I've been wanting to cruise the Freedom of the Seas ever since I saw her pull into NY Harbor in 2006.

Decided I was in no mood to fly so I took the Amtrak Silver Star down to Orlando. Reserved a sleeper car which included all meals and use of a shower and Acela lounge in NY Penn Station. Full meals, with dessert were prepared in the dining car. Slow, but I didn't have to worry about airport security, baggage restrictions and I had my own room. My stateroom attendant & the dining room staff about the Star took great care of me.

Once I arrived in Orlando, I picked up a van & stayed at the Double-tree Sea world. Nice & location & because I'm a Hilton Honors member they threw in a free breakfast. I arranged for a pick from Orlando/Double-tree to port via Orlando Airport Town Car! Great service, good price and once I returned on the Freedom a week later they were there to take me back down to the Amtrak station in Orlando for my return trip. Read more