My mother, my husband and I booked an Owner’s Suite (9001) for a four-day cruise to the Bahamas aboard the NCL Sky in early February as a mid-winter “thaw” break from the frigid temps at home. Because the cruise would be a short one, we were able to book a top-rated room for about the same price we pay for seven days on a larger ship and we had ample time to arrive early and return late, still within our one-week vacation from work.

We flew to MIA Saturday morning aboard American Airlines. American accorded us Pre-Flight Screening status and we checked our bags (which we never do) just to add to the relaxation factor and negate the need to be among the first to board the flight in order to find overhead space. We had sufficient time to have brunch at Tigin Irish Pub in DFW Terminal D where the food was tasty, not any more overpriced than other airport fare and, again, it added to the early relaxation factor.

The flight to Miami was packed with frozen bodies trying to escape the cold. Nonetheless, our three seats were adjoining (we had booked many months in advance) and all was well. We arrived on time and were greeted by a blast of heat as we stepped onto the jetbridge. YAY! Warmth! Read more