Taloolah

Age: 34yrs
Occupation: Communications
Number of Cruises: 1
Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean
Ship: Monarch of the Seas
Sailing Date: May 13th, 2005
Itinerary: Baja Mexico

This was the cruise for my husband and myself. We have family in California so we flew in a day early to celebrate my husbands birthday.

Embarkation: This was a really good experience. We got dropped off around 2pm and got right on the ship within 15mins. There were no long lines and everything was a breeze. On the way to the ship, we stopped for photos and then on to the ship.

Once on the ship....it was so beautiful. We were just amazed. By the time we reached our stateroom, to put away out carry on's, our other bags were already there. We met our Cabin steward, who was very pleasant and attentive. After putting away our bags, we headed to the WindJammer Cafe for lunch and relaxation. Soon after lunch, it was time for the mandatory fire drill, which I must say was the worst part of the cruise. This was kind of long and drawn out, and it lasted about what seemed like 35-40mins. But....after this, it was on! Freedom to do whatever. And we had a blast!

We went up on the deck by the pool and listened to the live band playing there. we walked around and just admired the beauty of the ship. The entire ship was very clean and all the staff was very friendly and attentive. We checked out some shows, which were all very good and peeked into some of the dance clubs (we are not party people) which had live DJ's and music was good.

Next morning the ship was docked in Ensenada. We slept in late, got up ate and then headed off the ship to see the sights in Ensenada. We did not book any shore excursions, we did our own thing. We caught the shuttle to the city and was hassled a little by the over-bearing townspeople (adults and children alike) trying to get you buy any and everything. But once you get past them and ignore them, all is great! We shopped and admired all the beautiful times that are out there to buy. We peeked in a couple of restaurants and clubs, which were all very nice, excluding a very loud club, type of bar scene that was a bit too rowdy for our taste. But, whatever floats your boat...this is a wild crowd, but the place was packed and several people there having a blast. We headed back towards the shuttle point, stopping off to do more shopping and buy more souvenirs.

Once back on the ship, we relaxed until dinner, which was formal night and we were looking forward to getting all dressed up, taking pictures, and eating in the dining room. (we had previously eaten at the WindJammer, which was more our speed, but all the food was great, we just didn't want to change to casual attire every night)

We checked out the shows after dinner and really enjoyed the Love and Marriage Game Show, as well as many more. Next day, at sea, we just chilled. We got up, ate ,walked around a bit, watched some movies on our DVD player that we brought along, and the took a nap. We got up later,ate dinner,packed and enjoyed more shows.

Debarkation: This too was a breeze. We were off the ship and back at our relatives house in Long Beach by 9am! I've been told this is unheard of! So we lucked out big-time!

Overall this cruise was a blast and we had the time of our lives. We loved Royal Caribbean, but our next cruise will be on Carnival for the sake of our kids. This will be their first cruise and we also want them to have the time of their lives!
 

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