We chose this cruise because it was out of Boston so we did not have to fly to get to the ship., We had sailed on the Gem last year and enjoyed the ship so we figured we would do it again. We enjoy all the different places to eat on the ship, your are not limited to the dining room or the buffet or the specialty restaurants. The money we saved on airfare we put into a better cabin, the suite life really is sweet. The crew was great the lounges were great and the food was great. When you book a suite you are escorted on to the ship and taken to a private restaurant for lunch. You also have access to private restaurants for lunch and breakfast during the entire cruise. Shore excursions were ok! but nothing to write home about, some better then others. All in all great trip.