I still am having a hard time believing our cruise is over! Our week on the high seas sped by.
I want to thank our friend Carole at CruiseOne for helping us plan this terrific adventure and for being so patient and helpful. I strongly recommend using a cruise consultant or travel advisor to assist you in your travel plans.
As you may remember, our first stop was San Juan, Puerto Rico.
We were greeted by strong winds and rain when we touched down but we did not let that dampen our spirits. After collecting our bags, we secured a taxi ($20) and were at the Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino within minutes.
Upon check-in, we were treated to champagne – a nice start to our week. The rooms at the Marriott were clean and comfortable; as one would expect from Marriott. 
After changing into our swimsuits, we ate lunch at the La Vista Latin Grill and Bar. I do not give the hotel eatery high marks. The service was slow, the menu limited, and the food just acceptable. In addition, two very un-ruley children ran around screaming the entire time we were there. None-the-less, we all ate and were satisfied.
Although the rain continued in fits and spurts, we ventured out to the pool where the eight year old played enthusiastically while the adults enjoyed the hot tub. Later in the afternoon, we walked out to the beach. Due to the rough surf, the hotel was flying a red-flag and swimming was restricted. We did wade into the surf up to our knees and take some wonderful photos.
The rain abated in the early evening and we were able to wonder 
down the road to a fantastic Mexican restaurant called Tijuanas Bar and Grill. The food was delicious! If you find yourself in the Condado Beach area, I highly recommend Tijuanas.
We awoke to sunny skies the next morning and took a long, leisurely walk down Ashford Avenue toward the cruise terminal. On the way back, we purchased our quota of water, soda and wine to carry on the Victory.
A quick taxi ride later, we were swiftly processed through check-in and waiting to board the Victory. At 1:00 p.m. – ahead of the published schedule, we boarded the ship and headed to our first buffet lunch.
We had planned to disembark after checking in and explore Old Town San Juan, however, we opted to stay aboard, enjoy the pool, slide, and the hot tub and to explore our floating resort.
Our pre-cruise stop in San Juan was terrific and we were all ready to start our Caribbean adventure.
Next week, come back for a critique of the Carnival Victory!
Lusty not Musty 
I haven’t been on a cruise in quite a while and am amazed at all of the restrictions on water, wine, etc. I had no idea that a ship would hold what you buy until you get off the ship.