PRE-CRUISE:
We flew to Ft. Lauderdale few days before our cruise, which was scheduled to leave from Miami Port for Great Stirrup Cay, Ocho Rios, Grand Cayman, and Cozumel. We rented a car from the Sunshine Car Rental and couldn't be happier with their service! Their shuttle van picked us up from the airport and took us to their office for easy processing. The car we got was a brand new Corolla, and after getting the direction to our hotel, we were on our way!
I booked our 3-night stay at Days Inn Hollywood. Not only was the hotel very affordable, but it also was conveniently located with plenty of amenities (i.e. free parking and the continental breakfast that include hot food). I didn't think there was anything to do in Ft Lauderdale, but I was wrong! We visited Everglades one day (45 min drive) and Anne Kolb Nature Center on another (10 min drive). We also visited South Beach in Miami (25 min drive) and found the beach to be as beautiful as what people & media say. Ft. Lauderdale has plenty of good places to eat as well. One day it rained all afternoon, so we spent the time eating garlicky crabs at the Rustic Inn, which was located one exit away from the hotel. It was very messy but a lot of fun! You can get many coupons from the hotel lobby. It's worthwhile to go through all the brochures to find the best-valued coupons, as not every one has the same discount.