Royal Caribbean's Rhapsody of the Seas - Cruise Review

Date: Thu, 10 Apr 2003 17:36:55 -0400
From: tanyakharkins@hotmail.com (Tanya Harkins)
Subject: Review

I have just experienced my first cruise; and while I knew that it would be a wonderful vacation, my expectations were greatly exceeded. My first impression of the ship set the mood of the entire journey! It is home to over 750 employees, people representing the entire world, who greet you with eager anticipation and the warmest of hospitality. Bright, smiling faces were around every corner, and everything a passenger needs or wants, from weather forecasts and world news to minute by minute ship itineraries, is provided daily in multiple languages. The ship was breath-taking, incredibly beautiful. Exquisitely decorated, I particularly enjoyed the artwork displayed throughout, and used different pieces to orientate myself when moving about. I was impressed with the vibrant colors, use of natural materials and textures, eye-catching light effects, and the variations of expensive forms of artwork which was used to create a fantasy world. From themed glass panels used to create textured walls at the entrance of the theatre to intricately carved melons gracing buffet tables with both color and aroma, the Rhapsody was adorned with a magnificent array of woods, tiles, metals, glass, and fabrics that tantalize the senses from ceiling to floor, deck to deck. The decor both stimulated and relaxed my weary, vacation-starved soul.

While my stateroom was more simple, it was comfortable, and provided more than adequate storage for two. I appreciated the design of the stateroom, because its' functionality was important for keeping a small area neat and tidy throughout the week. There was enough seating to comfortably share a room and offer privacy at the same time. I would like to recognize Antonio, my personal room attendant, for his professional attention to detail and for the little extras he provided, like the soft towel-sculpted animal figures that greeted me every evening. The exceptional cabin service was a divine escape from the daily grind.

The rest of the staff, as well, was professionally efficient, genuinely helpful, and excelled at the various talents that were required to perform their duties. The meals, from fine dining to buffets, were delicious, the drinks were beautifully presented, always excellent, and the variety of entertainment, delightful. (Even the talent show offered professional-level entertainment!) I could not help but question to myself why the rest of the world could not get along as well as that small representation of a floating world.

On board, I enjoyed as many of the activities and amenities as was possible; however, it will take several more cruises before I can comment on everything that guests have available to them. I plan to repeat the same cruise at the earliest opportunity! Despite my best intentions, I simply did not have the time to take full advantage of what the ship itself had to offer. The same goes, naturally, for the shore excursions offered at Ports of Call.

Our Ports of Call were Key West, Belize, and Cozumel. Key West offered great shopping, interesting night life, and beautiful scenery. I was disappointed to find it very crowded, however. We simply weren't there long enough to take full advantage of all that was available. I do want to go back! Belize, however, was the shortest Port of Call, and I found the time there adequate. I found the Belizeans to be a gracious people, friendly and eager to share their rich history and culture. Belize itself is a naturally beautiful location and what stands out most to me is how it exhibits such a stark contrast of both wealth and poverty. I most enjoyed watching the Belizeans going about their daily business. Perhaps it was an eager anticipation among the Belizeans over the possibilities that a growing tourism industry will bring them was reflected in their smiles. At last, there was Cozumel, which has now become my favorite shopping spot in Mexico. I would loved to have been able to snorkel and or dive there, but time would not allow me both water sports and shopping. The many shore excursions available at all Ports of Call will have to wait another day. I simply have to go again, and it is no wonder that I met people who were on as many as their 15th cruise.

A cruise has got to be one of the most reasonably priced vacations available! I would imagine, from my observation of other passengers, that the expectations of the most critical of voyagers, irregardless of age, could be met. I personally enjoyed the theatre nightly, had a wonderful time playing in the casino, and found myself (shamefully) making promises to God while playing Bingo for enormous cash jackpots! Perhaps it is obvious that I love gaming! Nightly dancing in the Viking Lounge is a fun option and a great place to observe the ship's professional dancers move to the latest beats in the early morning hours. Other marathon activities include the famous chocolate buffet. In fact, the food on board, available 24 hours a day, is a feast for the eyes, a delight to the pallet, and fuel for the hearty appetites that naturally develop with all of the activity, from walking the on-deck track to swimming. (I would recommend that anyone cruising plan on taking advantage of every opportunity to get a little extra exercise, or you will surely pack on a few extra pounds. So don't forget to pack your gym clothes.)

The most delightful passengers were on the cruise, as well. While most of them were from Texas, I met two wonderful couples from Missouri...thanks to them for the gift of the extra suitcase! I wouldn't have had enough room to pack the great bargains I managed to find upon departure. After all, what is a trip without souvenirs for friends and family? And there is no better time to restock the bar!

There is one mystery to me regarding cruising the seas. We all seemed to loose track of time, as days went by far too quickly. A common overheard question was, "What is today?" Just one more reason to repeat the journey!

I'm truly grateful for the opportunity to encourage others to embark The Rhapsody of the Seas and to share my experience. Thank you for taking the time to read my remarks. Bon Voyage!

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