Thanks so much for the responses so far, they are very helpful.

We were thinking Carribean primarily.

Balcony sure sounds appealing and we may spring for it if the price is not way more.

As a frequent Priceline user we do really want to find a BARGAIN--this is one of the main criteria, probably the primary one. I have heard good things about Carnival but I don't know for sure. I looked at the Disney Cruise line a few years ago and we would just not pay the price they were asking.

I think the ship is more important than the rest...Need to have lots of activities, swimming pools, stuff for kids, better than decent food, quiet at night so we can sleep easy, and Internet access -->this is very important, need to at least know what's going on with work....I know I know we are on vacation, can't help it:-)

From East Coast: any good ones leaving from New York City?? We have relatives there and visit often.

Read an article about the biggest cruise ship ever some months ago....The Mary something...it sounded and looked very cool.