I have to say that this was by far the best vacation that my family has ever had.
We arrived in Miami the night before the cruise and stayed at the Holiday Inn, Bayside. This was a very convenient, and reasonably priced hotel. It was very clean and convenient to the Bayside Marketplace. We spent the evening at Bayside, enjoying the food and music. Oh, and the transportation from the airport by Florida Limo was very easy and I feel that the cost was very reasonable for the sedan. I believe it was $64 and took you straight to the hotel. The man would not even allow us to help with the bags.
EMBARKATION We arrived at the ship at about 11 am. We were one of the first 30 or so people in line. Within a few minutes we were boarding the ship and it was very easy, especially since we checked in online. We met many of our Meet and Mingle group while waiting to board the ship as well. It was so nice to know some friends on the cruise, and believe me, everyone was so kind and it really did seem like i have met them before. I would encourage anyone who hasn't joined a group for their cruise to do so. It makes a great cruise, unbelievable. I was truly blessed by everyone.