USO Before OR after a cruise?

[Jeanny]

We're going on the DCL 7 day Western next January 3, 2004. We're flying down the night before (January 2) and will be staying at the Hyatt right at the airport.

Those are my plans right now... BUT We would like to go to USO/IOA.... should we go BEFORE our cruise or AFTER? I'm in the research/planning stage right now... and can't decide so I need opinions.

I'm thinking we'd stay for 2 days, if we go before, that would be arriving either the afternoon of December 31 or the morning of January 1...hmm, that may be difficult?? Should we just add on 2 days at the end of our cruise... we arrive back at Port Canaveral the morning of January 11th, and have transfers back to MCO airport. How would we get from MCO (or Port Canaveral) to USO? limo service?? shuttles??

Sorry for all the questions, but as I said, I'm starting the planning now and have no clue which would be better!!
thanks, Jeanny

 

[bjakmom]

Jeanny - In Nov 2000 we did the 4 day Wonder - spent 3 days at WDW before the cruise and 2 days at USF/IOA after. We are always very tired at the beginning of a vacation because of all the rushing around to get things ready, and getting our work covered in advance of leaving. We were really exhausted by the time we hit the ship (after 3 days in the parks), but we were very well rested by the time we hit USF. You get off the ship so early - we were in the park by about 10 - we took a shuttle over to the rental car place and rented a car for those days. Next cruise we will leave any park touring until the end of our trip - also consider the time frame when you are going - it will be very crowded over New Years, but after the crowds should be gone - that would be my choice!

 

[Jeanny]

That's what I was kind of thinking, that after the cruise we'd be rested and would be able to run around the parks Saturday and Sunday, and head back home late Sunday or even Monday morning. I like to take the Monday after off, just to rest and recuperate from my vacation (LOL).

I know I still have almost a year to plan this, I'm just trying to find out what others have done. Plus you're right, the 1st & 2nd may be crazy there, but after the cruise, it will probably calm down a bit.

Thanks for your help.
Jeanny