Hello - Anyone have suggestions about a reasonable place to stay pre and post cruise. I'd like to avoid renting a car and plan to fly into Ft Laud airport.<BR>Thanks

Marriott Marina is a good place. Have<BR>transport to pier. Those with auto can also leave them in their parking lot (for a minimum charge) for the length of the cruise. Not the least expensive, about $89-$90 per night.

Kathy:<BR> I am staying 3 nights this week precruise at the SpringHill Suites Marriott in FLL. (Around $80 with AAA discount). Free shuttle from airport and to the cruise port. Free breakfast. Microwave, refrig. etc. in the suites. I understand there are resturants within walking distance.I have never stayed there, but I can do a posting when I return in about 3 weeks.

Kathy: We're staying this spring pre-cruise at the Amerisuites on 17th St. They have free airport and port shuttes, and a free breakfast.

Kathy,<BR>We usually stay at the Amerisuites. They have a shuttle from A/P and to cruise ships. ALso there is an Outback Steakhouse next to hotel for dinner, and a shopping plaza 1 block away incas e you forget anything. They also have a small breakfast in the morning. <BR><BR>Happy sailing, Shark<BR>

If you don't care too much about the room and amenities, try the Beach Plaza Hotel. Across from beach. Very cheap $59/night I think. Taxi to/from port/airport was about $20. Don Shula's Steakhouse is just down the road. There are some other non-national brand hotels in the area too, but I can't remember the names.<BR><BR>Beach Plaza sure isn't fancy, but it did the job for us.

Many Thanks for all the fine information! We are planning on doing the Western Carribean on the Grand Princess in February!

Hi Kathy---I'm back.<BR> As promised I told you I'd report on my stay at SpringHill Suites Marriott.<BR> I have no regrets in choosing this hotel. The shuttle from the airport was quick and easy--just pick up the phone at the appropriate location. They were there within 10 minutes.<BR> The room was very adequate--1st portion had a couch, stuffed chair with attoman and large TV. In same area was a table--good for eating or doing computer work on. Next to it was a sink, microwave, small refrig. The bedroom had two beds, ANOTHER large tv, and the bathroom was also 2 separate rooms (toilet, tub/shower in one with a door separtaing it from the sink area.)<BR> The free continental breakfast was quite good and well maintained (I generally went in during the last 15 minutes each day). They even had batter in a cup , premeasured for you to do your own hot cake!<BR> I used the small pool 2 days. One day I had it all to myself. It also has a hot tub in the same location.<BR> The trip on cruise day was a breeze. You sign up a day early for the time you wish to take the shuttle (every hour on the hr). I chose 11AM. I had the entire van to myself. We left the hotel about 11:05 and I was in my cabin at 11:35!!! Amazing--fastest shuttle and embarkation I have ever done. (Celebrity of course had a lot to do with that final easy step!!)<BR> To book it I just used the 800# and usedmy AAA discount for the $80.10 per night rate.<BR> There are fast food places within 2 min. walking distance (Taco Bell, Mc Donald's, BUrger King). ABout a 5 minute walk to K-Mart for last minute purchases (pop,etc.) There are also 2 strip malls within that 5 minute walk area also.<BR> The hotel management were willing to please and answer questions, etc.<BR> The location is almost right under I-95 but no noise in the rooms.<BR> It is not on the beach, but it served MY purposes. I would stay there again.<BR> Enjoy your cruise in Feb.!!