Msc fantasia, great trip

Sailed 1st Nov 15, after transfer from airport, bags dropped, check in and photo!!! Drinking cocktails in 15 mins. Superb. The Allegrissimo drinks package at ?œ22pppn is a bargain, covering premium spirits, beer, wine, cocktails, coffee and ice cream. Fantasia has the wow factor in many areas, the Mdr was plush, lots of different lounges from quiet to lively. Very clean everywhere, and the ship seems well maintained. We had an outside stateroom, which by square footage was larger than a typical Rci or P&O cabin. The bathroom was typical, but modern and clean. Attendant tidied twice a day, with a turndown as well. No chocs or towel art. Lol.We found all the staff to be friendly and helpful, and LOTS of them everywhere, superb.We prebooked 2 excursions, to Pompei and Mt Etna, both very informative and interesting. We visited Malta, Palma, Barcelona and Marseilles, and did our own thing with free busses, cheap taxis and the Ho ho bus. All well wortH a visit. Dress code was varied daily, and surprisingly good on the 2 GALA nights. The standard of posh frocks, suits, dinner suits and national dress was much higher than we’d been lead to belive. The Captains cocktail party was a very smart affair, and free cocktails for all. The entertainment in the main theatre was some of the best we’ve seen at sea. Upto 17 of the ents team on stage at any time, PLUS occasional guests. The Opera night was superb. They certainly know how to entertain guests from across the globe. Lots of entertainment in the lounges, and also lots of well attended dance lessons and parties. Absolutely first class team. We had read horror stories about poor, cold food. Simply not true. Mdr was 5 courses, 2 choices of each, plus 6 other items permanently on the menu if you struggle. We didn’t, nor our British table guests. It all arrived hot, plenty of it, we’ll presented and good quality. Not slow either, just right we thought. The Buffett was huge, smart, plenty of seating and lots of staff kept it moving really well. Not usually a fan, but enjoyed it for 2 breakfasts, and the freshly cooked pizzas late at nice were superb. Overall we couldn’t fault the food at all. Provided your ok to mingle with other nationalities, and join in the fun, you will have a ball. We had fantastic weather, but had no trouble getting a sunbed, or visiting the pool and Jacuzzis. This cruise cost ?œ449 pp Inc BA flights and transfers, for a great ship, first class staff and food, superb entertainment and lovely spaces and room, we thought it was INCREDIBLE value for money. MSC exceeded our expectations in EVERY area, and we are actively looking to go with them next year. Have sailed with P&O, Rci and Azamara… boy did this stand up. We’ll done to ALL at MSC…see you soon.