Where oh where are you going to eat on your cruise ship? And we don't mean the restaurant that serves American dishes, or the one with Italian menus. The location and availability of food, not to mention the times they are accessible, can figure largely in how much a couple or family enjoy their vacation.

If you have booked a stateroom or suite with a private balcony, there is nothing nicer than to watch the sun rise while you sit outside to eat breakfast. Granted, you might not want to do that every day of the trip, but it is a treat you should experience at least once. Room service is available on virtually any cruise ship, although there may be extra charges incurred. Most offer complimentary service, and this can be a great boon for tired feet after a day-long shore excursion. It can also mean a romantic dinner for two in your room, or on the patio under the stars. Otherwise, breakfast is available in the main dining rooms, and often via the on-deck cafes, if all you care for is a light meal of coffee and a croissant.

Lunch offers a long list of possibilities from burgers on a grill by the pool, to take-out pizzerias, to restaurants that function as buffets and serving stations, nearly round the clock. These are the most casual dining venues, and frequently the choice of families because of the range in their menus, and the relaxed atmosphere.

Perhaps you had breakfast but skipped lunch and come back to the ship with a bad case of the munchies and a late dinner sitting. In that case, seek out one of the many bistros, cafes, and snack bars for a salad, sandwich, or maybe just a pastry and coffee while you catch up on the latest news from home via television or newspapers.

Dinner of course, is the featured meal of the day, and your choices will cover everything from buffets on deck to formal dinners in the main dining rooms, to specialty gourmet meals in an elegant restaurant. But again, if you're not in the mood to socialize, or you're tired, room service is just a phone call away.

And don't forget the all-night eateries. Many cruise ships feature at least a couple of strategically placed snack bars where a late night bite will put you in the right mood for a good sleep, so you'll be rested for the next day's adventures.