Thread: ~*~Explorer of the Seas April 5, 2009~*~

Originally Posted by chrisjan

not going on explorer till next year, do you have a pre cruise hotel if so which one

We are staying at the Country Inn & Suites in Elizabeth the night before the cruise. I got it on Priceline for $64 (total w/tax $$78.31)!!!! There is a cluster of 3 or 4 hotels right where it is, near the airport. They offer a free shuttle from the airport to the hotel. Right across the street is the Jersey Gardens Outlet Mall, a Ruby Tuesday and a diner. They also offer transport to the cruise port, but for a price....$35 pp I think??? They also have a free breakfast, coffee, etc. If you are driving they offer a stay and cruise package which includes parking for the duration of your trip for a very reasonable price....especially when compared the the $19 a day it costs to park at the port. I have read that a taxi ride from there to the port is anywhere from $30 - $50 depending on traffic.

I did some research before bidding and found that the Country Inn is the only 3 1/2 star in that little area so I bid on the 3 1/2 star knowing if I won the bid that it would be the hotel I got :-) I first bid $50 and got a message back to increase my bid to $64, I did and got it. It was going for about $129 a night when I did this back in February.

If you want more details about the hotel come back here and post a question to jog my memory to come and tell you :-) I'll be back on the 18th!!! Southern Caribbean here we come!!!!

edit to say: I have read that you cannot get the stay and cruise package if you get the room through Priceline or any source other than directly through the hotel. We aren't driving so I wasn't worried about it but wanted to let you know.

SEE YOU SUNDAY ON THE EXPLORER OF THE SEAS

Have a FANTASTIC time on your cruise! I am waiting to hear all about the ship as well as the wonderful ports of call! Bon voyage!