Feb. 3 - Feb 10 Eastern Caribbean

Sat: 2/2: Three of us (me, my wife, and 13 year old granddaughter) took a 7:55AM flight out of PHL on USAir. Although we were at the airport in plenty of time, getting through security was crazy! Once we were cleared, were among the last to board the plane with only about 10 minutes to spare! Apparently there were bunches of early morning flights on Saturday which accounted for the packed security lines. The plane took off exactly on time and it was a very pleasant flight to FLL. After a rather short taxi ride, we arrived at our pre-cruise hotel, The Lago Mar Resort. The hotel and grounds were simply beautiful. Although we arrived very early, were allowed to check in and then proceeded to enjoy all this resort had to offer. After leaving behind 20 degree weather back in PA, Ft. Lauderdale looked and felt like a tropical paradise. The staff at Lago Mar was outstanding. Everyone was cheerful, friendly, and very helpful. They really went out of their way to make our overnight stay one to remember.

Sunday, Feb 3. After a short taxi ride from our hotel, we arrived at Port Everglades. Seeing the Allure for the first time literally blew my mind. Prior to the Allure, the largest ship we sailed on was on Liberty of the Seas, a Freedom class ship. Even from a distance, the Allure seemed at least twice as large! Read more