A little about ourselves - We were a group of 8 ranging from first time cruiser to 31 cruises, ages 45 to 64. This was DH and my 6th Princess cruise, and everyone else was new to Princess.

We went to Ft.Lauderdale on Saturday, the day before our cruise, and stayed at the Best Western, Oakland Park. My husband and I stayed here about 4 years ago, just as they were starting renovations. We were pleased to see that the rooms were a lot nicer now, with upgraded bedding. The location of this hotel works for us. It is close to a small mall, and a grocery store, for getting those liquids we chose not to fly with any more, but not in an expensive neighborhood. The grocery store also has a liquor store attached, so you can get everything you may want.

There are also several places to eat next to the hotel. The deli serves good food, as well as the Steeler's bar, (I think the name is The Drunken Sailor, but not positive,) that has very good sea food, and other surprisingly good choices, and a pizza place, in the plaza next to the hotel. Read more