BACKGROUND
This cruise was my first with MSC. I selected it for one reason, the Big Band Theme, even though previous Cruise Critic Member Reviews and message board posts have varied widely, from "best cruise ever" to "never again".
Pricing was attractive, under $200 per day, including single supplement, taxes, fuel surcharge, and insurance, for an outside cabin. At these prices I certainly did not expect a Crystal, Cunard, or even Holland America. I also neither expected nor wanted "Italian American" dining (a la Olive Garden, Uno or Pizza Hut), but I did expect genuine Italian cuisine, with which I am very familiar having spent a lot of time in Italy. Unfortunately, MSC only partially met these expectations.
Pleasant, nicely decorated outside cabin with comfortable bed and adequate storage space and unobstructed view. Basic bathroom with tiny stall shower, but plenty of hot water.