Right now we're leaning heavily towards Embassy Suites on 17th St. Its not the greatest price, but through our cruise line it will include transfers from the airport and to the port. Also, a Happy Hour is provided in the evening (a chance to meet fellow cruisers?), and an above average hotel breakfast is offered.
I know I could come up with a better price, but I'd be interested in hearing other's opinions. Thanks in advance.
I have not stayed there, but I always stay in that area,and love the convenience. Harbor Shops is right there to dine or, grab any last minute needs. I know people who have stayed there and had no complaints.
I would not base my stay there, thinking you might meet cruisers, as I would think, other things may be on peoples agenda..but that's just my thought on that.
If you go through priceline and enter 4 star downtown, you will get a hotel you will enjoy, in that area, and more then likely at a better price. I stayed at the Renaissance going through them, and, was satisfied enough to try it again,and won my bid again.
If you are not thrilled with the price..keep looking, but quickly
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The Rodeway Inn is quite nice and they have complementary shuttles and a nice breakfast.
For tose who drive in they have free parking while you cruise.
TM
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Thanks for the responses thus far, and thanks Kuki for the higher floor tip. ES actually advertises their Happy Hour (free drinks & hors d'ouerves) as a place to meet your fellow cruisers.
Last January we cruised out of Miami and stayed at a Residence Inn; met several people from our cruise, and others who were cruising different lines.
PS: Flying in, so park/cruise packages don't help this time, but they might come in handy for future cruises.
I personally like The Yankee Clipper Sheraton Hotel which is very close to the Port over the bridge and right on the beach. I am not sure about transfers or what the rate would be in January.
We love the Embassy Suites, the rooms can sleep 4 very comfortably, and there is a separation between sleeping areas. The Happy Hour is very nice, the breakfast is very good, love the pool area, and its within walking distance to grocery store, strip mall and some very good restaurants. FYI, as Trip mentioned, January is HIGH season, book now, and when you check in make sure you reserve your place on the shuttle to the pier, they fill up fast.
Thanks for the replies. We're all set with ES, even though we could've done better price-wise I'm sure.
The Yankee Clipper: I remember reading posts about that several years back and thought it was very run down. Has it been remodeled? If memory serves me correctly, it wasn't a "name" property, so perhaps Sheraton took it over?
PS: I'm the adventurous type who's always wanted to try a bid on Priceline. Unfortunately, DW is not!
ADVICE PLEASE
Family of 5 (7,5 and 3-year-old) plus Grandma leaving on LOTS Jan. 16, 2011. Looking for ideas for hotel on/near beach and close to port. Not planning on renting a car so would like the beach/pool to entertain kids from Jan. 14 (when we fly in) to 16th. Recommendations on transportation to port also appreciated (2 taxis - we are taking car seats for post-cruise stay with Grandma - versus car service versus other). One room or two is fine. Thanks in advance.
If you look at the Bahia Mar, there is a cross over, over the street, to the beach...Also, aI believe the Yankee Clipper has beachfront. These are both on A1A, close to the pier.
Taxi's I think, will be the most econonomical for your family..Call www.SASRides.com to get a quote frrm them as well.
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Trip, with her book & tea!
Chat Hostess & Board Moderator