We are Jess , DH Paul and DS Nick. We left Berlin, CT to head for JFK airport at 3:30 am on Saturday August 2nd for our 8:00 am flight to Tampa.

Tampa - we landed on time in Tampa, picked up our bags and had no trouble getting a taxi ($25) to the Embassy suites Downtown where we had secured a government rate 1 BR suite for $99. The hotel and our room were beautiful, clean and spacious. After checking in, we walked to the Publix for wine, soda, , waters and snacks. Do not believe them when they say that the Publix is "next door!" It was at least a few blocks! We got a cab to take us to the liquor store for rum to put in our rumrunner flasks and then back to the hotel. Back at the hotel, we had lunch at the restaurant on the premises (ok food, very expensive, but hey its vacation! ß-an often repeated mantra throughout the trip LOL) After lunch we really enjoyed the pool and deck. That night we took the very easily accessible trolley to Channelside for dinner. We ate at Margarita Momma's where they advertise "Great view, good food, lousy service" They were right! We turned in early.

Sunday, August 3rd cruise day! At about 9, we sought out the included hot breakfast buffet. What a madhouse! The food was very tasty, but nearly inaccessible after we had finished. My advice? GO EARLY! At 10:30 we checked out and got a cab to the port. We paid about $12 plus tip for 3 people and 8 bags (yes, 8) You can wait for the shuttle which is $3 per person but you do have to wait for the van to be available. We mad it to port very quickly and there she was! Our home away from home. Regardless of how many cruises you have been on, IMO, the sheer size of the vessel can still take your breath away! Read more