Reunion-2026-St-Augustine

Hello GHT Alumni,

The LAHS reunion is going to be in St.Augustine Florida this year, from October 5 for 3 nights, with check out on Thursday, October 8, when we have scheduled a four night cruise optional add on.

Welcome to the oldest continuously occupied city in the U.S. St. Augustine was settled in 1565, and survived attacks by Sir Francis Drake in 1586, and numerous other English attacks through 1763 when Florida was transferred to England. In 1783 Florida returned to Spanish control. It was ceded to the U.S. in 1821, and became the 27th State in 1845.

We have a lovely hotel for our reunion, Hilton, Homewood Suites, that is only 3 years old, and is located on the western bank of the St, Sebastian river. The rooms are spacious and the outdoor common areas will provide sufficient room for us to congregate. Our room rate is $136 per night plus taxes. They gave us a reduced rate for parking $15.95 per day. We as a group, have also rented their meeting room for our stay. Take a look at the hotel website as they have lots of pictures.

St. Augustine has plenty of interesting things to see and do. If you like history, start with the Castillo de San Marcos, completed in 1695, to protect the city from English and French invasion. The Spanish Galleons would come to St. Augustine from South America loaded with treasure, took on provisions and then sailed to Spain using the favorable Gulf Stream current.

Since we are getting older, a stop at the Fountain of Youth, may be on your list of things to do. We took the tour years ago and drank the water, but I have noticed it isn’t working as well as I would like.

Other sites that we have taken our visitors over the past 12 years are: The old jail (not a place where you would want to be incarcerated); the Lightner Museum with exhibits of stained glass, the Pirate Museum and the wax museum. We also took our nephews and nieces to the Alligator Farm, where they have way too many alligators.

St. Augustine has a large visitor center and a website where you can find brochures on lots of other things to see. Check it out.

We are planning to have a group meal one night at one of St. Augustine’s restaurants. When we had the reunion here in 2019, we ate at the Columbia restaurant, which has very good seafood and some Cuban dishes.

I hope you all can join us in St. Augustine this October. We will have a good time and always good company.

Ed Scarpace, your host for the 2026 Reunion

Optional Reunion Event: 4-Night Bahamas Cruise Aboard Carnival Elation

Carnival Elation

Extend your GHT Reunion experience with an unforgettable 4-night cruise aboard the Carnival Elation, departing from JAXPORT Cruise Terminal. This optional getaway offers the perfect blend of relaxation, entertainment, and tropical adventure -- an ideal way to continue reconnecting with friends while exploring the beautiful Bahamas.

Getting There from St. Augustine

Traveling from St. Augustine to the Jacksonville cruise port is simple and convenient. The drive is approximately 45 miles north via I-95 and typically takes about 1 hour, depending on traffic. It’s a straightforward route, making it easy for reunion attendees to transition from our gathering to embarkation day.

Parking at the Port

Parking is available directly at the JAXPORT Cruise Terminal for a daily fee. The secure lot is located just steps from the terminal, allowing for easy luggage drop-off and a smooth boarding experience. No shuttles required—just park and walk right in.

About the Cruise

Once onboard the Carnival Elation, you’ll find everything you need for a fun and carefree escape. Enjoy live entertainment, comedy shows, and music venues, or relax poolside with a tropical drink in hand. Dining options range from casual bites to elegant dinners, all included.

The itinerary typically includes a stop in the Bahamas—perfect for beachcombing, snorkeling, or simply soaking up the sun—along with a day at sea to enjoy the ship’s amenities at your own pace.

Whether you’re looking to unwind, explore, or continue the camaraderie of the reunion in a unique setting, this optional cruise is a fantastic way to cap off the experience.

Get to Know Carnival Elation

There is a short video below explaining the layout of the ship

4-Day Cruise - The Bahamas from Jacksonville, FL

Start: Jacksonville > Celebration Key™ > Nassau > End: Jacksonville

Thu Oct 8, 2026 - Mon Oct 12, 2026

Carnival Cruise Line (4-day cruise) departs Jacksonville on Thursday, October 8, and returns Monday, October 12.

Start Booking by clicking on this Link

The link should open a page that allows you to start the booking process and see the itinerary (see image below).