[krunch]

Thanx everyone for the input. As I said, I am just exploring the options right now, so i contacted Carnival first to see what they offer. I will also check with a travel agent as this gets closer as there are no rates available to be even quoted right now. All I was attempting to do is "Ballpark" price this vacation.

WRT last minutes rates as one poster suggested, if the whole group waited to attempt a last minute rate, that's too much of a gamble, not to mention trying to get a flight that last in the game, and a hotel near the port. Too risky IMHO for an entire group.

Many people suggested getting more from the travel agent. Did anyone click on the link I posted which explains Carnival's point system? I only need 5 staterooms to get some value, I hope to get more than that, and hopefully the rates and or perks would get better because of that.

Krunch