Did you travel-in on the day of departure – perhaps taking a bus from one of the Houston airports to the terminal? Are you “dragging” excessive carry-on through the check-in line – having to run through security? Are your cruise documents incomplete? Do you not have the proper documentation handy? Embarkation exhaustion could be your own fault!
Lorraine has some hints that might prove helpful.
Fly or drive at least a day before. Treat yourself to a relaxing evening at one of our fine hotels…..enjoy a leisurely dinner and a good night’s sleep. On departure day take the hotel shuttle to the port (many hotels offer courtesy transportation.)
Check your luggage – don’t “schlep” anything that is not absolutely necessary. Lorraine carries only a “tote” bag with properly-completed travel documents, medications, and, of course, a bottle of wine. Remember – after you board, your room may not be ready- and you’ll be dragging all that “stuff” around with you.
“Bag” the Buffet – a guaranteed “madhouse” on embarkation day. Choose an alternative venue if available or, better yet, enjoy a leisurely “brunch” before heading to the terminal.
Avoid “Muster Madness” - relax in a public area at least thirty minutes before the scheduled time (thereby avoiding crowded passageways, stairways, and elevators). Lorraine usually chooses the central atrium – there’s a bar there – LOL. Wait for the announcement(s) then proceed to your assigned station. Yes, there will be those of the “lemming” mindset who will have been standing in formation for those thirty minutes you have been relaxing…..but the drill will not begin until the alarm is sounded.
After the drill do not head for the stairs or elevators. Find a comfortable place to sit and wait for the crowds to thin, and then be on your merry way, relaxed and stress-free.
You’ll thank yourself.