I'm on a Boat (Soon)

Good morning!

I don't know how it is up in New York, but it's a comfortable 68 degrees at the moment. The sun is shining; the palm trees are lazily moving about in the wind; and I can start to hear the traffic start to pick up. Other than a door slam here and there, the rest of the hotel guests must still be sleeping. So I figured I'd drop a line before I get going. 

I am current down in Fort Lauderdale. First time here. Can't really say much about it since I got in late last night and I'm in the touristy area (but all of it could be touristy... who knows). I flew out of Albany, probably the third or fourth time I've done that. It was nice - the airport wasn't busy and hello... free wi-fi while I waited. Used Jet Blue... which was great as usual. Flight staff was very nice and made the flight chummy. Took a cab to the hotel and had a late dinner at chain restaurant next door.

And soon I'll be heading across the street the grab some breakfast and make it a lazy morning before heading to the cruise port. Because I'm going on a cruise! First cruise ever, so I've got the excited/scared thing going on right now. Excited because because I'll be on a boat and visiting a country I've never been to and experiencing the boat life. Scared because I'll be on a boat with a lot of people and of  course all worst case scenarios and running through my head. Aside from the boat sinking, I'm more concerned with sea sickness. I'm usually pretty good on boats. But this is a bigger boat. I've got enough meds to help me through it... I hope.

I was given some tips before I headed out. Like bring enough swimsuits. And be mindful of my time when we stop at ports... because the ship will leave you. And get up extra early so you can sneak up to the pool deck and claim lounge chairs.

I hear this cruise line has good food. And they had beers brewed especially for them. I'll let you know how that turns out. Hopefully there is decent wi-fi on the ship.

UPDATE: Currently sitting in a large waiting room with other passengers, as the ship's crew are going though immigration and the Coast Guard have to do an inspection and drill. But people are starting to board. Thank goodness for free Wi-Fi. Sadly it is not on the boat- 70 bucks for two hours. And it is slow to boot. So so much for posting on the trip!

They gave us a goody bag while we wait. Should have bought some wine.