruise line. And suggestions for getting the best price. Re the star rating system: Is a 3-star rating OK? Or will it disappoint? What's the minimum # of stars you would go with? What would be a fair price for our cruise? Should I use a travel agent or no? And anything else you think I should know. Thanks very much! Mo

I've tried to work it out, but have given up. Mo