Amazing Getaway

We booked a cruise on the Reflection because we wanted a quiet week away and with just over 3000 guest capacity, it was much more palatable than the larger ships that are carrying over 6000.  We honestly didn't want to travel with a huge mall, ice rink, rock climbing wall or wave generator, which would be great if thats what you're looking for to keep occupied, but wasn't what we wanted.

From the moment we stepped onboard, it was an amazing voyage.  We were able to get onboard early and went directly up to "The Porch" to sit and relax before casting off.  This restaurant is on Deck 15, with an amazing view of the port and situated next to the extensive grass area.  Great lunch, as expected.  It didn't take long to get our luggage and start getting things put away.  We booked an AquaClass suite, and it was amazing.  Lots of room in the cabin with a beautiful verandah that we relaxed on for a while the first day.  

While exploring the ship, we were constantly amazed at the amount of artwork that adorns the hallways, staircases, elevator areas, restaurants... everywhere you turn there are photographs, sculptures and original paintings.  The main area of the ship is stunning with its glass elevators and live tree sitting center stage!  

We dined in Blu a number of times and we were never disappointed, looking forward to the next meal every time.  We also dined in a number of specialty restaraunts, and if you get to the Tuscan Grille, DO NOT pass up the Creme Brulee, topped with PopRock candy.. simply amazing.  One of the reasons we continue to cruise on Celebrity is the food, it is simply the best anywhere.  The attention to detail, consistancy of quality and service are second to none.  

One night while at sea, we decided to go up to the Sky Lounge, which has an amazing view from the front of the ship, for a drink and relax, we figured that with the number of people on the ship and it was Spring Break weekend that it would be a little crowded.  Imagine our surprise when we were the only ones there, other than the bartender.  We even asked if the bar was closed and the bartender replied, "No, it's pretty quiet in here usually unless we're having karaoke, since there are so many other places on the ship to hang out."  Wow, they wern't kidding.  On a ship of 3000 people, there were only 3 of us in this place and couldn't believe it!  We found the quiet and solitude we were looking for.  

As we booked in an AquaClass suite, we were able to use the Persian Garden Spa as frequently as we wanted, which was beautiful and relaxing with the heated tile chairs, infrared sauna, hammam sauna and cold room.  The only downfall was the set up for access to the Persian Gardens.  We had to wait in line for 15 minutes at the reception desk to exchange our cabin key card for an access key to the Gardens while others were trying to decide on spa appointments, nail color, salon times and other things.  One of the benefits (supposedly) to the AquaClass was the unlimited use of the Persian Gardens, but after having to wait for the exchange and then the exchange for our cabin key, we probably won't be booking this class again. We had the opportunity to speak with Jamie (hotel manager) and spoke to him about the delay and he assured that this would be addressed.  We also did receive a call from the Spa Manager to try it again as they had set up a line specifically for the key exchange, but we honestly were too busy explorting the ship and enjoying the cabin and verandah that we didn't feel the need to go back.  

Overall, the ship, crew, restaurants and general experience was amazing, as always on the Celebrity line, which is why I gave this review 5 stars. We can't wait to cruise again on the Reflection, but have opted for a different suite class and have already booked our next one in 2015.