Liberty Review - May 10th-18th

[PittsburghGirlee]

BACKGROUND

There were a total of 6 of us in our group, 3 couples all from Pittsburgh, PA

Cozumel, Costa Rica, Panama

Cabin #7451 - Aft Balcony

 

FLIGHT

We flew Air Tran direct from PIT to FLL a day early to be on the safe side. The flights were booked in January of 08. Due to the early booking we were NOT charged the $25.00 for the extra suitcase. All we did was verbally tell them at Curbside check-in that we booked in January and they said ok. All luggages was then loaded onto a dolly (18 pieces) and literally pushed 20 feet to the counter for check and weigh in. We tipped $10.00 for each couple. If I would have known that it was only that short of a distance, we would have just walked it ourselves.

 

SHUTTLE

We arrived in FLL actually a little before schedule due to the high winds, so they said. We were so excited to land as this officially started the VACATION - aaaaahhhhh. We went to baggage claim to retrieve our luggage which was also quick and painless. There are telephones at the baggage claim area for you to call for your hotel shuttle if you do not see it already waiting as it rotates every 20 minutes. NOTE*** I called before we retrieved all of our luggage from the carousel and was told by the desk clerk to call back when all of the luggage has been retrieved and THEN they will send the shuttle. I did just that. I also asked where exactly we should be waiting for it and was directed to the BLUE area. 40 minutes later, the shuttle arrived. The hotel is about 10-15 minutes from FLL. Nice smooth ride.

We arrived at the LaQuinta, Hollywood and tipped $10.00 per couple for him to only remove the luggage out of the trailer and into the parking lot. We carried and pulled our own luggage from the trailer into the hotel.

 

HOTEL

We stayed at the LaQuinta in Hollywood. I booked our rooms in October of 2007 at a rate of $99.99 which includes shuttle from the airport, continental breakfast and shuttle to the cruise port. This was a great price for all that we received. We were only looking for a place to relax and sleep for the night. If you are using the shuttle, make sure that you get your name on the list for the shuttle when you check-in at the front desk. The first shuttle departs at 11:00am. If you want to go sooner, you will need to go by Taxi. The outside of this hotel is absolutely gorgeous. I spend most of my time sitting by the pool admiring the view. VACATION – aaaahhhhh.

 

NOTE***There was a shady looking couple that were stoned and going in and out all hours of the night, up and down the halls and in the elevator. I was actually in the elevator with them late at night and they could hardly stand or talk. They were filthy.

 

We saw them again in the morning outside of the hotel (they were mooching the free breakfast) as we were waiting for the shuttle and we felt they were eyeing up our bags as to do a snatch a run. They kept walking by all of us to see if we were paying attention. They asked for cigarettes and money. We did not oblige them and finally the shuttle arrived. I was going to mention this to the Front Desk but we were leaving and it looked like they always hung out there.

 

CRUISE PORT

We arrived at approximately at 11:30am. We were extremely excited to see the CARNIVAL LIBERY as we approached the pier. VACATION – aaaahhhhh.

The shuttle driver unloaded all off the luggage from the trailer and then opened the doors for us to exit. We tipped $10.00 per couple. The porters then picked up all luggage except for the carry-ons and loaded it onto a crate. We tipped $10.00 per couple. The crate was then pushed literally 10 feet and was dropped waiting for the fork lift. So we basically paid for them to pick it up and throw into the crates. Again, had I known, we could have done it ourselves.

 

EMBARKATION

We then went to wait in line to board the beautiful ship. The line was long and seemed to not move at all for about 15 minutes. Then all of a sudden, they must have opened up more lines, as it stared moving very quickly. We went through all of the security lines, received our sign and sail card and was on board by 12:30. I felt this was GREAT….

A+ on Embarkation.

 

LIBERTY

I was finally on board after counting down 289 days since booking. The ship was absolutely stunning and did not disappoint. Having been on the Victory 2 years ago and the Fantasy quite a few years back, this by far is and will be my favorite ship. I am truly a fan.

 

We went directly to the Lido deck and hung out with our friends until our rooms were ready at 1:30. One of the couples with us was virgin cruisers and it was great to see their faces as they looked around taking in all of the beauty and excitement. We grabbed a quick slice of pizza to munch on. This was the first slice of many to come. Although a little gummy, could have been cooked a few minutes more, it was still yummy.

 

ROOM

We all had balcony aft cabins on Deck 7. Although our room steward did not introduce himself, I did flag someone down pronto and ask that they open up all of our balconies to make 1 large one. He gladly did so. tipped $5.00. Believe it or not, most of our luggage was already there excluding 1 duffle bag that arrived about 3:30pm. We unpacked and hung out on our balconies #7451 - AFT.

 

MUSTER DRILL

I honestly do not see what the big deal is about this. The announcement was made for us to attend the Muster Drill and off we went. There were people directing you to the proper areas so you could not get lost if you wanted to. In about 15 minutes or so it was over. Quick and painless if you ask me. The stewards DO check the rooms as one of our neighbors thought they could play HIDE N’ SEEK, but were found and escorted to the drill.

 

The rest of the review will be bits and pieces of everything that I DID experience:

 

ROOM STEWARD:

I did not know his name as he did not introduce himself to me. This is fine by me and by no means a fault. My room was taken care of impeccably like Houdini, had towel animals EVERY night, left a note for the fridge to be emptied, shampoo dispenser clogged, 2 buckets of ice be filled daily. All of this was done magically without the bat of an eye. Every time I left my room all of the stewards that I encountered were friendly, smiling and always say Good Morning, Good Evening or Hello. I could not have asked for anything more. Big Fat Tipfor my HOUDINI…. Well deserved.

 

DINING ROOM:

We had the first seating 5:45pm in the Silver Dining room. When we first received our sign n’ sail cards I noticed that we (me and DH) were not at the same table as our other traveling companions. I could not believe this as I am the one who booked EVERYTHING. I know from CC that all I needed to see was see the Maitre D and he would take care of it. I went to the area where I thought he was supposed to be at 3:30, but did not see him. I was at the wrong place… aarrrggg. No biggie though, I knew me and DH could go through 1 night without our friends and take care of it after dinner. This is exactly what we did. The Maitre D took care of it immediately and apologized. I told him No biggie and he gave me a wink. Great job Maitre D (sorry can’t remember his name) Tip for him though (wink wink). Now, we are all at the same table from that night forward. All is right with the world.

 

We had the absolute BEST wait staff ever. Rock-Na was a cheerful blend of beauty and wit. This was great for our group as we were lively every night. She gave as good as she got and always with a smile. We let her know when some of us were not going to be at the formal dining room for one reason or another and she was always appreciative. Took lots of pics of her. Anyone would be lucky to have her and her team serve them. Her hubby is a cook on the ship also and they were married a year ago. Stellar service every night.

 

The food was great. My favorite was the Lobster. I know that those say rubbery and overcooked, but this was not the case as I have eaten my fair share of them. It melted in your mouth. Rock-Na always brought extras for the guys without them even asking. Our table looked like a buffet as the guys in this group are big eaters. Nothing went to waste and we all tried everything. The next favorite dinner item was the Veal Cutlet…. MMMmmmm. It was so tender you did not even need a knife. Just fell apart. And the sauce, making me hungry just thinking about it. The only item I did not care for and sent back was the Eggplant. Loved the mushroom soup, shrimp cocktail, chocolate melting cake (it varied, sometimes more runny), steaks and, pasta with vodka sauce. There was always something to choose from. Some nights I just opted for the Salad, appetizers and lots of warm bread.

 

PORTS

Cozumel – Went to Nachi Cocum. I would highly recommend this excursion to those who like to just sit back, relax and be waited on hand and foot. I would not think this is a place for children. There were about 25 of us that day. It was refreshing to do the crowds at the pool on the ship. The food was great although I had consumed many adult beverages and really did not eat all that much. Manny made sure that we did not want for anything. We tipped $20.00 per couple.

 

Costa Rica – Did not get off of the ship.

 

Panama – Only got off to shop closely at the pier and back on the ship.

 

 

SHOWS

We only saw 2 shows while on this cruise:

 

The Ventriloquist, which was by far the best show ever. He was totally amazing. For those of you that were on this cruise and did not have a chance to see him, you surely missed a great one. I am still talking about it.

 

The Adult Midnight Comedian, (can’t remember his name)he was pretty funny, not gut busting, but was glad I saw him.

 

CASINO

Now this was my downfall monetary wise. I spent at least 5-6 hours every day or night the casino was opened in there. I was actually even until about day 5, not bad. I intended to come home broke and definitely met my expectations. I was lucky enough to play in a Black Jack Tournament even though I do not and have never played the game until the day I qualified. I was the losers drawing ticket for the last seat. I finished an impressive 3rd and received a hat, keychain, deck of card and t-shirt all with the Player Club on them. LOL

 

I knew every dealer and Pit Boss. I can not say enough about how friendly and accommodating the casino crew was. They were top-notch and I would sail the Liberty again just because of this gang. Kudos to those who put this marvelous group together. They work well together. When they want to get the attention of the Pit Boss or Manager, they blow kisses. You hear this smooch, smooch all day/night long. It is quite entertaining. I just loved them and they loved my $$$$. Lots of Tips. When I won, they won.

 

CHAIR HOGS

I was up early every day and poolside by 7:30am where I stayed most of the day. I was in the Lido Deck Aft for a few days. This is non-smoking so I would have to move to the smoking area every time I wanted to smoke so I moved to the Middle Lido Deck pool. There were chair hogs everywhere o the main levels. I actually went up top where there seemed to be very little people when it got to crowded for me poolside. The breeze was wonderful. VACATION – aaaahhhhh.

 

SMOKING

This brings me to a very touchy topic. Smoking… I am a smoker obviously, It seemed that no matter when I was, people went out of there way to give me grief about it. Mind you, I am a smoker that follows the rules. I smoked only in the designated areas. I try to stay away from crowds when smoking and go out of my way to do so. While on my lounge chair on the Lido Deck that I have been on since 7:30am in the smoking section, someone would lay next to me and complain. I visibly lay my smokes and lighter out so people can see that I smoke.

 

In the casino, I mostly play the tables, I always sit at an end seat as to not bother others as much as I possibly can when wanting to smoke. Again, my smokes and lighter are clearly displayed at the table, next thing you know someone sits down next to me and start complaining about the smoke the whole entire time. This is extremely frustrating when there are other empty seats at the same table that they could have sat at. Each time I graciously told them to please move down a few seats if it bothers you. They did not move. This happened many times over the 8 day period. Oh well…… Just needed to give my 2 cents on the subject.

 

 

DRESS

On the first night of the cruise in the Silver Dining Room, the Maitre D announced that all men MUST WEAR PANTS, SHIRTS WITH SLEEVES AND NO HATS. As I sat next to a guy with a John Deere hat in a cut off t-**** that said “This is my Hoe”. LOL

 

So, no shorts were allowed. I only say 1 guy that had them on and I only noticed because he sat behind me. I, myself wore jeans the last night, but dressed for every other time I was in the Dining Room.

 

FINALLY

All in all this one of the best cruises that I have been on and it was well worth the wait. Everything is what you make of it and I felt very blessed to meet all the great people that I did while on my cruise.

 

Our Meet N’ Greet was a total success, with about 25 people attending. What a fine group of people. Some I saw in passing while others I was fortunate enough to go on excursions with hang out poolside and chit chat or in the casino.

 

I would definitely cruise on this ship again and hope to do so in the future. KUDOS to CArnival for making this one of the all time BEST VACATIONS ever.:D :D

[phinfan63]

Great review. I really enjoyed the Liberty last year too ~ very beautiful ship.

[direfun2000]

Great review!! TFS!:D

[DIA626]

AWESOME review! I'll be sailing on her 7/26....Cant wait. You made me very hungry reading about the food!

[fern1226]

Thanks for posting a review. We can't wait to sail her.

How bout those Pens! My DH is tired from staying up to watch the game.

[MetalPrincess8]

Great review!! I'm sailing on the Liberty in January, so this is making me look even more forward to my cruise!!

 

PS...thanks for the review about the smokers...I am one myself, and its nice to know ahead of time :cool:

[Papasaurus]

Great review. Like you we booked far in advance. Time is flying by however. I am not a smoker but an avid bowler so I guess if you wish to do things smokers do then live with it. I can always move. Those who go to smoking areas do by choice so they have no need to complain. I only have one question. How did you afford to do any thing with all the extra tipping you were doing. LOL. Glad you had a good time.:)

[Cruz4us]

Was the room nice? Did it have a couch or a chair? We have this room in 6 months:D

[baseball16]

Hello Pittsburghgirlee

 

We were on the Liberty with you on 5-10-08 We were on deck 8 in a balcony cabin as well. The ship was beautiful. It was a really good trip.

 

Most people think peoples gripes are not important and as a whole it was a great vacation, however. For people going on the Liberty in the near future you should all know this.

 

We have been cruising for 15 yrs on 7 cruises, 3 which were Carnival. When you buy liquor at a port and bring it back on board the ship someone is usually at the gangway to take it from you, box it up, label it and deliver it to you at the end of the cruise. Not only did they not do this which was ok but they would not give us a box and they would not sell us a box. The biggest issue was the rudeness about it. They should post these changes. It all worked out ok it's just Carnival could make some money and it is more convenient to carry it off in a box with a handle, so BEWARE take a backpack or something to put it in to carry off the ship, however the bright side is you can drink without paying for it by mixing your own, see I made lemonade from lemons, haha. They will box up what you buy on the ship but the selection is very limited.

 

Also the disco never opened until 11:00 which left a lot of time with nothing to do if you didn't want to go to the shows. The lounge near the kareoke was great but never had waiters in there. we had to get our own drinks but they still charge the gratuity.

 

After we got back from our last stop in Panama I laid my sign and sail card and drivers license on the vanity and it disappeared from our cabin. Thank goodness I had my passport. This is another lesson learned don't be so trusting, put your id and sign and sail in the safe when not using it.

 

All this was not life threatening or awful just aggravating little testy things. I would go again, maybe not this itinerary, the shore excursions were so far away all your time was spent traveling.

 

I'm really not a complainer just some things people going should be aware of like the missing articles and the boxes for booze and the clubs opening so late.

 

Everyone have fun. Don't expect so much and you'll accept the flaws better. HAPPY VACATIONS

[Princessbride3]

We will be sailing liberty at the end of the month. I am excited to be on her..

[PittsburghGirlee]

Was the room nice? Did it have a couch or a chair? We have this room in 6 months:D

 

Jeff,

The room does have a couch. The only chair was under the vanity, short bar stool type. The fridge did not work at all in the room. We mentioned this a few times, but it was no big deal since they kept our ice buckets full. You will feel vibration in this room for sure. I personally liked it though. Put me right to sleep.

The view is awesome. :D

Enjoy!!

[PittsburghGirlee]

Hello Pittsburghgirlee

 

We were on the Liberty with you on 5-10-08 We were on deck 8 in a balcony cabin as well. The ship was beautiful. It was a really good trip.

 

Most people think peoples gripes are not important and as a whole it was a great vacation, however. For people going on the Liberty in the near future you should all know this.

 

We have been cruising for 15 yrs on 7 cruises, 3 which were Carnival. When you buy liquor at a port and bring it back on board the ship someone is usually at the gangway to take it from you, box it up, label it and deliver it to you at the end of the cruise. Not only did they not do this which was ok but they would not give us a box and they would not sell us a box. The biggest issue was the rudeness about it. They should post these changes. It all worked out ok it's just Carnival could make some money and it is more convenient to carry it off in a box with a handle, so BEWARE take a backpack or something to put it in to carry off the ship, however the bright side is you can drink without paying for it by mixing your own, see I made lemonade from lemons, haha. They will box up what you buy on the ship but the selection is very limited.

 

Also the disco never opened until 11:00 which left a lot of time with nothing to do if you didn't want to go to the shows. The lounge near the kareoke was great but never had waiters in there. we had to get our own drinks but they still charge the gratuity.

 

After we got back from our last stop in Panama I laid my sign and sail card and drivers license on the vanity and it disappeared from our cabin. Thank goodness I had my passport. This is another lesson learned don't be so trusting, put your id and sign and sail in the safe when not using it.

 

All this was not life threatening or awful just aggravating little testy things. I would go again, maybe not this itinerary, the shore excursions were so far away all your time was spent traveling.

 

I'm really not a complainer just some things people going should be aware of like the missing articles and the boxes for booze and the clubs opening so late.

 

Everyone have fun. Don't expect so much and you'll accept the flaws better. HAPPY VACATIONS

 

The only thing I can tell you for sure is we bought all kinds of booze in Panama right there at the state store as soon as you get to the end of the docks. We brought it right on board with us. They were not in any types of boxes only the bags. We did see empty boxes at the end of the register, but opted for the shopping bags.

 

We literally had over 10 bottles (there were 6 of us) of all different kinds on booze. It was not hidden nor was it cofiscated at all. I was totally shocked:eek:

 

Very Happy though as we did not have to spend another dime on mixed drinks. Made up for it in Bud Lights though. Dang buckets getcha every time.

Sorry to hear about your things dissappearing. I had all of my stuff in the safe. It was not locked, but in there and no one bothered anything. I never even thought twice about it.

I was just so damn happy to be on vacation, I tried not to think about anything and just went with the flow.:D :D

[Luanne21]

Great review. Thanks for sharing

[baseball16]

Hey Pittsburghgirlee

 

I did not mean at the stores. The cruise ship people have always taken your liquor when you re board and box it up and put it in your cabin the last night of the cruise. In Cozumel they took it but the other ports they did not. I did not care that they did not take it, but they should have provided or SOLD the boxes to carry it off the ship later. It is much easier with those boxes with handles. We did not know they don't do that anymore or we would have brought something to carry it off in. I'm just trying to tell people they may and may not take it and box it for you anymore so take along something to carry it off in when you get home.

[Cruz4us]

Jeff,

 

The room does have a couch. The only chair was under the vanity, short bar stool type. The fridge did not work at all in the room. We mentioned this a few times, but it was no big deal since they kept our ice buckets full. You will feel vibration in this room for sure. I personally liked it though. Put me right to sleep.

 

The view is awesome. :D

 

Enjoy!!

 

Any pics of the room I would love to see them? We had the aft cabins for our last two cruises and you're right the view is priceless:D

[Guest Mary49]

Great review. Did you get to see Music Boardwalk, the lounge band??? They are great. I've seen them 3 different cruises. Thanks Mary49