Michael

NCL-Sun, Celebrity-Century, Grand Princess<BR><BR>We are a soon to be engaged early 30's couple who have been on a few cruises(7 years ago for me, and younger geared cruises at that), and looking for deals on a little more upscale experience...I know you say celebrity right away, but the others also seem to have so much to offer. We are set on staying in a balcony room(private if possible). Is celebrity really so much superior in food and service to make it a slam dunk decision?? We will be happy with whatever we choose, as we just love the sun and atmosphere of it all! I know that NCL has superior water excursions...this is nice, but not on the top of our list. Someone help us make the decicion!! Thanks

Paul Therault

<BR>Hi Michael,<BR><BR>Too many variables. Best to talk to a travel agent who has the time to detail each ship for you or believe what people tell you here ..... sail Celebrity. <BR><BR>Your lifestle and your budget comes into play also. Great deals are to be had but at what comparable cost?<BR><BR>It is an important decision for you but I can not see it taking over your life. <BR><BR>Here's a thought .... the Costa Atlantica. Has very reasonable balcony staterooms. 5 star cruise line. Very Italian, very romantic. Best theme nights. Here's the "but" ..... it is a European experience and is "different." <BR><BR>Another line is Windstar masted sailing vessels..... expensive, yes. Fabulous experience ... ditto. Not your run-of-the-mill ships.<BR><BR>Holland America Maasdam .... as budget upscale as your are going to get. May be boring ..... again your "lifestyle."<BR><BR>I do not believe you will get enough information on these boards to sway you. Do a lot of studying and see a TA.<BR><BR>Paul

Ron

Michael, if you are in your early 30's and have to rely on total strangers on the I.-net to make your decisions re/a vacation, then I will try to help. First, disregard N.C.L.Next, look at the route YOU want to go on. Then pick either Princess or Celebrity, whichever fits the bill on the route.You won't go wrong with either of those lines.

Paul Therault

I agree, but the masses do vote Celebrity over Princess. Both great cruise lines and 30's is a good age for both.<BR><BR>Paul

Michael

Thanks for the responses. We have chosen Celebrity, and can't wait to cruise!! Not going til May, but I will post my thoughts after the trip. Thanks again

Andy

Michael- You will LOVE CELEBRITY- and yes,the food is terrific- SInce you are going on the Century, you will be going on one of the best "service" ships in the fleet- the service is terrific.<BR><BR>As far as romance-Windstar( esp.the Windsurf) is my favorite choice--but in May they will be in the MED. Windsurf had the best food by far in my 25+ years of cruising..but the ship is way smaller (330 people)....FOR a larger cruise ship, MY first choice is a definite YES for CELEBRITY.