Great Wall, Pandas, and Mcdonald's

 We are hitting freezing temperatures in Florida.  One day it's warm, and then it's cold.  The kids are getting sick.  I even had to pull out my leather jacket.  That only happens a few times in a year, if at all.  I can guess that it will be warm again soon.  At least there is no snow and ice.  I would hate to drive in Florida during a snow and ice storm.  These people can't drive in good weather.  

 When you cruise, they will have a show that will introduce you to the places you will visit.  We made a mistake and sat through one.  I reminded my wife to hit me in the head if I ever suggest doing another one.  When you get in, they will give you tickets for "prizes" you can win.  They will give away excursions, clothing, and other knick-knacks.  You have to stay to win them.  The person doing the show is the ship's "personal shopper".  They will act like they have your best interests in mind.  They are not looking out for you; they are looking out for the port shops.  I am guessing they might work on commission.  They will tell you about how great prices are because they are duty-free.  Use common sense.  The prices do not look that low. If you are looking for alcohol, jewelry, etc., do your research.  My wife said she saw where people bought jewelry and brought it to be appraised when they got home.  They fo...

 When we were younger, we did a couple of excursions.  We saw a Mayan pyramid, we took a bus through St. Martin, and we visited a snorkeling beach in St. Thomas.  When you start bringing children with you, it becomes more expensive.  Not only that, but the costs have really gone up.  Walking tours begin around $50 and then go up from there.  The problem we would have is that it would not be worth the money.  Our kids are just as happy staying on the boat.  Usually, I just go into port and look around.  My family might accompany me if they have not been there.  All port stores are the same.  You are lucky if you can find anything original.  Most is imported from China.  Another issue with excursions is that they rush you through areas and go only to certain tourist traps. By the time it is done, you have to get back on the ship.  Do research and plan ahead.   

 For every critic complaining about Netflix killing the movie experience, they are not doing much to champion going to movies in theaters.  Every time I see a story, I don't see much encouragement, especially for smaller films.  Then, you have the instant returns.  Publications expect movies to make all their money in the first week.  An example would be the Christmas release of Avatar 3.  It was released one week before Christmas.  That is the week when everyone is doing their last-minute shopping.  Kids went on vacation the Monday after it came out.  To me, it is no surprise that it is "rebounding."  When we worked in theaters, it was the calm before the storm.  A slow first week before Christmas usually meant a slaughter the next week.  Don't believe what you read about a film dying in its first week.  Sometimes it is just beginning.