AAA Traveler Apr/May 2022 Carolinas - 39

Benefits of Driving To Your Cruise Port
It's said that half the fun of a journey is getting there.
That's certainly true for cruise vacations, and it may
be less stressful and cost less to drive to your cruise
port. Here are some tips and benefits to consider
when driving to your cruise:
Historical Cotten Exchange, Savannah
Macon to South Florida
Driving from central Georgia to the
cruise ports of Ft. Lauderdale or Miami
brings a mix of Southern charm, island
idylls and unlimited family fun. A little
over two hours southeast of Macon, Ga.,
is Savannah, Ga., a visual and gustatory
delight with its historic squares
complete with live oaks draped in
Spanish moss, horse-drawn carriages
and antebellum architecture. Grab a
seat on a hop-on, hop-off trolley to
explore points around town, including
River Street and its array of candy
shops, restaurants and bars with river
views.
Heading south down Interstate 95, it's
about a three-hour drive south to St.
Augustine, Fla., America's oldest
continuously inhabited Europeanfounded
city (1565). Explore the streets
paved with bricks and lined with
restored and reconstructed Spanish
Colonial buildings, the St. Augustine
Pirate & Treasure Museum and climb to
the top of St. Augustine Lighthouse for
breathtaking views of Matanzas Bay.
About 100 miles to the south is
Kennedy Space Center, the primary
launch center for NASA's human
Arrive Early
Cruise experts recommend arriving at your
departure port at least a day early. When you drive,
this gives you the opportunity to explore the charms
and attractions of your ship's homeport and having
a car makes getting around even easier.
Find Free Parking
While most cruise ports provide ample parking,
daily rates can be expensive. Consider a " cruise and
stay " package to help save on parking costs. Many
hotels will let you park in their lot for free if you stay
there at least one night, and some even provide free
or discounted shuttles from the hotel to the port.
Get There In Style
Do you have a dream car you've always wanted to
drive? Consider renting one for your next road trip.
Hertz offers a unique collection of cars-high-end,
luxury vehicles. They also offer convertibles,
performance and even eco-friendly cars, so you can
choose one best for you and hit the road in style.
Visit AAA.com/Hertz for details.
Travel On Your Schedule
Driving puts you in control and at your own pace.
You can stop at interesting places along the way,
adding another layer to your vacation.
Weigh Your Options
Cost and flexibility are important factors to consider
whether to drive or fly, but so is distance. If the drive
to your port is more than six to eight hours each
way, the time you save by flying may be greater
than the cost savings and convenience of driving.
Bottom line, it really depends on your situation and
travel style.
TRAVELER APR/MAY 2022 |
39
http://www.AAA.com/Hertz
AAA Traveler Apr/May 2022 Carolinas

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