This was our first Carnival cruise (Miracle) and the first from NYC. We usually cruise from Boston or Florida on NCL ships.
We did not like this Carnival ship because the staff were difficult to understand when they spoke, music in the shows was much too loud, and the corridors were not straight. Yes, ships have an international crew, but NCL makes sure all have excellent use of English and speak clearly. Their corridors are not zig-zagging. I feel sorry for passengers who are in wheel-chairs and have to navigate all of the corners.
Also, the dining room was open for only dinner and brunch (same menu everyday!) - breakfast and lunch were buffets with very calorie- and cholesterol-laden dishes. Carnival did not offer many lactose-free foods - a must for those of us who are lactose-intolerant. We know that we must forego the many gorgeous desserts, but offering something besides fruit would be nice. Rice or soy-based frozen desserts and Sorbets (not sherbet) are a good alternative to ice cream.