Golf

Below are some shots from a trip; a 5 day cruise to Key West & Cozumel, out of Ft. Lauderdale.

It was for certain a very short cruise - I'd much rather partake in a 7 or 8 day adventure. But, it was enjoyable just the same. The destinations were interesting, the casino was heartless, the cruise ship staff were friendly, and our ship friends were fun. So, it was certainly worth it - it was a free cruise :) ... almost anything would have been worth that. However, if I had to pay then I would have done a 7 day trip. It takes me a full 3 days to relax. On this trip that means we had 1 relaxing day - because on cruises; every "last day" ends at 8:00am and you must leave the ship and head to the airport, but of course, the cruise lines count that as "1" of the days. Salesmen !

Ft. Lauderdale was really nice. We went down a day early, stayed in an awesome hotel - The Pillars. The beach was great, the bars were busy, and the hotel was priceless (actually a little expensive but worth it.). This place sat on the water-way and in the other direction it was only about 100 yards to the beach & main strip.

Then we boarded our ship - off to Key West. Key West was well worth the stop. I only wish it would have been a longer stay. This island has sure cleaned up from the last time I was here (20 years ago).

Cozumel - whew, it's messed up. The place is a total wreck from the hurricane 6 months earlier. It was so bad that

most of the beaches are still closed. The huge Cruise Ship dock is gone. GONE! Most of the shops are gone or closed

too. My feelings are that the ship should not have stopped here. Maybe give this island 1 more year to rebuild. If you travel here via cruise in 2006 - I'd recommend staying on the ship. Enjoy the view & quiet-ness. Spend a "fun day" on-board.