Our first time with Costa

We are just looking for a little information on the cruise line as this is our first trip on a Costa ship. Just little things like, will I be able to bring my diet Mt. Dew on board, how is the food, will the kids have enough things to do to keep them happy and any help we can get on a do-it-yourself Cozumel stop. Any help will be appreciated. Also, any Tennessee Volunteers going on the 4-3-05 cruise on the Mediterranea?

We went to the local Walgreens and purchased a 12-pack of Coke and a 12-pack of water. You can bring it on the ship as long as it is in a bag. You will never have to see the kids (other than for bed). They have activities for them planned all day, well into the night. The food is about 75% Italian (they do serve American food, though). We learned that it is cheaper to book tours, transportation and the works once you get to the different ports. The same company that Costa will charge 65.00 to take the tour, will have reps at the port that charge 15.00 (you are paying a 50.00 markup going through Costa). We took a taxi to the downtown area. You will have fun.

Thank you for all of yur helpful information. It is very much appreciated.