Before I start here is a little information regarding the group we were traveling with. It was my husband, 3 daughters, aunt, uncle, cousin, best friend, (daughters) boyfriend, and I. We ranged in ages from 13 to 66. Ten of us in all.
We arrived in Miami, FL one day prior to sailing. Just incase the weather here in New England wanted to rear its ugly head. We stayed at the Holiday Inn at the Port of Miami. This is a very nice and clean hotel. We did eat in the hotels restaurant and the food was good and the prices were fine.
Waking up in the morning we opened our drapes to the beautiful sight of the Carnival Valor, Carnival Victory and I believe it was the Freedom of the Seas. What a site to behold. Our kids were ecstatic. Up, showered, re-packed, ate and at the curb for our pre arranged ride to the port.