World Cruise - January 3, 2016 - Packed and Ready To Go

It is 9:35 Sunday evening. We have been packed since early afternoon. Our two checked bags weigh in a 48 pounds each. Seems like we will have to check a third bag on our return. I can't imagine that we will not amass at least 10 to 20 pounds of new stuff before returning. The daily programs alone will account for much of that. Then there are the shampoos, soaps and lotions that will come back for giving to the local shelter.

So what does our luggage look like. It consists of two large bags, two carry on bags, gifts from Bonnie at Cruises International, and our hand bags for iPads and documents.

Not too bad for ten weeks.

The alarm is set for 5:45. The taxi arrives at 8:00. Our flight to Ft. Lauderdale leaves at 10:45 and we arrive about 3:00. Holland America will pick us up at the airport, and transfer us to the Marriott. We will spend the night there after strolling the beach and the neighborhood. After breakfast Tuesday morning, we Holland will transfer us to the ship. This may not be the cheapest way to get there, but it certainly is convenient. We will get to meet some of our fellow travelers at the hotel.

Bonnie at Cruises International has been fantastic in her support. This afternoon we received an email from her with an update to our itinerary to include The hotel in Singapore that we just added as a post cruise stay. The original document was prepared by Holland America before we booked this add on. My point is that Cruises International takes very good care of their clients. Bonnie in particular. If you plan to cruise, look them up in Schaumburg.

We will leave Ft. Lauderdale at 11:00 PM Tuesday. Sail Away will be celebrated on deck. We did this for the Grand South America voyage in 2014. The nighttime departure is beautiful as the city lights twinkle into oblivion.

My next post will originate at sea, but may not go out until Puerto Limon, Costa Rica on Saturday. Stay warm!