Expert: Linda - 2/22/2001

Question
Well I just wrote a long question and aol booted me off..wow that is aggravating.  anyway..I make this one short.
I am going on a cruise next week aboard the Carnival Ecstacy.  We are going to the Florida Keys and Conzumel. I will be staying at the ramada on 1902 collins avenue in North miami Beach the weekend before we go.  I was wondering if you know anything about north beach.  For instance where I should go out to eat.  Also if you know anything about the nitelife there.  I am not interested in loud clubs, but rather small outdoor bars with live music and a sophisticated crowd.
About the cruise..i was just wondering about the atmoshpere.  Are there tons of thin blonde college students..or more families?  How much money should I bring?  And, what is the best place to go when we port..because I don't want to waste any time figuring it out..or at a place that isn't fun.  I really hope you have been on this particular cruise.
well anything that you could tell me will be appreciated...thank you so much

Answer
OK, we'll start with the easy answers first.  As far at Miami, head on over to South Beach, you can catch a cab, it's not that far.  There is a whole area with outdoor cafes, clubs.  The crowds are the "see and be seen" crowd, not tacky.  Gloria Estafan has a club that's nice, I've not been in the clubs down there, but just ask around, the hotel will tell the the hot places to be.  As for where to eat, the hotel room will give you a book that lists all the great places to eat.  You can eat at the Chart House in coconut grove and have a wonderful steak, it's on the water, service is outstanding, but it's expensive.  Miami has Ruth's Chris steakhouse, outstanding..Gloria Estafan has a restaurant with a great reputation.  There are just so many, also if you like Cuban food, many restaurants reasonable prices and great food.  Don't worry about the atomosphere on the cruise, you'll find a mix of families, older couples, singles etc.  The only time you get a hoard of the fraternity groups is during spring break and you're going just before that.  As for $, it depends on your spending habits.  I'd bring $500 and a credit card that's not maxed out.  That way you're setting your own limits on your spending, but will have the ability to buy something if you really find something you like.  In Key West, take the trolley, you'll go all over Key West. Take note of where you want to revisit, then when you get off the trolley you can go back to sites that interest you. There is a place called Keno's sandals about 4 blocks from the pier, just ask for directions.  They sell thong sandals and other all leather sandals for $7.50.  I've had some pairs for 8 years, can't wear them out.  When you're walking in Key West most places have entertainment during the day, so just go on in when you hear something you like.  In Cozumel go to Tulum ruins if you're into that, there's not much decent shopping there.  If you want to swim or the beach, then head to Cancun.  Some others seem to enjoy taking the sightseeing tours and getting a look at lots of stuff, it's your call.  I haven't been on this cruise, but have been to these ports and since we live in Fla have been to Key West many times.  Hope this answers your questions, if you have any other, just ask.  Happy sailing...we're leaving on 3-10 on the Triumph, doing the Western as well for 7 days.

Linda