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Independence lived up to the hype!!
Reviewed By: Levey, Stirling on 23rd Jul 2008
Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean Cruises	Times cruised before: 1-2
Cruise Ship: Independence of the Seas	Sailed: June, 2008
Destination: Mediterranean	Age: 36-45

Had cruised on the Navigator at the same time last year so eagerly awaited the new, larger ship. Our first impressions of the ship were excellent and we weren't disappointed with the overall cruise experience. Having been on the Navigator it was fairly easy to find our way around as the layout is an exact replica on a larger scale. Our cabin was fine although as usual the lack of storage space can be a bit irritating. However I did remember to bring a hang up toilet back which was a huge help! The bed was very comfortable and our cabin boys ensured the room was always immaculate. We tried all the restaurants with the exception of Portofinos and found the standard of food to be really good. The buffet restaurant had a fantastic variety and the fruit and veg were always very fresh. Chops Grille is worth the extra few dollars for a one off as the beef is wonderful and the service second to none. Despite having fantatsic waiters in the main dining room (second seating) the delivery of food could be slow at times and we had to skip our dessert a couple of times. However, nothing was too much problem for our waiters who frequently brought us more than one selection from the menu! The entertainment was a bit disappointing but other activities on board made up for this. The ice show was excellent and should not be missed. Graeme (the cruise director) and his team were enthusiastic and professional at all times. The staff in the bars (particularly Baleros) provided excellent entertainment and made every night really enjoyable. The casino was well laid out and had a good variety nut was very busy in the evenings. We only did one excursion to Nice and Cannes and found that most of the popular excursions were booked up even before we set sail. Need to be more organised next time. We had a 15 year old teenage girl with us in our party and she had an absolute ball! She said that the facilities for teenagers were wonderful and we also spoke to others who said the same about the kids club. The pool areas suited all age groups and included areas for young children and a quiet area for adults only. Overall we had a fantatsic time and would definately book with Royal Caribbean again!
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Comment by Schulz, Cardenden (23 Jul 08 19:48) about this REVIEW.

Thanks for this review. We are due to sail in September on same itinerary and wondered which excursion you did in Nice/Cannes as we are keen to see these places as well as Monte Carlo if poss and would be grateful for any advice for best/cheapest way to do this when we dock in Villefranche. Thanks in advance for any advice.

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