Hotel suggestions for Tampa

[ms simba]

Okay here is the text for the table (a) and cb are in the table. The rest is info I gathered about the hotels I was interested in. If the hotel was too expensive for me, I may have just put a short description.

Be sure to call the hotel to see if the information given here is still correct.

Very little of the information came from me as I have never been to Tampa or on a cruise. Some of the information was taken from hotel reviews on Orbitz or Expedia. Other info was from messages that were posted here. I did not enter in the names of the people whose reviews/messages I put in this hotel information section as I thought I was going to be the only one to use it. So thank you all for helping me out. Sorry I cannot give you credit!

(a) Doubletree airport: They shuttle you to anywhere within 2km, including shopping center, drug store, etc.

Howard Johnson Plaza downtown-Shuttle within 2 mile area (includes Ybor City and Channelside

cb = complimentary breakfast

Hotel Descriptions and details

Cracker Ken: Actually, I don't recommend any of those motels at I-4 and 50th St. or I-4 and 40th St., no matter what kind of deal you get there. Also, I also don't recommend staying in motels/hotels on Busch Blvd. in Tampa. That area has deteriorated over the years too. If you want to stay in N. Tampa, pick something that has an address from 3000 E. Fowler Avenue and up.

Chase Suites- 3075 North Rocky Point Drive East, Tampa, FL 33607 877-433-9644 / 813-281-5677 They have a shuttle from the airport to the hotel and then to the port the next morning (after a complimentary breakfast). They have one and two bedroom suites also. In addition, Chase Suites offers a ship to shore package that includes free shuttle to/from airport and to/from pier. Breakfast is included and they will also shuttle you around to the stores so that you can get any last minute supplies or if you want to go somewhere else to eat besides the restaurant that's right beside the hotel. Bahama Breezes is right there and the food is great but wow the wait time to get in can get nuts. We wound up ordering take out and brought it back to our suite. - Complimentary daily buffet breakfast, Manager*s reception *Mon-Thurs*, free airport transportation Check out Chase Suites near the airport. It is on this thread with many people loving it. They (with the right package) will pick you up at the airport then take you to the ship and redeliver to the airport when you get back PLEASE NOTE: If you go with the Chase Suites, CALL THEM ON THE PHONE and make your reservations the old fashioned way and BE SURE to tell them you want the package that includes the transfers from airport to hotel, to port, etc. I've read with other folks have messed up by "assuming" things - This two-story hotel has no elevators (On Orbitz the "Hotel Features" mention Elevators Call and ask) -The photos on Orbitz did show a staircase from the living room going upstairs. Also the photos on Live Search Maps (http://maps.live.com/ ) do show two story units. I definitely would call to check about elevators if walking a flight of stairs is a concern to you. Orbitz Rating: 4 out of 5 $159 - USD Promotional Rate - (Daily Rate Per Room).Studio with two double beds, living area, sofa sleeper and fully equipped kitchen

Crowne-Plaza on Princess Palm Drive - 10221 PRINCESS PALM AVENUE, Tampa, FL 33610, 12.2 Miles East of TPA. Complimentary Airport shuttle available every 2 hours from 6:00AM to 11:00PM-advanced shuttle reservations required. Cracker Ken?: - Big hotel. I stayed there many years ago (like 17-18 years) when I helped to put on a conference there. Crowne Plaza's tend to have a nice reputation - never stayed in a bad one. The down side, is the location. This is on the corner of an office park out to the E of Tampa. There is a couple of other hotels around, lots of office complexes, and that's about it. Yes - taxi needed for Ybor. Restaurants are located along SR 60 (Adamo Drive) which is an exit S of Martin Luther King Jr Blvd (where the hotel is located). I checked MapQuest, and it's about 3.5 miles from the hotel to the intersection of I-75 and Adamo Drive (SR60) in Brandon. Lots of places to eat within 1 mile either side of that intersection. Orbitz Rating: 4.9 out of 5- $132

Days Inn Tampa Airport Stadium 2522 North Dale Mabry Free Airport Shuttle, Free Continental Breakfast, in-room refrigerator with large freezer space and microwave Bennigans at hotel open 11am to2 am, Burger King (0 Miles) Chili's (0 Miles) China One (0 Miles) Crazy Buffet (0 Miles) McDonalds (0 Miles) This hotel had no elevator, but only stairs to the second story $79 at Orbitz - 2.5 out of 5 Had the worst reviews on 2 different places

Downtown Residence Inn -Residence Inn by Marriott Tampa Downtown - 101 E Tyler St Tampa, FL 33602, All suites include full kitchens with living areas. One and two bedroom suites available. A Daily complimentary hot breakfast buffet is served featuring breads and pastries, cereals and hot oatmeal, eggs, fruits and juices, hot and cold beverages, waffles and yogurt. March 2007 - Just wanted to report that we stayed at the Downtown Residence Inn on Feb 17 and 18. Taxi fare was a flat rate of $22 from the airport to downtown, also the same from pier to airport. Got to the hotel about 7:00 pm. No bellmen, but did have luggage carts. We were met with very friendly and helpful people at the desk. Had clean one bed studio suites on floor five (there was also a single pullout). We paid $65/night through Priceline. The desk directed us to a bar (The Hub), with takeout spirits and beer, about two blocks away. Went there and had a couple, and brought some back. Ordered from Domino's across the street, and they were at the door in less than 30 minutes. There was a breakfast bar in the morning with hot and cold servings. That evening the hotel shuttled us to the Columbia in Ybor City, and then picked us up when we were done with a great dinner. They also shuttled us to the pier on the 19th. Be sure to sign up at check-in. I believe this area was once not too desirable, but looks like it is on the comeback trail. It has a lot of construction of high rise apartments going on. It is also across from the performing arts center. $189.00

Doubletree airport hotel - 4500 West Cypress Street, Tampa, FL, 33607, 1.3 Miles Southeast of TPA. We stayed at the Doubletree airport hotel. It has a shuttle to/from airport and the cruise port. After the cruise, we called them from the cruise port, they picked us up to go to the airport. They also shuttle you to anywhere within 2km, including shopping center or drug store, etc. The shuttle from the airport and to the cruise is free. We are on our own getting to the airport after the cruise. Orbitz Rating: 3.4 out of 5, $269

Doubletree Westshore: Doubletree Hotel Tampa Westshore Airport - 4500 West Cypress Street, Tampa, FL, 33607, 1.3 Miles Southeastof TPA,Complimentary airport shuttle service They offer free shuttle to/from the airport. There is a $10 fee per person for the shuttle to the cruise terminal. Hotel info says: Please note that the Package rate floats off our Best Available Rate on the date at the time of booking. This means that the rate will differ depending upon time of year, occupancy or historical demand for that day/date. The package includes accommodations and up to 14 days parking. The package does not include Port of Tampa transportation fees which are purchased by the guest upon check-in. Currently, the rate for roundtrip transportation from the hotel to the port is $15 per person, adult/child. There is no charge for luggage but we do request a limit of two bags and a carry-on per passenger. Orbitz Rating: 3.4 out of 5 $269

Econo-Lodge at 1020 S Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL, 33629 - 2.9 miles SE of TPA, No airport shuttle, free deluxe continental breakfast , Orbitz Rating 3.5 out of 5, $60 with RoomSavers

Cracker Ken: If the Econo-Lodge has an address on W. Kennedy Blvd, I cannot give it a high rating at all. The area has improved some. For years it was getting to be skid row (where the homeless people roam). Used to be lots of prostitution and other bad activity along W. Kennedy too. It's cleaned up some though. If you stay there, don't venture out much at night unless you are in a taxi, don't walk around at night.

Embassy Suites - Tampa Downtown Convention Center. 513 S. Florida Avenue, Tampa, 5.1 Miles East of TPA NO shuttle It's across from the Marriott Waterside Hotel and next to the trolley station Orbitz Rating: 5 out of 5, $269

Embassy Suites Tampa - Airport/Westshore - 555 N. Westshore Blvd, Tampa, 1.4 Miles Southeast of TPA. NO elevator in the multi-story parking garage. The Embassy Suites Tampa offers a complimentary shuttle to and from Tampa International Airport as well as a scheduled business shuttle within a 3 mile radius of the hotel. Receive a complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast. They will shuttle from the airport to hotel and provide arrangements to the port as well. Orbitz Rating 4.5 out of 5 - $169

Extended Stay Deluxe Tampa - Airport - 1805 N. Westshore Blvd 2 Double beds-$105.03 or Regular Suite$95 - Studio suite with queen bed and separate living area. Rate includes continental breakfast

Hampton Inn Rocky Point - 3035 North Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33607, 2.2 Miles West of TPA They have free shuttle from the airport, shuttle to the cruise port, and then they pick you up after your cruise and will take you back to the airport. This was a huge plus for me. Called again, was told by a second person that you can't reserve the port shuttle until check in. Also found out that the first shuttle is at 11 am. 24 hour complimentary Tampa International Airport shuttle - Complimentary transportation within a four mile radius of the Hampton Inn - Complimentary deluxe breakfast bar This hotel has a cruise package special that includes shuttle from airport, free breakfast, and shuttle to port plus complimentary wifi internet. Otherwise the room costs $179 (Advance Reservation) Orbitz Rating 4 out of 5

Cruise Package: (Weekends Only Friday, Saturday & Sunday Stays Only - however when I called the clerk said that the shuttle would run Monday am also - would check on this). Includes room, transportation to/from Tampa International Airport and transportation to/from the Port of Tampa. Shuttle runs 24/7 but was told they go to the port @ 11:00, 11:30 & 12:00. You also receive complimentary parking during your cruise and complimentary deluxe continental breakfast. This package is for two people and each additional person will be charged $10.00 per night. free for children six and under. April 1-December 28, 2008- $199.00 Per Night (Standard) Please Call Directly @ 813.289.6262 or Toll free (direct to hotel) 877-4642678. - $199

Originally Posted by Cracker Ken [/url] No, taxi from Rocky Point to the port is not a problem. It's $20-$25 to the port from the airport. Rocky Point is a few miles further away from the port. Maybe $30? (Hampton Inn clerk said it would cost $10/person). You also have an option like Bay Shuttle if you have a bigger crew needing transport to the port. Again - please note - The shuttle for the Hampton Inn and the Holiday Inn Express is the SAME van. Both hotels signs are on the SAME shuttle van. The same van/driver services both hotels. I saw it as recently as last week. These property join each other, and I think the same organization is behind the ownership.

 

BTW - The Holiday Inn Express is a nice place. I've stayed there overnight. They just recently refurbed the outside. Hampton looks like it's fine too. The skyline is changing out there at Rocky Point. On the property between the Hampton/HIE and Courtney Campbell Causeway, they are putting up a high rise condo/hotel building. The cranes are there now, and the building is on the way up. Also in the planning stages is a new Ritz Carlton Resort that's going to take up the ground where the Radisson is presently located. There are no stores or fast food joints on Rocky Point. Just hotels, office buildings, and a few more expensive places. When I'm at the office on Friday and some of us want to go somewhere away from the building for lunch, we have to leave the island and go elsewhere (or else blow more money than we want to).

Hampton Inn - Ybor City. 1301 E 7th Ave- 1301 East 7th Avenue, Tampa, FL 33605, 5.4 Miles East of TPA Next to the trolley line. Very convenient too. Not far from the cruise terminals. Walking distance to a lot of things in Ybor City, including some restaurants. complimentary hot breakfast , Self parking: $5-$15 per 24-hour period. complimentary shuttle service that we offer to any location within 5 miles of the hotel between 8:00am - 10:00pm daily. The Tampa Convention Center, Port of Tampa Cruise Terminal, and the Channelside Shopping and Entertainment District are all within 1.5 miles. It is across the street from the street car garage and it's quite convenient to get on the street car line and go to the Channelside complex. $129 on Expedia, Orbitz Ratings: 4.6 out of 5

Hilton Tampa Airport Westshore 2225 North Lois Avenue, Tampa, FL 33607 The shuttle to the airport is free and the shuttle to the port is $5.00 per person. Complimentary airport transportation is provided to and from the Tampa Airport as well as scheduled shuttle service to and from the Port of Tampa. $159 at CheapTickets

There's a Best Western on N. Westshore Blvd that may be cheaper than those I listed before, and city buses run up and down Westshore Blvd all the time. The Westshore area is a lot cleaner and safer than the area where that Econo-Lodge is located on Kennedy Blvd - if that's the one you are looking at.

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Tampa/Rocky Point Island - 3025 North Rocky Point DR, Tampa, FL 33607, 2.1 Miles West of TPA - It's about 2-3 miles W of the airport, and 9 miles from the pier - Complimentary 24-hour shuttle service to / from Tampa International Airport - Complimentary transportation within a four mile radius of Holiday Inn Express. If you don't book the Cruise Package, they have a $15/person shuttle service that will take you to the port and then pick you up and take you to the airport or the hotel when you return. - Complimentary deluxe Express Start breakfast bar from 6:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. (Eggs, bacon, toast, cereals, yogurt and fruits). scrambled eggs or cheese omelets , Sausage patties or crispy bacon , Signature cinnamon rolls, bananas, • yogurt, Hardboiled eggs, Variety of breakfast breads & cereals , Selection of fruit juices and skim and 2% milk, Flaky biscuits with sausage gravy) - Bahama Breeze opens at 11 am - adjacent to Bahama Breeze. It has a nice water view but not as nice as the SailPort. Wireless High Speed Internet in lobby. Free local telephone calls. Cracker Ken: I covered the Holiday Inn Express at Rocky Point in post #1447 just above your first question. It's not a bad place at all. There are three restaurants within 1/4 to 1/2 mile.

Cruise Package: (Weekends Only Friday, Saturday & Sunday Stays Only - I received conflicting info on these days from the desk clerks. Be sure to call about this if staying there) Includes room, transportation to/from Tampa International Airport and transportation to/from the Port of Tampa. You also receive complimentary parking during your cruise and complimentary continental breakfast. This package is for two people and each additional person will be charged $10.00 per night. April 1-December 28, 2008- $139.00 Per Night (Standard). Otherwise the room costs $127 (Advance Reservation). Please Call Directly @ 813.287.8585. - Phone: Hotel Front Desk (813) 287-8585, Toll-Free: (888) 613-3555, Hotel Reservations: 1- 800 315-2621, Fax: (813) 287-8484

Howard Johnson Plaza downtown - 111 W Fortune St, Tampa, FL, 33602 We are staying at the in October, recently renovated. It offers transportation from airport to hotel?, hotel to pier and a two mile area. No transportation from pier to airport, but that was not a big deal for my group of friends....I have read a taxi is only $22 from the pier to the airport.....we are paying for one night $109 for up to 4 people in the room plus tax. Ybor city, and Channelside are all in that two mile area for the shuttle. Complimentary shuttle to Tampa Airport and businesses/attractions (including the Cruise Terminal) within 2 mile radius of hotel $129 at Cheap Tickets.com. ....with transportation from the airport to hotel...from hotel to the pier and free transportation within a two mile area...which Channelside, Ybor city and other major attractions are within....no transportation from port to airport, Self parking: $8 per day per vehicle

Hilton Garden Inn - Ybor City - 1700 E 9th Ave. 2 blocks from the trolley line and close to the action in Ybor City. shuttles guests to Downtown Tampa, the Port of Tampa and the Tampa Convention Center at no additional costs - $184 at Expedia

Hyatt Regency Hotel - 211 N Tampa Street Downtown Tampa. Nice hotel in the middle of town, not very far from the trolley line at the Embassy Suites and Marriott Waterside area. Easy walking distance. Valet parking: $16 per 24-hour period ; Self parking: $10 per 24-hour period - no shuttle info-$159 on Expedia.

Hyatt Regency Tampa airport shuttle

Intercontinental Hotel (W Kennedy Blvd) at Westshore Blvd . 4860 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa, FL, 33609, 1.6 Miles South of TPA - 813-286-44 - No airport shuttle - Free Airport Shuttle so which is it?? Complimentary airport transportation and free on site parking. Courtesy car ?????what does this mean? Complimentary transportation (to where?) This was originally built as a Sheraton. Very nice place. It joins an office building. Parking is in a garage. features three restaurants There is a excellent steak house (Shula's) on the premises - expensive. It went from being a Sheraton to a Westin, now Intercontinental, which is the upscale line of the group which includes Holiday Inn and Crowne Plaza. Across the street on one corner is a Walgreen's Drug store. On the other corner is a little shopping plaza with a Blimpies Sub Shop, Panera's (free Wi-Fi ), and other stuff. Directly across the street is the Westshore Plaza Mall. There is a food court inside, and outside is a nice Chinese restaurant, Maggianno's Italian (family style), and out at the street is a Steak and Ale Restaurant. You can walk, quite easily and relatively safely, to all of the above. It's all at the intersection of Westshore Blvd and Kennedy Blvd. about 8 miles from the cruise terminal (about $20 for a taxi). The outdoor heated pool and exercise room has great views of Tampa Bay Rates from $129 at Hotels.com to $248 at their website.

La Quinta Inn Tampa Bay Airport - 4730 Spruce St - 0.7 Miles Southeast of TPA -813-287-0440- Free Airport Shuttle Transportation is available each day to Seaport in Tampa for a small fee - Complimentary First Light Breakfast - IHOP (Adjacent) - Denny's Restaurant Adjacent...Open 24hrs. * Houlihan's * Ruth Chris Steakhouse -(2003) Offers a park and cruise package for $90.00. A shuttle to the cruise port begins at 11:00 am and costs $10.00 per person. They are within walking distance of many places to eat. Average reviews on tripadvisor.com. $94 on Orbitz Rating: 4 out of 5. Breakfast is free, as is the airport shuttle that runs every hour. Not up for a night out? There are about 20 affordable restaurants within walking distance. Rooms are unpretentious and clean. The hotel offers both AARP and senior citizen discounts.

Marriott Waterside Hotel Cracker Ken: a great location within walking distance of things to do in the S side of the downtown business core, along the water front. It's next to a trolley station, and the trolley can take you (inexpensively) to the Channelside complex, past the cruise terminals, and on up to the Ybor City Latin district. It stops at the Florida Aquarium too. Back on the thread somewhere, I have links to the trolley system, Centro Ybor, Florida Aquarium and Channelside (which is where Carnival ships dock). Waterside Marriott (www.marriott.com) $309 at Expedia - No shuttle info

RadissonBayHarbor - 7700 Courtney Campbell Causeway Don't care for its looks (don't even know if it is still there as I think Crakcer Ken said it was being torn down to have different hotel to be built there)

SailPort Waterfront Suites 2506 Rocky Pointe Drive, Tampa, FL 33607. Free Breakfast Free shuttle service is provided to and from Tampa Airport from 7AM to 10 PM. Complimentary shuttle service to the airport (4 Miles) and within a five-mile radius of the hotel is available There is a $1.17 per day charge for unlimited local calls, 800 calls, credit card calls and voice mail service_ $99 at Cheap Tickets One queen bed. Separate living area with queen sofa bed. 600 square feet. "The only problem that I had was the small bedroom. There was only about 3 ft of space around the bed." Complimentary wireless Internet access. Two cable/satellite TVs with HBO. Private, furnished balcony with Tampa Bay water views. Spacious 1 bedroom suites have separate bedrooms, living rooms with sofa sleepers, dining areas, fully equipped kitchens with refrigerator, range, oven, microwave, dishwasher, and utensils. Complimentary coffee and danish are served 6:30 AM-10 AM. or from 6:30-8:am. Weekday local newspaper.. Watch for dolphins and stingrays. - - The hotel does not have its own restaurant, but there are Nearby restaurants: Rusty Pelican, Crabby Bill's, Crawdaddy's, Landry', Castaways

Reviews: Rooms are older and pretty used. Restaurants close to the hotel are very limited. A car is needed to go to almost everything. You can have pizza delivered, but not much else was available. The main elevator was out of service. Bed wasn’t the most comfortable. We stayed at the SailPort Inn when we sailed from Tampa, they picked us up from the airport and took us to the port the next day....it was a nice place RATINGS: 3.7 (out of 5)

Sheraton Hotel - Sheraton Tampa Riverwalk Hotel Downtown Tampa. 200 N Ashley Dr. Complimentary shuttle service is provided within a three-mile radius of the hotel, which includes the business district and many downtown attractions, such as Channelside, the Tampa Art Museum, the Florida Aquarium, the Port of Tampa, and Ybor City. The downtown trolley, which stops in front of the hotel, travels through the business district and past the Tampa Convention Center for $1 per ride -$169 on Expedia

Tahitian Hotel - the suites in the main hotel were awesome, but we stayed in the back part of the hotel- which were lower end rooms, but the only way we could have double beds. The hotel's café serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Wireless Internet access is complimentary in the restaurant, lobby, and patio. It's five miles from the airport, and within six miles of the cruise terminals. $79 Two double beds. Desk. Cable/satellite TV with DVD player. Refrigerator, microwave, and coffee/tea maker. Hair dryer. Iron/ironing board. Includes: Free Parking ??

Wentworth - Taxi's are available at Rocky Point. A lot of what you may want to do is not close to Rocky Point. I'd recommend renting a cheap car at the airport when you come in to the airport. On the day of the cruise, turn it in at the airport and take a taxi from there to the port. $50 for a rental car will give you a lot of mobility for the day before the cruise.

Westshore Hotel 1-800-449-4343 they have a cruise package - 1200 N Westshore Blvd, Tampa, FL, Hwy/Exit: 40A - Westshore Hotel - 1 Mile Southeast of TPA The Westshore offers complimentary airport shuttle transportation from 5:30 AM–12:10 AM daily (subject to availability). Guests can use the courtesy phone in Baggage Claim to arrange for pick-up. - Complimentary shuttle service is available to the airport and other destinations within a three-mile radius (excluding the beach). Restaurant/bar: "the Green Iguana" Serving American cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. ....unable to sleep all night because the music from the disco downstairs can be heard (LOUDLY) in the rooms. - "The rooms directly above the bar have a lot of noise asked for a quiet room." - ".. the hotel did provide shuttle services to/from airport as well as breakfast. However, I was not informed about the breakfast vouchers when I checked in. In addition, I had to request vouchers every morning." "Breakfast was provided at this hotel only for certain people My boyfriend wasn't given breakfast tickets he even checked at the front desk about it and was informed that he's room didn't come with breakfast." There are two shopping malls near the hotel (International Plaza and Westshore Plaza). The hotel was a bit noisy (close to airport and bar. This hotel was just recently renovated and changed over from being a Best Western. I haven't been inside, but it looks nice outside. One of the posters said they have a restaurant there. Complimentary Airport Shuttle - Orbitz Rating: 3.3 out of 5 $85

Accommodations

Closest to the Port:Tampa Waterside Marriott (www.marriott.com) $309 at Expedia - No shuttle info

 

Middle of the Road: Radisson Bay Harbor Hotel (www.radisson.com) because it's on the waterfront and its pool is gorgeous. 7700 E Courtney Campbell Cswy, Tampa, FL, Hwy/Exit: I-275 /39. ($119 on RoomSavers.com) Hilton Garden Inn (www.hiltongardeninn.com) because its location in Ybor City can't be beat.

 

On a Shoestring: Red Roof Inn (www.redroof.com) because not only are rates under $100 during the high season, but it's also less than a mile from Busch Gardens. Best Western (www.bestwestern.com) because it's got a pool and a fitness center.

 

Best Overall Package: Quorum Hotel-Tampa (www.quorumtampa.com) 700 N. Westshore Blvd, Tampa, FL, 33609 1.6 Miles South of TPA - 1-877-4-QUORUM - two blocks from Westshore Plaza. - Complimentary airport shuttle from 6am - midnight daily. Service to other destinations within a three-mile radius of the hotel is available- upon request, based on availability. They offer a great package specifically for cruisers. The Sleep-and-Sail includes hotel pick-up upon arrival at Tampa International Airport, a one-night's stay in a traditional guest room, 15 nights complimentary hotel garage parking, and one-way transportation from the hotel to the Port of Tampa Price is $169. Offered year round with rates beginning at $119.AAA=$134; Internet=$139

It seems that NICE hotels in Tampa that actually offer shuttle service are few.

I know I could get a much cheaper hotel rate with Priceline but I have seen some of the Tampa hotels that have rooms with only 1 bed to share (and no sleeper sofa). We absolutely need double beds.

[wasiii]

.....thanks so much for doing this, it saves me from getting a migraine from reading this thread. Not that this isn't extremely useful, just SO much information to absorb.

 

Here's a big virtual KISS for you and I've just poured you a Long Island Iced Tea which I'll have to drink for you since you're not here.

 

Thanks again, you deserve the kiss and a drink (maybe I'll make it 2 drinks)!

 

;)

[cookie1961]

sm simba thanks so very much for doing ALL that work. I really appreciate it. I have been trying to go through this whole thread to try and find a hotel for our precruise Christmas stay. You have certainly made it very easy.

 

Thanks again and here's another BIG VIRTUAL KISS!!!!!

 

Teri

[Cracker Ken]

Nice table and info - Thanks. I think there is some dated info there, like perhaps a hotel that isn't there anymore. Radisson Bay Harbor is still there, at least for a while to come.

 

Two additional restaurants at Rocky Point: Crabby Bills and Bahama Breeze. One that isn't at Rocky Point anymore: Crawdaddy's (torn down).

 

Marriott Waterside isn't always $308.

 

What's bad, is that within a few days, someone will ask a question that's answered on the table and even within a couple of pages. The reason this thread is 80 pages long, is because folks have always asked the same questions over, and over, and over, and over - instead of taking some time to read. If the redundancy was taken out of the thread, it would probably be only 1/4 as long.

 

I started writing on this thread to try and prevent misinformation and keep folks up to date. I've had instances, not just on this thread, where people who have only been to Tampa once give people messed up info.

 

Just last week, someone asked a question that was answered no less than 8 entries above. At times I've been aggravated and have quit answering for a period of time. I type a lot in my job (writing long reports), and sometime I don't feel like it in the evening. If folks would spend a small percentage of the time I've spent typing and putting things together on this thread, and read it, we would all be better off. I don't see where anything written on the thread is confusing - there's just a lot of it here.

 

Sometimes people ask for an update, or something different or particular, and I certainly don't mind answering their questions.

 

When I get a chance, I'll carefully go through the tables and info posted above, and if there is out of date info or other comments, I'll post them.

 

Ken

[Theresa522]

I think you should forget about taking the Dawn next month and come with us - hmmm 2 nites on the dawn - $2000 (can't forget casino money!)- 5 nights on the beautifully renovated inspriation to islands you are dying to go to with your favorite family members - PRICELESS :p

 

Hey, it is only $1100 for two WONDERFUL nights!! YAY..lol Not bringing $900 for gambling..:eek: Only $200. I am a good girl at the casino and Pete won't let me stay too long anyway, so that helps..lol I only wish I would have knew about the two night sooner. Could have saved $350!! Oh well, live and learn. You can bet your butt that I will doing the next one leaving from NY also. :D

 

You are right about vacations with family being "priceless". That is why YOU shouldn't have canceled.. ha ha :p

[ms simba]

Cracker Ken,

I don't know if you can update the table as it is a jpg picture. However, I am willing to do the updating at least once a week as I am retired and have more time than money. This table and the hotel information was originally just for my eyes. i will try to update it so it is more generalized.

 

So if you see something that needs updating just tell me and I will do it. That goes for the rest of you folks, also. If a hotel you stayed at has higher or lower prices, just tell me. If there is a change in shuttle info, tell me about that too.

 

However, if Cracker Ken tells you something, believe him first as he lives in Tampa and knows a lot more than I ever will!

[ms simba]

Is there anyway to get back into a posted message to edit it? I know you can edit it and the board asks if you want to save it but I don't see that option after it was posted.

 

I wanted to ask Cracker Ken if he wanted me to send him the table so he could edit it (he knows so much more and has up-to-the-minute information). I just thought it would be easier to put that question in the original post rather than adding another message.

[obxer]

First let me state that Cracker ken's info is incredibly good and useful. Many Thanks. Just wanted to state that what was said about Marriot Waterside not always being 302.00 is true. We booked it on night before our cruise in upcoming may for 200 plus taxes,etc. I realize that is still expensive but since it is our first cruise we wanted to "celebrate" a little. But its still less than 300 a night. And I believe I remember that Cracker or others said we could actually walk to the terminal form that hotel on Sunday departure day.

[MikeNKim]

Just a quick post, to offer info for a change:)

 

We stayed 2 nights pre-cruise at Holiday Inn Express RJ Staduim, very nice, nice pool, great free breaky, I read many complaints about the shuttles but we used them many times and never waited very long at all and it was a busy spring break week. We didn't use the shuttle to the port as the earliest they go is 11:30 and we wanted to be there earlier and just caught a cab for $22.00 and it was cheaper then the hotel shuttle at $32.00.....$8 PP and we had 4 people.

 

Also there is a Hertz, right outside the Carnival terminal. We rented a car there and they shuttled us to the vehicles which was about a 3 min drive jsut over at the Holland America Terminal.....so great option for people interested.

 

Kim

[star65]

FYI... Just booked this beautiful hotel for $199 for a concierge level room in August- Yeah:D

[Cracker Ken]

ms simba - Once you post a message, you have about 30 minutes to edit it. After that, too late. That's bad. I write on another board, unrelated to cruising, and I can go back days or weeks later and edit.

 

Yes - if you want to send the table to me, here's my address:

 

crackerken at verizon.net

 

I'll go through it in more detail. I'll check it out and get back with you.

 

Something I've been wanting to do for ages, is take the time to go through the entire thread, from post 1 forward, and make an alphabetical index of topics, and the post numbers where the answers can be located. With that, folks would know exactly where to go for answers that are already here. Probably about 90% or more of the answers are already here, at least one time, some many times. That should help out a lot.

 

One thing I try to do when answering questions for people, is keep their safety in mind. There are places in Tampa where I wouldn't stay, even if I was toting a concealed firearm (I have a licence). Some of those places are nationally known chains too. I try to steer folks from those places and areas if possible.

 

Pretty soon, if I can catch a Sunday with clear blue skies (that makes the best outdoor photos), I'm going over to Tampa and take some updated photos of some areas of interest, like Channelside and the new Embassy Suites next to the Tampa Convention Center downtown. I'd also like to get some photos of the places we talk about out at Rocky Point.

 

MikeNKim - Thanks for the good info. That's new and very useful. People ask about that from time to time. It's good to hear from folks who have experienced things in Tampa that are of interest.

[signman]

Nice job Simba. For the Quorum, I believe there is a Waffle House almost adjacent. For anything in the Westshore area, both malls, Westshore and International are very close, and have many many dining options at all price levels.

 

Cracker Ken is right though. The same questions will get asked over and over again because people just won't make any effort to see if what they want to know has already been posted.

[ksherm5]

I (like everyone else) have been slowly reading thru this thread for Tampa Hotel info....I wasn't sure if I'd be done reading by my April sail date! Thank you so much MsSimba and Ken (and everyone else) for ur attention to detail and time. I'll be printing this out directly. Y'all are the best!:D

[dolphinz75]

Does anyone have any information about the Courtyard on Cass St??? We're staying there before our cruise on the Grandeur. Do they allow you to stay parked while your on your cruise?

[hayward]

For a March 2005 cruise, my family will be staying at the Best Western Westshore. They have a special cruise package of $99 for 2 people, which includes breakfast, shuttle to and from the port and free parking during the cruise. It looks like a nice hotel from their website, but who knows? Add another $10 for each person over 2.

 

Does anyone know is this service available. Are there any hotels that offer a shuttle to the port. thanks

[signman]

Two suggestions Hayward.

 

1) call the hotel and ask them

 

2) read the past 30 posts on this thread.

[signman]

Does anyone have any information about the Courtyard on Cass St??? We're staying there before our cruise on the Grandeur. Do they allow you to stay parked while your on your cruise?

 

According to their website, there is a fee for parking. Suggest you call and ask about any kind of cruise package.

[dolphinz75]

Now I see the parking for a fee, that sucks.. Anyone have any suggestions of anywhere to park that's reasonably priced???

[Brenda Bell]

dolphinz75, if you are driving to Tampa and you need to park your car while you're on your cruise the best place would be the port. Try to call around on other hotels and see if they offer cruise package on parking it may come out being cheaper than parking at the port but not much.

[CMJFamily]

Thanks for all your info!

We need a room for Mar 14, 2009. We wanted to stay right at the pier so we could get up in the morning and walk (or take a quick cab ride) to our ship (Carnival Legend) I believe Terminal 2. I tried Embassy Suites and Marriot Waterside and both show no rooms available! Is there a chance they might have rooms "released later"? Are there any others you would suggest?

[cathyoo]

ms simba -

 

Something I've been wanting to do for ages, is take the time to go through the entire thread, from post 1 forward, and make an alphabetical index of topics, and the post numbers where the answers can be located. With that, folks would know exactly where to go for answers that are already here. Probably about 90% or more of the answers are already here, at least one time, some many times. That should help out a lot.

 

One thing I try to do when answering questions for people, is keep their safety in mind. There are places in Tampa where I wouldn't stay, even if I was toting a concealed firearm (I have a licence). Some of those places are nationally known chains too. I try to steer folks from those places and areas if possible.

 

Pretty soon, if I can catch a Sunday with clear blue skies (that makes the best outdoor photos), I'm going over to Tampa and take some updated photos of some areas of interest, like Channelside and the new Embassy Suites next to the Tampa Convention Center downtown. I'd also like to get some photos of the places we talk about out at Rocky Point.

Ken

 

Ken, as always you are the Ambassador of Tampa. You go above and beyond and plenty of folks here owe a big THANK YOU.

[flyingb]

Sheila - I've never been in that hotel before, but I know where it is and have been by there many times. The area is fine. The area is heavy with corporate offices, office buildings, a huge upscale mall nearby, etc. Just up the street from the hotel on Lois (to the N at the major intersection) is LeRoy Selmon's Bar B Q and it's good. There are two other restaurants next to Selmon's (all 3 are concepts of the Outback Steakhouse parent corp). This is in the same general area of the Westshore Business District, and near the airport. Here's the web page:

 

http://www.hilton.com/en/hi/hotels/index.jhtml?ctyhocn=TPAAHHF

 

Enjoy.

 

Ken

 

Ken,

Do you know anything about Holiday Inn Exp. on Galbraith? Do they offer parking during cruise? Also what about the area? Anything? ;)

Thanks,

Luv's Crusin'

[Cracker Ken]

HockeyFamilyCruisers - It's hard to tell about cancellations. It could happen, but someone else could grab it before you get it. You could keep trying and see what happens. The Hyatt downtown is a nice place, a few blocks further N of the two Channelside hotels. Another place, is the Hampton Inn in Ybor. Too far to walk, but on the street car line. 1 mile from the port.

 

cathyoo - Thanks for the compliment.

 

Luv's Crusin' - That Holiday Inn Express is out in New Tampa, at Bruce B Downs and I-75 - the far NE corner of town. Nice, clean, safe area. I haven't been to that hotel, but have seen it. It's your basic Holiday Inn Express. Lots of good places to eat nearby, along with stores. If you stay out there, you will be 15-30 minutes from the cruise terminal. Taxi ride would be expensive too. I don't know if you can leave your car or not.

 

Ken

[CMJFamily]

Thanks again, Ken! We'll try those.

I know you mentioned that around Busch Gardens is not a good place to stay. Are there any other areas of Tampa to avoid?(in the downtown, Ybor City or Airport areas) Also, if we end up not getting a room near the Pier, what would yur next choice be?

Thanks again for all your patience in answering our questions!

[Cracker Ken]

HockeyFamilyCruisers - Yes, stay off of Busch Blvd. There's nothing nice down there, other than Busch Gardens. Urban sprawl is taking over the area. Locations with addresses on E. Fowler Avenue, especially with addresses over 3000 E. aren't bad. There's a couple of hotels in E. Tampa, on 50th St (HoJo's) and on Melbourne (Days Inn) that should be avoided too. Rocky Point is nice (9 miles to the port) and hotels on Westshore Blvd are in a good area as well. If you find something you are interested in, run it by me and I'll tell you what I think.

 

Ken