I'm booked for a Freedom cruise in the Fall next year. This will be my 3rd Carnival cruise and I'm wondering if I should spend the extra $ and upgrade from my usual ocean view to a balcony? Is it really worth the extra $ for the upgrade just to be able to eat breakfast on the balcony in your pj's? The difference is about $280 - not much but I could spend it on some spa treatments...never had those either. I guess part of my question would be balcony or spa treatments? I'm cruising with my teenaged son. Thanks.

Hi!! When i first started cruising in my teens, i did have an oceanview and in MY opinion, there is no question on the differance...The Balcony is the way to go!! There are other times of the day you will use that area besides breakfast..like taking a break from your traveling companion, watching the sunrise/sunsets from your own private area is definately one of life's most peaceful, soul enhancing experiences.  You will find you feel a little more connected to the other passengers who witness the same beautiful scenery out there.  That Spa $$$, you can always do the port day discount if you feel you really need it, and that way you can have the best of both worlds...your balcony AND the Spa!!  I AM SOLD ON THE BALCONY, AND WOULD CHANGE MY VACATION DATES FOR ONE!!! I hope i helped ya out!!..I'll be on mine on the Freedom on 2/22/09!!!! WHOO HOOO!!!!!!!!! Happy Cruising and Happy Planning!!!!!!!!

Thanks for the response! Are there any perks that come with balcony rooms or do I have to wait until I can afford the suites to get any extra benefits?

No extra perks with a balcony, except for a fridge. All the suites get is priority embarkment and disembarkment.

The suites are much larger usually with a larger balcony too and the bathrooms are much nicer with an actual bathtub which is also a jacuzzi, plus the vip check-in and debarkation.  I have had inside rooms, ov rooms, balcony rooms and a suite and I would probably never get a room without a balcony again.  It really does make the whole cruise experience more enjoyable.  You wouldn't really think so until you actually have one.  It's extra space....your own personal space.  I believe, at least for me and my family, it is worth it.  The spa stuff is nice but way overpriced!  I agree...go for the in port specials or get the spa stuff at home before you leave and save the money you can put towards getting a balcony.  Suites are wonderful if you want something really special but a balcony room would be great if you've never had one!

Happy cruisin!

Life IS good!

Freedom...July 4th "09......

I've often wondered...do they do anything special for 4th of July on a cruise? I would assume not but does anyone know who has sailed at 4th of July?  You're lucky...you don't have long to wait.  I have to wait til Jan '10 to be on the Freedom!