KARTI1955

Great gift, there is nothing better than some onboard credit!:) Cagney's is great, if you get a chance try it. What is funny is that even with the 18% gratuity added, Cagney's is the same price as Carnival's steakhouse and they don't add the gratuity.

Carnival does include the gratuity.

Ok, enough Detroit jokes. We only had 2 shootings on the block this week :D

Seriously though, common sense and awareness are the key. As in any area that you are new to, stick to the main areas and don't wander off the beaten path alone. Do your research and use your street smarts. You will have a great time in either place!

You can also break down bills at the self service kiosks.

It's not like boarding a plane...you may "carry on" all the liquids you like...as song as they aren't alcohol.....that's the only real restriction.

Not quite. Depends on which cruise line.

How warm do you want/need this parka to be? That is an important factor here in a type of jacket/parka for you.

Doesn't have to be too heavy. Just something that isn't going to be too bulky to put in my suitcase pocket. I probably won't use it too much other than for travel.

Very low maintenance - good for you...my makeup bag and stuff probably adds about 5-6 lbs to my suitcase - and lots of toiletries, sunscreen, sun burn stuff, the 'meds' just in case....and yes I typically reach the 50 lb airline limit (or in fact go over it and have to 'redistribute').

 

this time I am using my new 'packing cubes' and hoping that will cut down on some of the stuff and space as well :)

Exactly!! It's not about being high or low maintenance. It's about organization. I hate having my cosmetics jumbled up in a bag. The space in the cabin is limited enough so just trying to find ways to keep things neat. Not high maintenance by any means :eek: I am, however, a tad OCD :rolleyes:

Any suggestions for a packable parka to take me from the north to the south? I am looking for one that has a little bag or pouch to stuff it in to once I get to Florida. I saw an Athleta jacket that looks very nice. Any feedback?

TIA!

How long after booking a premier with casino cash did you all receive the info in the mail? We travel in a group of 3 and usually share a cabin but one received a free cabin/no cash and I received discounted cabin with $700 cash so was 'cheaper overall' to book a 2 person and a solo. There's nothing in my solo reservation to indicate this is a premier booking or the amount of cash to be had. Needless to say a little nervous that i'll get on board and they'll be "huh, cash? don't know what you're talking about" lol

I have never received any kind of confirmation in the mail after booking a Premier. I get the invite in the mail or find in under VIFP offers on the website and then book through my PVP. I always worry about the cash too lol. I take my invite that came in the mail with me just in case. Or you can email the casino department and verify with them.

Have fun!!

Thanks for all of the great ideas! I have been trying to find sample sizes of the products that I use the most. Got lucky at Ulta, they had a give away with IT cosmetics (which I love) that had a lot of samples - even mascara. I may have the makeup under control finally. I found a hard sided pencil box - of all things - that holds all of the makeup and brushes. Now I just have to figure out the body lotion. :confused:

Yes, print out your confirmation email for sure and bring it with you just in case. Whenever I have received or purchased Cruise Cash, there was always a little card in the cabin upon arrival showing the amount etc.

I noticed that the coffee from the Lido the past few times has been much better than in the past and I am another all day coffee hound. Still prefer the coffee bar. Wish they would do a package for that like they do for soda and cocktails.

Well it would be necessary if you have lost weight like I have and nothing that you have fits you properly :)

Congrats!!! Shop til you drop :D I love buying new stuff for a cruise. Part of the fun. I have found some great items through Chadwicks. Conservative but cute sun dresses.

Yes, the Courtyard Marriott Beach - not to be confused with the Towers. Although the Towers are nice too.

This is a fantastic spot right across from the beach. Walking distance to bars, food, a CVS and a bunch more.

Thanks to everyone for the info about the Hilton. I think of the day in early thing as part of the vacation and want to make sure I have the right location.

Don't forget the rates expire on a certain date. The current promotion requires booking by Oct 15th (i think). If you booked an earlier promotion it may be expired. I wouldn't cancel unless you know for sure that your rate is still valid.

Have sailed both but haven't done NCL in years. Carnival pretty much won me over with perks and itineraries. Not much difference to me in cabins, food etc. I did sail the Sunshine and it really is a nice ship. Liked the Breeze a bit more but would do the Sunshine again in a heartbeat.

There is a private beach house excursion in Cozumel (La Playa something) that is absolutely fabulous. If you want a day to just lay on the beach, eat, drink and be waited on hand & foot, this is the one. I think the maximum people allowed is around 30 so no crowds.

E Bags was having a sale on them the other day, not sure if it is still going on. They also have the at TJ's, Marshalls, etc. Target has some but they are really more expensive there.

The beauty is that there are no gaps in my luggage. The cubes afford enough space in between to add shoes, coffee cup, etc, etc. The ease of unpacking is what makes them so great. Drawer space in the cabin can be tight so being able to have everyone's stuff in it's own little space is wonderful. I would suggest getting different colors for each person in the cabin to keep thing even more organized.

Thanks! That sounds like the one I'm looking at. IT Luggage has a few different kinds. This one comes in several colors: black, grey, pink, blue. I'd love to get something other then black, but our ds will be using it too, so pink wouldn't do. Plus, black won't show the dirt. I'll just have to dress it up to recognize it.

You will love it. I was lucky enough to snag a bright red one at TJ MAXX. Can't miss it at the airport. :D

Did everyone in party complete on line check in? We had that issue also until all on line check in information was entered by everyone one the reservation.

ps. I would not risk trying to board without a boarding pass.

St. Bart's Coffee Company offers a full breakfast, smoothies, sandwiches, etc.

 

They are located on A1A, directly across the street from the beach, south of Las Olas Blvd, just around the corner from the Courtyard Marriott on Fort Lauderdale Beach. Not near the Galleria.

 

http://itsbetteronthebeach.com/st-barts-coffee/

 

https://www.google.com/maps/place/St.+Bart's+Coffee+Company/@26.1168274,-80.1048503,15z/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x0:0x3187f38d4f28faa4

Oh yes!! Now I remember it. Thanks for the links.

Use them all of the time. I like that you can just place the packed cubes in a drawer or on a shelf upon arrival and keep everything neat and organized. Must have in my book.

Ok, this is what I was looking for! I wasn't sure exactly what kind of location the Hilton was. I had an ocean view at the Courtyard before and never wanted to leave!! I will keep that reservation. Thanks for answering!!

I am going back and forth between the two hotels. Which location would you all suggest. Flying in and cabbing to whichever one I decide upon. Which location is the best area for a little shopping and dining? I have stayed at the Courtyard before and loved it and the location is great but how is the location and area at the Hilton?

TIA

I'm trying to decide between the 31" or 26". I understand that the wheels are included in the measurements and the bag isn't expandable. I'd go with the 31 inch if it's within the airlines limits.

Mine in 28" including the wheels. 17" wide so I guess that would technically make it a 26". It does not expand but is about 9" deep with two front pockets. It really holds a ton, especially when using the cubes.

Have an amazing time!