I just returned from a 12 day cruise on the Celebrity Century (August 2 to 14), and all I can say is WOW! This was my first long cruise and I was afraid I would get bored. Not so.

First, I have to say that the staff and crew were very friendly, accommodating and helpful. We got to know each other on a first name basis, and I became teary eyed saying good bye at the end of the cruise.

Second, the food in the Grand Restaurant was impressive. There was always a variety to choose from each night – pasta, fowl, seafood, game and steaks, with 2 to 4 choices each of appetizers, soups, salads and desserts. There was also a standard menu if one wasn’t in the mood for fancy. We had three formal nights and four informal nights at which most passengers conformed with the requested formal wear. Whether the men were dressed in tuxedos, suits, or dinner jackets, or the women dressed up in formal gowns, cultural formal attire, cocktail dresses, regular dresses, pantsuits or business attire, the passengers looked beautiful.

The Murano Restaurant, which charged $30 per person, was a superb treat, -- certainly more than worth the price based upon my own personal experience and from some of the comments I heard from other passengers -- with the chef paying special attention to detail and flavor, and the waiters catering to almost your every culinary desire.

The Spa Café afforded fresh and healthy meals. The Islands Café provided standard meals with a variety of choices.

Third, the entertainment was stellar. We were treated with professional musicians, singers and a comedian which awed and humored the audience.

Fourth, the lounges were impressive. I loved the Hemisphere Lounge, located at the top front of the ship. There was nothing better than sitting in the lounge, listening to soft music while staring out at the panoramic windows as we sailed to the different ports, and at other times, enjoying the DJ on the dance floor. The Martini bar was relaxing in its all white décor, relaxing with friends and family.

Fifth, the Casino was fun though smoky. For those of you who like Texas Hold’em, there were tournaments on sea days and a game going on at night.

Sixth, the pool area was fun. We had phenomenal weather which afforded time to tan, swim in the pool, or soak in one of the four Jacuzzis.

Seventh, the tours were well coordinated with knowledgeable guides. I can’t speak to the tours in St Petersburg, having retained for my group a private tour guide from Anastasia World who was truly outstanding, and made the visit to St. Petersburg the most outstanding visit of the whole cruise. On days that my group explored on its own, the shuttles to the city center were also convenient and comfortable.

Overall, it was a wonderful vacation which I wished did not end.