|  |     Al, my husband and I have been to both the Caribean (SS Norway -
    April/May timeframe) and Mexico (Carnival's Tropicale - October
    timeframe).  My vote for a September trip would definitely be Mexico,
    i.e. Carnival.
    
    The reasons being: weather in September is much better and more
    predictable (hurricanes being more numerous and frequent during
    the last half of the year in the Carribean).
    
    As far as the ships are concerned; the Norway is luxurious, very
    large and elegant.  Dining is excellent, shows numerous and very
    high quality (Rita Moreno was top name entertainer while we cruised).
    One drawback was the time needed to tender into port.  Ship is no
    large it cannot be accomodated by many small ports.  The great stirrup
    cay outing is not to be missed.  The Tropicale was very new when
    we cruised her.  It is smaller than the Norway and the average age
    of passengers is lower than for the Norway.  More "young"
    entertainments, games, etc.  Food was not quite as fancy as the
    Norway, but if this is your first cruise, you would never know the
    difference.
    
    As to ports; We loved the Carribean the best.  The water is not
    to be believed.  Clear and full of fish just meandering around yor
    legs.  Duty free shopping is a great draw for most people.  Mexico
    was fun because my cousin who went with us, spoke spanish and we
    were able to learn a great deal about the country and the people.
     Parasailing on the beach at Puerta Vallarta is not to be missed.
     We were befriended by a young (6-7 year old) mexican boy who gave
    us a great tour and watched over our belongings while we were
    parasailing.  
    
    If you have any questions, please fee free to contact me at:
    
    Carol Greathouse @OAW
    
    Happy Sailing!!!
    
    
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|  |     Well I am too going on the same curise you are or plan to the one
    that ports out of LA. to Mexico and such, from what I have known
    and I TRAVEL EVERY 6 MOS. Carnival Cruise lines is the best it is
    also know for the wide variety of things to do and the crowds of
    people range from youger singles to people on honeymoons, my parents
    went on Carnival and they were the life of the party they still
    haven't stopped talking about it.
    
    One suggestion book early and at a lower fare, and you can get bumped
    up to a better cabin, due to people booking at the last minute.
    and ask for a cabin away form the enigine and always bring some
    dramamine you never know!
    
    The food is spectacular and will want to bring your camera and film
    alone for all the feats they have!! Remember too one burns faster
    out on the ocean.
    
    
    Let me know how you make out
    
    julie-lynn
      
    
    
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