We would like to go on a Caribben cruise for 7 days in January 2001 and have never been on a cruise at all. What is the best cruise line as far as quality? We would like to go on the best line. <BR> <BR>Also, where and what type of room should we request? Is there any area of rooms that would minimize sea sickness? Thanks for any information you can provide.

There are many, many ways to answer your questions. The first thing you should ask yourself is, "How much do I have to spend" as the dollars can be the determining factor as to what line to choose. Your age group may also come into play as some lines cater to older and some cater to younger while others have a broad range. Size of ship is a factor: do you want to share the experience with 500 people or 2,500. Once you can narrow the field a bit, you can do some more research. <BR> <BR>Remember: the advice you get from people here are strictly opinios. Many are based on multiple cruises and many opinions are quite valuable. Ultimately, you and your travel agent will arrive at the best cruise for you.

<BR>Balcony suite in the middle of the ship on Silversea, Seaborne, Radison, Cunard, Cyrstal or Windstar.

Caryn, you will probably feel less motion midships and not too high up. We've always choosen a cabin inside and midship and had really good luck. We've never spent much time other than sleeping in our cabin, so never felt the need for a window. Don't forget to take "end of the cruise tips" into financial consideration. They can add up, but if you get a good crew, you won't mind tipping at all, they earn it. Hope you have alot of fun.

Caryn: <BR>Ken has listed the best advise to you so far. Work with a travel agent (I'm not one, but I always use one) to determine whats best for you. Beware of responses like Frances who simply says get a "balcony suite in the middle of the ship on Silversea, Seaborne, Radison, Cunard, Cyrstal or Windstar". While these are all excellent lines they will cost you FAR more than another line that could easily meet your expectations as a first time cruiser. <BR>Everyone is correct that "mid-ship" is the best location, however, since most people want to be there, the cruise lines often charge more for these cabins. <BR>Again, listen to Kens advise and try to determine what YOU want to experience on the cruise, then let an agent help you find the right ship at the right price. You'll be far better off. People like Frances mean well, but she either has so much money that price isn't a concern or, someone else is buying her tickets for her. <BR>Best wishes! Have a great cruise.

Thanks for your responses. We've looked into it a little bit further and everything keeps pointing to Royal Caribbean (either Explorer or Voyager) or Celebrity Galaxy. We'd like a great itinerary in the Southern Caribbean and a great, new, big ship. Any opinions on these?

<BR>Caryn asked for the best line, clearly that was the question I answered. If she had said the best, mid priced cruise line I would have recommended RCCL, Celebrity, HA. If she had asked for the cheapest acceptable cruise line I would have suggested Carnival. When I post questions I like people to be honest and answer them as I've posted them, not just what they feel I should be asking. Again, I was just trying to answer Caryns question as she posted it. I can only assume she has decided the best is not necessary. Larry, there are alot of women who can afford to travel the world on their own income.