Mairi, thanks for your comments, An

Many thanks for your replies. Ann, to answer your question,one of the reasons athat I enjoy MSC is because there is such a mix of other European nationalities. When I go overseas, i want to feel like I am. I've never enjoyed resorts overseas where they cater for the british and I'm surrounded by English speaking people. I speak several european languages, some well and some the basics, so i get the opportunity to brush up on my language skills even by just listening to the multi lingual announcements. I also like the fact that they always have classical musicians aboard, Some of them are very talented and i really enjoy not just the shows in which they take part but also that they will often be playing for an hour or so in some of the lounges. I also find their ships to be absolutely spotless and like the decor and general ambience. I suppose it really is the whole experience but the things that I've listed, are some of the things that I think contribute to that. Mair

Hi Johnstone, as I stated in my previous reply, in OUR opinion the 2 ships cannot be compared, the clientele on the MSC are of a different class to those on Costa (and that's without being a snob). The food is not aimed at the Italian clients at all,but varied, also we never found any of them at all rude or pushy, I beleive it all depends on how one presents themselves. Regard

You may like to read my review of costa Serena on this site....we have also been on Costa Classica and would not cruise with Costa again! they are now almost wholly owned by Carnival (80 per cent I think) but we were very disappointed so like Mr/Mrs robinson say you may like to stick to MSC!!

Mr/Mrs Johnstone, Yes you're right, many people dismiss MSC & Costa, but I would like to know why you enjoy the experience. Nearly all reviews state the Italians are rude and pushy, entertainment second class and considering they are Italian ships the food is classed as quite bland. I would be interested to hear your opinion. Regards Ann

My advice would be stick to MSC, we have done both and others, MSC are a different class altogether from Costa