[quote mdrees44]Thanks, Connie -- that was very helpful. So you'd suggest getting off whenever they assign us, and just spend time at the airport. That seems the least claustrophobic option, for sure. Thank you![/quote]
The airport is DEFINITELY preferable to sitting on the ship. However, FLL aiport isn't so hot. A few restaurants, a couple shops, that's about it. But I'd rather sit and read at the airport, eat, walk around, then be "trapped" on the ship. It's funny how the staff who loved you so much during the cruise, especially your cabin steward, suddenly TURN on you - ha - because they want you OFF THE SHIP. They only have so long to prepare the ship for the next sailing. That's why after 8-9am, you are "herded" into a couple large common areas, so the crew can start cleaning. I once left my cabin at 6am to run up for a quick bite to eat on disembarkation day and when I returned to my cabin at 7:00am, my steward was literally cleaning around my luggage. I was like, ummm. may I use my bathroom? IT'S 7:00AM!!! (They aren't supposed to kick you out until after 9am) He rolled his eyes at the inconvenience, but allowed me to use my own bathroom. LOL
So, I always say I have an early flight, (like 11:00am - anything before that - they will make you hand carry your luggage off) get off first, and am out of the terminal by 9-9:30am. From there, if none of my South Florida friends are around, I'll taxi to the airport and hang out there.