Since this was the last trip out of Norfolk, for reasons known only to the four cruise lines who have pulled out ( despite a well paid cruise director who resigned last month; I heard it was the high price of fuel..I guess fuel is much cheaper in Miami... and environmental regulations.), we decided to take the Carnival Glory and took our two teens.

We sailed on a Carnival ship ten years ago. Some things were the same and others different. On the positive side: the room was surprisingly comfortable. We feared four in a room would be cramped, but this was not so. Our room was an outside room with a large window, but I heard inside berths also are just as roomy. The bathroom was very functional and designed well. The showers worked and were roomy compared to Royal Caribbean. The rooms were cleaned and well maintained. The steward did an excellent job.

Fears that the food had deteriorated were unfounded. The dining room set up was differently. I remember on the prior cruise, that we were seated at a large round table. This forced us to make friends at our table. I missed conversing with my fellow diners about what they had done, advice, and the usual social interaction. On the other hand, this being a family vacation, it was nice to have a table to ourselves. The waiters were friendly and made an effort to remember our names and our preferences. I especially liked the Mango soup and the other cold soups. I ate mostly vegetarian dishes. My daughter is a big meat eater and liked her steaks and beef. The molten lava chocolate cake was excellent as other reviewers mentioned. One day October 27th it seemed every table was singing Happy Birthday. On the 28th the waiters sang Happy Birthday to me, since Bill Gates was not aboard. One thing which was quite a bit different was the overall decorum. Many passengers dressed like inappropriately, wearing T shirts and shorts ( to dinner) even on formal night. I feel they should be stopped at the door and asked to return in better attire. Since even jeans are allowed, I do not feel that is asking too much. Read more