[Bats]

I find that being on the ship is the preferably choice for location

We have inside staterooms normally as we are not in the room that much. Money saved can then be spent on cocktails, beer, trips and shopping.
Claire is right though, if you're going for oceanview or veranda, go for Starboard side.

My personal favourite on the Dream is the category 8a though which are HUGE! Go for 5520 if you can. Do a search of them, they're awesome rooms!
Joa