http://www.viewpoints.com/aboutme/chefjoe Mon, 25 Feb 2008 18:49:19 GMT Reviews by chefjoe http://www.viewpoints.com/Royal-Caribbean-Jewel-of-the-Seas-review-daf30 <p>Well this is the first time that we've traveled on the Jewel, and wow!!  What a great time we had!  Service was excellent!  Ship was gorgeous!  Accessibility was top-notch!</p><p> Since my girlfriend is wheelchair bound, we always rate our cruises with accessibility in mind.  We tend to cruise on newer ships because we know they will be more accomodating.  The Jewel fit the bill perfectly!   Our room was large and truely accessible!   The door to our room even opened automatically!  You can get everywhere on this ship in a wheelchair....there are no limits!   </p><p> The food was excellent, with service to match!   Dining room was great, and our dining experience at Portofino's was relaxing and unmatched!  We never had a bad meal.....even our room service food was good!  Nothing like eggs and bacon on the balcony early in the morning!</p><p> For those that are handicapped, we strongly recommend Royal Caribbean!  They have done it right when making their cruise ships accessible!   Tendering...</p>... Mon, 25 Feb 2008 18:49:19 GMT http://www.viewpoints.com/Royal-Caribbean-Jewel-of-the-Seas-review-daf30 chefjoe 5 http://www.viewpoints.com/Carnival-Cruise-Lines-Liberty-review-97064 <p>The new Carnival Liberty is a beautiful ship!   Unfortunately, the beauty and design does not match the service, food quality, and accessibility.    If it weren't for our stateroom attendant, the word "service" would not exist on this ship.  Food quality was poor....especially for the acclaimed Master Chef Georges Blanc menu!   I would have to say this was a "money" ship.   They get you on cheap, stuff you in smaller rooms, and then make you spend alot more later....you should see our bill!   Yes, this cruise was cheaper than other cruise lines....but you do get what you pay for.   Spend the extra $200 and try Royal Caribbean....much better line!!!</p><p> Our biggest concern on the Liberty was the handicapped accessibility issue. For those in a wheelchair, we feel your pain!  Carnival is way behind on accessibility!!   This ship is barely 2 years old, but you feel like you're on a ship built in the 80's.   Rooms are smaller, hallways tighter, and if you have a balcony.....forget...</p>... Mon, 25 Feb 2008 18:00:54 GMT http://www.viewpoints.com/Carnival-Cruise-Lines-Liberty-review-97064 chefjoe 2