Today marked the start of our long journey home, easing ourselves out of cruise mode and back toward real life. We were up early at 5:30am, naturally starting with one last hot tub soak before breakfast and getting ready to disembark. We’d booked the cruise transfer to the airport, imagining it would be the most stress free way off the ship.
Everything was smooth… until immigration pulled us aside for a “quick chat.” That quick chat turned into a full bag search, and for a moment we were both convinced we’d miss the transfer entirely. After about 45 minutes, a few laughs with the agents, and a bit of nervous clock‑watching, we were finally released – the last two to board the bus.
We reached Fort Lauderdale Airport with time to spare so we tried the United Club, but it was packed and tucked away in a dark, uninspiring corner. So we ditched it and wandered back out to watch planes instead, eventually settling at the airport Margaritaville for a beer with great views and good music. Honestly, a much better vibe.
Our flight to Houston was blissfully uneventful. We had pre-ordered the patty melt and wedges, yummm! After landing we picked up the rental car, and reached the hotel around 3pm.
The evening was exactly what we needed: a quiet drink in the club lounge, a simple dinner at the hotel, and a movie night in the room. After weeks of go‑go‑go, it felt perfect to just relax with no plans to do anything! I did excitedly unpack my Amazon purchase though, I’ve wanted a starlight projector for ages, and it looks amazing!
