tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6663144691980493002024-03-18T22:51:25.329-05:00Ray's Cruise & Travel BlogSnoozeman's Collection of Travel and Contrarian Cruise ReviewsSnoozemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08287635714818403539noreply@blogger.comBlogger199125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-666314469198049300.post-39637310857228467822024-03-16T13:00:00.042-05:002024-03-18T22:50:50.396-05:00Carnival Jubilee B2B Cruise Review - March 16th & 23rd, 2024<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgytWl9u8110Y3c7E0Hpu6wW5gUDooJbtdaLz5o0Tt1D-ccF0CTnXfTHxPDMQ6RljWHhRQV_ALcIh-l55sL_RB6EhHRGsRXIjK3SVofuNCKFnK5iMUM2v3j8sWeOAX61kccijPNKaxO1t96_eKDCYpsDERpP3mpsl357gAFxaUVCrNd3jiTfoZSKdUekE4/s960/960x0.webp" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="960" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgytWl9u8110Y3c7E0Hpu6wW5gUDooJbtdaLz5o0Tt1D-ccF0CTnXfTHxPDMQ6RljWHhRQV_ALcIh-l55sL_RB6EhHRGsRXIjK3SVofuNCKFnK5iMUM2v3j8sWeOAX61kccijPNKaxO1t96_eKDCYpsDERpP3mpsl357gAFxaUVCrNd3jiTfoZSKdUekE4/w640-h426/960x0.webp" width="640" /></a><b>Carnival Jubilee B2B Cruise Review - March 16th & 23rd, 2024</b></div><p></p><p><u><b>Just the Facts:</b></u><br /><u>Ship:</u> Carnival Jubilee, 3rd of the Excel Class ships launched in late 2023 at 183,500 Tons & 6500 max guest capacity.<br /><u>Captain:</u> Stefano Bonico - Hotel Director: Pierre - <u>Cruise Director:</u> Kendell Fire<br /><u>Ports:</u> Galveston TX - Mahogany Bay, Roatan, Honduras - Costa Maya, MX - Cozumel, MX - Repeated</p><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Saturday / March 16th, 2024 Embarkation / Day 1 </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxXuO_CRAVwFEkK-OHXpf-V2b4krXCOsGTLc1b9eeaVv2Guanuc2ddRrVoZilVDHREcbWTQuOMKZ5PB1ZKEJOT47ERp95evpc6JG78offrczUXOdWRy5pJIDmqkCobTp8NX2goc37TEh-XkCjMMALZBuj2_HZLnLaudWOHGHen3SqHIZc9aEb8BU_avFU/s3855/bell.heic" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2587" data-original-width="3855" height="269" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxXuO_CRAVwFEkK-OHXpf-V2b4krXCOsGTLc1b9eeaVv2Guanuc2ddRrVoZilVDHREcbWTQuOMKZ5PB1ZKEJOT47ERp95evpc6JG78offrczUXOdWRy5pJIDmqkCobTp8NX2goc37TEh-XkCjMMALZBuj2_HZLnLaudWOHGHen3SqHIZc9aEb8BU_avFU/w400-h269/bell.heic" width="400" /></a>We were up very early (3:00 am) for our Lyft drive to the Tampa Airport arriving at about 4:45 am for our 6:00 am flight. Smooth security and check-in in Miami for our 8:30 AM flight to Houston IAH. We arrived in Houston at about 11:30 am. We then waited over an hour for the Carnival Shuttle bus. Once on board, the bus stopped twice on the way. We spent more time with the Shuttle than any other segment of travel…four hours counting wait times and travel. Once we arrived at the pier at about 2:00 pm it was smooth sailing onto the ship. No lines anywhere along the way…even security. We were in our cabin on Lido Deck and unpacked by 2:30 pm as we rolled on our bags ourselves. I find it much easier to board late and have done so on the last several cruises. We have an interior cabin as I originally booked as a solo then added the DW afterward for the first week. The cabin is adequate for both of us, we each have a wardrobe and the cabin is nice and clean. No worn carpet, lots of hangers, no scratches or stains…very nice. We went out through the secret door to the Lido deck to eat, I had an MDE Big Chicken Sandwich, Chicken Tenders, and Potato Fries. It was very good,..<b>Big Chicken</b> is a favorite. They were making final requests for guests to report to their muster stations so that was our next stop…ours was B-8 located on Deck 8 in ChiBang. We returned to the cabin for some much-needed rest and met our Cabin Steward Danu. We requested bath robes, ice, and extra towels. At about 4:30 PM, we sailed away into some brisk weather. The DW went up to deck 12 to meet the girls and I did a walkabout to see where the veteran Alchemy-trained bartenders were working. I had a beer at Summer Landing then went up to the Alchemy Bar. Three of my favorites were there: The Two Nicks together again, and Daniel. Wow! All Alchemy All-Stars. I then went by the new Golden Mermaid and saw CJ and Jason, two more All-Stars. I can’t wait to try some of the new menu cocktails at the GM. Very tempting to start but I knew I needed rest tonight and retired to the cabin. It was a busy travel and embark day for the new Carnival Jubilee.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><b> </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><b>Sunday / March 17th / Fun Day at Sea / Day 2 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc4ByavDT7kuenElk0Elcrtt2ujHtQMMk3NDrlW7oCsalZxKmhJSADhx29sDZBtO9kbRT848D7b3HDijA9mWHGix-EdEHUndur7dwXccf8vuVdSQk-0aDaYdbh5zCcORtcIj7JV9UywP2QRTAsbW5WlLcYbWCm1ksU1sEie36OJlHZlRjC2JcM7PgPhEs/s4032/pool.HEIC" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc4ByavDT7kuenElk0Elcrtt2ujHtQMMk3NDrlW7oCsalZxKmhJSADhx29sDZBtO9kbRT848D7b3HDijA9mWHGix-EdEHUndur7dwXccf8vuVdSQk-0aDaYdbh5zCcORtcIj7JV9UywP2QRTAsbW5WlLcYbWCm1ksU1sEie36OJlHZlRjC2JcM7PgPhEs/w300-h400/pool.HEIC" width="300" /></a></div></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well. At about 8:00 am I went around the corner to the </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Blue Iguana</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> for my favorite Carnival breakfast. I had my usual: Huevos Rancheros with Pico de Gallo, Shredded Cheese, Salsas, Arepas, and Watermelon. It was excellent. So convenient as our cabin location is basically behind the Blue Iguana. We did a brief walkabout and the outer decks are packed. We made a mistake booking during spring break, but I underestimated the effect of higher fares would be on the new Jubilee. We originally had planned on sailing earlier, but Carnival canceled the first month of cruises so we ended up with March dates. Our Snoozemate’s cruise will be back in February next year on the Pacific coast. The main pool and hot tub were packed with children…oh my. We met our group in the Golden Mermaid at about noon. The <b>Diamond Luncheon </b>was held next door in the Atlantic Restaurant at 12:30. We had a ten-top table and excellent service from bar servers to waiters. The Captain and senior officers were introduced by Kendall Fire the cruise director. She announced as suspected a full ship with over 6250 guests, but only 62 Diamonds. This is my first Diamond Luncheon since they introduced the new menu. I had my doubts when I saw it, but it’s a very good menu for this function. DW approved and complimented the vegetarian choices, she ordered the Roasted Pumpkin Salad with Feta and Almonds, the Artichoke Blue Cheese Fettuccine entree, and the Chocolate Crema dessert. I ordered the Teriyaki Pork Bites (excellent), and two entrees: Grilled Jumbo Shrimp (a Rudi’s Seagrill selection) and the Petit Steak and Fries (Emeril’s Bistro selection). Both were very good. For dessert, I had a very nice Five Layered Pistachio Cake. We never ran out of complementary cocktails including enough to continue the party back into the <b>Golden Mermaid</b>. This has become our SOP following the luncheon…this time it’s a St. Patrick's Day celebration. We stayed all afternoon and through their scheduled mixers: The Independent Travelers, the Singles, and the over-40s. I will have to say that this is the first time that I have seen one of these mixers hosted. The host did a very good job with humor, we even offered up one of our senior solos…his humorous selling point was that he could pay off student loans. It was funny. After a full day of celebrations, I knew dinner was out of the question, but I made it to Guy’s Burgers before they closed (barely) for a double burger & fries. Then it was back to the cabin for a full evening of rest. A great St. Patrick Sea Day on the Jubilee.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Monday / March 18th / Fun Day at Sea / Day 3</b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQOIpzUXEzlp_QCbP-fFjD4rCfAMHeOpvrFE72JPRXRZYJwsjmzJFsU2dptybK7Jd8UEw9rDGFahkSXi-IydUerMBw-si_GQvRUJu6kv-I-b9gTk1jCft-olBN2g4o6tucj5_g5OOCQGLXlkT7PMZUkQ77xg0qGs-W9Mgfs2j_1_JKghyYAM3Pzi5bn5g/s3898/vegasShow.heic" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3898" data-original-width="2954" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQOIpzUXEzlp_QCbP-fFjD4rCfAMHeOpvrFE72JPRXRZYJwsjmzJFsU2dptybK7Jd8UEw9rDGFahkSXi-IydUerMBw-si_GQvRUJu6kv-I-b9gTk1jCft-olBN2g4o6tucj5_g5OOCQGLXlkT7PMZUkQ77xg0qGs-W9Mgfs2j_1_JKghyYAM3Pzi5bn5g/s320/vegasShow.heic" width="243" /></a></div>Smooth seas overnight and I successfully slept off the St. Patrick's Day shenanigans from yesterday. At about 8:30 am, I went around the corner to </span><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Blue Iguana</span></strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> for my favorite Carnival breakfast: Huevos Rancheros with Pico de Gallo, Shredded Cheese, Salsas, Arepas, and Watermelon. The Pool Deck was already packed with guests. I took an Arepa and watermelon back to the cabin for the DW. Markets opened early in the Central Timezone so work started early…Good Day too. I prepared a laundry bag for Danu before we went on a walkabout. At about 12:45 we went to </span><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Cucina De Capitano</span></strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> for lunch. We had Mozzarella Sticks as an appetizer and ordered Pasta Bowls from the varied selections of pastas, sauces, and ingredients then desserts. I had a Limoncello Pie and DW an Orange Gelato. After lunch, we went to the Casino to get our $25 Diamond free-play. We’re not real gamblers but we did well at roulette, we ended up with $65 in real chips…I consider changing the play chips for real value at one-to-one a success and we did that and more. That will be our casino time for the cruise. We returned to the cabin and I updated my blog reviews and monitored the closing Market while watching three Errol Flynn movies on TCM. At about 6:00 pm I went to the Golden Mermaid for a very nice cocktail made by CJ Cornelius. For dinner tonight, I had Fish & Chips at The Seafood Shack on Lido Deck. It looked like two nice large pieces of fish, but it was pretty much all batter and little fish. Disappointing, I used to like the Seafood Shack. We went down to the Center Stage at about 9:00 pm for the 9:30 show </span><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The Residency</span></strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">. It was songs from various stars who resided in Vegas; Sinatra, Newton, Elvis, Tina, and more. We had great center area seats and enjoyed it. Following the show we retired to the cabin.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div>Snoozemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08287635714818403539noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-666314469198049300.post-37950508675344923002024-02-22T11:00:00.143-06:002024-03-03T00:26:30.754-06:00Celebrity Constellation Cruise Review - February 22, 2024<div><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8dLTCq2MrhiNCwV_6e5Q1Mz_h4HHpku_wFT_rP2Hj8FtF_wdayF-5Njb3zjj7rDanw1F8NRjs0r1WP_jrIPBVBaMNsig8oGwKtuRBJTfeZuxy6Dlj2mjt6uBNV0dJ2Ignz7sItXPfGBV2uuNJPc9lsB3uYr87gu57iCKedH3eY4xLjHoQnQhCk_ZnQiM/s1396/Connie1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="924" data-original-width="1396" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8dLTCq2MrhiNCwV_6e5Q1Mz_h4HHpku_wFT_rP2Hj8FtF_wdayF-5Njb3zjj7rDanw1F8NRjs0r1WP_jrIPBVBaMNsig8oGwKtuRBJTfeZuxy6Dlj2mjt6uBNV0dJ2Ignz7sItXPfGBV2uuNJPc9lsB3uYr87gu57iCKedH3eY4xLjHoQnQhCk_ZnQiM/w640-h424/Connie1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Celebrity Constellation Cruise Review - February 22, 2024</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b> </b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span><u>Just the Facts:</u><br /></span><span><b>Ship</b>: Celebrity Constellation</span><span>- 2002 - <span class="w8qArf">Weight<span>:</span> </span><span><span class="LrzXr kno-fv wHYlTd z8gr9e">90,940 tons - </span></span><span class="w8qArf">Capacity<span>:</span></span><span><span class="LrzXr kno-fv wHYlTd z8gr9e"> 2,170 passengers</span></span></span> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;">Captain: Morfis Passalis (Greece), Hotel Director: Cameron Robertson (Scotland), Cruise Director: Sue Denning (UK)<br /><span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span><span><b>Ports</b>: Tampa, USA - New Orleans USA - Roatan, Honduras - Belize City, Belize - Cozumel, Mexico <br /><br /></span></span><span>I’m
cruising as a solo on this 9-day cruise, unique as we call on NOLA before heading south to the Western Caribbean. This is my first cruise on the </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span>Celebrity Constellation</span><span> (Connie)</span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span>, only my 3rd
cruise on Celebrity, and my 207th cruise overall. They do honor my D+ status from Royal Caribbean as an Elite on this sailing. Always nice to sail a new (to me) ship...especially from my new home port of Tampa.</span><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b> </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Thursday, February 22, 2024 / Embarkation <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVckupMBSMF_QaTpVSaLFlX8MGAP5bGirZB26JGY1o9tkQFwjYKj1wFVrVmXgNoBlwu3-RMa39BToE1NDgniyGdomdPsIyIDIg1qKttYy_1CPPLjIJrnCe-_GAduCZMTL9thJEe__MwjcMi54_E8U3ZOAOU1zNoteMx4AQXfIYGvvlZwPyqHVhDYW9lKs/s3704/Pool.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3704" data-original-width="3018" height="399" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVckupMBSMF_QaTpVSaLFlX8MGAP5bGirZB26JGY1o9tkQFwjYKj1wFVrVmXgNoBlwu3-RMa39BToE1NDgniyGdomdPsIyIDIg1qKttYy_1CPPLjIJrnCe-_GAduCZMTL9thJEe__MwjcMi54_E8U3ZOAOU1zNoteMx4AQXfIYGvvlZwPyqHVhDYW9lKs/w314-h399/Pool.jpeg" width="314" /></a></div></b><div style="text-align: justify;">I woke at about 7:30 am and finished packing for today’s cruise. I had a Lyft ride scheduled for 9:45 am and he came 15 minutes early but I was ready. Quick ride to the Florida Aquarium and I walked over to the cruise port (#2) arriving at 10:20 am well ahead of boarding. No lines at security or check-in and soon waiting for boarding to begin. They were late starting but still on the ship by 11:15 am. I dropped my carry-on bag in my cabin on deck 2 then went upstairs to the buffet, not busy at all as the Main dining room was also open for lunch on embarkation day. I had Roast Turkey from the Carving Station, Veal Scallopene, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Waldorf Salad, and a selection of various small desserts including Bread Pudding. Very good and has a nice view of Tampa. The weather has turned out very nice and sunny too. A good start to the day and cruise. I went to my muster station on deck 4 then to the Cafe al Bracio on deck 5 not for coffee but a Diet Coca-Cola…I like their large chairs and view. I was able to log into my WiFi account and monitor the Market on this great up day and start this blog review until the cabins officially opened. You are allowed to drop your bags and pick up your Cabin card until the cabin is cleared usually by 1:30 pm. I set up my cabin and had plenty of room for hanging and also lots of storage areas. I will have to carefully open all the cabinets and drawers to ensure I have everything on the final day. The cabin may be the largest interior space I have had on a ship and I actually like the location even though it is on the lower deck. It is very convenient to the aft elevators. After watching Sail Away from Deck 11, I had a beer ($11+) at about 5:00 pm at Cellar Masters (the wine bar). I’m really looking forward to the Elite Happy Hour from 5:00-7:00 pm beginning tomorrow as drinks are very dear on the ship. I did a walkabout and stopped at the Captain's Club on deck 3 for a list of Elite benefits. My dinner is at 8:30 in the <b>San Marco Restaurant</b> (MDR) and I’m at an 8-top solo table…we had four at dinner tonight. The menu was good and I ordered: a Beet Salad, Escargot, The featured Prime Rib entree, and Rum Raisin ice creme for dessert. It was good. The table service was excellent. Another walkabout the ship before retiring at about 10:30. It was an easy embarkation day on the Connie.</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Friday, February 23, 2024 / at Sea <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeMuEcVx7cZHSDV2yEcvgrNM5YTG8wKn9CYWJqHlJgc2z-UVDblzBdlvMxms5NrPQl8Vs1PtVtFvLD7h8lDxBa22X8TyrPM1JqoLvvYcOk1SY_z_PVT1GVjQ7HkZP_i3FYcRlVVfD8BUqh5ot8EGkcQjaeWgGpXW4bDZNYlX9mpZqhW66_6c3paBQWgVA/s4032/IMG_0128.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeMuEcVx7cZHSDV2yEcvgrNM5YTG8wKn9CYWJqHlJgc2z-UVDblzBdlvMxms5NrPQl8Vs1PtVtFvLD7h8lDxBa22X8TyrPM1JqoLvvYcOk1SY_z_PVT1GVjQ7HkZP_i3FYcRlVVfD8BUqh5ot8EGkcQjaeWgGpXW4bDZNYlX9mpZqhW66_6c3paBQWgVA/w300-h400/IMG_0128.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div></b>Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well. We turned our clocks back one hour overnight so I was actually awake at 6:30 am. I went to the MDR for breakfast as it’s a tradition for me on the first full day and I always order the same items. I ordered: Hot Milk, Fruit plate, Eggs Benedict, Hash browns Bacon, and uniquely Canadian Bacon as well. It was all very good as was the service and the fellow guests at our shared window table. The ship has StarLink so very good WiFi throughout the ship. I used it to do business the rest of the morning. At about 1:00 pm I went to the Pool Deck Grill and had a hamburger and fries. It was just OK. I then stopped for a bowl of Rum Raisin ice creme and went to the aft deck to watch the wake. I found a nice table and enjoyed the view and sun for about an hour. I did a walkabout, easy to do on a smaller ship and guests were enjoying the sea day. This was dress Chic night for dinner perhaps the formal evening but unsure. I was at Cellar Masters for Happy Hour just after 5:00 pm to enjoy my complimentary Cosmopolitan cocktails. A table mate by chance joined me later. I went to the Theater for the production show: <i><b>Soundtrack</b></i> at 7:00 pm and scored a center row two seat with no seat in front of me, perfect for photographs. I was surprised by the large number of singers and dancers in the cast…it was a big show. Also very enjoyable one of the best I have seen since pre-covid days on MSC. I would see this show again. Dinner tonight was good, I ordered the Escargot, a double Shrimp Cocktail, the Steak Diane entree, and a dessert sampler. It was good and the same four guests attended. Our service was again excellent by our waiter Arta and his assistant Witness. I retired after dinner. It was a restful and nice sea day.<br /></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Saturday, February 24, 2024 / New Orleans, Louisiana</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIf9_Yh43DlLpMCsZwTVsBc__GEGUpqWVuvmwg_ZJxjjqc1zPAW9B14S7oqkfQ6mZ5XIa57WsbA-jGdAgVf3pms_sERBgZ33HhPomY-ydAm36Lx9ARk1Vl99eesyYm8iWbGTYrd3xAhy6EIsBLce5j2lKVoWwtia-e_1IjtHpjszCV9FbBfdp1XNvoRpo/s3518/Jackson%20Sq.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3518" data-original-width="2713" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIf9_Yh43DlLpMCsZwTVsBc__GEGUpqWVuvmwg_ZJxjjqc1zPAW9B14S7oqkfQ6mZ5XIa57WsbA-jGdAgVf3pms_sERBgZ33HhPomY-ydAm36Lx9ARk1Vl99eesyYm8iWbGTYrd3xAhy6EIsBLce5j2lKVoWwtia-e_1IjtHpjszCV9FbBfdp1XNvoRpo/w309-h400/Jackson%20Sq.jpeg" width="309" /></a></div>Smooth seas overnight and you could feel it when we entered the Mississippi River. At 6:00 am we had a ship-wide emergency announcement from the Captain asking for any guests with O-negative blood to report to the Medical Center. He made an additional (non emergency) announcement at 8:00 am after arrival. The river channel was cleared for the emergency and we arrived 1.5 hours ahead of our scheduled 9:30 arrival. The guest was stable and transferred to an awaiting ambulance. <b>TIP</b>: I leave my TV on the ship information channel overnight so that I can monitor announcements. That is usually the channel that shows the ship's course and location. We all heard the 6:00 am, but I would not have heard the 8:00 am announcement as it went to public areas and not cabins. So up early to update this blog. I left the ship at about 9:30 and walked to the <b>National World War II Museum </b>only 15 minutes away. It was much larger than I anticipated and stayed for three + hours. I saw two feature movies, one in 4D although seems 3D to me…impressive nonetheless. The exhibits were very informative and thorough. The WWII aircraft were impressive. Afterward, I walked to <b>Mothers Restaurant</b> arriving at about 1:40 pm just after the noon rush but still busy. I had a full Ferdie Special and a cup of Crawfish Etouffie. It was dear but very good. I then walked to the Hotel Monteleone and stopped at the Carousel Bar, it was packed. In fact, there were more tourists in NOLA than I have seen outside of Mardi Gras or Jazz Fest. I then walked through the French Quarter passing many old haunts such as Brennan’s, Antoines, Court of Two Sisters, Tujagues (Ain’t dere no mo), Cafe du Monde (lines a block long), and Jackson Square. I did get my beignets at the Cafe Du Monde in the Riverside on the walk back to the cruise pier. I also saw the Carnival Valor sailing away downriver. I made it back to the ship at about 5:00 pm. I took a break and then went up to the Sunset Bar located far aft on deck 10 to watch the sunset and then the lights of NOLA. Nice live music began at sundown, very pleasant and enjoyable. Drinking happy hour Coca-Colas also taking some back to the cabin. The Sunset may become my bar of choice for the rest of the cruise. I’m not doing the MDR for dinner as I’ve had enough to eat today. After an evening walkabout I retired to the cabin. A great day in NOLA.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Sunday, February 25, 2024 / at Sea </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg99Idz11EXgHMNbFHOlM8YxiN8nb3GF_mBQvgAIPsJ4wgrhLXHcKwRfox8XZGho7X1GWS7gPsnTn1jMfo4Q017pl977R_dhycIo7DoQZTotrcQo7dkZFRQfO6ObMHokMBWFL8VYbUA0ofYnvadgRLbhPEyo5YYCkURa05TA8TUjOV6ZzOk82GZerB2chM/s4032/3singers.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg99Idz11EXgHMNbFHOlM8YxiN8nb3GF_mBQvgAIPsJ4wgrhLXHcKwRfox8XZGho7X1GWS7gPsnTn1jMfo4Q017pl977R_dhycIo7DoQZTotrcQo7dkZFRQfO6ObMHokMBWFL8VYbUA0ofYnvadgRLbhPEyo5YYCkURa05TA8TUjOV6ZzOk82GZerB2chM/w400-h300/3singers.jpeg" width="400" /></a></span></b></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth river and seas overnight as we sailed south on the Mississippi and into the Gulf of Mexico at about 5:00 am. Since I skipped dinner last night I was looking forward to breakfast. I ate soon after the MDR opened and my waiter was Arta so good service. I ordered Hot Milk, a Fruit Plate, three eggs over easy (perfect), Hash Browns, American & British Bacon, and Toast…all were very good. I did a walkabout as I hadn’t really visited deck 4 … nice public spaces and access to the outer boat deck. I went up to Deck 5 and listened to the Oklahoma Sooners early softball game, they won their 66th in a row 8-0. I noticed the sign at the San Marco MDR about lunch being served on Deck 4 so went down to the main level for lunch just getting in before they closed at 1:30. I had a great two-top far aft at the big aft windows. I ordered the Pasta Bolognese as a starter, the Pork Loin entree, and the Cinnamon Ice Creme for dessert. It was very good and I was lucky with the timing. After lunch I returned to the cabin to listen to the end of the second game of <b>Oklahoma Softball</b> I’ve been following the softball team for several years now, only missing a few games. Yes, they won the 2nd Game 9-0 so 67 in a row and 14-0 this season. Again, the Starlink streaming works great on the Constellation. At about 5:00 pm I went up to the Sunset Bar for a beautiful sunset and a couple of cocktails. I then changed for dinner and stopped at Cellar Masters for Cosmopolitans. Elite guests have a 5:00-7:00 pm window for Happy Hour drinks. I then went to the Celebrity Theater for the production show: </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Broadway Cabaret</span></i></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">. It features the 6 lead production singers doing notable Broadway show tunes (photo). Very talented group. The Celebrity Show Band is quite good as well. It’s now rare to find a live band in a production show on a cruise ship. Dinner and service tonight were very good, I ordered: the Escargot, Pasta Fagioli Soup, Wedge the Salad, Steak & Chips entree, and Peach Clafoutis for dessert. A short walkabout of the ship including deck 4 outer boat deck before retiring. It was a good sea day and the first time I actually ate all three meals in the MDR on the same day in many years.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Monday, February 26, 2024 / at Sea </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYg4R3vU0ttSmXcGxHWF1qZ1uTYsBPmq0RwUFsxhGEKorg6GUb3ELx0o3CqAwIXxdorCHspGKRpAq9RcFZbTthzK0ISzuyP9ZsRPwYcZq7EpMJohj49sXOAHfIl91kuuaKhTrONoSKbFIcL6nlQsLLjsJDmmecnbreeFHpWhFld8KBG7vJN1XBOCDLUkQ/s3217/sunset1.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2329" data-original-width="3217" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYg4R3vU0ttSmXcGxHWF1qZ1uTYsBPmq0RwUFsxhGEKorg6GUb3ELx0o3CqAwIXxdorCHspGKRpAq9RcFZbTthzK0ISzuyP9ZsRPwYcZq7EpMJohj49sXOAHfIl91kuuaKhTrONoSKbFIcL6nlQsLLjsJDmmecnbreeFHpWhFld8KBG7vJN1XBOCDLUkQ/w400-h290/sunset1.jpeg" width="400" /></a></b></div>Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well. At about 9:00 a.m. I went up one deck to Qzine where they serve a light Continental Breakfast Buffet for Elite guests. I had Hot Milk, a Bloody Mary, a variety of fresh fruit, and Danish. It was nice and the Captain came through and stopped at every table. Nice. Later he made his daily 9:45 am announcements saying we had just left the Gulf of Mexico and sailed into the Caribbean…Cuba on our starboard and Mexico on our port side. A beautiful day today too, the warmer weather is most welcome. At noon I went to the San Marco MDR for lunch. I ordered: the Nicoise Salad as a starter, the BBQ Rib entree, and a very nice Orange Panna Cotta for dessert. So nice to have good dining service and tablecloths at a midday meal. I went up to the large Reflections Lounge on deck 11 forward to just enjoy the great view. They had music, trivia, and bingo at the time I was up there relaxing. I picked up ice on the way back to the cabin for my Coca-Cola and movie time. I watched: The Beach (2000) with a young Leonardo DiCaprio, I had never seen it…it was good. I went up to the Sunset Bar to watch the sunset and take some photos. Anthony and Made took care of me with an interesting Beach-themed cocktail and some cokes for later. The show this evening was a Magician, but I’m not into magic so I watched the Guest lecturer's presentation from this morning on the Cabin TV. The subject was the lost Titanic Baby and how the identity was determined from DNA. He is very good and I’ll try to catch his next presentation on the last sea day. We had three at dinner tonight. I ordered: the Escargot, Broccoli Soup, the Chicken entree (pass), and a very nice Cherries Jubilee for dessert. Witness was our primary waiter tonight. I wanted to see a late Motown show in the Reflections lounge, but retired…I’m now at that age where 10:30-11:00 pm shows are not quite as appealing. It was another nice sea day on the Connie. <br /><p></p></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Tuesday, February 27, 2024 / Isla Roatan, Honduras</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm8HsI0zzmIwm2zzLMwZhUKNMf_3s0XMdDs4NZoJG7sK9Fm3_j77-T01ywea9WepwaL7G4KJbKpiuK1UnlCBp-1uPnYU2pypL_6tjbSODkD8RdGyZVFUgoOR7UwWcfXvh9n28R5PPL66R6wztUMgTbF-W-qYeLOqAtqQlXn7Ru85P_NZVXZdybbOr58j4/s1772/roatan.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1304" data-original-width="1772" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm8HsI0zzmIwm2zzLMwZhUKNMf_3s0XMdDs4NZoJG7sK9Fm3_j77-T01ywea9WepwaL7G4KJbKpiuK1UnlCBp-1uPnYU2pypL_6tjbSODkD8RdGyZVFUgoOR7UwWcfXvh9n28R5PPL66R6wztUMgTbF-W-qYeLOqAtqQlXn7Ru85P_NZVXZdybbOr58j4/s320/roatan.png" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. We arrived early as scheduled and we were cleared by 7:15 am. We are docked at Coxen Hole. I was on the very first regularly scheduled cruise ship to have docked here in the 1980s on a Texaribbean cruise on NCL out of Houston’s Barbers Cut. I have returned guessing 40+ times since and have witnessed all the changes over the years. A natural beautiful island and rare in the fact that cruise ships have improved the condition of the locals and the island itself. I went to Qzine again for breakfast as it’s so convent…Danish and assorted fruits with hot milk. I relaxed all morning then went for lunch in the buffet at about noon. I had Linguine & Meatballs from the Pasta Station with a green salad. After lunch, I went off the ship and noticed that they are building a huge swimming pool (photo) at the port area, which would be good for people who didn’t want to leave the port area. I went into Coxen Hole and it’s changed with more local vendors. I found the no-name bar (a local bar) out over the water and enjoyed Salva Vida beer, I could get three for the price of one beer on the ship plus WiFi so I spent my afternoon there. It was fun. I was back on board before 5:00 pm. I went up to the Sunset Bar with some Pizza for a light snack. The mountains on the island blocked the sunset but sailing away was nice…Made prepared my frozen concoction and served it in my silicon glass so it was a relaxing evening. I changed before dinner (no shorts in MDR) and we had all four solos attending. Tonight I ordered: the Spiced Louisiana Gumbo, a Shrimp Cocktail, Escargot, the Chicken Cordon Bleu entree, and a Pana Cotta for dessert. The entree was excellent and again great service. I retired after dinner as it was a long and enjoyable port day.</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Wednesday, February 28, 2024 / Isla Roatan, Honduras</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjimWctQa9Aoxvgc68JT-zzL8PZokWUbSDkILWeT1rLX-7R6H8gB5RAR5RBjil11sSRvEGvooBfS90KbDm9IP62cCu4lDleAbTTiEJazFxVOR2hbp_Gt2Pn2-rI6Uf-fKs4WQxVyhrj8czt6b9hlQGS-9SWp1c0CXpDb4l2czkqNy4knmutuV_hsMy_610/s3669/lobster.heic" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2672" data-original-width="3669" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjimWctQa9Aoxvgc68JT-zzL8PZokWUbSDkILWeT1rLX-7R6H8gB5RAR5RBjil11sSRvEGvooBfS90KbDm9IP62cCu4lDleAbTTiEJazFxVOR2hbp_Gt2Pn2-rI6Uf-fKs4WQxVyhrj8czt6b9hlQGS-9SWp1c0CXpDb4l2czkqNy4knmutuV_hsMy_610/s320/lobster.heic" width="320" /></a></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. We were anchored off the reef outside Belize City by 7:00 am and Tenders began soon afterward. I plan to stay on board the ship as I have visited here many times. Use the search query in this blog for information on my on-shore Belize adventures. Just before they closed at 9:00 am I went to the MDR for breakfast. Arte was my waiter and I again had a two-top at the aft windows, I could see Carnival and Royal Caribbean ships at anchor. I ordered a nice breakfast: a Fruit Plate, Hot Milk, Danish, Eggs Benedict, Hash Browns, with English (2) and American Bacon. Excellent. My cabin was made up when I returned so very efficient all around. I took time doing some business then went on a walkabout ending up at the Deli Section of the buffet on deck 10. I passed it on the way to the Sunset Bar and decided to stop…they have a great setup with pre-made sandwiches or made-to-order, including steak. I did have to get a sample while there. After my walkabout, I had movie time. I highly recommend </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Fisherman’s Friend’s</span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> a true story about a singing group from Cornwall. I went to Sunset Bar and watched us sail away from Belize and enjoy some cocktails made by Made (maw-dee). I watched the group Waves in the Rendezvous Lounge before going to dinner in the San Marco Dining Room. Tonight I ordered the Escargot a la Bourguignonne, Creamy Smoked Tomato Bisque, Beef Wellington, Broiled Lobster Tail, and Baked Alaska, all very good. I retired after dinner as I needed to rest for Cozumel. It was a beautiful day for a call at Belize.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Thursday, February 29, 2024 / Isla Cozumel, Mexico <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyTrz0DrhdLp0P9LkoFiw1WmH9_fUCv0Q7Vzf-FKQhvva5JM6Uf1cG-Pq1LAPXfKzVR5yHDl5ZcFUfk1QPP0Fl97f09hPILi4XJFTLujGvc-8b3UHeLrNhctxpbOzNh5KHOtoycl-a0yDLtEf5wa45jEEUSIb-8IWzMXpkJojKQ3CWsrF8r62FqKOP_ug/s4032/Coz%20sign.HEIC" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyTrz0DrhdLp0P9LkoFiw1WmH9_fUCv0Q7Vzf-FKQhvva5JM6Uf1cG-Pq1LAPXfKzVR5yHDl5ZcFUfk1QPP0Fl97f09hPILi4XJFTLujGvc-8b3UHeLrNhctxpbOzNh5KHOtoycl-a0yDLtEf5wa45jEEUSIb-8IWzMXpkJojKQ3CWsrF8r62FqKOP_ug/w400-h300/Coz%20sign.HEIC" width="400" /></a></div></b>Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well. The Captain woke me with an arrival announcement at about 8:45 am and soon we were cleared. We also change our time back to Eastern Time overnight. I skipped breakfast as I wanted to arrive at Del Mar Latino by 10:00 am. I was off the ship at about 9:40 am and a casual stroll to the club arriving right on time. I staked out my lounger for the day and Jassy (jazzy) was my server for the day. She has cut her hair so a different look…she is the best server here too. I started with Coca-Cola Light and Coconut Shrimp for breakfast…nice. I did bring my beach glass so more ice as I like it. Quick dip in the pool to cool off from the walk and then did some business. I’m unable to use two devices on the ship but here I can use two…I need that for some secure business transactions. I started with Guacamole with Pico de Gallo…it was very good and soon I was on to Mojitos. Food all day has been very good, I ordered: Chicken Tacos, Coconut Shrimp x2, Shrimp Cocktail, Nachos, Coconut Ice Creme, and more. The Jubilee must have left early as by 2:15 pm there were only a dozen people and by 3:00 pm only five guests left at the club. Good for me and the other four. I casually walked back to the ship arriving back by 5:00 although embarking wasn't until 6:30 pm. After cleaning up I went to the Sunset Bar to watch our sail away and have a Made special. It was a very nice evening. The late dining has really worked well for me this cruise, especially with the 5-7:00 pm complimentary Elite Happy Hour and 7:00 pm showtimes. We had three for dinner tonight and the menu was interesting, I ordered: Classic Cesar Salad, Escargot, the Beef Bourguignonne entree, and Bananas Foster for dessert. I did do a short walkabout before retiring. It was a great day in Cozumel.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Friday, March 1st, 2024 / at Sea </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilCw93gaelJT45p6bxh4wqmmyCm3pfVXDO8fjwLnFP95jLsVbUK7KpYRqZrdu17porvSbfAX6_0-DpSmiUxuXzSYviz0jlInjp754IPtQSVzse0Lrf63iJTTO5qIbNKC2NhFeYKDma9rIb5jqBzJAD2ioFvwb8hTAd62a_98KFDkI_fcxb1A14C9QAOPQ/s1892/Rock%20show.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1892" data-original-width="1892" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilCw93gaelJT45p6bxh4wqmmyCm3pfVXDO8fjwLnFP95jLsVbUK7KpYRqZrdu17porvSbfAX6_0-DpSmiUxuXzSYviz0jlInjp754IPtQSVzse0Lrf63iJTTO5qIbNKC2NhFeYKDma9rIb5jqBzJAD2ioFvwb8hTAd62a_98KFDkI_fcxb1A14C9QAOPQ/w400-h400/Rock%20show.jpeg" width="400" /></a></span></b></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. At about 9:00 am. I went up to Qzine for the Elite Continental Breakfast. I had Hot Milk, Danish, and Assorted Fruits. Very convenient for me just a few feet from my cabin. My goal for our final sea day is to pack, watch two OU softball games, and get a Celebrity Future Cruise certificate. I did some business and did some packing in the morning then went up to the Buffet for some very nice Fish & Chips, I lucked out as they brought out a fresh batch just as I got to the top of the line for them. Patience had its virtue. I ate outside on the aft deck…very enjoyable. I then a walkabout and stopped for the Futures Desk on deck 5, not waiting at all for a desk to open and very soon I had my Future cruise certificate paid for and a new Celebrity credit card. I took ice back to the cabin to enjoy Coca-Cola for the softball game. The Starlink on board makes it so easy to stream sports or movies…even in an interior on deck 2. The first game was very exciting and the first played in the new Love’s Field, OU won in the bottom of the 7th 9-7. I went up to the Sunset Bar between games for my final Cocktails. I went to the Theater for the final feature production ROCK by the full cast of performers. It was weaker than the first two, but they were one singer short too. I was able to keep track of the 2nd Softball Game and watched the ending as OU won 8-0 in 5 innings. Final dinner tonight and it was good. I ordered: a Cobb Salad, Escargot, Prime Rib of Beef, Chicken Chiquita, and a Sticky Toffee Pudding & a Blackberry-Ainse Glace for desserts. I did enjoy my three dining companions…all very different…but enjoyable company. I retired to the cabin to pack and prepare for debarkation tomorrow.</span><p></p></div><div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Saturday, March 2nd, 2024 / Debarkation</span></strong></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">They had a Helicopter evacuation during the night off the coast of Naples FL so we were within the Telephone range off Sarasota from midnight. We docked as scheduled at about 6:30 a.m. Not as many guests did the self-walk off debarkation so it was very easy. I went down to Deck 4 and the MDR with my bag for a full breakfast at about 6:50 am, Afterward I proceeded to walk off the ship…no lies, no crowd at all. I walked over to the Florida Aquarium and requested a Lyft ride. I was picked up within 8 minutes ($54.99). I was home before 9:00 am Easy morning.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Cabin</span></strong></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">I had 2183 and was leery of the location until I boarded and then I liked the location…and excellent for port days. Large space and a large bathroom for an interior. Lots of storage. Neutral colors, no seating other than a chair at the vanity/desk, but a nice portable table that will go over the bed if needed. I like the Pillow situation, you receive one firm and one soft pillow (MSC does the same). The BR has a nightlight…always useful. Downside: Lots of doors slamming from the door into the crew area cabins.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Dining / Food </span></strong></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The meals in the MDR are very good, and the service and settings are wonderful. I love the tablecloths. The wait staff Arta and Witness were excellent, very pleased with the service. The buffet food was good to very good. Favorites: Carving Station, Pasta Station, Deli Section, and Salad Bar. I did not do a specialty restaurant.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Highlights of the Cruise</span></strong></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Port Day in New Orleans</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Production Shows in theater</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Port Day in Cozumel</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Service and food in the San Marco restaurant</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Sunset Bar</span></p> </div>Snoozemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08287635714818403539noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-666314469198049300.post-36589493366496662082024-02-04T10:00:00.051-06:002024-02-11T14:24:49.388-06:00MSC Seashore Cruise Review - February 4, 2024<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP-gziKqyC8oIxHNCHuRzUMiGFXMjY0Ur3CrwzMpmIji6WkStShRtl5co6ryEQ9EN7-F8ihBH3ViDb4bAnfJwvYFZzlJ-Q86ri8q5XLgougWUAEHuQkh1kfV2_8MznCDcXFxyTMTtSqjAdDVxEnivHPcVH-PE1rOtlGQknIUo-_zRX-kyEVDk35FU0Eeg/s3510/msc-seashore_msc-cruises_18685529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2209" data-original-width="3510" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP-gziKqyC8oIxHNCHuRzUMiGFXMjY0Ur3CrwzMpmIji6WkStShRtl5co6ryEQ9EN7-F8ihBH3ViDb4bAnfJwvYFZzlJ-Q86ri8q5XLgougWUAEHuQkh1kfV2_8MznCDcXFxyTMTtSqjAdDVxEnivHPcVH-PE1rOtlGQknIUo-_zRX-kyEVDk35FU0Eeg/w640-h402/msc-seashore_msc-cruises_18685529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span>MSC Seashore Cruise Review - February 4, 2024</span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><u>Just the Facts:</u><br /></span><span style="font-size: small;">Ship: MSC Seashore </span><span style="font-size: small;"> - 2020 - <span class="w8qArf">Weight<span>:</span> </span><span><span class="LrzXr kno-fv wHYlTd z8gr9e">169,400t - </span></span><span class="w8qArf">Capacity<span>:</span></span><span><span class="LrzXr kno-fv wHYlTd z8gr9e"> 4,540 passengers</span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><br /><span>Captain: Stefano Aiello (Italy) Cruise Director: Endrigo Martin (Brazil)<br />Ports: Port Canaveral, USA - Ocean Cay, Bahamas (overnight) - Cozumel, Mexico - Costa Maya, Mexico<br /><br />I’m cruising as a solo on this 7-day cruise, basically a repeat of the same cruise last month. This is my second cruise on the Seashore, my 21st cruise on MSC, and my 206th cruise overall. I do have Diamond status, the highest of the MSC Loyalty Club levels. The decorating theme of the Seashore is New York City.<br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span><br /></span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Sunday, February 4 / Port Canaveral / Embarkation / Day 1 </span></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9p91T6Q8oU-65lytyPkJEun_kBFM6irU9GXdHKqAaQnXKn6EVYNj5ag-XssThhKtGx0ecLFRZ2fTPt8DtITL3L1Z0Zmy4jzp-M5ifS25znCNoHLkVTow1CaMfVgwX7zqTju826W3tm71DLs-Skk8_cS-INx4IKA2kj1Ymn3c6AFpOHzY2QitbEQymkRI/s4032/Sunday%202:4.HEIC" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9p91T6Q8oU-65lytyPkJEun_kBFM6irU9GXdHKqAaQnXKn6EVYNj5ag-XssThhKtGx0ecLFRZ2fTPt8DtITL3L1Z0Zmy4jzp-M5ifS25znCNoHLkVTow1CaMfVgwX7zqTju826W3tm71DLs-Skk8_cS-INx4IKA2kj1Ymn3c6AFpOHzY2QitbEQymkRI/w300-h400/Sunday%202:4.HEIC" width="300" /></a></span></b></span></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">I have an early boarding time, last month worked so well I am driving late. I left the Florida Villa at about 11:15 a.m. for the drive to Port Canaveral. I arrived at </span><a class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://parkncruiseportcanaveral.com/" style="background: transparent; color: #4a6ee0; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;" target="_blank"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #4a6ee0; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Park-N-Cruise</span></a><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> at about 1:30 pm., a very efficient parking company I have used for years now and soon I was on my way to the port terminal. I arrived at Pier number 10 at about 1:50 pm grabbed my bags and went up to the escalator, no line whatsoever. I went up one level to port security and through quickly. They had a Diamond card line and I went directly to a check-in counter. Very smooth process when arriving later and I was able to go straight to my cabin arriving on Deck 12 at about 2:15 p.m. I have a balcony cabin located all the way forward, actually the second cabin so a long walk to the closest (forward) elevator/stairwell. The cabin is very comfortable, especially for a solo. The cabin has a Queen bed, Wardrobe, Large screen Television, a Counter/dressing table with mirror, a Small stocked refrigerator, Shelving, and drawers inside the wardrobe, a Couch, and a small but adequate bathroom with a solid glass door shower. It’s a bit different from last month with the couch on the balcony side. After I unpacked and set up my cabin I went to the Brooklyn Bar and a Bar Server came to me straightaway and asked if I wanted a Cosmopolitan. I think that even without the drink package this will be a fine cruise as far as cocktails are concerned. Muster Drill began at about 3:45 pm. I positioned myself so that I got my card scanned at my Muster Station C (upper Theater) very early and avoided the crowding. I preordered the premium WiFi package and the reception in my cabin was good. They are strict about one device…and you can not change from a Laptop to an iPhone. I have a 5:00 pm dinner assignment in the 5th Avenue Dining room (MDR), located on deck 6 aft…it’s going to be a long walk, but probably needed. I’m assigned a 9-top solo table, but only two showed tonight, it is a very early dining time. Personally I was ready as I did not visit the Buffet today as I had lunch before leaving this morning. Dinner and service was good. For dinner, I ordered the Tomato Basil Soup, a very nice Scallop Ceviche, and the Roast Beef entree…it was all very good. For dessert two wonderful Crema Catalonia. After dinner, I did a walkabout (photo) then retired to the cabin early. I updated this blog, then it was into bed and some TV after a busy day.</span><p></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Monday, February 5th / Ocean Cay Marine Reserve / Day 2</b> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoOlWpe0hbQE6pamznoVyDLjHTevhVKpW-dhjq5-ECUnSa-b2yQNvYZzwI5UPPXQ947xuHKrD5jEY25Ph84L2Qlq6-RtDU8erpx4OLlFKQX31ZPOOOd2EPQVADHFmhRCemdXYs3XeF24rbDNdavbdBvFsh0lGlAQnIh-e5QspDIV70DvkJArnWyiHZ2TY/s2949/IMG_0013.heic" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2700" data-original-width="2949" height="366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoOlWpe0hbQE6pamznoVyDLjHTevhVKpW-dhjq5-ECUnSa-b2yQNvYZzwI5UPPXQ947xuHKrD5jEY25Ph84L2Qlq6-RtDU8erpx4OLlFKQX31ZPOOOd2EPQVADHFmhRCemdXYs3XeF24rbDNdavbdBvFsh0lGlAQnIh-e5QspDIV70DvkJArnWyiHZ2TY/w400-h366/IMG_0013.heic" width="400" /></a></span></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight just enough movement for a very enjoyable night's sleep. The bed is very comfortable with good pillows. We were docked at about 7:00 am and it is an overcast day…the Captain has already announced that we will not overnight here as worse weather is forecast for tomorrow, but I am very skeptical about that. I believe that they will use any pretense to cancel as it means less fuel and an extra casino night. I went to the MDR for breakfast at about 8:00 am and had a shared table. I ordered a Fruit Plate, Danish, Eggs Benedict with a side of Bacon, and hash brown potatoes. I was served Hot Milk which is not always easy to get on other cruise lines but very common on MSC. One advantage of this far-forward cabin is that the lighthouse is right off of my balcony…so I have a great view of the entire island. I did my usual Monday morning business activities and enjoyed cabin time. There was a big Thunderstorm mid-morning and they requested guests to return to the ship due to the lightening. We temporarily lost WiFi so I watched the movie </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The Yellow Rolls Royce</span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> on TCM. It was very good. I went up to deck 16 just to get a good view of the island. Guests returned as the weather cleared. The water here is beautiful and the Palm trees look better with every visit. This stop will only improve over time. I had a slice of Pizza while on deck 16. MSC is well known for its excellent pizza and this slice was excellent. I took ice and a Coke Zero back to the cabin. I watched the movie </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Libel</span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> this afternoon. I considered going to the beach as we had sun by 3:30 pm, but with the cool air and early dining decided to stay on board. An advantage of having cruised so many times is that I can do whatever I wish on a cruise...not feeling as if I 'have' to follow a cruise schedule. I went to dinner at 5:00 pm and there was a retired couple from Florida so they busted the solo table, still set for 9 though. Our wait team was good and had my water and my bread straightaway. It was Caribbean Night, but I stayed away from those choices, I ordered: two Shrimp Cocktails, the BBQ Pork Ribs entree, and Key Lime Pie & Arroz con Leche for dessert. It was a very good meal. Afterward, I did a long walkabout stopping at several venues, the production show was a Magician, but I don’t do magicians. They did an abbreviated light show from the island and lighthouse before sailing away. It was a different kind of day at Ocean Cay.</span><p></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Tuesday, February 6th / <strike>Ocean Cay </strike>now Sea Day / Day 3</b> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZy_rnuBr7APdDA5GbDlDiVzBRXUSz5AB1f7L5xWvovuEAz8A1qfcmqfVjUgGtxvkz-mT1lLtAGucW0MZtHJSVBzK7P7Y6dhhOESL44u6eTih6IcZunWEtM_95KxrDGhlNDmahcSfNxsbLjAcmZnAkVx0PytnKerjpufazXxygQmkZFqmNKB9iE0jC3FY/s3730/IMG_0022.heic" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3730" data-original-width="2807" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZy_rnuBr7APdDA5GbDlDiVzBRXUSz5AB1f7L5xWvovuEAz8A1qfcmqfVjUgGtxvkz-mT1lLtAGucW0MZtHJSVBzK7P7Y6dhhOESL44u6eTih6IcZunWEtM_95KxrDGhlNDmahcSfNxsbLjAcmZnAkVx0PytnKerjpufazXxygQmkZFqmNKB9iE0jC3FY/w301-h400/IMG_0022.heic" width="301" /></a></div>Rolling seas overnight and I slept well, waking in the night to update this blog. At about 9:00 am I was up and about and prepared for the <b>Diamond Party</b> @ 10:00 am. It was held in the Brooklyn Cafe and they offered the usual MSC complimentary cocktails and some hors d'oeuvres. Nice entertainment by a Jazz group with a female singing Torch Music, my personal favorite. A full room but fewer guests than last month. Hosted by the Cruise Director Endrigo Martin with some senior officers attending. It was a nice event and I scored two Diet Cokes to take back to the cabin. When I arrived back Adam (from the Grenadines), my Cabin Steward, had just started my cabin so I was going to wait on the balcony, but I told him the MSC story about the cabin steward locking us out on the balcony under a similar circumstance. Well, we ended up swapping tales for 15 minutes. I observed him work and I must say he is most efficient. Guests that have him are very lucky. At noon I went to the Central Park MDR for lunch. I ordered the Tex-Mex Chicken Salad, a very nice Veal Scaloppini Piccata, and Pistachio ice creme for dessert. It was nice with tablecloths and proper table service…something that some cruise lines no longer have. High seas and I’m having Cabin time this afternoon. It is an especially nice option with a balcony. I got very busy booking cruises…five deposited and two held for the inaugural MSC cruise out of Galveston, Texas in 2025. I had reservations at <b>Ocean Cay</b> the premium seafood restaurant at 6:30 pm. I’m using my Diamond benefit here for a complimentary meal. I ordered: the Nicoise Salad, Carpaccio of Red Prawn (interesting), and the Black Cod entree. It was very good and served with Breads and a small piece of Birthday Cake…worked well as I had traded my dessert for a second Appetizer. Following dinner, I went to the Brooklyn Cafe for a couple of Cosmopolitans and listened to the <b>Jazz Trio</b> for an hour. I do love Torch Music...I skipped my reservation for <i>Encore</i> in the theater as I saw it last month. A busy sea day for me and I retired to the cabin that had been turned down for me by Adam. I’ll enjoy the rolling seas tonight.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div><b>Wednesday, February 7th / Day at Sea / Day 4</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwz8u9ohk2YhDtiIPagZdMXq0K4QjP-436KGAH7yN3FCEedITJ7tHtsAY6aEf1L8_0Wv4AasLMshNDVEX54FFb4PgzGHFTfcIt0XqvnLAoksueJgqAVi-mUv8EzBNIUrEGoPBYNRLjnBzYrH9u78oTAi6jj5gOk0LJNSJ3cwDXQEaJVHOiIUAZRpXkZZo/s3629/IMG_0027.heic" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1832" data-original-width="3629" height="203" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwz8u9ohk2YhDtiIPagZdMXq0K4QjP-436KGAH7yN3FCEedITJ7tHtsAY6aEf1L8_0Wv4AasLMshNDVEX54FFb4PgzGHFTfcIt0XqvnLAoksueJgqAVi-mUv8EzBNIUrEGoPBYNRLjnBzYrH9u78oTAi6jj5gOk0LJNSJ3cwDXQEaJVHOiIUAZRpXkZZo/w400-h203/IMG_0027.heic" width="400" /></a></div>Smoother seas today and I slept very well. At about 8:00 am I went to the Central Park MDR for breakfast ordering my usual. I had a nice 6-top table with a porthole view and very nice guests. I did a short walkabout afterward when it was not busy noticing the beauty of most of the public spaces. MSC has always done very well in unique decors. This ship should sail from New York as the NYC theme is so well done. Adam had changed my linens and tidied up the cabin by the time I returned. I had cabin time most of the day and watched a movie on TCM. Also booked more cruises for clients. Guests are on outer decks today as we had a beautiful day and I’ve enjoyed the balcony. At about 3:15 pm I went to the Brooklyn Cafe for cocktails, then to the 4:00 pm Gold card party in the Le Cabaret Rouge (photo). It was interesting and fun. I then went next door to the 5th Avenue MDR for dinner, we had six at our table this evening…we are growing. I ordered three Shrimp Cocktails, the Coq au vin Chicken entree, and Apple Strudel for dessert. It was good. Then it was time for the 7:30 production show Divas in the Madison Theater. It was colorful and entertaining featuring the Seashore Singers and Dancers. It was a busy afternoon/evening so I retired by 9:00 ish. A very nice sea day on the Seashore.</div><div> </div><div><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Thursday, February 8th / Costa Maya, Mexico / Day 5 </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil1UGAyNhVq4Wj-DEW2nayYZEMSAJPFVy1YuQVuDoXnfj-dPiaBjVTvXGslFZEYbQKgi9PseGR_a1cK7PKg0JUHHt9TOtRj_7cGLutuERGXF7nOAgpV4CgpuFdQJdSGQsZ1lbTamyj2ti56EjtP5DDtC7czTztRwNXTW3yLkQoCa0_rtLzLLV26abXXK0/s4032/IMG_0033.HEIC" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil1UGAyNhVq4Wj-DEW2nayYZEMSAJPFVy1YuQVuDoXnfj-dPiaBjVTvXGslFZEYbQKgi9PseGR_a1cK7PKg0JUHHt9TOtRj_7cGLutuERGXF7nOAgpV4CgpuFdQJdSGQsZ1lbTamyj2ti56EjtP5DDtC7czTztRwNXTW3yLkQoCa0_rtLzLLV26abXXK0/w300-h400/IMG_0033.HEIC" width="300" /></a></b></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Calmer seas overnight and I slept very well. We arrived several hours early by 7:00 am as I was up using the WiFi. I slept a bit longer and then checked the beautiful weather we have today. At about 9:30 am, I went up to the buffet for some Eggs, Potatoes, and Bacon. I left the ship after breakfast and made my way to the taxi stand for a shared taxi ($4 pp) to the old village of Mahahual. There are three ships docked today and a lot of people at the port area. We arrived in Mahahual and I made my way to El Faro. That was our favorite hangout before Hurricane Dean wiped out everything in 2007 and where I hung out last month. They have now built permanent Palapas and the new Palm trees now cover shade on the beach. It wasn’t as busy today and I did get a shady table with great sea breezes. My server was the nephew of my server from 18 years ago so he called me Tio and I called him Sobrino. I had two nice MX Coca-Colas and later two large Mango Margaritas (photo). No food during this visit. The water was excellent and the beach was nice. From the water you can see the huge Cruise Ships in the distance, Pelicans and Albatrosses flying about, and the abundant beach activities. I got a shared taxi back to the port at about 3:00 pm and soon back on the Seashore. Rested and enjoyed the view from the balcony until time for dinner. Tonight I ordered the Asparagus Soup and three Shrimp Cocktails as starters both very good. Then the featured Steak Diana entree, with the Coconut Tapioca for dessert. It was a very nice dinner. tonight was my favorite Production Show: </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The Journey</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">. It featured the Singers and Dancers doing a set of classic songs set in various European Countries. Unique costumes and a talented group. My favorites were France with </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Le Vie en Rose</span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> & The Can Can dance routine and Italy with </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">O Sole Mio</span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">, the Godfather theme (dance), and the classic </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Con te partirò. </span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">BTW </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Con te partirò</span></i><span style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> has been the theme song for MSC since it was written in 1995. </span></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">It was a very busy, tiring, and fun day in port and on the Seashore.</span><p></p><b>Friday, February 9th / Cozumel / Day 6 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_qBIAte1N1x8wrOsZ3XV1qB5isyrU_Cjwqn6uE9JPtLewt9MAvNTeuXozjt0r1GkmBDbc1al4mTWq0cLhPsB1pTlMeXh-F5YWtoRCKDYEfw-zqlRxmLKQtuZzViiqusXOCrIhv5ublLfDWnyZReXR3upIItkFAnE5r3LES_9k4pbrTSV-ape-so3uYXo/s3517/IMG_0040.heic" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3517" data-original-width="2577" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_qBIAte1N1x8wrOsZ3XV1qB5isyrU_Cjwqn6uE9JPtLewt9MAvNTeuXozjt0r1GkmBDbc1al4mTWq0cLhPsB1pTlMeXh-F5YWtoRCKDYEfw-zqlRxmLKQtuZzViiqusXOCrIhv5ublLfDWnyZReXR3upIItkFAnE5r3LES_9k4pbrTSV-ape-so3uYXo/w146-h200/IMG_0040.heic" width="146" /></a></div></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight, just enough rocking for a good night's sleep. I woke at about 6:00 a.m. and we were about to dock at Puerto Langosta. At about 9:30 am I was off and walking into town, I love docking at this pier, so much easier for the things I usually do when in Cozumel. My first stop was at Woody’s Bar & Grill as they are now open for breakfast. I did order the Migas. I made it to Antonio’s Barber Shoppe for a haircut by 10:40 a.m. ... another very good haircut too. No ZensiSpa this trip. The fast WiFi, Live Entertainment by Michael (photo), great Mexican Coca-Cola, and good Guacamole, Pico de Gallo, and Bohemia beer were very great on this nice and cooler day at Woody's. I did have a nice visit with Nelly too. I casually began walking back to the ship at about 3:15 earlier than usual and I made it back on board before 4:00 pm. I refreshed and relaxed before my 5:00 pm dinner in the MDR. Tonight I ordered the Penne all Amatriciana pasta as my starter, the Honey BBQ Meatloaf entree, and a Butter Pecan Ice Creme for dessert. After dinner, I did a walkabout the ship and then retired to the cabin. I had three new cruise bookings to do and I watched the movie The Sting on TCM. Long day so sleep time was welcomed. It was another great port day in Cozumel.</span> </div><div> </div><div><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Saturday, February 10th / Day at Sea / Day 7 </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPXicwSb4hyphenhyphenp8Ofd1uvdGrfE57IxzOqAf_BxTla4p_sZWuIyPGe-dF2CEVEJcUkpsDCylUrJDVZBS7Ml2Nf9Ga-yga-nENoJRn5uhCxXP8qspMZKSEDZ78iNpcrlbA3iOU4mbgWxLQ-28E2K_rmtKyr5bKU0W4qJj9IVh-IA0Vgy55AyIk8WZFoJ0EC7Q/s4032/IMG_0045.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPXicwSb4hyphenhyphenp8Ofd1uvdGrfE57IxzOqAf_BxTla4p_sZWuIyPGe-dF2CEVEJcUkpsDCylUrJDVZBS7Ml2Nf9Ga-yga-nENoJRn5uhCxXP8qspMZKSEDZ78iNpcrlbA3iOU4mbgWxLQ-28E2K_rmtKyr5bKU0W4qJj9IVh-IA0Vgy55AyIk8WZFoJ0EC7Q/w200-h150/IMG_0045.jpeg" width="200" /></a></span></b></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Some rolling seas overnight, just enough rocking for a good sleep. I had a relaxing morning the went up to the Buffet at about 10:00 am. The timing was good as I waited in the buffet line for Bacon to be replenished they also brought out fresh eggs. Nice. I do wish that Cruise lines would learn that if sailing from the USA (and especially Texas) you must have Catsup and Ranch Dressing. Beautiful weather today for sitting outside in the aft, but as we sailed north the wind and weather became more harsh. I had some work today as the MSC representative told me how to link all the recent bookings I did on the Texas inaugural. Tedious but a good day to do it. I did a walkabout in the afternoon: I registered a credit card that I failed to do earlier, made reservations for Hola!, and visited the Brooklyn Cafe. I went to Hola! at 6:30 for a great meal, I saved the best for last. I ordered three different Street Tacos (photo), the Chili con carne hard Taco, Guacamole plus a refill later, a nice Queso Fundito, and two Enchilada entrees: Pork with Mole sauce and Chicken with Verde Salsa. For dessert a very nice Flan. It was all very good with excellent service. After dinner, I had cabin time and also began packing. It was a nice final sea day on the MSC Seashore.</span><p></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Sunday, February 10th / Port Canaveral / Debarkation</span></strong></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Fair seas overnight and I slept well although up well before my 6:00 am alarm. We arrived on time and were docked just after 6:00 am. I finished packing and was at the self-debark location at about 6:35 a.m. We began leaving early at about 6:45 a.m. and thanks to facial recognition we were soon on the street. I was on the parking shuttle bus by 7:18 and on the road by 7:30 a.m. Stopped for groceries, washed the car, and was home at about 10:00 a.m. Easy Peasy.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Ship</span></strong></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Maiden Voyage: 2017 I Gross Tonnage: 153,500 tons</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Passenger Capacity: 5179 | Crew: 1413 I Length: 323 meters/1060 ft</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Max Cruising Speed: 22 knots I Avg Speed 21 knots</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Installed power: Diesel (40,000kW) I Propulsion: Twin propellers</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">17 passenger decks Builder: Fincantieri</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Godmother: Sophia Loren</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Cabin</span></strong></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">I had cabin 12006 a starboard side balcony located on deck as far forward as you can go with a long walk to the forward elevators. Storage is fine if solo. The toilet seems smaller perhaps because the glass shower doors restrict movement. The cabin has a push-button safe, twin/king beds, a large padded headboard, two small nightstands, wall-mounted wall lights, a large mirror, a small refrigerator, a small table/bench (unusual), and a nice TV with interactive features. My cabin steward Andy was very good.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Dining / Food </span></strong></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The dinners in the MDR are very good, service and settings were wonderful. I love the tablecloths. Our wait staff were excellent, very pleased with the service. The buffet food was good to very good. Not as many selections as in the past, but the food variety was fine. Favorites: all the Pizza, all the Pasta, Guacamole, Hamburgers, and Salad Bar. I only did one specialty restaurant: The Butcher’s Cut and it was very good. I may say the Seaside food seems better than the Seashore.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Comments - MSC Cruise Line</span></strong></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">MSC is very different than the usual American cruise lines and if you're looking for the same experience it will be much different. You may like the differences or you may be very unhappy with the differences. As an experienced cruiser, I love different. If you don’t like change or are not flexible you will probably NOT like sailing a European cruise line. Following are my personal observations on sailing MSC: </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">MSC Pluses</span></strong></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Beautiful Public Rooms, Good MSC Production Shows and entertainment, Quality and Beautiful Themed Bars, Nice Cabins, Hot Milk readily available on buffet and MDR, Attentive bar servers, and Good MDR Breakfasts. Tablecloths.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Changes since Covid</span></strong></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Announcements are now only in English</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Fewer children since they changed the ‘Children sail free’ promotion.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Many more American guests result in more: Scooters, Wheelchairs, and complainers.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p> </div><div><b>Highlights of the Cruise</b><br />Hola! Tacos and Cantina<br />Port Days in Cozumel and Costa Maya</div><div>Service in Brooklyn Cafe</div><div>Jazz Trio<br />Ocean Cay Seafood Restaurant<br /> </div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></div><p style="text-align: left;"></p>Snoozemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08287635714818403539noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-666314469198049300.post-2260628459710610132024-01-16T11:00:00.069-06:002024-02-01T04:18:38.114-06:00Amazon Adventure & Galapagos Discovery - Ecuador<div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><p style="text-align: left;"> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim_L4NHrx8r8atDLbXRrAP0a7OLRdU6MK5SOwjm1hwmkwnkiCv8BxH-Y6ZNwaljIMyf2-HqbEDIqhHM7mCnKZ0-niigozsdWxcuEbF74q1v5_VBJ8ucVc-1s6Pd-sI14P1ZG5vAwSvgt4Gc39qOpDkDdhxJKLUwsDPehHBRtNNjD-1gqWY4dIn8pf4AEU/s1301/Tortise.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="821" data-original-width="1301" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim_L4NHrx8r8atDLbXRrAP0a7OLRdU6MK5SOwjm1hwmkwnkiCv8BxH-Y6ZNwaljIMyf2-HqbEDIqhHM7mCnKZ0-niigozsdWxcuEbF74q1v5_VBJ8ucVc-1s6Pd-sI14P1ZG5vAwSvgt4Gc39qOpDkDdhxJKLUwsDPehHBRtNNjD-1gqWY4dIn8pf4AEU/w640-h404/Tortise.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><p style="text-align: left;"></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>Amazon Adventure & Galapagos Discovery - Ecuador</b><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">I’m traveling to Ecuador for a 12-day land based Travel Adventure. I’m traveling as a solo with the help of a tour operator: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ExoticcaUS/about" target="_blank">Exoticca</a>. <br /><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">January 16, 2024, Tuesday / Travel Day </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPhWG29lXAwee4Wd2vWrh4Fkx64cEZ-ThT7zv5a-DplVpSuvXbamACvMPrYJgYy1o2Mm1FwL4NovVIXHTXxNsQiWLJzuBwFXl-9ApgdR4fPX8qqdg7BSRI9LVNfOe2CTfizK7BP3BiIXY8t_egd0wOwO47u5yxBduNDYG41vZdARMPL_PJRC_WgJqWRAw/s4032/RioAmazonus.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPhWG29lXAwee4Wd2vWrh4Fkx64cEZ-ThT7zv5a-DplVpSuvXbamACvMPrYJgYy1o2Mm1FwL4NovVIXHTXxNsQiWLJzuBwFXl-9ApgdR4fPX8qqdg7BSRI9LVNfOe2CTfizK7BP3BiIXY8t_egd0wOwO47u5yxBduNDYG41vZdARMPL_PJRC_WgJqWRAw/s320/RioAmazonus.jpeg" width="320" /></a></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">I began this Adventure with a 6:00 flight from Tampa to Miami. Then from MIA direct to Quito, the capital of Ecuador, and the 2nd highest Capital City in elevation in the world. It’s an hour's drive from the airport to the city center, but my driver made it faster with his standard 4. It was like a Le Mons race with hills, valleys, roundabouts, mountains, tunnels…everything. I was at the <b>Rio Amazonas</b> hotel at about 3:30 pm. My room is on the 10th floor with a great view (photo). I made a trip to the Pharmacy and then had dinner in the very nice Hotel Restaurant. I had a Canoera Traditional, a sample platter of Ecuador's most favorite traditional dishes. Some I liked and some not at all. Very interesting though. There have been no signs of problems or unrest that I can tell and everyone seems to be going about their business. I had a very nice ten hours of sleep which has helped my cold/sore throat that I picked up on my recent cruise. A very interesting travel day, but actually easier with my last minute flight changes to American Airlines.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></div><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">January 17, 2024, Wednesday / Quito to Amazon </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGR2TMU6Cve3l3pv50fw3nr6-TsU4bi1n4SmOfTctDEEWQHbO74qfWWKNY_DREZjV0o3zoXOET2ge4YYwpenuiC-f9b8cpI59T6SHDAqG_RS32T1rE-NeEGwQQw2CPRoRmSsuSHEselsCZM91NgQKRV_MN4QSRsmjDXUOQPZNW_ue8fZR8_ehtENwCWps/s600/Quito-1.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="385" data-original-width="600" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGR2TMU6Cve3l3pv50fw3nr6-TsU4bi1n4SmOfTctDEEWQHbO74qfWWKNY_DREZjV0o3zoXOET2ge4YYwpenuiC-f9b8cpI59T6SHDAqG_RS32T1rE-NeEGwQQw2CPRoRmSsuSHEselsCZM91NgQKRV_MN4QSRsmjDXUOQPZNW_ue8fZR8_ehtENwCWps/w400-h256/Quito-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">I woke early feeling much better and ready for my first day of sightseeing in Ecuador. I went down to Reception and took my larger bag for them to hold, then checked out and went to breakfast at about 7:00 am when it opened. A selection of Ecuadorian dishes, eggs, fruit, and leche caliente, a nice surprise. We had an Exottica tour meeting at 8:00 then our first official tour rolled off at 9:00 am. We have eleven people in our tour group, a driver and our guide Carlos. We went to visit the downtown Plazas and Squares which are a UNESCO-designated historical area. I can see why, it is beautiful. We first visited a very stylish hotel for a Chocolate demonstration. Ecuador has the most golden cocoa pods in the world. Interesting. In the old town, there are many beautiful Public buildings, the old National Bank, the Presidential Palace, and Beautiful Churches. I have to say it is one of the most unique city centers I have seen. We then began our drive over the Andes Mountains an interesting experience in itself. The higher peaks were of course above the tree line and similar to crossing the Rocky Mountains back home. Once across you drop down into the Amazon Rain Forest. It becomes very green with a jungle canopy and fast-flowing rivers that are within the Amazon basin. We stopped in the village of Quijos to eat at Restaurant Gina. Most ordered the fresh trout from the local stream next to the village, I had mine fried, also an excellent Blackberry Juice. It was very good. Soon we arrived at our destination: the </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Hakuna Matata Amazon Lodge</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">. A very nice facility in a very remote location, in fact, we could not cross the local bridge in a vehicle, so we walked across and were taken by motorcycle the rest of the way to the lodge. That’s a new experience. I have a nice cabin very close to the large palapa-style restaurant/bar. Great forest views from there as well as from my cabin. We had dinner at 7:00 pm and offered a night walk following. I had the meal and skipped the walk enjoying a local Pilsner beer and using the internet. I turned in early and enjoyed the sounds of the rainforest and the rain that fell in the middle of the night. It was a great first real day in Ecuador.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b> </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>January 18, 2024, Thursday / Amazon Basin</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLiPtgAgJXTIRBK95eW_zA4-DsuKxIGHzQT5GaMbmve-xiDfqgcsnABvcu-_C0Eb7hN6pjXVtwy4vJObhOKtbmKPY5S-Ni9US_XLdnjA6EdZy8KGXJvYy3LSRqc2h9Hv0FYBpzvXw7l3MuOzYDfO1LRqa-U4dnYwEgJcA9eWnGIF-NgnwvdgZ_w3fplFs/s4032/Amazon%20cabin.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLiPtgAgJXTIRBK95eW_zA4-DsuKxIGHzQT5GaMbmve-xiDfqgcsnABvcu-_C0Eb7hN6pjXVtwy4vJObhOKtbmKPY5S-Ni9US_XLdnjA6EdZy8KGXJvYy3LSRqc2h9Hv0FYBpzvXw7l3MuOzYDfO1LRqa-U4dnYwEgJcA9eWnGIF-NgnwvdgZ_w3fplFs/s320/Amazon%20cabin.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>I woke to fresh rainforest air and the sounds of wild birds this morning and then went to our 8:00 am scheduled breakfast. I had Watermelon, Papaya, Pineapple, Fresh Egg, Bread, and an interesting local fresh fruit juice. The group did a short walkabout tour and I stayed and updated this blog and did some business (no WiFi in the cabin). I have had my experiences in rain forests so it's good for those who haven’t experienced it. Some did a more extensive extra tour as an add-on. I did my walkabout in the immediate area noticing the flora…very pretty. I love my free-standing cabin and the Rainforest sounds here, it reminds me somewhat of the ranch, but the continuous sounds of running water were amazing. I had a very nice lunch of Tilapia, Fresh Salad, Rice, and Soup, they prepare everything fresh so always a home-cooked meal. After lunch I tested the swimming pool, it is continuously fed by a spring so always fresh water. It was a bit cool but refreshing, and the sun peaked out as well. I had my Ecuadoran Coca-Cola (sweeter) as my afternoon beverage. At 7:00 pm went to dinner and I had a special Amazon cocktail…very nice Jennifer. For dinner, the appetizer was the best, an individual casserole with Hearts of Palm, a Pork Chop entree with Scalloped Potatoes, and root vegetables. Dessert was a mixed berry soufflé. A nice final dinner at Hakuna Matata. I retired early and will pack in the morning.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>January 19, 2024, Friday / Amazon - Center of the World - Quito </b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJBHF6z8s4pA3uBiR6siMPRW3m0LqxsDeE0Y_NoQAnrDzmZD7d6HHO5zDymLm3sXU2mB2vEIcrcf1dL1YOtTIlHpNjKE6xXRnemkQnqIDHzAeGoJE-j53-P6lR03xl3YUMCf2PKk2CE1hjIKKXGWNANn1cgNPFPGQRLS2xGpUjDwDecXA0b7JldE7VaoE/s3640/Equqtor.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3640" data-original-width="2720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJBHF6z8s4pA3uBiR6siMPRW3m0LqxsDeE0Y_NoQAnrDzmZD7d6HHO5zDymLm3sXU2mB2vEIcrcf1dL1YOtTIlHpNjKE6xXRnemkQnqIDHzAeGoJE-j53-P6lR03xl3YUMCf2PKk2CE1hjIKKXGWNANn1cgNPFPGQRLS2xGpUjDwDecXA0b7JldE7VaoE/w239-h320/Equqtor.jpeg" width="239" /></a></div>I again slept very well, I enjoy life in the extreme country…although I would not want to live in the Outback again. At home, we have a sound app that plays water sounds when we go to bed…not needed here. Our meeting time to check out and for breakfast is at 7:30 am. this morning. I woke up, packed my small bag, and went to breakfast. We had bread and jam, a wonderful fruit bowl, and scrambled egg with yucca biscuit. Very good. I had the first motorcycle down and thus first to the bus arriving just before our luggage on a bicycle cart, it was good to see my bag before we left. We were soon off and stopped at a small Highland Village to view the unique cooking of fish and chicken in heavy leaves over charcoal. Also visited an outdoor market with fresh fruits and vegetables so there was plenty for all of us to share on the bus. The Yucca and small Bananas were my favorites. I bought some Ayahuasca, a native cure-all I had previously read about and the guide had mentioned as well. We’ll see. We stopped at a Hummingbird Sanctuary That was interesting. A group of birders from the USA entered after us so I asked I asked if any had checked off Painted Bunting…none had. I hope Mr. Crocket is taking care of the seven sets I had established on the Ranch…he said he would. We began climbing the Andes Mts. with views of beautiful waterfalls and heavy forests. It was very cold at the summit. As we crossed over we transitioned from the Amazon basin into the Central Valley. We next visited the <b>Center of the World</b> where it was sunny and warm. This is a very nice park area with a monument and information about the Equator. Lots of tourist shops, restaurants, exhibits, and even lamas. Very clean and somewhat Disney-esque. I got a new Panama Hat, a good meal, and a great Ice Creme. We arrived back in Quito at about 5:30 pm and the hotel had a Welcome Drink for us and distributed our luggage, I had the same room as before. My plan is to rest, relax, hot water, WiFi, and then a good sleep before tomorrow's excursion. A great day in the </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Highlands of Ecuador</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>January 20, 2024, Saturday / Quito - Otavalo Tour</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOCv7VT8LMXysWEfvZSPr3CsEJgZsCVv_IRn-euv6NhHedFQ5cx_VY8CyNZP4ZYKS1n81aVFQKmnjlLhIBrU25FkfqBFuQRy2zuPYmkGo0bJISpL7uWDlyo8elzymNxO8kQx9d6z9EVVQTdCn4cLc9WvO1-nQPth1ZT-5rGa1W3LYxMIqfG8O3atOUvsI/s1200/otavalo-market.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="1200" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOCv7VT8LMXysWEfvZSPr3CsEJgZsCVv_IRn-euv6NhHedFQ5cx_VY8CyNZP4ZYKS1n81aVFQKmnjlLhIBrU25FkfqBFuQRy2zuPYmkGo0bJISpL7uWDlyo8elzymNxO8kQx9d6z9EVVQTdCn4cLc9WvO1-nQPth1ZT-5rGa1W3LYxMIqfG8O3atOUvsI/w400-h225/otavalo-market.png" width="400" /></a></div></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">I did not sleep well with urban sounds compared to previous jungle nights. There is no A/C so imperative to leave the window open, but you get the sounds of the city. There was a lot of activity too, more than a few days ago as things have returned to normal in Quito. I went down for breakfast at about 7:30 am and had Leche Caliente, Scrambled Eggs, Empanadas, Fried Plantains, Watermelon, and Pineapple. I finished and then boarded our 8:00 am. bus (same Guide & Driver) and our full-day optional excursion: </span><span style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><i>Otavalo and Quilotoa Crater Lake</i> excursion</span></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">. An early stop was in the <b>Cayambe</b> area famous for biscuits...there are a dozen plus restaurants featuring these unique biscuits and they are very good and different. We sampled three different style servings...well worth the visit. We then went to </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Quilotoa</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">, the westernmost volcano within the Ecuadorian Andes and its two-mile wide caldera presents a stunning panorama with its lake in the center. We took an open-air boat ride around two islands located in the middle of the lake. Fun and interesting. Next a shopping and lunch stop in </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Cotacachi,</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> I had a fantastic meal at </span><a href="https://www.tripadvisor.es/Restaurant_Review-g297518-d5955487-Reviews-La_Marquesa-Cotacachi_Imbabura_Province.html" target="_blank"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">La Marquesa</span></b></a><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">. First, the indigenous entertainment was great and I enjoyed a Pilsener beer...I then ordered a Potato Soup with a large Avocado and Cheese, then a Fried Trout topped with Shrimp served with Fried Potatoes and Salad. The trout was served differently (</span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">flattened</span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">) than at Gina's. It was excellent as was the soup. My best meal in the country by far. Our final stop at about 3:00 pm was at the famous Saturday </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Otavalo Market.</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> The entire main Square and several streets between are filled with Artisans, Crafters, Local Farmers, and various other types of vendors. This is the real deal and not manufactured flea market junk. Some vendors were leaving so some real bargains were available, I bought a Mohair Blanket and a couple of Dolls early on so had time to sit at a balcony bar overlooking the square and people watch. The native dress was common and the small indigenous people were numerous…I didn’t take photos although some were dressed out for it and accepting tips. Amazing. We left at about 4:30 for the two-hour trip back to Quito crossing the Equator for the second time today. Every stop today was a highlight. I made some notes and retired straightaway knowing I would be up early on Sunday.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>January 21, 2024, Sunday / Quito to San Christobal, Galapogos</b></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZBgxpMbgCEbdvG21pQazKmUCw6qMY2Pd-lZFGSbCGQysyTnjz8igbrJyQALHWAaJozfD2m3QXqEGHHqfbx-IaTDR0aLXHl2DiDbBcBf848eaoDozHx1xVvcDf2dGP6rvvQb9gqW0FUyegmz8167RiAGsPXfBF8OuSejRjhnqHoR5aK1vGaeBPWpKS4qA/s1722/Pelican.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1722" data-original-width="1126" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZBgxpMbgCEbdvG21pQazKmUCw6qMY2Pd-lZFGSbCGQysyTnjz8igbrJyQALHWAaJozfD2m3QXqEGHHqfbx-IaTDR0aLXHl2DiDbBcBf848eaoDozHx1xVvcDf2dGP6rvvQb9gqW0FUyegmz8167RiAGsPXfBF8OuSejRjhnqHoR5aK1vGaeBPWpKS4qA/w261-h400/Pelican.jpeg" width="261" /></a></div>I woke at about 2:00 am…this will be a long day but I had six hours of sleep. I began by updating my Blog from yesterday's great excursion and then packed for our flight to the Galapagos Islands. Check-out and on the Bus by 4:15 am for our hour journey to the airport. There was an Exottica agent who organized and helped us in getting the Galapagos entry documents ($20) and inspections done. She had also preprinted all our flight boarding documents. I was at the gate one hour before our 7:05 am. boarding. A smooth morning thanks to Exottica. The flight was uneventful and at about 10:00 am we landed in San Christobal. We deplaned down a staircase and walked over to the small terminal to be processed. The entry tax / National Park fee of $100 is paid and then we watch the luggage show: all luggage is placed in rows on the floor and a sniffer dog goes by all. Our group, the Llamas, were met by our local guide and team loaded on a bus and at our hotel, </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The Blue Marlin</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">, within minutes. We were assigned our rooms, changed clothes, and off on a guided orientation walk straightaway. We are just three blocks from the Malecon and central pier so easy access to the entire village. We walked along the Malecon to <b>Playa Mann</b> where all went about their own way. I went directly into the water as I needed a cool off. Yes you do share this beach will the <i>Galapagos Sea Lions</i>…very interesting. After cooling off I had a $6 lunch (will explain in notes) of Beef Broth & Potato Soup, Ceviche, and a Drink sharing a table with fellow Llamas. Following a second swim at Mann’s Beach I slowly walked back towards the Malecon and town. So much to see along the way, Sea Lions dominate here and the mothers are birthing now, <i>Pelicans</i>, large <i>Galapagos Lizards</i>, a variety of <i>Birds</i>, and more. I enjoyed the rest of the afternoon around the Blue Marlin Pool with the wonderful sea breezes. At about sundown, I walked towards the Malecon just looking for something to eat, and stopped at The Burger House which had a very eclectic menu, and decided on a large taco/burrito combination of meats entree. It was served with ranch beans and plantains. It was both interesting and good. After such a long day I retired. It was a great first day on the Galapogos.<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">January 22, 2024, Monday / San Christobal, Galapagos Islands </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguaFzK_MNCQNTu_OeA2txgFBJQ86Vp5L2QbiCYeQGmUN_Ml_Ceewj9KTmhVL87WWtpvKGj7ZLhQ2coO1flLYCxhm3_vmki5wQQpQvMFWlH3eieu5vcpJe0U_UZiJERC6LN9PBShOiKhEYM0JYG1Vd6wfdaG6isP7j1pUjT92hZAnM6eNKEBiHOUSZ3beo/s4032/tortises.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguaFzK_MNCQNTu_OeA2txgFBJQ86Vp5L2QbiCYeQGmUN_Ml_Ceewj9KTmhVL87WWtpvKGj7ZLhQ2coO1flLYCxhm3_vmki5wQQpQvMFWlH3eieu5vcpJe0U_UZiJERC6LN9PBShOiKhEYM0JYG1Vd6wfdaG6isP7j1pUjT92hZAnM6eNKEBiHOUSZ3beo/w400-h300/tortises.jpeg" width="400" /></a></b></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">I slept well, the room is air-conditioned by individual units. I wish the hot water worked as well. Breakfast is served from 7-9 AM and I went at about 7:30. It’s a set menu of Egg & Cheese omelet, a strip of bacon, and a large croissant. Clever that it can be eaten as is with Jam & Butter or can be made into a breakfast sandwich for those on the go. They served a small pitcher of Leche Caliente (without requesting…wow). The Llamas met at 9:30 for our full-day scheduled tour. We went up into the Highlands to visit </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Galapaguera</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">, the home to amazing giant tortoises. MWF are feeding days where they place fresh greens out in various locations and the tortoises come in from the wild to feed. There will be many found at the primary feeding locations. They also have a Nursery Area where the young are allowed to grow before being released. They are quite small when young. These are the tortoises that put the Galapagos on the map. They are amazing to see. The next stop was at </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Puerto Chino </span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">to see seabirds, but I took advantage of the beach as I had already been walked out. The Sea Lions already had the choice spots picked out but I found one and enjoyed the clean fresh waves… Afterward, we returned to the hotel for a two-hour break, I had a Hamburger next door at a cafe and rested. We left at 3:00 pm for the short drive to </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">La Loberia</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> for two hours of snorkeling and swimming. I just used my swim goggles but I went further and saw much more than most. I saw numerous fish as expected and a lot of small to medium-sized (18-24”) sea turtles that were swimming around individually and in groups. I then had beach time and watched the Sea Lions train their young. It was very nice. Once returning to town many (7) signed up for the 360 water tour around the island on Wednesday. I stopped for a Chicken Shawarma with Fries and Soda ($9) from El Arabe (Jordanian) as I knew I wouldn’t go back out this evening after a long day. It was a very good day in the Galapagos.</span><p></p></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> <b>January 23, 2024, Tuesday / San Christobal, Galapogos Islands</b></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBsoZaiT4LctHNUanoQ9piSUZePkcOvtWghyphenhyphen9g-j_hRKwsVqdv1O21ZA9Gxd5JcQQd2lqpGsnadh2jsqdzLQwULheE0VRydRpTu9AeLsAFTkACxnYRPT0WDoqWsS8XQ7Zvd_UawLSJ4szjQClb9w5W9YuNvlIhu0rMYmcjMQ_fKJLB7GzLPqpNoO-TkEg/s4032/fish&chips.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBsoZaiT4LctHNUanoQ9piSUZePkcOvtWghyphenhyphen9g-j_hRKwsVqdv1O21ZA9Gxd5JcQQd2lqpGsnadh2jsqdzLQwULheE0VRydRpTu9AeLsAFTkACxnYRPT0WDoqWsS8XQ7Zvd_UawLSJ4szjQClb9w5W9YuNvlIhu0rMYmcjMQ_fKJLB7GzLPqpNoO-TkEg/w200-h150/fish&chips.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>I slept well on this </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">day of leisure</span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">. I went down to breakfast at about 8:00 am, the same breakfast as previous days. I went to get/be measured for equipment for the 360 cruise tomorrow then enjoyed a Coca-Cola with ice on the Malecon. Great weather day at about 82° with ocean breeze. I then lounged around the pool before taking a long hike to Playa Punta Carola. Long walk but has nice water and a beach. I was able to swim with Sea Lions and Sting Rays. I was safe as I went with new friends and was able to stay in the water for a good while. A long walk back stopping for a Coke at Playa Mann then a Czech-style beer at the Post Office Restaurant on the Malecon. I saw a Heron and was told sea birds do land around there after sunset…so that became my dinner plans. After washing off all the sand I returned to the Post Office for beer and a great </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Fish & Chips dinner </span></b><span style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">(photo).</span></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> No sea birds though. I then retired early to prepare for my busy full excursion day tomorrow. I did get in over 13,000 steps in on this day of leisure…</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">January 24, 2024, Wednesday / San Christobal, Galapagos Islands </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcdzVL7Beb7Z8rvGsyFFAsnsk-k7kF0cFIlOXWPHz1CczwWavy_A20b4VIxpYdrdJ2A01O9TDYFoXhwff84vpAEkjSZIcv-RZOaD2TVwXlbBXrsVGjM8uHn-ohjREIYeBzkJ9RzPv6wwa4ayG4CzuPTUrtdtECRJB8tO_rCYBrXlDUAUvmfjMIdDWSrCk/s3879/Kicker%20Rock.heic" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3879" data-original-width="2870" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcdzVL7Beb7Z8rvGsyFFAsnsk-k7kF0cFIlOXWPHz1CczwWavy_A20b4VIxpYdrdJ2A01O9TDYFoXhwff84vpAEkjSZIcv-RZOaD2TVwXlbBXrsVGjM8uHn-ohjREIYeBzkJ9RzPv6wwa4ayG4CzuPTUrtdtECRJB8tO_rCYBrXlDUAUvmfjMIdDWSrCk/w296-h400/Kicker%20Rock.heic" width="296" /></a></span></b></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">It was pouring rain when I woke at 6:30 am. Not encouraging for the biggest excursion of the trip scheduled today. It was improving by the time I arrived at the Tour Office. Seven of our 11 plus five others are sailing on a </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">San Christobal 360 Tour</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">…i.e. sailing completely around the island. This is the most popular tour here @ $180 pp. and over 8 hours in time, We met our guide, Christopher, picked up our gear bags and walked down to the pier at about 7:30. am We then took a harbor water taxi to our Boat…and we met the Captain & Crewman. There is a government official to ensure life vests are used, but once he is off they come off. Soon on our way for the longest sailing period of the day doing a little fishing to Bahia Rosa Blanca. We were shuttled ashore in a Dingy and walked across a volcanic outcropping to a sheltered bay. Here we snorkeled and saw numerous Sea Turtles and fish. Upon return to the boat we were served the raw Tuna we caught earlier…actually very good. From here we sailed to Punta Pitt, passing a pod of Whales, where we were served lunch and watched Red-Footed Boobies. The next stop was at Bahia Sardinia, a beautiful beach where the group went snorkeling, but I swam into the beach and enjoyed that, eventually the group walked over to me returning from their snorkel, humorous as it looked as though I was hanging with the sea lions. We stopped at Cerro Bruno a large outcropping and a photo opportunity. The prime photo is through the arch with Kicker Rock in the background. Also here were some Blue-footed Boobies. The best and final destination is last: Leon Dormido or Kicker Rock (photo). This is a series of very high huge rock outcroppings located off the main island of San Christobal. This is the best snorkel opportunity in the Galapagos. This is deep water which allows for a variety of unique opportunities. We saw huge Sea Turtles, Tiger Sharks, Sting Rays, a variety of Fish, and at the very end the Hammerhead Shark. WOW. What an experience. We received a towel and began sorting our gear on the way back to Puerto Baquerizo arriving at about 4:45 pm. This was one of the best excursions I have ever done and very glad that I did it. After cleaning up I went to Giuseppe’s for dinner: Nona’s Meatballs, and a nice Salad. Then the final walk along the Malecon as I returned to the Blue Marlin. An outstanding day.</span><p></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>January 25, 2024, Thursday / </b></span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">San Christobal to Guayaquill</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br />I woke early so began to pack and was at breakfast at about 7:00 am. The newly arrived Exottica Group had questions and is not getting the extra day on the island. I’m glad we got it. Our airport shuttle is at 10:50 am and we were at the airport straight away. A small wait once there but soon on our way to Guayaquil. I got an upgrade to seat 2A and boarded first actually. I was also first off the plane. A first for me on both. We were picked up by Hotel Shuttle in Guayaquil and we stayed ay the Wyndham Garden Hotel near the Airport. I have a very nice king room and it will be very nice to take a hot shower, and sleep in a large clean bed. At about 6:00 I went next door to a Red Lion for a nice Hamburger and some Coca-Cola. Very nice way to decompress from the trip. An easy travel day.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">January 26, 2024, Friday / Guayaquil, Ecuador</span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">I slept very well and I have a late check out so easy morning repacking as I’ll check both bags through to Tampa. I enjoyed this hotel and took the 11:00 am Airport Shuttle. AA is not open as yet so time for KFC. I was kind of pleased with myself: I ordered from the kiosk, paid by iPhone, and got my food…simple. However, I had to have the lady next to me open my mayo packet…Oh well…not quite independent? I got through security and check-in without a problem and to my gate two hours before departure. Smooth process and a nice Airport. We arrived in Miami at about 7:00 pm and had the huge process of customs and secondary security. My Tampa flight was a little late and only an hour flight but still midnight before arrival. The DD and DW picked me up and we were home at about 1:00 am. Long day, but the trip was well worth it.</span></p><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Exottica, the Tour Operator</b><br />I was very pleased with Exottica. I thought giving us an extra day in Galapagos was better than staying in Guayaquil where there could be security concerns. They handled last-minute airline changes very well. Exceeded expectations and I will travel with them again. I’m setting up Bosque Travel as an affiliate.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><u>Tour Guides</u></span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Carlos</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> - a native of the Highlands, was our guide for four full days while in Quito, the Amazon Basin, Highlands. He was personable, knowledgeable, helpful, translating, and always Smiling. You can tell he loves his country. One of the best, in my top five, I have had in all my travels.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Boris</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> - a native of San Cristobal, was adequate, but too much of a hustler for me. Does his job because it's his job. A bit lost in translation perhaps.<br /></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Christopher</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> - (360 Excursion) 20 years on the island and was excellent and friendly. He knew how to manage groups of people.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Galapagos Dual Economics</span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Tourism here is based on the unique varieties of animals. Beaches are nice but found all over the world so it’s the unique species of animal that is the Galapagos. For years It had primarily been affluent American and European tourists who visited; however, during COVID-19 tourism wasn’t possible. The Ecuadorian government began to allow native Ecuadorians easy access to the Galapagos. The fee was now minimal so they were the dominant visitors for the past several years and restaurants catered to them. Now that full tourism has returned there are two styles of restaurants and tours. A local lunch averages about $6, and a tourist lunch $12. I had lunch from a local stall at Mann beach and it was good, but also not the quality of the standard. But Ecuadorian food has not appealed to me in general. The dual pricing also seen in other areas...so </span>negotiate<span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">This adventure was one of my most unique and enjoyable experiences as a traveler.<br /></span></b></p><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></b></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span><br /></div><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"></p>Snoozemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08287635714818403539noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-666314469198049300.post-23336458027564051962024-01-07T12:00:00.042-06:002024-02-05T02:11:24.682-06:00MSC Seashore Cruise Review - January 7, 2024<p style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3KoKqwcUh8DDmf26b_EmGgC0JHsy1DAvjFFPik4OVlurEYJb5ovxn0wLzbmvpl14Gtz_DjRG5pJ0vGdfjlNS_3arzNupVSSDI3M8yY44DVs5GeQY57J5X5uA3HLq9IMBF4UoESjZJzvqB2IU7mwiSV2Q2DR5_A6heFrUYyicJSz7pxHwBrfEHCbkvoHM/s3510/msc-seashore_msc-cruises_18685529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2209" data-original-width="3510" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3KoKqwcUh8DDmf26b_EmGgC0JHsy1DAvjFFPik4OVlurEYJb5ovxn0wLzbmvpl14Gtz_DjRG5pJ0vGdfjlNS_3arzNupVSSDI3M8yY44DVs5GeQY57J5X5uA3HLq9IMBF4UoESjZJzvqB2IU7mwiSV2Q2DR5_A6heFrUYyicJSz7pxHwBrfEHCbkvoHM/w640-h402/msc-seashore_msc-cruises_18685529.jpg" width="640" /> </a><b>MSC Seashore Cruise Review - January 7, 2024</b> <br /></p><div style="text-align: left;"><u>Just the Facts:</u><br />Ship: MSC Seashore - 2020 - <span class="w8qArf">Weight<span>:</span> </span><span><span class="LrzXr kno-fv wHYlTd z8gr9e">169,400t - </span></span><span class="w8qArf">Capacity<span>:</span> </span><span><span class="LrzXr kno-fv wHYlTd z8gr9e">: 4,540 passengers</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span class="LrzXr kno-fv wHYlTd z8gr9e">Captain: Stefano Aiello (Italy) Cruise Director: Endrigo Martin (Brazil) </span></span><br />Ports: Port Canaveral, USA - Ocean Cay, Bahamas <strike>(overnight)</strike> - Costa Maya, Mexico - Cozumel, Mexico</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I’m cruising as a solo on this 7-day cruise. This is my first cruise on the Seashore, my 20th cruise on MSC, and my 205th cruise overall. I do have Diamond status, the highest of the MSC Loyalty Club levels.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Sunday, January 7 / Port Canaveral / Embarkation / Day 1 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7wpz_1-MbzHiHEZOFdTQunyvPWYwxI1KwdVwS_q9HpWRCw5ENJCEUOM6xR6M7wALkVA1m_09NvSKn6LDIm_KyLu4R1fobLZwhYen5r3_K08ZuY70VwAiloZpSBIysr4xIbaq_0dalMeugT7RytN8oRWG8xeTl6Zqvr3cZ6vRQEzegLdjPy_d-AhkoYTo/s762/Launch1.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="746" data-original-width="762" height="391" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7wpz_1-MbzHiHEZOFdTQunyvPWYwxI1KwdVwS_q9HpWRCw5ENJCEUOM6xR6M7wALkVA1m_09NvSKn6LDIm_KyLu4R1fobLZwhYen5r3_K08ZuY70VwAiloZpSBIysr4xIbaq_0dalMeugT7RytN8oRWG8xeTl6Zqvr3cZ6vRQEzegLdjPy_d-AhkoYTo/w400-h391/Launch1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div></span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">I have a 2:00-2:30 Boarding time so planned accordingly and left the Florida Villa at about 10:15 a.m. for the drive to Port Canaveral. I arrived at </span><a class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://parkncruiseportcanaveral.com/" style="background: transparent; color: #4a6ee0; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;" target="_blank"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #4a6ee0; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Park-N-Cruise</span></a><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> at about 12:30 pm., a very efficient parking company I have used for years now and soon I was on my way to the port terminal. I arrived at Pier number 10 at about 1:00 grabbed my bags and went up one level to port security and through quickly. They had a Diamond card line and I went directly to a check-in counter. Very smooth process when arriving later and I was able to go straight to my cabin arriving on Deck 9 at about 1:30 p.m. I have a balcony cabin located all the way forward, actually the first cabin so a long walk to the forward elevator/stairwell. It is very comfortable, especially for a solo. The cabin has a Queen bed, Wardrobe, Large screen Television, a Counter/dressing table with mirror, a Small stocked refrigerator, Shelving, and drawers inside the wardrobe, a Couch, and a small but adequate bathroom with a solid glass door shower. I was able to watch the Tampa Rays game from 2nd quarter while setting up and hanging my clothes. At halftime, I went up to deck 16 to the buffet. My traditional embarkation selection Roast Beef was excellent…very moist and flavorful as well as Mashed Potatoes and Pickled Cabbage. I returned to the cabin and watched the remainder of the game before Muster Drill began at about 4:00 pm. I prepositioned myself on deck 7 so that I got my card scanned at Muster Station C (upper Theater) very early and avoided most of the crowding. I watched some of the Dallas Cowboys football game while finishing set-up. I ordered the premium WiFi package and the reception in my cabin was good. They are strict about one device…and you can not change from a Laptop to an iPhone. I arranged to get the Easy Drink package and had a few cocktails before the scheduled 5:35 pm launch of a rocket from Cape Canaveral. We began our sail away before launch but as we were still in the channel we had front row seats <span style="font-size: x-small;">(photo above)</span>. As it was a later launch at dusk you could easily see the flames of </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Blast Off</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> and follow the rocket as it gained altitude. As it passed directly over the ship it was just a fireball in the sky. It was </span><span style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">quite </span></span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Spectacular</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> to see. I have a 7:15 dinner assignment in the Central Park Dining room (MDR), located on deck 5 aft…it’s going to be a long walk, but probably needed. Dinner and service was good. For dinner, I ordered the Tomato Basil Soup, a very nice Scallop Ceviche, and the Ravioli entree. For dessert a wonderful Crema Catalonia. After dinner, I had reservations for the 9:30 Variety Show but retired to the cabin. It was straight to bed and some TV after a busy day. </span></div><div style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></div><div style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Monday, January 8th / Ocean Cay Marine Reserve / Day 2 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8PTGkycqxJ93-AkZfKTJ8oCCMuTzy81uq8xv9H96zYxHAS3eNYwmKmcYqqlngNDzt2qWfOEfbVg8IwjaCwYccn41RppMprtslt8po8fb-OOV5weQ0U0mhTNdqo7nUm86-AwjArPoOVLo2n_F74ozizDNjC7FFVO3mBNj5YKrEu0KoI5aSK24u5xziQjw/s4032/Lighthouse%20lights.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8PTGkycqxJ93-AkZfKTJ8oCCMuTzy81uq8xv9H96zYxHAS3eNYwmKmcYqqlngNDzt2qWfOEfbVg8IwjaCwYccn41RppMprtslt8po8fb-OOV5weQ0U0mhTNdqo7nUm86-AwjArPoOVLo2n_F74ozizDNjC7FFVO3mBNj5YKrEu0KoI5aSK24u5xziQjw/s320/Lighthouse%20lights.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div></b>Smooth seas overnight just enough movement for a very enjoyable night's sleep. The bed is very comfortable with good pillows. We were docked at about 7:00 am and it is an overcast day…the Captain has already announced that we will not overnight here as worse weather is forecast for tomorrow. I went to the MDR for breakfast at about 8:15 am and had a shared table. I ordered a Fruit Plate, Danish, Eggs Benedict with a side of Bacon, and hash brown potatoes. I was served Hot Milk which is not always easy to get on other cruise lines but very common on MSC. One advantage of this far-forward cabin is that the lighthouse is right off of my balcony…so I have a great view. I did my usual Monday morning business activities and enjoyed cabin time. I went up to deck 16 just to get a good view of the island. The water here is beautiful and the Palm trees look better with every visit. This stop will only improve over time. I had Pizza for a light lunch while on deck 16. Did a walkabout and more cabin time this afternoon. I went to the Sports Bar at about 4:15 for some draft beer. I wanted to watch the NCAA football Championship game at 7:30 so I did dinner at Hola! Tacos and Cantina when they opened At 6:00 pm. I did the all-you-can-eat option @ $17.99. I did well, I ordered: a variety (5) of soft tacos (very small), Hola’s Signature Guacamole (2), Queso Fundido, Chicken Tostada, Chicken Enchiladas Entree, and a Mexican Flan for dessert. It was very good and very filling. I would do this again. I made it back to the cabin for kickoff and watched an entertaining game. I also had front-row seats for the Lighthouse Light Show. Best perspective I have seen. We sailed away just after 10:00 pm. It was an easy restful day on the Mac Seashore.</span></div><div style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Tuesday, January 9th / <strike>Ocean Cay</strike> now Sea Day / Day 3 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglynbcFKxOHleVwnISEm5hxVYGWSOuawhHOuAcJbfaCgIVbz03htodLfXfRTiaiV4KSpoMwa5FVkPfDUmLdBPYJU-Et73LVeDzB-YazOl8-oSheX83tl6WFymx9QtcLdejN5PI4nLibQ6PHApgu-ED_tLzTT66UMAP54G2blswI7zFfC3dnGExcJv0INw/s4032/Piano%20Bar.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglynbcFKxOHleVwnISEm5hxVYGWSOuawhHOuAcJbfaCgIVbz03htodLfXfRTiaiV4KSpoMwa5FVkPfDUmLdBPYJU-Et73LVeDzB-YazOl8-oSheX83tl6WFymx9QtcLdejN5PI4nLibQ6PHApgu-ED_tLzTT66UMAP54G2blswI7zFfC3dnGExcJv0INw/s320/Piano%20Bar.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div></span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Rocky seas overnight that became worse over the course of the day. I slept in and then went up to the buffet for some Eggs and very good Bacon. I had a casual morning updating this blog and doing some online business. The wind was the enemy today, we passed through the same front that hit Florida so hard today. Most of the outer decks were closed so I made a Cabin Day out of it. My cabin is as far forward as it gets so I got a lot of the howling wind noises. Interesting day. At about 5:00 pm I went down to the Brooklyn Cafe, a very nice large bar lounge, for some cocktails and people-watching. At 7:15 I went to the Central Park Dining room for dinner. I ordered: Shrimp Cocktails (2), an excellent French Onion Soup, the </span>nice Pasta Bolognese <span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">entree, and dessert. All from the classic (available daily) side of the menu. I originally had 9:30 reservations for the variety show in the Theater, but did a walkabout and saw a new friend participating in the Lip Syncing contest so I watched that for awile, then watched the dueling Piano Bar performers (photo). All entertaining and lots of guests out this evening. I retired back to the cabin and updated myself on the news about a civil war breaking out in Ecuador. I’m scheduled to fly to Quito on Tuesday so quite interested in the news. It was a different but interesting sea day on the MSC Seashore.</span></div><div style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Wednesday, January 10th / Day at Sea / Day 4 </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_7stCaG04BkCoAcEtQuya_EiIUScK9_6h37cRazFIaIMmm3UYRSMYagIrmC4ImE_S0K-ydeWXZZEhdzdx0zug5wUBilk64RrcRhaIWJjPiHnvn3vcYGw1VetpJJ0smBErNjtbk1bosU2Opi_2eBVKTpUII2c93F6YQFPBiclMnTnQ8Yah-oiIE1JyyhE/s2306/VarietyShow.HEIC" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1506" data-original-width="2306" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_7stCaG04BkCoAcEtQuya_EiIUScK9_6h37cRazFIaIMmm3UYRSMYagIrmC4ImE_S0K-ydeWXZZEhdzdx0zug5wUBilk64RrcRhaIWJjPiHnvn3vcYGw1VetpJJ0smBErNjtbk1bosU2Opi_2eBVKTpUII2c93F6YQFPBiclMnTnQ8Yah-oiIE1JyyhE/s320/VarietyShow.HEIC" width="320" /></a></b></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smoother seas today and I slept very well. At about 10:00 am I went to the Le Cabaret Lounge for the Diamond Reception. They had small snacks on the tables and later brought Petit-fours. There was a selection of five drinks on the trays of the Bar Servers. The entertainment was an excellent Jazz duo. The Cruise Director introduced the Senior Staff, the Captain, and the Hotel Director. No leaving early at this event. I sat with two ladies who happened to be fans of this Blog so that was fun. Stopped at the Bar on the way out and had a Bloody Mary complement of the Beverage Manager. Nice. Since it was a sea day I took advantage of having Lunch in the MDR at about noon and I was joined by my new friends. I ordered the Black Bean Soup, the Tex-Mex Chicken Salad, a very nice Veal Scaloppini Piccata, and Boston Creme Pie (disappointing) for dessert. The weather is getting a bit better and I had a Cabin afternoon and a wee nap. At about 7:00 pm I did a walkabout and did a bit of shopping before attending the 3-hour continuous Variety Show in the Le Cabaret Lounge, a typical MSC production show M.O. with lots of action and less verbiage due to language barriers. I saw various interesting acts before my 9:00 pm reservation at the </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Butcher's Cut Steakhouse.</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> Tonight I ordered the Smoked Tomato Soup, the Hearts of Palm Salad, and the NY Sirloin Strip Steak with a Baked Potato side. The assortment of Breads and Steak Sauces were also good as was the service. Thank you, MSC, it was an enjoyable meal. I then retired to the cabin for a contented sleep. A nice day on the MSC Seashore.</span><p></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Thursday, January 11th / Costa Maya, Mexico / Day 5 </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_EmaxIaTHwOsJ_6rjg94HxPUwJnEhdbGvw5GYjL3UJiGXB6-ipsGBwJOWg59CBeKxeuhVLYWNnvFVF_gQ6BneUnsyBKmlJS8RTqSXzpplhR9LkWVzNGGY0nII0AIV_6SNisj0jWAjNMOz2XSLUEpi6LtzSTtgeVeUiiGUB7V8OdZLLkI7UK2CSgjg_BU/s3754/Mahahual.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2533" data-original-width="3754" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_EmaxIaTHwOsJ_6rjg94HxPUwJnEhdbGvw5GYjL3UJiGXB6-ipsGBwJOWg59CBeKxeuhVLYWNnvFVF_gQ6BneUnsyBKmlJS8RTqSXzpplhR9LkWVzNGGY0nII0AIV_6SNisj0jWAjNMOz2XSLUEpi6LtzSTtgeVeUiiGUB7V8OdZLLkI7UK2CSgjg_BU/s320/Mahahual.jpeg" width="320" /></a></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Finally, calm seas overnight and I slept very well. We arrived several hours early by 7:00 am as I was up using the WiFi. I slept a bit longer and then checked the beautiful weather we have today. The first real sun since we left Florida. At about 10:30 am I went up to the buffet for some Eggs, Potatoes, Bacon, and French Toast. Nice view of the Lighthouse too. I left the ship after breakfast and made my way to the taxi stand for a shred taxi ($4 pp) to the old village of Mahahual. There are four ships docked today and a mass of people at the port area. We arrived in Mahahual and I walked along the Malecon until I saw workers wearing <b>El Faro</b> T-shirts. That was our favorite hangout before Hurricane Dean wiped out everything in 2007. They have now built permanent Palapas and the new Palm trees now cover shade on the beach. There are so many more people than I have ever seen here, but I did get a shady table with great sea breezes. I found numerous photos in my iPhone of the original El Faro, as we went twice in 2006. The current servers were very impressed and in fact, brought over our favorite waiter from 18 years ago, unfortunately, he works at a different place now, but his grandson served me. It is much more touristy and thus expensive. I had a couple of Cervesas and a nice MX Coca-Cola, but the best was the </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Lobster Tacos</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">…they were excellent. </span>The water was excellent and the beach was nice<span style="font-size: x-small;"> (photo above).</span> From the water you can see the huge Cruise Ships in the distance, Pelicans and Albatrosses flying about, and the abundant beach activities. I got a shared taxi back to the port at about 4:00 pm and soon back on the Seashore. Rested and enjoyed the sunset from the balcony until time for dinner. Tonight I ordered the Maryland Crab Cakes and Herbed Wild Mushroom Ragot as starters and both were excellent. </span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The
very good Steak Diana entree, and two desserts: Coconut Tapioca and
Vanilla Creme with Berry Coulis. It was a very nice dinner. It was a very nice dinner. <br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifSVmevMJNARMXepingPzj_ghTp-pWVbuQ99sUnXcNhAQjHx1W3BBWcfS439pBGAIQ6AzkghuC9Y5kg7QUecBjfJdckn13bJqw49OlfKuQVW7jOD3zawgxF5ng3_t2dlBtcwbbS4H79qoIW4AX_ZmdiLY83cWItqCEoFHgfg0tzx5RA8tYyL-by-qZSsw/s4032/CanCan.HEIC" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1525" data-original-width="4032" height="121" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifSVmevMJNARMXepingPzj_ghTp-pWVbuQ99sUnXcNhAQjHx1W3BBWcfS439pBGAIQ6AzkghuC9Y5kg7QUecBjfJdckn13bJqw49OlfKuQVW7jOD3zawgxF5ng3_t2dlBtcwbbS4H79qoIW4AX_ZmdiLY83cWItqCEoFHgfg0tzx5RA8tYyL-by-qZSsw/s320/CanCan.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div>After dinner, I attended the Production Show: </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The Journey</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">. It featured the Singers and Dancers doing a set of classic songs from various European Countries. Unique costumes and a talented group and they did work in two of my favorites: the Can-Can <span style="font-size: x-small;">(photo left)</span> and <i>Con Te Partiro</i>. Following the show I watched the Piano entertainers as I waited for some Coca-Cola from the bar servers to take back to the cabin. I was tired from all the walking today, over 7000 steps. I also love the evening turn-down service, very nice to have a clean cabin in the evening. It was a very busy day in port and on the Seashore.</span></div><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></p></div><div style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Friday, January 12th / Cozumel / Day 6</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJFOvl4qmi9MqaP8Z4-TAza3jRTuIdU2pCiJfkzm3Sts6HdM4vxip392pY0XG0aD8YmphlT-mlsyyRSp9GguP-qPcKIM40JvztewvgvSbZTXXOCChUI4Z_jQ4937tZwjC7Q-r1e5MNCHqxj9jYLsXpSlgnXnk79eXYykzZFs2kiaT7-58ydEsYmof2mRM/s4032/Seashore%20in%20Coz.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2303" data-original-width="4032" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJFOvl4qmi9MqaP8Z4-TAza3jRTuIdU2pCiJfkzm3Sts6HdM4vxip392pY0XG0aD8YmphlT-mlsyyRSp9GguP-qPcKIM40JvztewvgvSbZTXXOCChUI4Z_jQ4937tZwjC7Q-r1e5MNCHqxj9jYLsXpSlgnXnk79eXYykzZFs2kiaT7-58ydEsYmof2mRM/w400-h229/Seashore%20in%20Coz.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>Smooth seas overnight, just enough rocking for a good night's sleep. I woke at bout 7:30 a.m. and we had been docked at Puerto Langosta for a while. I did some WiFi business but at about 9:30 am I was off and walking into town, I love docking at this pier, so much easier for the things I usually do when in Cozumel. My first stop was at <b>Antonio’s</b> for a haircut just as he opened at 10:00 a.m. Another very good haircut too. The second stop is at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/zensi.spa/" target="_blank"><b>Zensi Spa</b></a> for a pedicure…it was very nice. The third stop is at my Cozumel HQ: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/WoodysCozumel" target="_blank"><b>Woody’s Bar & Grill</b></a>. I had dropped my backpack at my favorite table earlier. The good WiFi, Live Entertainment by Michael, great Mexican Coca-Cola, good Guacamole and Pico de Gallo, and Bohemia beer were very nice on this nice and breezy day. The day seemed a bit off though. I casually began walking back to the ship earlier than usual and taking an unusual route when I heard my name called on the street…it was David my usual Bartender from Woodys. He’s working at another place and he filled me in on Woody’s…seems there has been a riff in management. I wondered why I had not seen my good friend Nelly there. In fact, I had not seen the new owners either. I did stop at the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Thethirstycougar" target="_blank"><b>Thirsty Cougar</b></a> on the Malecon as a break on my walk. Manny has been there since the original owners and they do have my Bohemia as well as the view<span style="font-size: x-small;"> (photo from my table)</span> and a nice sea Breeze. I made it back on board before 4:00 pm and refreshed and relaxed before our sailing away. This is one of those days that I’m glad I have a 7:15 dinner time. Dinner was very good, I ordered: two Baby Shrimp Cocktails, the Penne all Amatriciana pasta, the Honey BBQ Meatloaf entree, and a Cherry Clafoutis Creme (only fair) for dessert. After dinner I retired to the cabin, overall another great port day in Cozumel.<br /></span></div><div style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></div><div style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Saturday, January 13th / Day at Sea / Day 7 </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqz6HWZFzGg3GvwTkn892KQDyg3uhA77dANuwvM9HzJJK3xEOJrpiest1RjkNFtc8j7eUeCAwpORPPqJ0ZUJK0qvwOrApLR6nEVNpLUrrVfeViGuXRI08Lwe10dPVdXqyA9I3Em0KgxXz3wMPu8P4P1j4sxLhQYHa-6WWT_GHxrZ88zKiB2QPCeEMheOE/s4032/Capt.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqz6HWZFzGg3GvwTkn892KQDyg3uhA77dANuwvM9HzJJK3xEOJrpiest1RjkNFtc8j7eUeCAwpORPPqJ0ZUJK0qvwOrApLR6nEVNpLUrrVfeViGuXRI08Lwe10dPVdXqyA9I3Em0KgxXz3wMPu8P4P1j4sxLhQYHa-6WWT_GHxrZ88zKiB2QPCeEMheOE/w400-h300/Capt.jpeg" width="400" /></a></span></b></div>Some rolling seas overnight, just enough rocking for a good sleep. I had a relaxing morning the went up to the Buffet at about 10:30 am. I had French Toast and Bacon with milk and sat outside on the aft…beautiful weather today. I then walked across the Bridge of Sighs to the Sky Bar for a spicy Bloody Mary and enjoyed the aft view with the wake. I took some Coca-Cola back to the cabin updated this blog and did some research on my trip to Ecuador on Tuesday. Having some problems since the troubles and one flight arriving after curfew. In the afternoon I went back to the Buffet for a Hamburger and Fries. You build your own and they are very good. Still great weather but I know later we have to pass through a cold front. But the most sun we have had on the ship so guests are happy and outdoors on this final sea day. We had another Diamond cocktail event (photo) at 5:30 pm in the Le Cabaret Lounge, basically the same as the first one. I then went by the <b>Brooklyn Lounge</b> for my cocktails prepared by I Gusti then to the MDR for my 7:15 dinner. It was Italian Night and the tables were nicely decorated with an Italian-themed menu. I ordered Arancini, two entrees: Bistecca alla pizzaiola and Chicken Parmigiana, with Tiramisu for dessert. It was very good other than the dessert although all the desserts have been weak. I will try the Pistachio Ice Creme next visit in February. I retired to the cabin to watch the NFL Wildcard game between Miami and Kansas City played in -7° with -30°wind chill. Wow. I tried to sleep, but difficult this night. It was a nice find sea day on the MSC Seashore.</div><div style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><p><b>Sunday, February 14th / Port Canaveral / Debarkation</b><br />Fair seas overnight, but I did not sleep well, too many last minute changes to Ecuador plans. We arrived on time and were docked just after 6:00 am. I finished packing and was at the self-debark location at about 6:45 a.m. We began leaving at about 7:00 a.m. and thanks to facial recognition we were soon on the street. I was on the parking shuttle bus by 7:30 and on the road by 7:50 a.m. Stopped for groceries, and was home before 10:00 a.m. Easy Peasy. </p><p><b>Ship</b><br />Maiden Voyage: 2017 / Gross Tonnage: 153,500 tons<br />Passenger Capacity: 5179 / Crew: 1413 / Length: 323 meters/1060 ft<br />Max Cruising Speed: 22 knots / Avg Speed 21 knots<br />Installed power: Diesel (40,000kW) / Propulsion: Twin propellers<br />17 passenger decks / Builder: Fincantieri<br />Godmother: Sophia Loren<br /><br /><b>Cabin</b><br />I had cabin 9004 a starboard side balcony located on deck as far forward as you can go with a long walk to the forward elevators. Storage is fine if solo. The toilet seems smaller perhaps because the glass shower doors restrict movement. The cabin has a push-button safe, twin/king beds, a large padded headboard, two small nightstands, wall-mounted wall lights, a large mirror, a small refrigerator, a small table/bench (unusual), and a nice TV with interactive features. My cabin steward Ariel was very good.<br /><br /><b>Dining / Food</b> <br />The dinners in the MDR are very good, service and settings were wonderful. I love the tablecloths. Our wait staff were excellent, very pleased with the service. The buffet food was good to very good. Not as many selections as in the past, but the food variety was fine. Favorites: all the Pizza, all the Pasta, Guacamole, Hamburgers, and Salad Bar. I only did one specialty restaurant: The Butcher’s Cut and it was very good. I may say the the Seaside food seems better than the Seashore.<br /><br /><b>Comments - MSC Cruise Line</b><br />MSC is very different than the usual American cruise lines and if you're looking for the same experience it will be much different. You may like the differences or you may be very unhappy with the differences. As an experienced cruiser, I love different. If you don’t like change or are not flexible you will probably NOT like sailing a European cruise line. Following are my personal observations on sailing MSC: <br /><br /><b>MSC Pluses</b><br />Beautiful Public Rooms, Good MSC Production Shows and entertainment, Quality and Beautiful Themed Bars, Nice Cabins, Hot Milk readily available on buffet and MDR, Attentive bar servers, and Good MDR Breakfasts. Tablecloths.<br /><br /><b>Changes since Covid</b><br />Announcements are now only in English<br />Fewer children since they changed the ‘Children sail free’ promotion.<br />Many more American guests result in more: Scooters, Wheelchairs, and complainers.<br /><br /><b>Highlights of the Cruise</b><br />Rocket Launch from Port Canaveral<br />Hola! Tacos and Cantina<br />Port Days in Cozumel and Costa Maya<br />Butcher’s Cut Steak House</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOAynekkFCY0-UHgSDV_f01CWVXZechZgrTh8ogaqIRdaWHizwKX5vouiNJEIoCZLaIs2q43IzXCqdtwiYuJM30vuysFDcuqSBmV290vC8WVl98o-t0wqsyw-1QvKQRmGR39DJ7gLWiIrbA8cPUWT_0QZVYR_D4Fd_vtSWzQ0sHGOWx53XlA_n8FN2QsA/s4032/aft%20wake.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOAynekkFCY0-UHgSDV_f01CWVXZechZgrTh8ogaqIRdaWHizwKX5vouiNJEIoCZLaIs2q43IzXCqdtwiYuJM30vuysFDcuqSBmV290vC8WVl98o-t0wqsyw-1QvKQRmGR39DJ7gLWiIrbA8cPUWT_0QZVYR_D4Fd_vtSWzQ0sHGOWx53XlA_n8FN2QsA/s320/aft%20wake.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><br /><br /></p></div><div style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div>Snoozemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08287635714818403539noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-666314469198049300.post-67397650673401350892023-12-09T12:00:00.047-06:002023-12-16T20:41:49.253-06:00Norwegian Escape - December 9, 2023 - Cruise Review<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><p style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_3EAZnLHTODgjsj48TXZuCyIVU7uU_8n9oK8yvjObXV-0p7QJVj4HEW4JHt8LNWnOFhyphenhyphenh3DVMrnocj6dpJ5K5IwHz_Q4656fhYuVUcT1LV_b811McLvZntYH2bvSMBCuSJiPFoCgqL3FB-qt_WI9CYB51A_5CPEVtJTQjO13l857rG6PZ3F64YI6lBFc/s3632/Escape@Cay.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2247" data-original-width="3632" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_3EAZnLHTODgjsj48TXZuCyIVU7uU_8n9oK8yvjObXV-0p7QJVj4HEW4JHt8LNWnOFhyphenhyphenh3DVMrnocj6dpJ5K5IwHz_Q4656fhYuVUcT1LV_b811McLvZntYH2bvSMBCuSJiPFoCgqL3FB-qt_WI9CYB51A_5CPEVtJTQjO13l857rG6PZ3F64YI6lBFc/w640-h396/Escape@Cay.jpeg" width="640" /> </a><b>Norwegian Escape - December 9, 2023 - Cruise Review</b></p><div style="text-align: left;"><u><b>Just the Facts:</b></u><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Ship: Norwegian Escape is a 165,000-ton Breakaway+ class ship launched in 2015 with a guest capacity of 4266+ . </div><div style="text-align: left;">Ports: Port Canaveral, Puerto Plata, St. Thomas, Tortola, Great Stirrup Cay</div><p style="text-align: left;">This is my second cruise on the Norwegian Escape, my 9th cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line, and my 204th cruise overall. I’m cruising as a solo. <br /></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Saturday / December 9th, 2023 / Embarkation / Day 1 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-0cKQeu-jgyB3d2mZ1bTPaOwKVE6hnm3XciMZsqpRXwBKA7KnPyG4fw6HB8SaiLDXFoH0q0ms7dJxEV69yF60RKvsQNG1f2KsEREy6yl3thiU8GjKQttkJ4mTnVHQ1Ii_jKNzvbI3YJFeYRbcPiD0UX6v7j22icC5mYvwhjvFASMMT1t3iPlNhJnPFXo/s3207/sundown1.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2520" data-original-width="3207" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-0cKQeu-jgyB3d2mZ1bTPaOwKVE6hnm3XciMZsqpRXwBKA7KnPyG4fw6HB8SaiLDXFoH0q0ms7dJxEV69yF60RKvsQNG1f2KsEREy6yl3thiU8GjKQttkJ4mTnVHQ1Ii_jKNzvbI3YJFeYRbcPiD0UX6v7j22icC5mYvwhjvFASMMT1t3iPlNhJnPFXo/w400-h314/sundown1.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div></b>I finished packing early Saturday morning and I was off on my drive to Port Canaveral at about 9:20 am. I drove the northern route: Hwy 52 to I-75 north, then east to the FL Turnpike, then Hwy 528 (the Beachline Expressway) to the port and Atlantic beaches. I arrived at </span><a href="https://parkncruiseportcanaveral.com/" target="_blank"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Park-N-Cruise</span></b></a><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> cruise parking at about 11:30 am and easily parked. I checked in and joined the already waiting line for the shuttle to the NCL Escape. Luckily I was on the second bus that came. Park-N-Cruise is my overall favorite of all the parking locations and ports in Florida. We were soon at Port Canaveral, busy with five mega-ships in port today. A bit of a line to enter NCL terminal 10 and security, but once inside it went fairly quickly…I was on the ship at about 1:30. I did my Muster Station (D3) check in the Casino on my way to the aft elevators. Experience and luck (muster station location on the same deck) got me through the crowd of dawdling guests. I went up to the Garden Cafe on deck 16 for a Buffet lunch. It was very busy with too many guests loitering awaiting cabins to open. A lot of Food Stations, I had Roast Beef and a selection of vegetables. I remembered that they had a Noodle Station and I had a great bowl of Pho, although I made it a bit too spicy. For dessert: Bread Pudding with caramel sauce. I then found my cabin on deck 12, an interior on a special passageway, to unpack and set up. I have a standard interior, the unique Studio Cabins designed for Solo guests are just too small for me. Plenty of storage with a large bathroom and shower. At about 3:30 they began Muster Drill…since I had already visited my station I was good. NCL was the first to return to the traditional meet-up before sailing away after COVID-19. I had to do it on a previous Escape cruise. That didn’t go over well with guests so thankfully they have gone back to the simple visit and a safety spiel over the PA. The WiFi works very well (so far) and you can switch between devices (ie- iPhone and laptop). I did a walkabout and then sat out on deck 8 to watch the sundown, a great area with fewer people, it was a beautiful sundown too. Guests were certainly taking advantage of the inclusive drink program, every bar I passed today has been packed. But guests do tend to party hard on the first day. I went to the District Brew House undiscovered as yet, I had the drink of the day as it had organic Vodka and Elderflower…it was just OK. I did have a Funky Buddha draft beer that I discovered from the previous cruise. I went to the Garden Cafe (buffet) on deck 16 for dinner. I got a very nice thick sliced Prime Rib then had them grill it for me. NCL always has a hot grill near the Carving Stations, but few know about it. Better than a steakhouse entree. Mixed Vegetables, and a wonderful Passion Fruit cake for dessert. I then retired early after a busy day with a lot of walking. It was a very nice embarkation day on the Norwegian Escape.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Sunday / December 10th, 2023 / Day at Sea / Day 2 </b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaXuUzwfPyRIBO19CZFFSwoI5v4XBhELgAUezGYYnq6NQVMBevLbGv1EGZimAa26BAVS_BI215hMyltv9XI_mSLDnl5lPftluaQeHGxh0Ljh7f-HZPTVTzaTKjoW-3JKu3vjmbgTmlZGI/s4032/atrium.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaXuUzwfPyRIBO19CZFFSwoI5v4XBhELgAUezGYYnq6NQVMBevLbGv1EGZimAa26BAVS_BI215hMyltv9XI_mSLDnl5lPftluaQeHGxh0Ljh7f-HZPTVTzaTKjoW-3JKu3vjmbgTmlZGI/s320/atrium.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div></span><span style="color: #0e101a;">Fair seas overnight and I slept very well. At about 9:00 am I went for breakfast in the Savor MDR. I ordered: a Fruit Bowl, Eggs Benedict with sides of Bacon & Potatoes, Danish, and Hot Milk. It was very good as was the company at a shared table. I then started this review as I was too tired last evening. When the cabin steward came to clean I went up to my deck 8 hideout…more guests but nice with sea breezes and views. I made Platinum Status on this cruise, with a few extra benefits, I have two premium dinners now and a new reception at 1:30 pm in the Manhattan MDR. This is a Next Cruise event and selling is the goal although they did have some cocktails and cheeses. If you have the drink package this may not be a worthwhile event. I did fill out a form for two futures. $500 = $250 OBC on the current cruise. It used to be a 1 to 1 so not as good a deal as it was in the past. The rest of the afternoon I watched NFL football. NCL is one of only two cruise lines (that I know) that have NFL football in the cabins. I made reservations for the Manhattan Room for dinner @ 6:15 pm and had a very nice shared table in the center of the room. The tables are very nice with proper linens and great service. I ordered: the Cobb salad, Shrimp Pasta Alla Vodka (entree as starter), the Parmesan-crusted Pork Chop entree, and Boston Creme Pie for dessert. It was all very good with the pork chop outstanding. Very pleased with the dinner. I believe NCL may have the best food overall among the Big Four cruise lines. After dinner, I watched the SNF feature game between the Dallas Cowboys and Philadelphia Eagles for the Division lead. A good game. I updated this blog and had some online business to do as well, a relaxing evening. It was a very nice although rocky sea day on the Norwegian Escape.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #0e101a;"> </span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #0e101a;">Monday / December 11th / Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic / Day 3 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgspJhLCE50tmbVh8GJR6Z8ljIGvSgVeOc0LfkNlgh_RAj5Cw3a_a2YHGP-7jrTp5V734CLaIE0edCLXQpbAIV6IiKCaTMS34l2NmFCjlh0RLMfJEodDfpD-XBmy1YBm0g9uo1i7375LVzip6FJ-Va35GO0PTmdFKLc1NI0FidXU4KIORV6PDeDn4zVsHY/s2953/IMG_9448.HEIC" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2950" data-original-width="2953" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgspJhLCE50tmbVh8GJR6Z8ljIGvSgVeOc0LfkNlgh_RAj5Cw3a_a2YHGP-7jrTp5V734CLaIE0edCLXQpbAIV6IiKCaTMS34l2NmFCjlh0RLMfJEodDfpD-XBmy1YBm0g9uo1i7375LVzip6FJ-Va35GO0PTmdFKLc1NI0FidXU4KIORV6PDeDn4zVsHY/w400-h400/IMG_9448.HEIC" width="400" /></a></div></span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Rolling seas overnight and I slept very well. We changed our clocks to Atlantic time overnight as well. I was up early and went to Savor for breakfast at about 8:00 am. Very few guests (time change?) this morning. I had a heart breakfast: Hot Milk, Tomato Juice, a Fruit Bowl, three eggs fried sunny side up, Bacon, Ham, Sausage, Potatoes, and Toast. Very nice and had a view as we approached the port. There are three cruise ships docked at Puerto Plata today. I have an excursion today, </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b><a href="http://www.oceanworld.net/eng/index.php" target="_blank">Ocean World</a></b> Day Pass & Adventure, </span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">and met my group at about 10:15 on the pier. Only a 15+ minute drive and you know when you arrive when you drive under a (man-made) waterfall at the entry. Once off the bus, they have a nice Folklore Dance group as a welcome. It’s a very nice and clean park experience. Features include the Beach, Rain Forest, restaurant and shops, and Activities. There is a snorkel area, swimming areas with waterfalls, Tropical birds, and Show areas. I saw the Dolphin show (photo), Sea Lion Show, Bird Show, and Shark Feeding. The first two were very good, the other two were meh. A Buffet Brunch was provided with Dominican food or Burgers and hot Dogs. I did the two types of Chicken, Beans, Salad, and French Fries. The weather was breezy so nice with good views of the sea, WiFi was provided in some areas. We met for the return @ 3:30 and were back on the ship at about 4:15 after walking through the </span><a class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.porttainobay.com/es/home" style="background: transparent; color: #4a6ee0; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;" target="_blank"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #4a6ee0; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Taíno Bay Cruise Port</span></a><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> shops & bars at the pier area. Shower, rest & recover before going up to the Garden Buffet for a snack as I have an early show this evening. I had a built it yourself Hamburger with Fries. It was good. I went down to the Theater at about 6:30 but it was already full, although as a solo found an empty seat in row 3 center. Sweet. If you can’t get in on the first night it will be hard to get in for subsequent shows as the ladies on the ship will have it packed. </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The Choir of Man</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> is probably the BEST show at sea at this time. I was familiar with the opening so was able to score a draft beer from the bar set on stage. Featuring a traditional Irish/Scottish Pub theme with interesting pub characters...it’s a great show with great singing and storyline. This was a new cast from my visit in January, I love this musical concept, even two acapella numbers. Many ladies sitting down low where I was sitting had to be regulars and one would think we were at Chippendales. They loved it. Short walkabout afterward, but a very long and busy day for this old guy, so I retired early. It was a great port day and ship day on the Norwegian Escape.</span><span style="color: #0e101a;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #0e101a;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0e101a;"><b>Tuesday / December 12th / St. Thomas, USVI / Day 4 </b></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF1Upi0NfNTdVEDXeGqInQVatlLiCpQ51ESGwkBJLwbwBm71L3kJq7adgyfJJDm7BXVquGkAO-u77JsBvRF2rcGB3lFAvDW9xwowXK2dlyZdJBI55Z6RCWmOfTtDEwSKsSiEs4OVl6pvbhE7nPgQHJlSlTKfgWKH1Cjiy1bF63yRhZdug7J4RthCUaz0E/s4032/PP-USVI.HEIC" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF1Upi0NfNTdVEDXeGqInQVatlLiCpQ51ESGwkBJLwbwBm71L3kJq7adgyfJJDm7BXVquGkAO-u77JsBvRF2rcGB3lFAvDW9xwowXK2dlyZdJBI55Z6RCWmOfTtDEwSKsSiEs4OVl6pvbhE7nPgQHJlSlTKfgWKH1Cjiy1bF63yRhZdug7J4RthCUaz0E/w400-h300/PP-USVI.HEIC" width="400" /></a></div>Rocking seas overnight and I slept well. We have a late arrival so a good day for sleeping late and having a relaxing morning. I updated this blog and did some internet work while relaxing in bed all morning. I needed that. We docked at about noon as scheduled, we were the only ship, but still docked at the end of the pier. I went up to the Garden Buffet for lunch. Very nice Vegetables and Soup today. I have a prepaid ticket from NCL for the Gondola up to </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Paradise Point</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> so that’s my plan for the day. I was at the top of Paradise Point at about 2:30 pm and I had a nice table with a nice view (photo). Not that busy with only one ship in port. I enjoyed one of their special Painkillers and a pina Colada since I heard the song sung last night at the Choir of Man show. The view is always nice and the breeze keeps it cool. I returned to the ship at about 4:30ish. I used one of my premium restaurant vouchers tonight to go to Moderno Churrascaria, the Brazilian Steakhouse. I recall how great their salad Bar was the last time I ate there years ago and yes it is still fabulous. So many exotic choices including my favorite Hearts of Palm. The meats are sliced at the table for you. Sirloin, Filet Mignon, Chicken, Sausage, Pork, and Pineapple. You’re served about five sides as well as bread. For dessert, I had Rice Pudding. I thought about seeing </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Howl at the Moon</span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> in Headliners on deck 8, but the room was really packed. From what I could see it looked like a lot of fun with dueling piano bar + drums set up. This show alternates each night with the Comedians in this venue. I retired to the cabin and relaxed. It was a good day in St. Thomas and on the Norwegian Escape.</span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Wednesday / December 13th / Tortola, BVI / Day 5</span></b><span style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-osRZKGMnN85dvSGQgK52TU3EsTi0SrlxWegtYhqciV3JP-uPJpb4DbNp1KLFE2MjlIvxUJgC6UwBWgNBbkaI6vW-LuML9XsjGZIpX6macy0x-kHRklSy9wYcWzFMNqnpSSEv5sBlUP_PvRSR6t6wY3sdC3AHN9WoUj5oU_zdW6pw3BXTUvxBGNDqapQ/s4032/Baths.HEIC" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-osRZKGMnN85dvSGQgK52TU3EsTi0SrlxWegtYhqciV3JP-uPJpb4DbNp1KLFE2MjlIvxUJgC6UwBWgNBbkaI6vW-LuML9XsjGZIpX6macy0x-kHRklSy9wYcWzFMNqnpSSEv5sBlUP_PvRSR6t6wY3sdC3AHN9WoUj5oU_zdW6pw3BXTUvxBGNDqapQ/w400-h300/Baths.HEIC" width="400" /></a></div></span></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Rolling seas overnight and we were docked well before I got out of bed this morning. I have an early excursion, T</span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">he Baths at Virgin Gorda</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> so I was up at the Garden Cafe for breakfast by 7:15 am. and met the tour on the pier at 8:30 am. Our big group of 100+ boarded the ferry for the 35 minutes over to Virgin Gorda. We passed by the Little Sisters chain of islands on the way. Once docked we board five open-air jitneys for the ride to <a href="https://www.bvinpt.org/the-baths" target="_blank">The Baths National Park</a>. Huge rocks/boulders all over this portion of the island even going down to the sea. Very nice facility: <a href="https://topofthebaths.com/" target="_blank">Top of the Baths</a> restaurant and bar, they make a nice Bushwaker too. Very uneven trails down and up to the beach areas and if you do the Caves Trail from Devils Bay beach to the Baths beach you pass through/over/under and around some very narrow rock formations. (The photo is off the easiest portion). Be careful as is is not an easy journey, but this old guy made it. Both beaches are wonderful I wish we would have had more time. We met at 12:15 for the trip back to the ship as we had an early debark of 1:30 pm. Soon after arrival, they announced that due to poor weather in the Bahamas, our stop on Friday had been canceled and we had another three hours here. Would have loved to know that earlier, but I was very tired. So tired that after cleaning up I took a four-hour nap. Sweet. Waking at 6:00 pm I checked the Markets (great day) until 7:00 and debated whether to go eat. I did. I went to the buffet and had a very nice Salad with Crispy Lettuce, Beets, Egg, Onions, Veggies, and croutons. The Beef Brisket and Chicken entrees were nice. I had Watermelon and a great dessert called Raspberry Charlotte. Yes glad I ate. I then retired to the cabin to update this blog, review the day's activities, and rest. It was a great excursion day on the Norwegian Escape.</span><br /><span style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Thursday / December 14th / Day at Sea / Day 6 </b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlYDghyphenhyphenNvzEmnZNlGoc1sxFmGM8lBJd3tOs2JJTrHKc2ig7Sg5OLXSy8-KHSVUhI5CHzB6rLNSNmgbJt4YK75QWmxgbMp-NWAY8DuLMGNt_LKd6UUjbuRWnJuAqp1Pw3XPFpJq2TSqliQiSuFEBtDQCxNy2NABRW9yeU2ql5Z8mtj5gMz65zgeTwsyJu4/s2000/LaCucina.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1397" data-original-width="2000" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlYDghyphenhyphenNvzEmnZNlGoc1sxFmGM8lBJd3tOs2JJTrHKc2ig7Sg5OLXSy8-KHSVUhI5CHzB6rLNSNmgbJt4YK75QWmxgbMp-NWAY8DuLMGNt_LKd6UUjbuRWnJuAqp1Pw3XPFpJq2TSqliQiSuFEBtDQCxNy2NABRW9yeU2ql5Z8mtj5gMz65zgeTwsyJu4/w400-h280/LaCucina.jpg" width="400" /></a></div></span></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Rocky seas overnight that began after dinner last night. I enjoy sleeping when we have some movement. At about 8:00 am I went to Savor for breakfast, I was given a nice window table. When I checked in at the counter the nice lady read some notes about my booking, smiled, and everyone began calling me by name. I’m a nobody on NCL, but if NCL Marketing discovers my live review they make the ship aware. One million hits on this modest blog will do that. I had my Hot milk and a Tomato juice straightaway. My Fruit Bowl, which has freshly sliced fruit, is not a mix of uniform fruit squares…it’s very nice with fresh melon, blackberries, cantaloupe, kiwi, strawberry, blueberries, and orange slice. I had my perfect Eggs Benedict, with sides of bacon and potatoes, and an additional plate with bacon. Sweet. Service was excellent too and I have to mention again the crisp tablecloths. There is no doubt that NCL has the best food & dining experience of the four mainstream cruise lines. Now that I’m in Florida I will be sailing more on NCL. I sat on deck 8 in the quiet zone and enjoyed the wonderful sea air and sea breezes, we were sailing slowly and I assumed the Captain was keeping us in the sun as best he could. Overcast but very pleasant weather. Plenty of time to update this blog and review the news of the world online. At about 1:45 I went up to the buffet. They had Pork Loin on the carving station so I got bread and mayo from the sandwich station and made my custom sandwich. It was good and I didn’t want too much as I’m doing a premium restaurant tonight. After a wee nap and cabin time, I went to </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">La Cucina,</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> the Italian Restaurant on deck 8. A nice space and I had a prime two-top table at the window as well as good service, This is the new dinner that comes as a Platinum guest and it includes a bottle of wine but they allowed me to have a Cocktail so I had a very nice Cosmopolitan. I ordered the Mozzarella Caprese, a custom Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce, and the Filetto Di Manzo Al Pepe Verde ( Beef Tenderloin with Green Peppercorn Sauce), I am very particular about my steaks and this was a very good entree. For dessert I had a very nice Panna Cotta, the pistachio on the side was a perfect addition. I did a brief walkabout on the ship, the Pour House was hopping tonight then retired. It was a great day with a great meal on the Norwegian Escape. <br /></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Friday / February 3rd / <strike>Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas</strike> - now Sea Day / Day 7 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmi-lNtIy1zYvypYHdm83E5uftVU2PMVHn9_cu8Togi-aOLx9zq62lTRHTXkAZ5cGJe6k3D4ot2Za-UTwwEnbotVZe-d3QavSScP9y3pW4JEWsAtjgDqZrlOYh17loNw4759cimYf0Ha-3aggdN_Upc9QH_onDHaFm8WNkNShyzhOQZwmreJaAAZZl0Z8/s275/Cabin.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="183" data-original-width="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmi-lNtIy1zYvypYHdm83E5uftVU2PMVHn9_cu8Togi-aOLx9zq62lTRHTXkAZ5cGJe6k3D4ot2Za-UTwwEnbotVZe-d3QavSScP9y3pW4JEWsAtjgDqZrlOYh17loNw4759cimYf0Ha-3aggdN_Upc9QH_onDHaFm8WNkNShyzhOQZwmreJaAAZZl0Z8/s16000/Cabin.jpg" /></a></div></b></span><span style="color: #0e101a;">Again rocky seas overnight that look to continue throughout the rainy day. Looks to be a cabin day. I haven’t watched TV on this cruise, but they do have some good selections. I mentioned sports coverage, but they have movie channels various (red & blue) news coverage, and the CNBC business channel. That's better than most cruise lines nowadays. I enjoy the bad weather on occasion. This was to be our day at NCL’s private island, the correct decision to cancel it earlier, we did get $50 in OBC, better than just the port fees. The ship seems to be doing the same trick that MSC did last month: we never changed time back to EST from Eastern Atlantic Time…this way many guests will be an hour ahead for debarkation tomorrow morning. Anything to help speed up that process. I made it to Savor before closing, although busy I had a table at the window and a good view of the huge swells and heavy seas. I ordered my Fruit, Hot Milk, and Egg order as usual but also ordered a Huevos Rancheros because as a Texan I was curious about how the ship would prepare it. It was interesting, but not how I would prepare it. My cabin was cleaned by the time I got back (thank you) and at 10:00 am the Captain gave us an update on the weather…continued high seas, rolling ship, and bad weather until docking in the morning. My laundry was returned today, it was folded in a nice basket, very impressed. Of course, I knew to only send items that will survive a cruise laundry. I had dinner tonight at the Garden buffet. They had small Sirloin Steaks and Pork Chops and they were good. Creme Puffs for dessert and I took two for breakfast in the morning. I soon retired to the cabin to start packing. It was an easy final day on board the Norwegian Escape. BTW— I have been pronouncing the name of the ship as Es-Cop-A…people smile (my goal) so they like it or they think I’m a bit touched. A bit of both is true.</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Saturday / February 4th / Debarkation Day / Port Canaveral, FL </b> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Rocky seas on our last night. I woke early to finish packing. At about 6:45 am I went down to deck 7 and joined the line for self debark. They started just before 7:00 am. It was Facial recognition at Customs so it went well, I was soon on the first Shuttle bus and left the parking lot at about 7:30 am…fairly smooth process. Home after a grocery stop by 10:00 am.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /> <b>Ship </b> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The ship is huge, but the lack of a larger central atrium and narrow corridors in the public areas makes the ship crowed and difficult to navigate from one area to another. The passageways on passenger decks are even narrower making it difficult to pass guests let alone dodge cleaning carts. Only two sets of elevator banks, but ten elevators in each bank. Art and decor is only fair IMHO although some theme areas are cleverly done. Fortunately NCL has gone back to the easy Muster Drill, they had gone back to the standard drill after covid.</span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> The crew </span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">are well trained and efficient. Most of the crew are from the Philippines and there seem to be a lot of crew for the passenger ratio. Friendly and nice. </span><br /><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b> </b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Dining / Food / Bars / Entertainment </b> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Fantastic to have Tablecloths in the MDRs. I love it. The Bars are almost always packed with guests…makes since since many passengers have a drink package as a part of the NCL booking system. The bartenders are quick, drinks are good and the passengers were courteous. The Choir of Men is probably the best entertainment at Sea. Worth the cruise for that show.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>HIGHLIGHTS of the Cruise</b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The Choir of Men</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Virgin Gorda and tour of the Baths</span> </div><div style="text-align: justify;">Moderno, the Brazilian Churrascaria</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Ocean World Excursion in the Domenican Republic</div><div style="text-align: justify;">La Cucina Italian Eatery</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Savor (MDR) Breakfasts <br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div>Snoozemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08287635714818403539noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-666314469198049300.post-68174382763312075192023-10-29T11:30:00.046-05:002023-12-18T18:56:10.711-06:00MSC Seaside Cruise Review -- October 29,2023<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA7lXCpx5GgCzNv1UDQNblyKqhsQlvm-jXEMRjQ5bYmGccitbHF4uxBj-sa6osWzDvbCRde21l3DISY1_Zeq5Csu4avoTf0rGGhjVrkYbR9ZoE2bpQoG89T2cIqdXU1fYYSugNKf8WHUqsO-lP90DhlCk_uOn9B-MMf6unL3mgMRurflphNq8OZ-5B6BA/s1088/seaside%20copy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="624" data-original-width="1088" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA7lXCpx5GgCzNv1UDQNblyKqhsQlvm-jXEMRjQ5bYmGccitbHF4uxBj-sa6osWzDvbCRde21l3DISY1_Zeq5Csu4avoTf0rGGhjVrkYbR9ZoE2bpQoG89T2cIqdXU1fYYSugNKf8WHUqsO-lP90DhlCk_uOn9B-MMf6unL3mgMRurflphNq8OZ-5B6BA/w640-h368/seaside%20copy.jpg" width="640" /></a><b>MSC Seaside Cruise Review -- October 29,2023</b></div><p></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><u>Just the Facts:</u></b><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Ship: Gross tonnage: 153,516. <span class="w8qArf">Launched<span>:</span> </span><span><span class="LrzXr kno-fv wHYlTd z8gr9e">November 26, 2016. </span></span><span class="w8qArf">Capacity<span>:</span> </span><span><span class="LrzXr kno-fv wHYlTd z8gr9e">4,132 (double occupancy)</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Captain: Corrado Iaconis (Italy) Cruise Director: Bennie Robinson (South Africa)</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Ports: Port Canaveral, USA - Ocean Cay, Bahamas (overnight) - Costa Maya, Mexico - Cozumel, Mexico</div><p style="text-align: justify;">I’m cruising as a solo on this 7-day cruise. This is my 3rd cruise on the MSC Seaside, my 19th cruise on MSC, and my 203rd cruise overall. I do have Diamond (formerly Black Card) status, the highest of the MSC Loyalty Club levels. </p><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Sunday, October 29 / Port Canaveral / Embarkation / Day 1 </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3IRc9cn5lVFMI13oSAPcAEBxAomsogt_vcNSlZGfL4kuS2Zlx0TAJCAiHsERwjNn4Pci7HVYRWU26PSW-np8RFQbXRDTuFVL5ZTJ0op3V4gdfWImNAB3lKfJwTMzU-J5n8eJ8XWPMl0w9uAeC5nUBoqDU5284pnttiyrRH9iB77PtsuPOAxpfAUSZsQg/s3403/Halloween%20decor.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3403" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3IRc9cn5lVFMI13oSAPcAEBxAomsogt_vcNSlZGfL4kuS2Zlx0TAJCAiHsERwjNn4Pci7HVYRWU26PSW-np8RFQbXRDTuFVL5ZTJ0op3V4gdfWImNAB3lKfJwTMzU-J5n8eJ8XWPMl0w9uAeC5nUBoqDU5284pnttiyrRH9iB77PtsuPOAxpfAUSZsQg/w355-h400/Halloween%20decor.jpeg" width="355" /></a></span></b></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">I have a 12:00-12:30 p.m. assigned boarding time so planned accordingly and left the Florida Villa at about 8:45 a.m. for the drive to Port Canaveral. I arrived at </span><a class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://parkncruiseportcanaveral.com/" style="background: transparent; color: #4a6ee0; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;" target="_blank"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #4a6ee0; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Park-N-Cruise</span></a><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> at about 10:45. A very efficient parking company I have used for years now and soon I was on my way to the port terminal. I arrived at Pier number 10 at about 11:40 grabbed my bags and went up one level to port security and through fairly quickly. They had a Diamond card line and I went directly to a check-in counter. Very smooth process this morning and I was able to go straight to my cabin arriving on Deck 12 at about 12:15 p.m. I have an interior cabin located very near the aft elevator/stairwell. It is very comfortable, especially for a solo (cabin photo below). Much better access to the Wardrobe than in a balcony cabin. The cabin has a Queen bed, Wardrobe, Large screen Television, a Counter/dressing table with mirror, a Small stocked refrigerator, Shelving, and drawers inside the wardrobe, a Chair, and a small but adequate bathroom with a solid glass door shower. I was able to begin setup and hang my clothes straightaway. I was fortunate as most guests were waiting for cabins to open as late as 2:00 p.m. There are two buffets: one on deck 16 and one slightly smaller on deck 8. I went to deck 8 as they had outdoor seating (although they were full of guests waiting for cabins). My traditional embarkation selection Roast Beef was excellent…very moist and flavorful. I also had a nice fresh salad from the salad bar. I ordered the premium WiFi package and the reception in my interior was good. I had a wee nap until they began Muster Drill announcements at 4:00 p.m. I have the earliest seating, 5:15 pm, in the Seashore Restaurant on deck 5 aft. I was assigned table 550 an eight-top for solo cruisers and we had seven attend. Interesting group of old timers, but I’m not good with the time. The tables are beautifully set with proper tablecloths and table service something you don’t see on many cruise ships. Dinner and service was very good. For dinner, I ordered the Tomato Basil Soup, a very nice Scallop Ceviche, and the Prime Rib with Baked Potato entree. For dessert a wonderful Crema Catalonia. After dinner, I spent time on the aft deck in anticipation of the 7:45 scheduled Rocket Launch from Cape Canaveral. It was delayed until 8:17 but scrubbed just 17 seconds before lift-off. Disappointing but the weather and breeze were very enjoyable. I had reservations for the 9:30 Variety Show but retired to the cabin. It was straight to bed and some TV after a very long and busy day.</span><p></p><p></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Monday, October 30th / Ocean Cay Marine Reserve / Day 2 </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIZjNhRIHhOK-KEgQVtqwe4-2LbmVcRmKgrIbqVgyRhe2PEvxgCxqjvWYefoXOtxXY02BdRLmyY82jPxtLLnsoMUJjQ3usO3SnZbGFrznmbWT2-TRED5xmGLgliqDwxYBxMKIvidtOVZAEDvtKyawdlyRiV9W4uaKDCp5ljByhtapG9rV7e1vzF36tc8c/s4032/Ocean%20Cay%20boat.HEIC" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIZjNhRIHhOK-KEgQVtqwe4-2LbmVcRmKgrIbqVgyRhe2PEvxgCxqjvWYefoXOtxXY02BdRLmyY82jPxtLLnsoMUJjQ3usO3SnZbGFrznmbWT2-TRED5xmGLgliqDwxYBxMKIvidtOVZAEDvtKyawdlyRiV9W4uaKDCp5ljByhtapG9rV7e1vzF36tc8c/w400-h300/Ocean%20Cay%20boat.HEIC" width="400" /></a></b></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight just enough movement for a very enjoyable night's sleep. The bed is very comfortable with good pillows. I went to the MDR for breakfast and I ordered Eggs Benedict with a side of Bacon, & hash brown potatoes. I was served Hot Milk which is not always easy to get on other cruise lines but very common on the Seaside. The Captain had to do a sail-around on the first attempt at docking this morning, but he was then successful and we were docked at about 9:20 am. I went up to deck 16 just to get a good view of the island. The water here is beautiful and the Palm trees have grown since I was last here. This stop will only improve over time. After a walkabout on the ship and a snack from the buffet, I debarked from deck 4 onto the island. I decided to swim in the lagoon area as I had not done that previously. The water was great. There is plenty of beach area for the entire ship without being crowded. I enjoyed a few beers while relaxing in the perfect 85° weather. I returned to the ship just in time for my 5:15 p.m. dinner assignment. I did observe that four 8-top tables in our area of the MDR seemed to be solo tables for seniors…and they did have a solo fare for this cruise. The early time does make some sense for MSC. I still prefer later but going with the flow as it's good for theater show times. It was French night for me, I ordered a Niçoise Salad with Tuna as my starter and the Coq Au Vin as my entree. MSC now charges $5 for a second entree, but the Niçoise Salad is so rare to find it was well worth it. It was very good too much better than the Coq Au Vin. My dessert was again very nice, I had a light whipped Fruit Cream. I went to the Metropolitan Theatre to see the comedian <b>Ken Boyd</b>. The 7:30 show was a packed house and he was entertaining but confrontational so not my style. Afterward, I did a walkabout and refamiliarized myself with the ship since I did a B2B on her when the Seaside was new. A very nice ship, but I prefer the MSC Meriviglia. I soon retired to the cabin and watched some NFL football before sleep. I will note that NFL football is highlighted on this ship. Most every game is featured and most available in the cabin. You can even reserve choice booths in the Sports Bar for games. A nice day at Ocean Cay.<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Tuesday, October 31st / Halloween / Ocean Cay Marine Reserve / Day 3 </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaWuKR6xLlhz49kZxbNMrKbsA0_EiyWx0ncI-SYzCLoa2gVCoDqXkqTer-IrFo_l1H5UAxUNT5AtdLYZ0uRv0WDSigf19KxuUr-zQ21litUwRigeuQcZmaA08dk9c8bcwBKiuW_QsAfgt7WEjRKrNEa-jnGnc0DQJ5Vt0Vtsl7DBoOR9wmHhaQMDat0U8/s3781/Subject.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2618" data-original-width="3781" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaWuKR6xLlhz49kZxbNMrKbsA0_EiyWx0ncI-SYzCLoa2gVCoDqXkqTer-IrFo_l1H5UAxUNT5AtdLYZ0uRv0WDSigf19KxuUr-zQ21litUwRigeuQcZmaA08dk9c8bcwBKiuW_QsAfgt7WEjRKrNEa-jnGnc0DQJ5Vt0Vtsl7DBoOR9wmHhaQMDat0U8/s320/Subject.png" width="320" /></a></b></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Happy Halloween. I slept in and had a casual morning updating this blog and doing some online business with the first of the month tomorrow. I did a walkabout to see the newest Halloween decorations…mostly newly carved pumpkins everywhere. I had a very nice lunch at noon when the main buffet (hot) opened on deck 8. The Grill and Pizza opened earlier. I had: Chicken Breast, Snow Peas, Couscous, and Mashed Potatoes, with an assortment of Panne and Petit Fours for dessert (photo: cake at buffet), I ate on the outer deck and enjoyed the weather and view of the island. I decided to stay onboard and went up to deck 16 for a different view and also made a reservation at Butchers Cut Steakhouse. Then to the Seaview Lounge to relax and use my laptop during the afternoon. I again went to the MDR for early dinner…it was Caribbean-themed tonight. I ordered the Guadeloupe-style Shrimp Tails, the Creole Seafood Gumbo, the Blackened Red Snapper with Lime and creole spices, and key Lime pie for dessert. All was very good. I also had the special Halloween dessert a Pumpkin spiced Cake with Cheesecake icing. I had a walkabout to see the many guests in costume then I went early to the Metropolitan Theatre in order to get a good seat for the feature production show: </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Peter Punk.</span></i></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> A typical MSC production with a theme, great costumes, and physical entertainment such as Acrobats, Jugglers, Contortionists, Singers, Dancers, and even a Dinosaur. Very entertaining. I say typical for MSC as they have a very diverse mulitl-language guest base. I made it back to the cabin in time to see the World Series game four. My Rangers are in it for only the third time. I had season tickets for many years before we moved to the Ranch in Bosque County. It was a great day on board the MSC Seaside.<br /></span><p></p></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Wednesday, November 1st / Day at Sea / Day 4 </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOSV2AtkSg-qGwOjDnVBV8wC8ILXy0iVewDPEcht7Zr31b_24GhI3z5dkGHBVHuRfvihu0DxpTngds1DJFk9BdoMJcWxPUZseCDKwHo45xEjBcu7hvcmphXPpYgxxYnDKYpoA5YRgmAvtEFiJjdYvNvbdk2UQDy9IpUsejm5MfUUQ_EMLaThAha_uA8JI/s4008/Capt:staff.HEIC" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2515" data-original-width="4008" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOSV2AtkSg-qGwOjDnVBV8wC8ILXy0iVewDPEcht7Zr31b_24GhI3z5dkGHBVHuRfvihu0DxpTngds1DJFk9BdoMJcWxPUZseCDKwHo45xEjBcu7hvcmphXPpYgxxYnDKYpoA5YRgmAvtEFiJjdYvNvbdk2UQDy9IpUsejm5MfUUQ_EMLaThAha_uA8JI/w400-h251/Capt:staff.HEIC" width="400" /></a></span></b></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well. We also changed the ship's time to match our two Mexico ports. They delivered Prosecco, Macaroons, and Chocolate yesterday as a Diamond benefit so I will have macaroons for my breakfast snack. It’s a beautiful sea day, guests will enjoy the outer decks. At about 10:00 am I went to the Haven Lounge for the <b>Diamond Reception</b>. I walked in at 10:00 exactly and was the late, early crowd. They had small snacks on the tables and I was offered a selection of five drinks. No Hugos unless you paid. They had a saxophone player and a juggler before introducing the Captain and Hotel Director (photo). Nice event, but I took two Diet Coca-Cola from the bar and left early. I retrieved my laptop and spent some time on deck 7 at Bistrot la Boheme. Nice people-watching area while I work online. Also after the removal of the Halloween decor, you can see the three-level Waterfall in the atrium’s HD multi-screens. At about noon I went to the Buffet for lunch. I had a nice Salad and Pizza. My first Pizza of the cruise and excellent as usual on MSC. I sat out on deck 8 aft and enjoyed the view of the wake and blue seas. I lingered on the outer deck then returned to the cabin, with a few desserts, for a wee nap before dinner. I had a casual afternoon, considering some Trivia, but just relaxed. I went to the </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Butcher's Cut Steakhouse</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> at 6:00 p.m. for dinner. A nice venue on deck 16 adjacent to the other premium restaurants on board. I ordered my usual favorites: the Burrata and Beet Salad, the Hearts of Palm Salad, and the Filet Mignon Steak with a side of Asparagus. The assortment of Breads and Steak Sauces were also good as was the service. Thank you, MSC. I made it back to the cabin in time for the first pitch of Game 5 of the <b>World Series</b>. It was a very tense and scoreless game until the 7th inning when Texas scored one run. Texas blew it open with key hits in the 9th and they won their first World Championship. Wow…a great night on the Seaside.</span><p></p></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Thursday, November 2nd / Costa Maya, Mexico / Day 5 </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwfUTuqyle9qTwKNIy7zh8i4KbvLLlQOaTxF0xYxUCITHhDOw-NPhjVZXw6f79iral7hcWFriR2ieo7WMg5Y7xPikrAzXLNzFFJofmg8CyUKBhlTIq8UwTlJBZict6ZU5g4vHPvcc2bPU3ohYOnSgnBKXBtpPyKDl96MroQP2Uef_AvReBoyEYnaXSUio/s640/kohunlich-1.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwfUTuqyle9qTwKNIy7zh8i4KbvLLlQOaTxF0xYxUCITHhDOw-NPhjVZXw6f79iral7hcWFriR2ieo7WMg5Y7xPikrAzXLNzFFJofmg8CyUKBhlTIq8UwTlJBZict6ZU5g4vHPvcc2bPU3ohYOnSgnBKXBtpPyKDl96MroQP2Uef_AvReBoyEYnaXSUio/w400-h268/kohunlich-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></b></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">From calm seas to rolling seas once we began approaching shore overnight and I slept well. We docked along with two Royal ships early. I went to the MDR for breakfast when it opened at 7:30 a.m. and it was busy. I ordered Mixed Fruit, Hot Milk, Danish, Eggs, Bacon, Hash Browns, and Toast. It was good once the order was corrected. As did the long walk down the pier to meet my 9:15 am excursion there were huge waves and threatening weather to the east. The excursion is to the </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kohunlich" target="_blank"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Kohunlich Mayan Ruins</span></b></a><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">. Our group of about 28 was prompt and we left a few minutes early. It was nice to have cell service while we were near the port and a few cities, but soon lost it in the Yucatan jungle. It was a bit of a drive as the site was located near the Belize border. Kohunlich is famous for the unique Temple of the Masks… which makes it different from other Mayan sites I have visited. There are a set of five (remaining) large carved Masks on one side of the Temple. We also saw Spider Monkeys and the scary Howler Monkeys in the Jungle canopy while on site. It was interesting. We returned to the port just before 4:00 p.m. I made it back to the ship at about 4:30 p.m. in time to get a couple of cans of Diet Coke from the scheduled </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Welcome Back Cocktail Party</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> in the Haven Lounge. I took the cokes back to the cabin as it was such a short time until 5:15 dinner. We had some new guests at the table which made it better for the two ladies. Tonight I ordered Maryland Crab Cakes, Shrimp Cocktail, the Steak Diana entree, and a Tapioca dish for dessert. It was a nice dinner. After dinner, I attended the Production Show: </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Rock It</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">. It featured the Singers and Dancers doing a set of classic songs. Unique costumes and a talented group. Thursday Night Football was even offered tonight, I have been impressed with the current Sports being offered, and I am hoping for the same with NCAA football on Saturday. I retired early as I was tired from all the walking today, about 8200 steps. I also love the evening turn-down service, very nice to have a clean cabin in the evening. It was a very busy day in port and on the Seaside.</span><p></p><div style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><br /></div></div><div style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Friday, November 4th / Cozumel / Day 6 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivtbxBjNm8ZVw36zOQ6csh0_XLFrBQ3QD4UkNaYOrGSt2mboNvP3kyq3Jh_QBjKlrtSgJO6d3fjwIe5fCg5JLEYfhdI1QYxjfStsLqcxKxns6dfKysoZpyJo1BniFwLPTJ1KaJa-hkwp85VjIHqUDXIuiVC55Kalac5gN371qA5kOwZb4t4V4UvuwOcH4/s4032/DoD-Coz.HEIC" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivtbxBjNm8ZVw36zOQ6csh0_XLFrBQ3QD4UkNaYOrGSt2mboNvP3kyq3Jh_QBjKlrtSgJO6d3fjwIe5fCg5JLEYfhdI1QYxjfStsLqcxKxns6dfKysoZpyJo1BniFwLPTJ1KaJa-hkwp85VjIHqUDXIuiVC55Kalac5gN371qA5kOwZb4t4V4UvuwOcH4/w400-h300/DoD-Coz.HEIC" width="400" /></a></div></span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight, just enough rocking for a good sleep. I actually slept late for me waking at 9:00 a.m. and we had been docked at Puerto Langosta for two hours. I was soon off and walking into town, I love docking at this pier, so much easier for the things I usually do when in Cozumel. My first stop was at Antonio’s for a haircut just after he opened at 10:00 a.m. A very good haircut too. The second stop is at ZensiSpa for a pedicure…very nice. The third stop is at my Cozumel HQ: Woody’s Bar & Grill. Luckily my favorite table was still available. The Live Entertainment by Michael, great Mexican Coca-Cola, excellent Guacamole and Pico de Gallo, and Bohemia beer were fantastic on this cooler and breezy day. My best weather day in Cozumel in a long while. I casually walked back to the ship (took photo above) arriving back at about 4:20 pm and a quick clean-up for my 5:15 dinner time. Dinner was very good, I ordered: a Baby Shrimp Cocktail, Penne all’Amayriciana, the Honey BBQ Meatloaf entree, and a Cherry Clafoutis Creme for dessert. The comedian Ken Boyd is scheduled in the theatre tonight, but having seen him previously did not attend. I had a movie night in the cabin and rested after two full days of activities. In business, it was a successful five days in the Stock Market up all five days, I should cruise more often. Overall another great port day in Cozumel.</span></div><div style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> <br /></span></div><div style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8c_JJ81EWFTGDy9rdt_VOqBlKCHlN-xYlJ_Y43Cw6KzgnOgPB-swFUsbq8aNblrh5ErQe1pbZQng74lJ5o_6Jw-XUzQUdCzhuAwqhBFfSVh0wFMkAfxhDQNh1efn9V5pPjeBJq1y6EvHWHQ2BeHnGlAQD-DqvAZPPo5yQjhCGDZ24ZH4VNbjRCcZPdD4/s1200/Interior%20cabin.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="904" data-original-width="1200" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8c_JJ81EWFTGDy9rdt_VOqBlKCHlN-xYlJ_Y43Cw6KzgnOgPB-swFUsbq8aNblrh5ErQe1pbZQng74lJ5o_6Jw-XUzQUdCzhuAwqhBFfSVh0wFMkAfxhDQNh1efn9V5pPjeBJq1y6EvHWHQ2BeHnGlAQD-DqvAZPPo5yQjhCGDZ24ZH4VNbjRCcZPdD4/s320/Interior%20cabin.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div><p></p><div style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Saturday, November 4th / Day at Sea / Day 7 </span></b></div><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Some rolling seas overnight, just enough rocking for a good sleep. Wearing my game day T-shirt I went to breakfast at 7:30 a.m. when the MDR opened and sat with some (by now) regulars. I ordered Eggs Benedict with Bacon and Hash Browns. Also Hot Milk, Tomato Juice, Orange Juice, and Fruit Bowl. It was very good. I went to Trivia in the Haven at 9:30, it was a rather difficult one, I contributed but our team was short. Fun though. Agus cleaned my cabin while away…so glad he did it before kickoffs. It’s an overcast and windy day at sea so busy at all the indoor venues. I’m planning on having an NCAA Football Day all day. I watched the early games until about half-time then went to the Marketplace Buffet for a Salad and Pizza. It was good. I took several desserts back to the cabin for snacks as I suspect my Oklahoma game will run past early dining time. At 2:30 pm I took the laptop and AirPods up to the Bistrot la Boheme for better reception. I had a good spot and good reception to watch the OU vs. OSU game from there. Unfortunately, OU lost…too many turnovers, bad calls (seriously), and injuries to have when you play a good team. I retired to the cabin to eat my snacks and begin packing. I think we will be rolling off very early as we (the ship) never changed the time back to Eastern time. We should be an hour ahead of schedule when we arrive back in Port Canaveral .Photo is my interior cabin. It was an interesting day on the Seaside.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Sunday, November 5th / Port Canaveral / Debarkation</span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">We arrived very early, I was up and about at 5:00 a.m. and we were docked. I finished packing and was at the self-debark location before 6:30 a.m. We began leaving at about 7:00 a.m. and thanks to facial recognition we were soon on the street. I was on the parking shuttle bus by 7:30 and on the road by 7:50 a.m. Washed the VW in Lakeland, stopped for groceries, and was home at about 10:00 a.m. Easy Peasy.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Ship</span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Maiden Voyage: 2017 I Gross Tonnage: 153,500 tons</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Passenger Capacity: 5179 | Crew: 1413 I Length: 323 meters/1060 ft</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Max Cruising Speed: 22 knots I Avg Speed 21 knots</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Installed power: Diesel (40,000kW) I Propulsion: Twin propellers</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">17 passenger decks Builder: Fincantieri</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Godmother: Sophia Loren</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Cabin</span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">I had cabin 12168 a starboard side interior located on deck 12 at the aft elevators. Storage is very limited too compared to other MSC ships. The toilet seems smaller perhaps because the glass shower doors restrict some movement. The wardrobe is also smaller so storage can be a problem. The cabin has a push-button safe, twin/king beds, a large padded headboard, two small nightstands, wall-mounted wall lights, a large mirror, a small refrigerator, a small table/bench (unusual), and a nice TV with interactive features. My cabin steward Agus was very good. See the Photo above.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Bars / Entertainment</span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Entertainment is not nearly as good as pre-covid. What they do is good, and guests are well entertained, but they will never know just how brilliant it used to be. </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Dining / Food </span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The dinners in the MDR are very good, service and settings were wonderful. I love the tablecloths. Our wait staff were excellent, very pleased with the service. The buffet food was good to excellent. Not as many selections as in the past, but the food variety was fine. Favorites: all the Pizza, all the Pasta, Guacamole, Hamburgers, and Salad Bar. I only did one specialty restaurant: The Butcher’s Cut and it was great. </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Comments - MSC Cruise Line</span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">MSC is very different than the usual American cruise lines and if you're looking for the same experience it will be much different. You may like the differences or you may be very unhappy with the differences. As an experienced cruiser, I love different. If you don’t like change or are not flexible you will probably NOT like sailing a European cruise line. Following are my personal observations on sailing MSC: </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">MSC Pluses</span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Beautiful Public Rooms, Good MSC Production Shows and entertainment, Quality and Beautiful Themed Bars, Nice Cabins, Hot Milk readily available on buffet and MDR, Attentive bar servers, and Good MDR Breakfasts.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Changes since my last cruise on Seaside</span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Announcements are only in English</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Fewer children since they changed the ‘Children sail free’ promotion.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Comedy shows</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Many more American guests result in more: Scooters, Wheelchairs, and complainers.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">$5 upcharge for a second entree in MDR <br /></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Highlights of the Cruise</span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">MSC Loyalty including Diamond Card Parties & Gifts</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div>Snoozemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08287635714818403539noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-666314469198049300.post-81207262563775174922023-09-16T18:52:00.046-05:002023-09-23T12:13:35.469-05:00Carnival Mardi Gras Cruise Review - September 16, 2023<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><h4><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9MOLDe_bws_FmMR3URtv_pU9p6Ax72V2UVi2Yd4gRM3aD_erq3mFylvR94gCvMrJjklH4XU5dV90P169dA0ud2z7hGsFEvPMU-1qoHiwCYwyJuMHX1v-d_sasp3OE8-G-uquiffGDZyYAiEkSeuReucd9U5A2PZZuOOaEYuk-KYazJ7-LDci6QAA5nO8/s1976/MardiGras%20night.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1223" data-original-width="1976" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9MOLDe_bws_FmMR3URtv_pU9p6Ax72V2UVi2Yd4gRM3aD_erq3mFylvR94gCvMrJjklH4XU5dV90P169dA0ud2z7hGsFEvPMU-1qoHiwCYwyJuMHX1v-d_sasp3OE8-G-uquiffGDZyYAiEkSeuReucd9U5A2PZZuOOaEYuk-KYazJ7-LDci6QAA5nO8/w640-h396/MardiGras%20night.jpg" width="640" /></a><b> </b></h4></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><u>Just The Facts: </u></div><div style="text-align: left;">Ship: Mardi Gras, first of Carnivals Excel class @182,000 gross tons. 5282+ capacity.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> Ports: Port Canaveral - Cozumel, Mexico - Costa Maya, Mexico - Mahogany Bay, Isla Roatan, Honduras<br /> <br />This is a 7-day Western Caribbean cruise. It's my 8th cruise on the Mardi Gras, my 111th Carnival cruise, and my 202nd cruise overall. I am sailing as a solo using cruise credits from the canceled Carnival Jubilee inaugural so not a planned cruise but a cruise of opportunity.<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Day One -- Saturday -- September 16th, 2023 -- Port Canaveral Embarkation </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLGShj8ek_mbV3yaym7fSK95Mx86Wcy50KDZRmYmiqwxOAwSZzDE2VKExLqVEsi-tILtE1BuZ5pEyJuHcX9-PDrjVJK-cSrCtk8yxcxM1Pvg85IL529aMrjf4CEXrPKsAl5tTLRbpQQ6mlLHmAi1WwadwpEDjTJwbZFlsmGs5CulH9xGVmpTVEqXyt0Ok/s2957/IMG_9075.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1995" data-original-width="2957" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLGShj8ek_mbV3yaym7fSK95Mx86Wcy50KDZRmYmiqwxOAwSZzDE2VKExLqVEsi-tILtE1BuZ5pEyJuHcX9-PDrjVJK-cSrCtk8yxcxM1Pvg85IL529aMrjf4CEXrPKsAl5tTLRbpQQ6mlLHmAi1WwadwpEDjTJwbZFlsmGs5CulH9xGVmpTVEqXyt0Ok/w400-h270/IMG_9075.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">I left the Florida Villa at about 9:30 a.m. for the drive to Port Canaveral and my 1:00-1:30 p.m. check-in time. I arrived at </span><a class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://parkncruiseportcanaveral.com/" style="background: transparent; color: #4a6ee0; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;" target="_blank"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #4a6ee0; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Park-N-Cruise</span></a><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> just after noon. A very efficient parking company I have used for years now and soon I was on my way to the port terminal. I arrived at the pier at about 12:30 and went through port security and checked in fairly quickly. I was able to drop my roll-on bag in the cabin by 1:00 p.m. I have an interior cabin located on deck five at the aft elevator/stairwell. It is very comfortable, especially for a solo. The cabin steward, Aris, fixed me up with ice for my cooler and we set a cleaning schedule. The cabin has a queen bed, Double wardrobes, a Large screen Television, a Counter & mirror with a Heavy ottoman seat, a Small refrigerator, Shelving and drawers, and a small but adequate bathroom with a solid glass door shower. I went to my Muster Station on deck 7, then up to the Lido Marketplace on deck 16 for some Roast Beef. I ate very light as I was on a Game-Day schedule with kickoff at 3:30 then went to <b>Big Chicken</b> for my primary meal at about 3:00 pm. A good time to go as it wasn’t too busy. I had my MDE (regular chicken sandwich with Pickles & Shaq sauce) and a Tenders & Fries with dipping sauces…it was very good. I got back to the cabin at about 3:35 just in time for kickoff. I ordered the premium WiFi package and the reception in my interior was very good. I purposely selected a cabin along the elevator shaft with that in mind. Very happy with the Oklahoma vs, Tulsa game too, a 66-17 blowout for the Sooners. At sundown, I went up to the Lido Marketplace and had a nice bowl of mixed fruit on the outer deck. It was quite nice (photo above). I was looking for fruit to take for smacks but none to be found, I hope that’s not a cut-back. I didn’t go out for any shows or bars but returned to the cabin to watch the evening football games. One advantage of being an experienced cruiser is that you don’t have to do any ship activities if that’s your choice. I soon fell asleep to the rocking of the ship.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Day Two -- Sunday -- September 17th, 2023 -- Port Canaveral Embarkation <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmtN3wn1CwiapF38b3scqNqbGKqWSVAErt9sE8utumK6tv3_1UnBvoUhQ1zTjn-YjS4EKDdR8ARNATMqlgjKkAUVER3PoXuXF894MJfvrAaVDQD04-TY9sTOt-oWxgEAi8uaI6tn7uK7USVQxzfpP4mrV2DI0b8A-tlIYlUNkuzHIl1CR-r5vkhlJrhIg/s976/BakerBuc.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="976" data-original-width="935" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmtN3wn1CwiapF38b3scqNqbGKqWSVAErt9sE8utumK6tv3_1UnBvoUhQ1zTjn-YjS4EKDdR8ARNATMqlgjKkAUVER3PoXuXF894MJfvrAaVDQD04-TY9sTOt-oWxgEAi8uaI6tn7uK7USVQxzfpP4mrV2DI0b8A-tlIYlUNkuzHIl1CR-r5vkhlJrhIg/w192-h200/BakerBuc.jpg" width="192" /></a></div></b><div style="text-align: justify;">Slightly rocky seas overnight and I slept very well in my interior cabin. I woke early, reviewed scores of late NCAA football games, then went up to Lido deck and my favorite breakfast on a Carnival ship: <b>The Blue Iguana.</b> I had one Tortilla with two easy-fried eggs, I added Cheese, Pico de gallo, and Salsa. I had an Arepa and Watermelon on the side. It was fantastic. I did a walkabout on Lido then down to deck 6 to get back to the aft staircase. Guests were exploring the ship and the Lido deck was already full. Mid-morning I went up to deck 6 when Aris came to clean the cabin… guests were busy with Trivia and a large crowd waiting for the Seaday Brunch, they will learn to use the HUB to make reservations. I had time to update this blog and finalize getting the cabin squared away…I feel like I’m ready to cruise. At about 1:00 pm I went to the Summer Landing on deck 8 aft. They have most of the NFL games on various Televisions in the area. I found the Tampa Bay Buccaneers TV and found a decent seat. I did the bucket of beers special as it included Pilsner Urquel my favorite. I enjoyed several during the game and also had a BBQ Plate before they closed at 2:30. It was fun watching with a group and the Bucs and my favorite (OU grad and Heisman Trophy winner) Baker Mayfield did well. Go Bucs! I retired to the cabin to relax then went up to the Lido Marketplace at sundown for a light dinner. The beef was excellent. I ran into an old friend former Alchemy Bartender Milos who is now the Bar Manager on board. I haven’t done a bar yet but will soon. I did catch the end of the Cowboys game too before retiring for the evening. It was a fun sea day on the Mardi Gras.</div></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Day Two -- Monday -- September 18th, 2023 -- Cozumel, Mexico <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWFD3MEjulc5wB0tPAL2uTYNlkARMFMdVBT5DISe6-906hqRpS-2CpqOYiCZC_xoqFwMc0xOc5T-RqJqasenqeUwPZiKYv6XgY1yvobaTtFgOfmlDaRc_k2KlSfNlmLHyqQB4-fdcJMAGuuWoJcd6d7MF8L3RroMg2XbK4o2PkyJPFgiUAK652qO3kEWA/s2264/teppanyaki.HEIC" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2264" data-original-width="2073" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWFD3MEjulc5wB0tPAL2uTYNlkARMFMdVBT5DISe6-906hqRpS-2CpqOYiCZC_xoqFwMc0xOc5T-RqJqasenqeUwPZiKYv6XgY1yvobaTtFgOfmlDaRc_k2KlSfNlmLHyqQB4-fdcJMAGuuWoJcd6d7MF8L3RroMg2XbK4o2PkyJPFgiUAK652qO3kEWA/s320/teppanyaki.HEIC" width="293" /></a></div></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. I wasn’t up until almost 9:00ish as we approached Cozumel. We were docked before our scheduled 10:00 am arrival and the Breeze is the only other Carnival ship at Puerto Maya…I do miss the Carnival Breeze out of Galveston. It’s a beautiful day in Cozumel so many guests will love a beach day. I left the ship at about 10:40 and it was quite busy. I got a Taxi outside the port and went into San Miguel. A quick stop at the church then Martin opened Antonios. It was 10:00 local time. After a much-needed haircut, I went down to </span><a class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.facebook.com/WoodysCozumel/" style="background: transparent; color: #4a6ee0; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;" target="_blank"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #4a6ee0; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Woody’s Bar and Grill</span></a><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> my Cozumel hangout. It was slower than usual and I had my favorite table. I started with a proper Mexican Coca-Cola as usual, I brought my own insulated mug that helps with the ice situation. I saw David, my favorite bartender, and Ximena one of the new owners. I soon ordered my Guacamole, Pico de Gallo, and chips as I skipped breakfast this morning. Very good guacamole today…and becoming harder to find in the USA. I enjoyed several drinks including a Bohemia Clara, and then ordered a Shrimp Quesadilla dinner plate, it was great. We had a brief rain shower that dropped the humidity too. My guayabera shirt was feeling a little tight so I purchased a new one from the DW’s favorite vendor in the Craft Area across from Woody's. A good day in San Miguel all around: a great bar, </span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Live Music!, </span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">fast internet, a haircut, a new guayabera shirt, and seeing some old friends. I took the taxi back to Puerto Maya arriving before our 5:30 back on board time. </span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">After some relaxing cabin time, I went to dinner at the <b>Bonsai Teppanyaki </b>at 7:15 pm, it was a chance last minute booking. It was very good, my main entree items were a Lobster and filet Mignon combination. The appetizers, fried rice, vegetables, and dessert samples (6) were very good. Of course, the show is unique and enjoyable too (photo). IMHO it’s a better meal and value than the premium seafood and steakhouse venues. The meal and gratuity rounded up comes to $50. After dinner, I went to the Brass Magnolia to listen to my favorite jazz band from previous Mardi Gras cruises: </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><i>Washboard Joe</i></span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">. They were excellent. I then retired to the cabin and I was soon asleep. It was a very productive day in Cozumel and on the Mardi Gras.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Day Four -- Tuesday -- September 19, 2023 -- Costa Maya, Mexico </b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtWIfvjLoUBZBP-tuXVC6-4nLgDDxwFlRvasGGeLU557Fv1GTrbmCJPFGv2y7X7nEx42QN2QF0gBY3oVgWkTtckMKNBnBYYezvr4kGEbkqRTxo9qLFX0l7Irc8HHFMTFxOpo1kcA0yEKlYyzZVKvZt4Wk6UnCmHSCvFLFS23TLxaJU6wvt9aCxLWlwGb4/s4026/IMG_9104.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2140" data-original-width="4026" height="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtWIfvjLoUBZBP-tuXVC6-4nLgDDxwFlRvasGGeLU557Fv1GTrbmCJPFGv2y7X7nEx42QN2QF0gBY3oVgWkTtckMKNBnBYYezvr4kGEbkqRTxo9qLFX0l7Irc8HHFMTFxOpo1kcA0yEKlYyzZVKvZt4Wk6UnCmHSCvFLFS23TLxaJU6wvt9aCxLWlwGb4/s320/IMG_9104.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. We were docked well before our 9:00 am arrival time and it's a beautiful sunny day in Roatan. I had a very lazy morning relaxing on the deck 8 recliners on the shady side of the ship facing the Mahahual lighthouse. The water is a very beautiful Caribbean blue today as the weather has been fair here of late. Very nice for guests on a beach day. I had lunch on the aft Lido deck at Big Chicken. Always good. I went to the Serenity Deck on 18 forward, lot of guests staying on board, but I got a nice table for my laptop. The pool was refreshing and the view was nice. I retired to the cabin and actually took a nap, easier in an interior. I went for dinner in <b>Cucina del Capitano </b>at about 7:15, I was able to make a reservation very easily. It felt odd when I walked in, other than the terrible table that tried to place me at the entry door, it finally dawned on me: No Tablecloths. The Cucina had been the last hold-out for tablecloths on Carnival and the red and white checked tables were so attractive and Italian. Alas, no more. I ordered: Arancini, Nonna’s Meatball, Minestrone Soup, Spaghetti Carbonara, and Chicken Parmesan (no dessert). It was good, but not as good as I remember. A bit dry and I asked for extra tomato sauce. After dinner, I went to the <b>Brass Magnolia</b> to hear two jazz sets from <i>Washboard Joe</i>. Also a nice Cosmopolitan as an after-dinner cocktail. I then retired. It was a very relaxing day on board the Mardi Gras. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Day Five -- Wednesday -- September 20, 2023 -- Mahogony Bay, Roatan Island, Honduras <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNTpoASc4zC3d3-vP1tvPQgvx9OCsODH98afga7WWcXWMd45eU1o2DKT4-rULG2GLhQbB_KTBLXiTQOfOt5k5WwqX2dxYQ1vb18HhXdXny1Kom_Hptx_eAlIU18D2kt3s30C5IFb6EP1Ezm82GxhPVC_DLvk3d101qMlIj-OpSpzsUJA6TjlYVB5gpqQg/s3650/guys.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3650" data-original-width="3011" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNTpoASc4zC3d3-vP1tvPQgvx9OCsODH98afga7WWcXWMd45eU1o2DKT4-rULG2GLhQbB_KTBLXiTQOfOt5k5WwqX2dxYQ1vb18HhXdXny1Kom_Hptx_eAlIU18D2kt3s30C5IFb6EP1Ezm82GxhPVC_DLvk3d101qMlIj-OpSpzsUJA6TjlYVB5gpqQg/s320/guys.jpeg" width="264" /></a></div></b>Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. I woke at about 8:00 am and we were already docked at Mahogany Bay. The weather is beautiful but it will be hot today and I am staying on the ship. I’ve been everywhere on the island and done everything there is to do as well. The Mahogany Bay Port facilities are nice and actually perfect for the beginning cruisers, but not very interesting to me. I went up to the Blue Iguana before it closed at 10:30 a.m. for my favorite breakfast. I spent several hours in the Summer Landing area lounging and watching rugby on the big-screen Television while working on my laptop. I did a walkabout on the ship and there are a lot of guests who remain on board. Most were seniors such as myself or guests who had been to Roatan previously and used the many options on board the ship with fewer people on board. The Bolt rollercoaster was busy today. At about 4:20ish, I went to Guy’s Burgers for a standard hamburger (photo), it was good, but I could do better. They won’t customize enough to make a proper onion-fried hamburger, but I had them prepare two fresh hot meat patties & had them place the fresh shredded onions between the meats then smash it all on a single bun. The heat then does its magic, it was great. I had a good outside shaded table with a view of the beach too so this was a nice early dinner for this evening. We were late sailing away due to two missing guests, then once we were finally away the Captain made a ship-wide announcement…that’s never good. It seems we were having propulsion problems and would have to come to a complete stop. Doesn’t happen often and in just over an hour the Captain announced an all-clear…so we were off again. Nice, I want to be home on Saturday in time for a noon kickoff. Just a relaxing evening, I did go by Pixels and picked up the Diamond gift, it was a fanny pack and ship pin. I also got my $25 free-play casino chips, but didn’t use them. I had movie time in the cabin before retiring. It was another relaxing day on the Mardi Gras.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Day Six -- Thursday -- September 21st, 2022 -- Fun Day at Sea </b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr6oBDoEwIZa3FJ80aYEneJa4m3e5AhksacLzG0Qo81c87q_KvESh8S4eMtkbaITdNPFhPIoitITDeTVjIBEOFkSQEBG-MlXhqY6Vx9qrkIRSV5TF7peHjIXEY6LJPzZgtm8MFblKCIx_QCJBi0jJmkbXejltpbhodYNO0CaQqzwG8VSdu6Eli_4HEYPY/s3820/IMG_9130.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2862" data-original-width="3820" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr6oBDoEwIZa3FJ80aYEneJa4m3e5AhksacLzG0Qo81c87q_KvESh8S4eMtkbaITdNPFhPIoitITDeTVjIBEOFkSQEBG-MlXhqY6Vx9qrkIRSV5TF7peHjIXEY6LJPzZgtm8MFblKCIx_QCJBi0jJmkbXejltpbhodYNO0CaQqzwG8VSdu6Eli_4HEYPY/s320/IMG_9130.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div>Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. I woke early and updated this blog and had some travel business on recent bookings so it was internet time this morning. I had a restful morning then went to the Diamond Luncheon at noon in the Flamingo Dining Room. This was my first luncheon since they finally introduced the new menus a few months ago. I had a nice service team and a bar waiter. I ordered the Natchitoches Meat Pies (from the Bistro menu) as my appetizers, and two entrees: the Gilled Jumbo Shrimp and the Bacon-wrapped Filet Mignon (photo). For dessert the Fresh fruit and Pineapple Sorbet. It was all very good. The CD introduced the officers and my friend Milos is now the Beverage Manager. I spoke with Washboard Joe on my way back to the cabin, I asked about the ‘chicken’ and it’s not a part of the act this year…less comedy and more Jazz. That group is perfect for the Brass Magnolia. I had a long four-hour nap this afternoon which is a tradition following a successful (cocktails) Diamond Luncheon. This evening I again was able to make a dinner reservation with only a 10-minute wait at ChiBang for 7:15 pm. I had a nice table and could watch the sunset as well. I ordered all my favorites: Egg Drop Soup, Pork Belly, Simple Greens Salad, Hakka Noodles, Beef and Broccoli, Kung Pao Chicken (spicy), and Coconut Tea Tres Leches for dessert. It was all very nice, a good day for food on the Mardi Gras. I went by the Brass Magnolia for a while then retired to the cabin to update my blog, do some business online, and watch some NFL football. The WiFi has been excellent, with great reception for the game. It was a FUN lazy sea day on the Mardi Gras.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Day Seven -- Friday -- September 22, 2023 -- Fun Day at Sea <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxdf2bB0piFt2vJjtqgjKpFy_g_j-O5_N0U_4eGytqj2LHN1nin_nx_KpT2I4_kFMhGjkjcfDXgZhjrND0p6bBLc_rLOfu0GNvOHsGZ2fCVCDkjxPL4YBLnUQjJM1CgKUrKDeXSFdRVtrCja2FhnzouOpaHeFvWS2IWVwxAnTt997sSSclymrP_MCwTsk/s4032/IMG_9143.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxdf2bB0piFt2vJjtqgjKpFy_g_j-O5_N0U_4eGytqj2LHN1nin_nx_KpT2I4_kFMhGjkjcfDXgZhjrND0p6bBLc_rLOfu0GNvOHsGZ2fCVCDkjxPL4YBLnUQjJM1CgKUrKDeXSFdRVtrCja2FhnzouOpaHeFvWS2IWVwxAnTt997sSSclymrP_MCwTsk/w400-h300/IMG_9143.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div></b></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. I had online business early then made a reservation for Sea Day Brunch in the MDR at about 10:15 am. Again a very short wait until I received a table assignment, it was aft facing two-top table…perfect. I ordered my almost complementary Bloody Mary and a nice hearty breakfast. Eggs Benedict, Two fried eggs easy, Hash Browns, Pork Sausage, Pork Bacon, French Toast, and Milk. It was very good and very filling. I then finished my online project and did some debarkation planning. I had an easy afternoon doing a walkabout until the </span><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Diamond/Platinum Reunion</span></strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> party at 4:30 p.m. in the Theater. I got my Diet Pepsi at the door when entering and sat low to hear the solo guitarist that I had only seen in passing on deck 6 near the Fortune Teller Bar small stage. He was good. My first time seeing the Cruise Director since I haven’t gone to any shows, he too was good. As it turned out I was the high cruiser…the good thing about it was that Captain Alessandro met me as I came up the stage, we became friends years ago when he was the Captain of the Triumph. I had his Texas farewell party photo of him in his cowboy hat on my phone and he had to show it to the staff. It was nice. I don’t always go to this event, but glad that I did. I had my $25 Fun Play chips in my pocket so stopped at the casino to play roulette. I did fair, I walked away with $60 in real chips. For dinner tonight I went to the </span><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Pig & Anchor </span></strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">located in Summer Landing deck 8 aft. The </span><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Backyard Band </span></strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">had just started their first set when I was seated…great view. I enjoyed them and the female lead, she was excellent…she did Brenda Lee, Beatles, Classic rock, and more. My dinner was perhaps the best meal of the cruise. I had a half rack of St. Louis Ribs, Brisket, Pulled Park, Slaw, Onion strips, a wide variety of BBQ sauces, and Banana pie for dessert. I had taken a Pilsner Urquell I had left over from the football night bucket too. All is well. I went to the Brass Magnolia to hear one set by Washboard Joe and have a dessert cocktail New Orleans style with my Diamond voucher before retiring. It was a great final sea day on the Mardi Gras.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span><br /><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Debarkation -- Saturday -- September 23rd, 2023 -- Port Canaveral, Florida</span></strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight as we sailed along the coast of Florida and I slept fair. I was up by 5:30 a.m. and I finished my packing process. The Diamond guests meeting was at 7:15 a.m. at the Center Stage space but I went early and was glad I did as they were leaving when I arrived at about 6:45 a.m. So I never stopped leaving the cabin until I reached the shuttle bus spot at 7:00 a.m. Facial recognition really gets everyone through security quickly. I was leaving the Park-n-Cruise lot by 7:40 a.m. Home at the Villa in Meadow Oaks before 10:00 a.m. Amazing how smooth debarkation was today.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">HIGHLIGHTS</span></strong></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Diamond/Platinum Reunion</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Good Fast Food: Big Chicken, Guy’s Burgers</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Bonsai Teppanyaki</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Instrumental Grooves with Washboard Joe </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Pig & Anchor BBQ</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Diamond Luncheon <br /></span></p><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /><br /> </span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div></div><p></p>Snoozemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08287635714818403539noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-666314469198049300.post-56498306107929211002023-06-11T10:52:00.040-05:002023-06-26T15:04:28.589-05:00Allure of the Seas - June 11, 2023<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyLMtHR3i5dh1pu9Wn3HhUmOZL3zT_-gpP8_NyWADBIPj02wXK6LcoZPG8nWK8trD8Rmriyd_-PAL72aA8Bibll5tmgxjK5UwDpTtVp3e314-d6HTZnSJkdpZZ-7MnzME23zbOy1d-KJOJeLsAXcH7Nn8YFcfwx1UBuuezf292SBfZALyC3Y2qLh5n/s1000/Allure%20OTC%20lgPhoto.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1000" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyLMtHR3i5dh1pu9Wn3HhUmOZL3zT_-gpP8_NyWADBIPj02wXK6LcoZPG8nWK8trD8Rmriyd_-PAL72aA8Bibll5tmgxjK5UwDpTtVp3e314-d6HTZnSJkdpZZ-7MnzME23zbOy1d-KJOJeLsAXcH7Nn8YFcfwx1UBuuezf292SBfZALyC3Y2qLh5n/w640-h512/Allure%20OTC%20lgPhoto.jpg" width="640" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Allure of the Seas - June 11, 2023</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><u>Just the Facts</u></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Ship: Allure of the Seas, A Royal Caribbean Oasis class ship launched in 2010 @ 225,200 tons. Largest at sea at that time.<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Ports: Galveston, Texas - Isla Roatan, Honduras - Costa Maya, Mexico - Cozumel, Mexico<br /></div><p></p><div style="text-align: justify;">This is a make-up group cruise for my senior high school class at DCHS...a planned 52nd class reunion cruise cancelled due to Covid-19. It will be great to see fellow high school classmates most from Oklahoma. I am sailing as a solo. This is my first cruise on the Allure, my 35th Royal Caribbean cruise, and my 201st total cruise
overall. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Day One--Sunday—Embarkation</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv8gyndnNIQZUeumoRlpBlvBWM8-fFrfotQGKBR-wDg-NbWWy2z4QwLZCBz9FEqEFURgbzxVKdLPGaocLh1w3ZJwtpPX0fHhDnYjtjwZIgAoa0mR-adtfJaJ8csShNKmJH6oMjOOyoUSv2swDGjaGe8eMaiXV6LJhyR7325y1zXvdcvXCcV7N9z7Qz/s1006/RCI_AL-Boardwalk01.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1006" data-original-width="670" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv8gyndnNIQZUeumoRlpBlvBWM8-fFrfotQGKBR-wDg-NbWWy2z4QwLZCBz9FEqEFURgbzxVKdLPGaocLh1w3ZJwtpPX0fHhDnYjtjwZIgAoa0mR-adtfJaJ8csShNKmJH6oMjOOyoUSv2swDGjaGe8eMaiXV6LJhyR7325y1zXvdcvXCcV7N9z7Qz/w266-h400/RCI_AL-Boardwalk01.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>I woke very early (3:45 am) to finish packing and head to the Tampa Airport for my 6:30 am flight on Southwest Airlines. I have sailed from Galveston well over 100 times but this is my very first time to fly there so a completely new experience. The two-hour direct flight arrived at Houston Hobby at about 7:50 am. The port shuttle meeting area was in the baggage claim area so very easy. I was the third person to check in. The first bus wasn’t until 10:00ish so I had time to get a full breakfast in the terminal. Nice to have Salsa Verde with my eggs again. The bus left as scheduled and we arrived at the new Royal Caribbean cruise terminal at about 11:00 am. We were dropped right in front of the Terminal. The new terminal design allows for self-drop off of luggage as your first process on arrival…perfect for a primarily ‘drive-to’ port. Since I gave both of my bags to a porter in the bus area I proceeded directly into the huge arrival area. They have designed this for large crowds and use mobile check-in so no fixed counter area…they can use as many personnel as needed. So very different as you actually check in first…then you go through Security. Once through security one final ID check using facial recognition and you can board the ship. I was on board by 11:45 am entering the huge Promenade on deck five. Very pleased with the embarkation process. Cabins don’t open until 1:00 pm so I did a walk-about on the way to the Windjammer buffet. This is a huge ship, but having sailed the Harmony OTS I was prepared. My lunch was very good, I had two nice <span>German pork schnitzels</span> and mashed potatoes, two of my favorites on RCL buffets. The watermelon was very nice too. I ran into my first classmates in the Solarium area. BTW—a good alternative to the very crowded Windjammer for a nice meal option although limited serving times. I went to my cabin on deck 12 and dropped my backpack then went on a walkabout checking in at my Muster Station E-3 back on deck 5. I found a large group of classmates around the corner in Boleros…very nice. They were in various stages of arrival, planning, and exploring. It was great seeing them. I did another walkabout stopping at the Schooner Bar for a cocktail before returning to my cabin. I watched us sail away from my balcony, a little different from the new port terminal location. Although this was my home port for over twenty years it seems so different for me. I met my cabin steward I Wayan from Bali and set up a cleaning schedule for the week. At about 7:00 pm I went for an aperitif at <b>Boleros</b> and was joined by a few classmates. Most of our group is attending the production show <b>Momma Mia</b> this evening. As a group, we have 7:45 pm dining and three nice tables near the entry on deck four of the Main Dining Room (MDR). Tonight I ordered the Escargots a la Bourguignonne, Roasted Tomato Soup, the Spaghetti Bolognese entree, and Key Lime Pie for dessert. It was excellent and I enjoyed the Bread and the Tablecloth too. I then retired to the cabin…It was a great and long first day on the Allure of the Seas.<p></p><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Day Two—Monday—at Sea <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjggglNJPjz5MjyqghNBBLVAWyyYtiQnb7Gk-b-WZqlPqd70qW0s2tzAEnsHGYfJg1SePs6LQAspvgK0Z7Av9arplTjXKF-eCqoTWbEbDhz_zpE8kI4w9B3qlQPiKocv7AT2eIP6kg1RGjhYSiH4E7NwT7UDdhkANN-IWF2zxoMSrwqrqfn5wWv6r9V/s640/9220.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="426" data-original-width="640" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjggglNJPjz5MjyqghNBBLVAWyyYtiQnb7Gk-b-WZqlPqd70qW0s2tzAEnsHGYfJg1SePs6LQAspvgK0Z7Av9arplTjXKF-eCqoTWbEbDhz_zpE8kI4w9B3qlQPiKocv7AT2eIP6kg1RGjhYSiH4E7NwT7UDdhkANN-IWF2zxoMSrwqrqfn5wWv6r9V/w400-h266/9220.png" width="400" /></a></div></span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and a very restful night after such a busy day. I woke up early and updated this blog. Rest and relaxing are the order of the day so I didn’t leave the cabin until noon. When the DW and I sailed on the Harmony of the Seas we were never able to eat in the Bistro in the Solarium as they have very limited hours. Today I went straight away there for lunch. They offer a mini buffet and they had exactly what I wanted: Mashed Potatoes and Pork Cutlets. They offer roast beef, hamburger fixings, french fries, and fruit. A good option and no children. True to form they closed at about 1:10 pm while I was there. I went by the Schooner Bar for an Elderflower Martini at about 14:30 and saw some classmates so stayed for a visit. C&A had left a small fruit plate in the cabin when I returned. Balcony time the rest of the afternoon, The entire group was at Boleros at 19:00, which was nice. We also had a full house on all three of our tables in the MDR this evening. This is the first elegant night so a special menu as well. I ordered: the Escargots a la Bourguignonne, the Iceberg Wedge Salad, the Roasted Beef Tenderloin entree, and a Creme Brûlée for dessert. It was a very enjoyable meal. I retired to the cabin but then decided to go get some Coca-cola with my remaining drinks vouchers at the <b>Schooner Bar</b>. Some of my Snoozemates’ cruise friends were there so I stayed for some piano bar entertainment by Grace Rouch. It was fun and my Elderflower martinis were very good. Following two sets of music I finally retired to the cabin. It was a relaxing and fun sea day on the Allure.</span></div><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Day Three—Tuesday—at Sea </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIFQjTD-5cSQoid7EvCQHtX1NSq-shOZfwKA0opLI8I8udMObZdNB8WDws9HI7DBBMJVHzKFqCP4K1UjsCn41VKM3huUB_McmXISY1g8w4ASqKQz7_dH9-fdyxXpXlRah8wrDRXd51g5kXx9ZGsw4WSwx7xer1_jIsjFvi9Ro9CBlbvUPMCXhCncfO/s500/johnny-rockets-allure-outside.webp" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="375" data-original-width="500" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIFQjTD-5cSQoid7EvCQHtX1NSq-shOZfwKA0opLI8I8udMObZdNB8WDws9HI7DBBMJVHzKFqCP4K1UjsCn41VKM3huUB_McmXISY1g8w4ASqKQz7_dH9-fdyxXpXlRah8wrDRXd51g5kXx9ZGsw4WSwx7xer1_jIsjFvi9Ro9CBlbvUPMCXhCncfO/s320/johnny-rockets-allure-outside.webp" width="320" /></a></span></b></div><span style="color: #0e101a;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well. Another relaxing morning for me. I had a banana from my fruit bowl for breakfast so I was ready to go down to the Boardwalk and <b>Johnny Rockets </b><span style="font-size: x-small;">(photo left) </span>when they opened at noon. I started with a large Diet Coke and a nice plate of Onion Rings as a starter. I had the Double meat burger with cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and mayo. It was served with both onion rings and french fries. Although they offered Sundaes or Pie for dessert I order a Vanilla Malt. Everything was great. I did a short walkabout on the Boardwalk and the Deck 5 Promenade. The Guacamole making class at Sabor looked interesting. The open skating time looked appealing, but I didn’t bring any extra long pants so can not do it. I-Wayan had my cabin cleaned upon return so it was Balcony-Business-and Nap time the rest of the day. At about 17:00 I went down to deck 5 with a friend and had a couple of Pilsner Urquells in the <b>Bow & Stern Pub</b>. Then over to <b>Boleros</b> for a martini. It was <i>Italian night</i> in the MDR. Tonight I ordered the Arancini, a Green Salad, the Chicken Parisian entree, and the Pot de Cream for dessert. After dinner, I went to the Schooner Bar for one set at the Piano Bar before retiring to the cabin. It was another very nice sea day sailing on the Allure of the Seas. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0e101a;"> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #0e101a;">Day Four—Wednesday—Isla Roatan, Honduras <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyNudrXKnxvyXxOqs-9dDgbvRQ8v3-xGUi-z3LeB6UrsSi0wXZsXVPTM5Fr1v7GZtM6TqFajA4HL6dAzXkgvq2Amewwga2Yde66h0CMl-UTIrsBXR56lB2NtGi5MMCrVhJhy9ikwWMpIYc9ETo3bot0u6kvO74EKsz0zbhAi9-27r6pmuT8uDeQDy0/s3344/IMG_8960.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1617" data-original-width="3344" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyNudrXKnxvyXxOqs-9dDgbvRQ8v3-xGUi-z3LeB6UrsSi0wXZsXVPTM5Fr1v7GZtM6TqFajA4HL6dAzXkgvq2Amewwga2Yde66h0CMl-UTIrsBXR56lB2NtGi5MMCrVhJhy9ikwWMpIYc9ETo3bot0u6kvO74EKsz0zbhAi9-27r6pmuT8uDeQDy0/w400-h194/IMG_8960.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div></span></b><span style="color: #0e101a;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. At about 8:00 we docked at Coxen Hole the original port for the island. A lot of changes including adding a second pier. Very different than when I was here on the very first scheduled cruise ship to call at Roatan. I’m staying on board to take advantage of the ship amenities and walk about with fewer guests on board. I went to the Windjammer for breakfast, the ham from the Carving Station was excellent and a biscuit as good as I have had on a cruise ship. I went up to the Solarium and one of the large hot tubs, the water jets are great for my tendonitis. From the height of the Allure, you can see across the airport mountain and the ships at Amber Cove. I also visited with friends before returning to the cabin. At about 13:00 I went down to the <b>Park Cafe</b> for both a Salad and one of their great Roast Beef Sandwiches. It was not busy at all with few guests on board. Time for a walkabout before returning to the cabin for movie time. I enjoyed watching <i>Cleopatra</i> even more having recently been in Egypt. C&A delivered some very nice Petit-fours…thanks. It was a warm but tolerable day for guests doing the great excursions on the island today. My favorites here in the past have been: West Bay/Tabyana Beach, West End, Anthony’s Cay, French Cay, and several Zipline parks. I watched sail way from the balcony then went to the Diamond Lounge and met friends at about 1730. It was my first time there on this cruise. I visited and enjoyed cocktails. I went to dinner in the MDR and ordered a large order of Coconut Shrimp and Caribbean Jerk Pork Chop. It was good. No dessert as I excused myself a bit early to get to the Studio for the <b>Ice Games! Ice Show </b><span style="font-size: x-small;">(photo above)</span>. It was very clever themed as a Monopoly with squares being locations on the ship…Boardwalk was obvious. The large skate team was very entertaining and talented. I enjoyed the show. Afterward, I met my classmates in <b>Boleros</b> for late cocktails. It was fun but I soon retired. It was a fun and full ‘stay on the ship’ day for me.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0e101a;"> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0e101a;"></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0e101a;"></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0e101a;"></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0e101a;"><b>Day Five—Thursday--Cozumel, Mexico <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Qufh9aTfzmFqY3-WQQiyMljAhIZ4ZNhAOyVnvCl7QHG4UDruXoN_WWMbTCAmozsuBwasdgp7v7EO4PTI2OEGSghrQGPWH5SEfT9-YmV48IG2JxCmqwJSIPDvQufKD5tFz3QUo5mgB20YlqCWdoYqMB8Nf4tyWiV7kYnl25xSNn4WyimxY8qdMU_X/s1024/plaza-san-miguel-de-cozumel-1024x512.webp" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="1024" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Qufh9aTfzmFqY3-WQQiyMljAhIZ4ZNhAOyVnvCl7QHG4UDruXoN_WWMbTCAmozsuBwasdgp7v7EO4PTI2OEGSghrQGPWH5SEfT9-YmV48IG2JxCmqwJSIPDvQufKD5tFz3QUo5mgB20YlqCWdoYqMB8Nf4tyWiV7kYnl25xSNn4WyimxY8qdMU_X/w400-h200/plaza-san-miguel-de-cozumel-1024x512.webp" width="400" /></a></div></b>Smooth seas overnight and I again slept well. We were docked at the International Pier by 8:00 with guests getting off early. I had a Banana for breakfast this morning and did some work that needed secondary verifications and my iPhone does have service in Mexico. A good thing. I went off at about 9:15 and got a taxi outside the gate fairly easily ($8) and was at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/WoodysCozumel/" target="_blank">Woody’s Bar & Grill</a> by 9:45. They allowed me to set up as usual while they opened. At about 10:30 I went down to Antonio’s to get my haircut ($8), Martin is the best. Woodys was open by the time I got back and I had a Diet Coke and my usual order of guacamole earlier than usual, but I didn’t have breakfast. Super fast WiFi. I was later joined by a friend and we enjoyed a few Cervezas. It was a very hot day and we decided to head back early to the ship. A refreshing shower revived me and I went to the Park Cafe for a sandwich and salad. </span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">We were docked next to the Voyager of the Seas and once they sailed it opened up the view and a nice breeze out on the balcony. A light shower began so the balcony time was very nice until sailing away at about 18:00. I had an aperitif at the Champagne Bar with friends before going to the MDR for our dinner. Tonight's theme was </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Taste of Mexico</span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> and I ordered: the Escargots, Shrimp Cocktail, Roasted Poblano Pepper Soup, the Carne Asada entree, and two desserts: Carmel Flan, & Tres Leches cake. It was a lot but portions are smaller and all was very good. I have reservations for the Aqua Show this evening, but they were canceled…something about the water, I could not hear the announcements as it was over the noise of dinner. I stopped by the Schooner Bar to get some Coca-Cola and Ginger Ale for the cabin. and retired early. It was a nice productive, but hot day in Cozumel. I’m really enjoying my classmates.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Day Six — Friday— Costa Maya, Mexico </b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfTbejha6FZkR1AbVunKP6s376puSJO-QXBup7lm63WE4AlrCvMIOasFxy-mY4byXkh7j_gOJHNIoug8UgM_kBBZP_MDMruulHK3z7Dn1_TscNaQ-9eAPb6VRu8dWmoKyvWP3IM3NoqNt_anqtZww4QxMUK5O1syWN640d6Zm0fypvS_F9mU8MxCLj/s640/Chops.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfTbejha6FZkR1AbVunKP6s376puSJO-QXBup7lm63WE4AlrCvMIOasFxy-mY4byXkh7j_gOJHNIoug8UgM_kBBZP_MDMruulHK3z7Dn1_TscNaQ-9eAPb6VRu8dWmoKyvWP3IM3NoqNt_anqtZww4QxMUK5O1syWN640d6Zm0fypvS_F9mU8MxCLj/s320/Chops.png" width="320" /></a></div>Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. I woke too early but updated this blog and reviewed the early news. We were soon docked at Costa Maya but with a 12:30 back-on-board time I’m staying on board the ship. I have a nice view from my balcony and the water is beautiful today but not enough port time for the effort to even get to nearby Mahahual. I had another Banana breakfast and did some work online this morning. At noon I went to the MDR for lunch, I had two entrees, a Spicy Chicken Sandwich and the Steak Frites. For dessert a Floating Island (good but not as good as MSC’s). I watched sail away from the balcony and had a lazy afternoon. I went by the Diamond Lounge at about 17:20 and enjoyed a few cocktails, then met all my classmates at the Schooner Bar at 18:20. They all are having a great cruise, a new experience for most of them. I had reservations at <b>Chops Grille</b>, the American steakhouse, for 19:45 with my Snoozemates (photo), It was very nice. I ordered the Colossal Shrimp Cocktail, Jumbo Lump Crab Cake, the Wedge Salad, and the 9 oz Filet Steak with butterflied cut with Baked Potato and Mushrooms. It was a very nice meal with good friends. I did a walkabout the ship and guests were out this evening…all the late-night venues were very busy. I did stop for a final nightcap at the Schooner before heading to the cabin. It was a relaxing and great visiting day on the Allure of the Seas.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Day Seven — Saturday—Sea Day </b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUVDaWKzfqYm8AYaJkJLN42asLFFX1baw0JR6xaYrHi4a8ctCSCfk2X-DUs7vhEWN9hHZCYCIFPUCQ_zAzxek27KcGu7j-b20VhNoH0tzUO5uYXSQ3h14sHm_aHc_d2JgANh_DkAW43o31xYg5nJLQFpcw1lIcDK4hVd38naXgD7N4PCJ8kNGsluS3/s2048/dsc07343.jpg.optimal.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUVDaWKzfqYm8AYaJkJLN42asLFFX1baw0JR6xaYrHi4a8ctCSCfk2X-DUs7vhEWN9hHZCYCIFPUCQ_zAzxek27KcGu7j-b20VhNoH0tzUO5uYXSQ3h14sHm_aHc_d2JgANh_DkAW43o31xYg5nJLQFpcw1lIcDK4hVd38naXgD7N4PCJ8kNGsluS3/w400-h266/dsc07343.jpg.optimal.jpg" width="400" /></a></div></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight but I would have slept very well in any seas last night. I went to the Park Cafe for a Danish and Doughnut...a light breakfast, then went to Dazzles for a Q&A session. The Q&A had cast from Ice Skating, Theater, and the Aqua group and was open to Diamond and above guests. This replaces the ‘back-stage' tours that used to be offered and really is easier and better as it includes information from all the performance areas. I had lunch in the MDR again. I ordered the Iceberg Wedge, Spaghetti Bolognese, BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich w/ Fries & Slaw, and Key Lime Pie for dessert. It was very good. I went to the theater at 13:50 and got great seats about 6 rows back in the center for </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Momma Mia</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">. The two-and-a-half-hour production show was absolutely fantastic. The singers and dancers were amazing. Do not miss this if you sail on the Allure. After the show, I had cabin time and began packing until 17:00 when I went to the Diamond Lounge. My new D-lounge friends were there and I enjoyed a nice cocktail and visit. At about 18:40 I went to the Champagne & Martini bar for an Elderflower Martini. A last farewell and photo with the Snoozemates before my regular 19:45 dinner with my classmates' group. Tonight I ordered: the Chilled Shrimp Cocktail, Mediterranean Papas Medley (Pita bread, Hummus, Tzatziki, Greek Salad), The Braised Lamb entree, and the Cream Catalana dessert. The head waiter also surprised me with some Hearts of Palm…very nice. Lots of goodbyes after dinner with the group. The Aqua Show was canceled again tonight so I retired to the cabin to finish packing. It was an interesting and emotional final day on The Allure of the Seas.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Sunday—Debarkation</span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. I was up very early so time to finish packing and shower. We were docked before 7:00 am in Galveston and self-assist started rolling off by 7:20. I have Airport Shuttle so I’m tag #2 which was called at about 8:00. Debark was fair for this large of a ship. Facial Recognition at customs is fantastic. I was on the shuttle by 8:20 and at the airport at 9:00. Unfortunately I don’t board until 2:30 but Wifi is good at HOU. Flight went very well, the girls picked me up at TPA and I was home at the Villa at about 19:15 local time.<br /></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Cabin</span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">I had cabin 12664 a balcony on the port side just off the aft atrium. Features: Two Wardrobes, Vanity with drawers, small Refrigerator, Keypad safe, Couch, Queen Bed, Nightstands, Chair at vanity, Chairs & small table on the balcony, Standard enclosed shower, and HD TV.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Highlights of the Cruise</span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Of course, sailing with my Classmates was one of the best Highlights I have ever had in 201 cruises. It’s been 54 years since graduation and it seemed like yesterday as far as friendship and camaraderie were concerned. Many were new to cruising and a few were old salts, but all seemed to have a wonderful time and experience. I hope we have time to do it again in the future. <br /></span></p><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Personal Observations</b><br />The new Terminal is amazing. Very fluid in guest control.<br />I thought the food overall was very good…much better than recently sailed MSC and Carnival. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Royal continues to have the best Loyalty Program…by far.<br />Embarkation and Debarkation went very well for this large of a ship.<br /><br /> </span><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p><p></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></p></div><p></p>Snoozemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08287635714818403539noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-666314469198049300.post-57793146593946508622023-04-30T10:08:00.050-05:002023-05-08T08:47:46.414-05:00MSC Splendida Cruise - Adriatic Sea / Agean Sea - Istanbul - April 30-May 6, 2023<p style="text-align: left;"> </p><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD3lWZiOzufa6yNjwdRldLuYT4q6Un2IQsVv-O_STSON5Nq3trd9eDT_UhbvEORP9eyeCJHaA3p25kQJ8uTFVO_t9YxFZX4MesCUV-0I-OX3DalnvDq-fFe-4yIQ5NDfpflEjTBjLNHMLzIDlykERbFrjt_T-i-KvFOUE6H_3EknKXFq2n3wT8KZB1/s850/Blue-Mosque-1.jpg.webp" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="592" data-original-width="850" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD3lWZiOzufa6yNjwdRldLuYT4q6Un2IQsVv-O_STSON5Nq3trd9eDT_UhbvEORP9eyeCJHaA3p25kQJ8uTFVO_t9YxFZX4MesCUV-0I-OX3DalnvDq-fFe-4yIQ5NDfpflEjTBjLNHMLzIDlykERbFrjt_T-i-KvFOUE6H_3EknKXFq2n3wT8KZB1/w640-h446/Blue-Mosque-1.jpg.webp" width="640" /></a>MSC Splendida Cruise - Adriatic Sea / Agean Sea / Greece & Turkey - April 30-May 6, 2023</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><u>Just the Facts</u></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Ship: MSC Splendida, Fantasia class ship launched in 2009 @ 138,000 tons.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Ports: Trieste, Italy - Katakolon Greece - Pireus Greece - Kusadasi, Turkey, Istanbul, Turkey</div><p></p><div style="text-align: justify;">An immediate follow-up (B2B) of our long adventure cruise with five more days on the MSC Splendida. Other than Trieste, all familiar ports for us. I am sailing with the Dear Wife (DW). This is my 3rd cruise on the Splendida, and I have now sailed all four ships in the MSC Fantasia class. This is my 18th cruise on MSC, and my 200th total cruise overall. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><b>Day One -- Sunday, April 30. — Trieste, Italy. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjefe8pSIrFKBO4Nt87YUXBc1lziSjPQhfKPlwLFSXOs38dbQBQnuFKoB-U1oqvWN2sLKXHbrRFxOf3ZsIrSN7qf8mwMrFqmDyyX12vQXlQd-pSKAdLAVE97hmtQkWYgmjMel70JvoOnw0FPsyJb9lZUtlphgsVoYa9KOczz1nTndfkodBha2wLGxRG/s4032/Ljubljana.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjefe8pSIrFKBO4Nt87YUXBc1lziSjPQhfKPlwLFSXOs38dbQBQnuFKoB-U1oqvWN2sLKXHbrRFxOf3ZsIrSN7qf8mwMrFqmDyyX12vQXlQd-pSKAdLAVE97hmtQkWYgmjMel70JvoOnw0FPsyJb9lZUtlphgsVoYa9KOczz1nTndfkodBha2wLGxRG/w400-h300/Ljubljana.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">We were up early to finish packing as we change cabins today for our new cruise. We went to Guest Services to get our new Cabin key cards before our excursion. It took a while but we finally received them and tried to exit as soon as possible for our early excursion meet time. We took a shortcut to get off and went through Italian customs and were out at our meet point at about 8:00 am, we were late but the second ones there. Our excursion was </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Day Trip to Ljubljana</b></span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">. We finally got our 14 guests together, boarded our roomy bus, and were off at about 8:20. As we drove away from the harbor we passed the ruins of the ancient Roman Theater a reminder of who founded the city of Trieste. We passed the most beautiful green hills and mountains as we drove to Serbia, a new country for me. <b>Ljubljana</b> is the capital and was built at the confluence of three rivers. A medieval castle dominates above the town. We were allowed a full four hours to explore on our own…perfect. We began at the main square and the architecture of the old buildings is amazing as are the triple bridges over the river. Dragons are the theme of the city as two statues guard the oldest bridge in town. There are many restaurants along the river walkways and although the Market is closed on Sundays there was a Sunday ‘Flea Market’. The town was so clean, they have a modern underground trash collection system, and they are proud of being very green. The city center is very walkable…and there were many walkers with many taking their dogs. We had a nice hearty lunch and drinks at </span><a class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.facebook.com/Paninoteka.Restaurant?__tn__=-%5DC*F" style="background: transparent; color: #4a6ee0; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;" target="_blank"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #4a6ee0; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Restavracija Paninoteka</span></a><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">. It was a bit cool so we sat inside in a nice window seat and view. I ordered the Slovenian Plate and two local beers. The DW had a Hugo Spritz and ordered Potato Fries with fresh thyme seasoning. It was very good. We continued our walk and then met our bus at 14:30 for the return to the port. We were back at about 16:00 so we walked over to </span><span><b>Piazza Unità d'Italia,</b><i> </i></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">the main square in Trieste, one of the largest and unique in Italy. It had amazing administrative buildings and others including a Harrys, of the famous Harry’s Bar franchise. Lots of people out on a Sunday afternoon, we walked a bit on the pedestrian walkways but soon reversed course for the return to the ship. We did the 2nd highest number of steps today (after Petra). Having our new card made returning to the ship very easy. We were anxious to get to the new cabin and when opened the door and saw all of our bags we were relieved. Love the new cabin with a bathtub and a much better balcony view. We relaxed and then went for a slice of pizza as we knew we would not be going anywhere on the ship nor dinner in the MDR. I then had a nice hot bath and retired early. It was a great excursion day in Ljubljana, Slovenia.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Day Two -- Monday, May 1st — at Sea <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtwh5g-M_DM4_XeUghAIJXHT92R5OaiO_UOi6ZQLPYbzNYE1Widn8rZ6lxns9YlnfkcN2NaoNQhEcdzv7JomVkpYKKx09lb-saODtABk8a9VDNWTP4y6EpxEbGg8Q9GpN5yS4WZdeHLB2Rh8bRTv-lx8zvGamXH7W4SwHBVyQTzG8mgoImGiKIrqab/s4032/Lobby%20dk7.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtwh5g-M_DM4_XeUghAIJXHT92R5OaiO_UOi6ZQLPYbzNYE1Widn8rZ6lxns9YlnfkcN2NaoNQhEcdzv7JomVkpYKKx09lb-saODtABk8a9VDNWTP4y6EpxEbGg8Q9GpN5yS4WZdeHLB2Rh8bRTv-lx8zvGamXH7W4SwHBVyQTzG8mgoImGiKIrqab/w150-h200/Lobby%20dk7.jpeg" width="150" /></a></div></b>Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well. We turned our time one hour forward to Greek time overnight. I was up early and worked on my Blog and posting photos online. I went solo to the MDR for breakfast ordering the Eggs Benedict. The Australians are noticeably gone…very few English speakers are remaining on board. We are settling into our new cabin, we have the same great cabin steward Suadnyana Komang (Indonesia) so the DW still has acartohygieiophobia. At noon we went to the La Reggia Dining Room for lunch. I had the New Orleans Salad, Legume Soup, Turkey escalope, and a Sour Cherry Sundae for dessert. It was good, but service was slow which has been typical. We did a walk about the ship... visit to Excursions Desk to get credit for a canceled excursion at Kusadasi, made reservations for the steakhouse, and bought perfume at the big sale (we were tipped on the last cruise to wait until today to purchase) at the Perfumery. We were able to stream some live American TV this afternoon, so the early morning shows. We had Butcher's Cut Steakhouse reservations for 19:00 this evening as this is the only port free day this cruise. We ordered similar to just last week: NY Strip steak, Filet Mignon steak, Hearts of Palm, a very nice Green Salad, Baked Potato, Brussel Sprouts, and one large Cookie to share for dessert. We retired soon after dinner. It was a good day for food and rest on this only sea day on this cruise.<br /> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Day Three -- Tuesday, May 2nd -- Katakolon, Greece <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib1hsP6WI1m4sS057t9fiXxO9JWmQdeWZya6Y2HYeXc02gXcmC8Xk6KXlTjYqLI8mLZH3RklbbMBoQ2X-cIINXxm0aerVnx0Ufli3D7LlEw184Xy1Cg8PnlvPWKgXvK2ADvtPdYsYV-2Ca7i5EiZbnLIYAQMmRU7QNH7iecN2Z24wAph9VpU40IzOZ/s4032/Katakolon.HEIC" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2195" data-original-width="4032" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib1hsP6WI1m4sS057t9fiXxO9JWmQdeWZya6Y2HYeXc02gXcmC8Xk6KXlTjYqLI8mLZH3RklbbMBoQ2X-cIINXxm0aerVnx0Ufli3D7LlEw184Xy1Cg8PnlvPWKgXvK2ADvtPdYsYV-2Ca7i5EiZbnLIYAQMmRU7QNH7iecN2Z24wAph9VpU40IzOZ/w400-h217/Katakolon.HEIC" width="400" /></a></div></span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well and late. We had been docked a while when I woke at about 8:45. It is overcast with a poor weather forecast (the same as the last cruise here) so we took our time getting around this morning. We went up to the buffet for a light breakfast, they served real bacon but it was undercooked. We went ashore at about 11:00 and walked to the seaside shops and cafes. We stopped at <b>Cafe Del Mar</b> sitting inside by the door with a view and breeze. I brought my laptop as I suspected I’d have an online workday, and the WiFi was very good. During the course of the day, we had Coca-cola, Mythos beer, Pita Bread, Tzatziki, and Water at €14.5 ... a deal. The DW did some great shopping too…rainy day deals. We began back at about 13:30 quickly walking in a light mist. We were back in the cabin by 14:00 and sat on the balcony enjoying the Macaroons and Prosecco that were delivered while watching the high winds pound the port. We were two hours past departure when they made an announcement that we might be stuck there for a while. They have had a tug on the aft holding us in place all day. At 18:30 we went to dinner in the La Reggia Dining Room, a new table for us this cruise. I ordered: Williams Salad, Casarecce (pasta) with Seafood Ragout, Oven-roasted Veal Leg Goccia d’Oro, and Arroz con Leche for dessert. DW had the same Salad and Risotto Primavera the best vegetarian dish so far. Very pleased with the dinner and service. We were still docked when we retired at 21:00, but soon got away ten minutes later with tug boats in reserve. It was rough sailing for a bit. I worked on my Blog and looked at the map of Athen for tomorrow. It was a fair windy day in Katakolon today.</span><b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Day Four -- Wednesday, May 3rd -- Piraeus, Greece</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEsXt0aYgBBBmS0tQa55GvFAkLLLymcqenWGZfMG8bTu5HvT7NNk8BgteWuISqhBBOVlFOjj_GNKW-391r8ydQO8WE2yR-5RgaZRgmnyf0wvYEvRL7vnm57UZ-2nYpNxpBeVokdZUf6A2lgimAwm_XkxvLMASMZyg_W_IzK8Ax79-szZhUYiZiFEwd/s4032/Piraeus-2.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEsXt0aYgBBBmS0tQa55GvFAkLLLymcqenWGZfMG8bTu5HvT7NNk8BgteWuISqhBBOVlFOjj_GNKW-391r8ydQO8WE2yR-5RgaZRgmnyf0wvYEvRL7vnm57UZ-2nYpNxpBeVokdZUf6A2lgimAwm_XkxvLMASMZyg_W_IzK8Ax79-szZhUYiZiFEwd/w400-h300/Piraeus-2.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>Rolling seas overnight and I slept well. I woke at about 1:30 am to watch/stream some Oklahoma softball, they won and are 46-1 for the season. Then slept until 8:30 and guess what? Where not in Piraeus…they could not make up that almost 6-hour delay. We’re considering staying on board anyway as rain for Athens is in the forecast. We have a nice private excursion for Kusadasi so want to be on time for Thursday. I went to the La Reggia Dining Room for lunch at about 13:15 just before they closed. I had a nice lunch, ordering the Rural Salad, the Fregola Sarda pasta, the Saltimbocca Roman-style entree (pork escalopes), and the Peach Melba Sundae (2). It was very good. Before I finished dessert they began debarking guests...it was a mess for tours as they all left at the same time since we were so late into port. We decided to sit this one out as we were just here a few days ago. While most guests were off the ship I had a Jacuzzi all to myself for an hour on the pool deck. It was nice. I had my own party on the balcony (photo) with the Greek beer I had purchased here last week. I did make a beer run to the terminal for Coca-cola, Lay’s Potato Chips, more beer, and some candy. It was fun watching guests arriving back and the view of the Aegean Sea. Just as they left this afternoon, most guests arrived back at the same time, a huge line from 19:00 to 19:45 extending into the parking area. I knew most would be going direct to the buffet so I went up to get light snacks for us and we settled into the cabin for the evening. We have done so much walking this cruise that the day off was good for us. Again a great early excursion for our final day so we retired early. It was another great day on the MSC Splendida.<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Day Five -- Thursday, May 4th - Kusidasi Turkey </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw3zYDPOqFG-T1G25eNjVPzOk8vu4a7Fs3HhI29k0AD1l18bU60Deyh_-XgbMdkXtYh3iNjG0qGv0kln34arFmoSOuZslWFmqdLerPS47sw33caKQ_RNL6j0U73Xf2s7_W4iyzajhtdCH9G6yT-7E22hf4TMmANjs1ocsn3sj9cWE_5ODtdSo51FnF/s3050/Ephesus-1.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3050" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw3zYDPOqFG-T1G25eNjVPzOk8vu4a7Fs3HhI29k0AD1l18bU60Deyh_-XgbMdkXtYh3iNjG0qGv0kln34arFmoSOuZslWFmqdLerPS47sw33caKQ_RNL6j0U73Xf2s7_W4iyzajhtdCH9G6yT-7E22hf4TMmANjs1ocsn3sj9cWE_5ODtdSo51FnF/s320/Ephesus-1.jpeg" width="317" /></a></b></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight as we sailed east to Turkey. I slept well but woke early, we had some FaceTime on the computer with DD and Grandaughter. We arrived in port just after the 7:00 am scheduled arrival, but being so far behind due to the weather very pleased. We picked up some breakfast snacks to eat in the cabin as we prepared for our excursion. We were off before the 8:00 am meet time and as we left the terminal our private guide Kerem was holding a sign with my name…good to see. We had a nice Limo-Van with a driver and the guide sat with us in our compartment. Nice. We had booked a private tour of </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Ephesus, Ephesus Terrace houses, Basilica of St. John, & Artemis Temple</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">. Following a short drive, we arrive in Efe and the first stop was at the ruins of the Basilica of St. John. Very historic in Christianity as the Apostle Timothy was a Church elder here and the remains of the Apostle John are buried here. Located just below was the site of the Artemis Temple…nothing remaining other than the outline of the site and one large column. We later did see the famous Statue that stood in the Temple. The major stop was next at the restored </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Ephesus</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> site. We began at <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNItJv0xdkxIeefchxxSwQGIruO9XRb4oq1ZCQePnR9ILOEK_Q58NLgN_9S8-6zLiFkXqwK-Tkx1Iew1sakzror8eXH7pdIR3FbbiW_tUwmEmKOmS7DHcCUtfLznsp-FL6xWhbD_fhlZ_XojgWQZp2VHpMjAY8L8vkbl81JOCUN7uvVE7iqnwzlFv8/s4032/Ephesus-2.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNItJv0xdkxIeefchxxSwQGIruO9XRb4oq1ZCQePnR9ILOEK_Q58NLgN_9S8-6zLiFkXqwK-Tkx1Iew1sakzror8eXH7pdIR3FbbiW_tUwmEmKOmS7DHcCUtfLznsp-FL6xWhbD_fhlZ_XojgWQZp2VHpMjAY8L8vkbl81JOCUN7uvVE7iqnwzlFv8/w300-h400/Ephesus-2.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div>the back entrance so we could walk downhill. The first site inside was the Roman Baths, then the merchant area, and several Temples…amazing to see them again and the guide was great. We then took the tour of the restored Terrace Houses located on the hillside and protected by a large roof. This area is a special ticket and is limited to only a certain number of guests per day. Again great with a guide. The DW enjoyed this portion of the tour to see the old homes of the ancient Romans who lived here. A lot of the original wall paintings and mosaic floors survived. We met the head archeologist of the site who our guide knew…he said the plan was to excavate more of the hillside to expose even more old residential areas. Amazing. We then finished the rest of Ephesus beginning with the most popular Library Building (photo left) built as a monument. Both DW and I realized how similar it was to the Treasury at Petra. As it wasn’t too busy we were allowed to enter and see the facility. We weren’t allowed on my previous visit here. Continuing on we came to the Roman Theater, the largest ancient theater in the world. It is really large and they do contemporary concerts there still yet. In our free time, we choose to visit the <a href="https://muze.gov.tr/muze-detay?SectionId=EFM01&DistId=EFM" target="_blank"><b>Ephesus Archaeological Museum</b></a> we paid our admission as it wasn’t on the tour, and very glad we did. It contained much of the statuary and items from the various Temples and sites around Ephesus. The major is the Statue of </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The Artemis of Ephesus </span></b><span style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">(photo right)</span></span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">. </span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">There are approximately 64 thousand pieces exhibited in the Ephesus Museum. We spent most of our allotted 45 minutes there. Amazing. This was a fantastic tour that covered everything we wished to see (we had already been to the Virgin Mary House) in a concise amount of time. Being just the two of us with a good guide we wasted no time as large tours tend to do. We have an early sail away time from the port but we had time to visit our favorite merchant, drink two Efes beers, and eat a Turkish Wrap. Once back on board, I had a hot bath (yes we have a tub) then go to our third Diamond Party in the La Prua Lounge. We again had our favorite Hugo Specials and spoke with the Captain and Hotel Manager. Nice event. We were a little late for dinner due to the party, but had a nice meal and visit with our table mates. I ordered the Greek Salad, Andalusian Gazpacho Soup, Lasagna Bolognese entree, and Turkish Baklava for dessert. Good food and good service. After dinner we retired to pack our bags, we have to have them outside our cabin by midnight. It was an amazing day in Ephesus/Efe and the final full day on the MSC Splendida.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Day Six -- Friday, May 4th - Istanbul, Turkey — Debarkation / Post Cruise </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYZRx1A7ElyXv7NbktfBL6PyOlp5QW_w3_eXL4_PcwENWeTB1IOHuNRTQxJFlOhkSeu6t7NofEnz9FBizg5jaa8NeLKUXwIdXuMSPYd4mjYVMPy8iiymQZ6B7hE34i5RtC6N2wZoqoc_rILY17gRh1JS0KH8vx_YKw6F7XTs-YWQi4Zj4bTj6F8I_b/s2968/Bazaar.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2909" data-original-width="2968" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYZRx1A7ElyXv7NbktfBL6PyOlp5QW_w3_eXL4_PcwENWeTB1IOHuNRTQxJFlOhkSeu6t7NofEnz9FBizg5jaa8NeLKUXwIdXuMSPYd4mjYVMPy8iiymQZ6B7hE34i5RtC6N2wZoqoc_rILY17gRh1JS0KH8vx_YKw6F7XTs-YWQi4Zj4bTj6F8I_b/s320/Bazaar.jpeg" width="320" /></a></b></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. We received permission to stay in our cabin until our designated departure time for Diamond Guests @ 11:00 am so we had a smooth morning. I went up to the buffet for a light breakfast then began packing our final items for our carry-on (off) bag. We enjoyed two Coca-colas as we docked in Istanbul. Interesting being docked in the Dardanelles between Asia and Europe. So busy with activity…boats and ferries of all sizes as well as sea-faring ships of all types passing in a small area. At our assigned time of 11:00, we proceeded down to deck 4 and debarked the ship. There was a long line for passport control, but we endured only to discover that we needed a Visa to enter Turkey. We made our way to the Visa office and paid $30 each for a Visa, we were told we could bypass the long line upon return and we did so it wasn’t too bad. We collected our bags from the baggage area and proceeded to a scan of bags then out into a taxi area. We shared a nice VIP taxi/van to the Old Town with another couple from </span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Ljubljana</span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> by coincidence @ €25 per couple. Fair. We are staying at the (Deluxe) Golden Horn Hotel… an excellent location and a nice room with a balcony. We only had a very short wait and our room on the top floor (6) was available. So from ship cabin to hotel room in just over an hour and a half. Excellent. We unpacked and did the 10+ minute walk to the Grand Bazaar. We enter from gate one, built in 1481 (photo), into the largest under one roof Bazaar in the world. Believe me, it’s huge, and be prepared to be lost, but that’s half the fun. We shopped and saw one possible purchase item and went on to look for food. We ate at Havuzlu Restoran, perhaps the most famous of restaurants inside the Bazaar. I<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Jf3LhRVb0jOkfMnL9X6LxTaZjQgaUr4DgscUa8dSc_cOGO6505zyGBQqWzktbaOWJJbWRU2BhvsMypGH0wIdp7D13HpAQfttNjIFvY3RQGhQMl81Kr1efZgieRJ0yLUh_Bl7ObJGmPF8SLSGHyNdVHnZlgBXxTCDdB7fo7Ldfp_LqF-5uer9pEF6/s3449/Instanbul-2.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3449" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Jf3LhRVb0jOkfMnL9X6LxTaZjQgaUr4DgscUa8dSc_cOGO6505zyGBQqWzktbaOWJJbWRU2BhvsMypGH0wIdp7D13HpAQfttNjIFvY3RQGhQMl81Kr1efZgieRJ0yLUh_Bl7ObJGmPF8SLSGHyNdVHnZlgBXxTCDdB7fo7Ldfp_LqF-5uer9pEF6/s320/Instanbul-2.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>ordered the Chicken Kabob meal, and it was very good, but the Baclava with creme was the BEST I have ever had. Amazing. We decided to find the stall where we began some negotiations and good luck finding it…the place is like a maze. But we did and ended up buying a very nice and unique Turkish Carpet Bag. It is beautiful and will serve as a carry-on for air travel. Silk, leather, and brass so excellent materials and handwork. We started at €400 and finally agreed on €160. We then returned to the hotel for a wee nap. I did some work with speedy WiFi then at about sundown we decided to go out for dinner. What a great decision that was…just a block away is the beginning of a series of wonderful Sidewalk Cafes and Restaurants. We chose the Sultan Palace. We had a corner table with a heater and a great view down two colorful passageways (photo right). We ordered three Appetizers, Epes Beers, and a warm Wine. Interesting people watching and some great Street Musicians came by as we enjoyed our time on the street. So glad we didn’t fuddy-duddy out of the evening at the hotel...It was fun!! We returned to the hotel and had proper shower volume for the first time in 23 days. We then retired for the evening. It was a great transition day in Istanbul, Turkey.</span><p></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Day Seven -- Saturday, May 5th - Istanbul, Turkey — Post Cruise </b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgubMZwGZvW4KAfgmJFxLinpgNC266QJZ-RJLzGuV5IIDZG8Abp1Z4aJaBnQib8LOeV_mfzIPIT7QSNjtQWjDPDPxoiBmHhCqMNtHONMDB9w60sVw-PXo7FtnTi5t-1k0CVM56VRJ80vW1U6fZmlf0LOdTIpWYDno5PsTAtBvh7evhiWXO3KighCTf4/s4032/cistern-2.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgubMZwGZvW4KAfgmJFxLinpgNC266QJZ-RJLzGuV5IIDZG8Abp1Z4aJaBnQib8LOeV_mfzIPIT7QSNjtQWjDPDPxoiBmHhCqMNtHONMDB9w60sVw-PXo7FtnTi5t-1k0CVM56VRJ80vW1U6fZmlf0LOdTIpWYDno5PsTAtBvh7evhiWXO3KighCTf4/w300-h400/cistern-2.jpeg" width="300" /></a></b></div>We slept well overnight but woke early (5:00) with morning prayers. We got around about 8:00. Weather forecast is a rainy morning but clearing in the afternoon. We will make plans accordingly. We had breakfast, nothing special, other than the great view of the Blue Mosque. We walked down to the Haifa Sofia, but already very long lines so we visited the nearby Sultan Ahmet Tomb. Then we visited the Basilica Cistern a huge underground Roman water source held up with 336 marble columns covering 9,800 sq. meters. This is only one of many Roman cisterns in the area. We then walked towards the Bazaar and took a Coca-cola break at a corner cafe. We later spotted a Hakkı Zade Hafiz Mustafa 1864 pastry shop and purchased gifts for the family back home. This is the premier pastry shop in Istanbul with several locations. We then decided to walk back to the hotel to drop off the purchases. I had some internet time while the DW watched the Coronation of King Charles III on Turkish television. We later walked over to the Bazaar, only 12 minutes from the hotel, and explored new areas. I had a nice Chicken Wrap too. We bought some smaller items at the Bazaar then left to go back to Mustafa 1864 for pastries for ourselves and a Turkish Tea. As a tourist, just assume that any local that approaches you to help with directions or anything at all… really just wants to sell you a carpet. We were back at the hotel before 17:00 and made arrangements for Airport Shuttle at 3:30 am. We enjoyed our time at the Sultan Palace so much that we returned again tonight. We ordered entrees tonight, special dishes cooked in Clay Pots. DW ordered a vegetarian and I ordered a mixed grill of Beef, Chicken, and Lamb combination. It’s kind of a special show when they break the pots and pour the entree into waiting heated cast iron plates. It was great. They receive an ovation from all when they presented ours. And the food was great…so glad we returned. The entertainers did a special song for the DW as well…another fun evening. We were back at the hotel by 21:30 as we have an early day tomorrow. It was a very nice day in Istanbul.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div><b>Day Eight or Day 27 overall -- Sunday, May 6th - Istanbul, Turkey — Travel Day </b> </div><div>We woke by 3:00 am to finish packing and await our 3:30 shuttle (€49). It’s about an hour to the airport, but that early we beat that time. The Airport is huge and busy even at 5:00 am. We checked three bags to Tampa and had two carry-ons and + a large purse. The first Lufthansa flight was to Frankfort Germany. The German airport security was the most detailed we have experienced in many years (Belgium after the bombing was worse). The three-hour flight to Frankfort was fine, then the same security before boarding our 10-hour flight home. We were in the air at about noon local time. We had bulkhead seats and lots of children nearby but it went fairly well…I watched four movies. We landed in Tampa just after 4:00 pm, we went through Customs and retrieved our bags, and were on the curb only a few minutes before the DD picked us up. Home to the Florida Villa by 5:30 local time.</div><div> </div><p></p><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Personal HIGHLIGHTS of the Cruise and Istanbul</b><br />Our day in Efe and Ephesus with a private guide and driver<br />Our day in Ljubljana<br />Our impromptu Istanbul street parties on Friday & Saturday nights<br />The old Roman Basilica Cistern<br />Our final Diamond Party on the ship<br /><br /><br /></p>Snoozemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08287635714818403539noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-666314469198049300.post-86777149152403274302023-04-12T03:04:00.150-05:002023-05-04T07:52:29.462-05:00MSC Splendida - Red Sea/Suez/Mediterraian Cruise - April 12, 2023<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Fto4K_aVD25deSHJbmbHg9iEBHbk0Rt8SYCE5xh98C4J1HatnIwNiQuMAoDKmqa76lYfN5dCsVbZCMdy_cFdTET_d-bzdYWNmOY1v0yXcUUcFqrZ0luVuP3hTNSaN3HctpfSfkFOantNpotT6BGMe0Z5m4BbcFd-0G_lLzDZfcHmZZUS7lMLDd1M/s1200/Pyramids.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="1200" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Fto4K_aVD25deSHJbmbHg9iEBHbk0Rt8SYCE5xh98C4J1HatnIwNiQuMAoDKmqa76lYfN5dCsVbZCMdy_cFdTET_d-bzdYWNmOY1v0yXcUUcFqrZ0luVuP3hTNSaN3HctpfSfkFOantNpotT6BGMe0Z5m4BbcFd-0G_lLzDZfcHmZZUS7lMLDd1M/w640-h360/Pyramids.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><b>MSC Splendida - Red Sea / Suez Canal / Mediterranean Cruise </b> </div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Just the Facts</b></span></u></div><div><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Ship</b>: MSC Splendida, </span></span>Fantasia<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> class ship launched in 2009 @ 138,000 tons.</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b>Ports:</b> Jeddah Saudi Arabia, Yanbu SA, Sokhna Egypt, Safaga Egypt, Aquaba Jodan, Suez Canal, Santorini Greece, Mykonos Greece, Piraeus Greece, Katakolon Greece, Kotor Montenegro, Bari Italy, Trieste, Italy.<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Another long adventure cruise with a lot of new ports for me. This cruise over 18 days will be in two segments so count as two cruises (MSC thing, but also get two Diamond parties, etc.). Also sailing the following cruise on 4/30, but will review it separately. I am sailing with my Dear Wife (DW). This is my first cruise on the MSC Splendida, but I have sailed the other three ships in the MSC Fantasia class. My 16th & 17th cruises on MSC, and my 198th & 199th total cruises overall. <br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Travel Days - Monday/Tuesday, April 10 & 11th </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6I7MopGh6XaX1Ebl4lotdxSvxtzq6GqPHADMPX4l4-J7w24TNdcLHygisIP-nchRhn3LDOkfYiii2z9Uh4a1FcxrnKaYL15rpBIgpGShwpkaR6O99UCMQe3d2sHvzzg9E3W_HznJi7KtoF8I885xSelR0jXVHLy6s716RofiJGv5MzaqaU66dQVtP/s2905/TPA%20airport.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2521" data-original-width="2905" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6I7MopGh6XaX1Ebl4lotdxSvxtzq6GqPHADMPX4l4-J7w24TNdcLHygisIP-nchRhn3LDOkfYiii2z9Uh4a1FcxrnKaYL15rpBIgpGShwpkaR6O99UCMQe3d2sHvzzg9E3W_HznJi7KtoF8I885xSelR0jXVHLy6s716RofiJGv5MzaqaU66dQVtP/s320/TPA%20airport.jpeg" width="320" /></a></span></b></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">We arrived at our new (to us) local airport in Tampa </span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">(photo left)</span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> for early international check-in and had time for a nice Chick-fil-A meal before our Monday 4:00 pm flight to Chicago ORD. At ORD went to the Qatar Air terminal for our 13-hour flight to Doha Qatar. We had very nice bulkhead seats for the long flight with a lot of legroom. We endured the long flight. We landed in Qatar (a new county for me) and found our way to our final flight to Jeddah. The flight was full of Pilgrims making their way to Mecca during Ramadan. Very interesting in itself. We finally landed in Jeddah at about 9:10 pm. local time. Lots of formality arriving in Saudi Arabia. We first acquired our SA Travel Visas from a kiosk ($120 per person) then went through primary Immigration. Then a carry-on baggage check and another immigration check to confirm we went through the primary. Even with these delays, we arrived at baggage claim before our bags arrived, but they did arrive just as we began looking so no need to panic. We were picked to get a random Customs query as we entered the main terminal area but they scanned our large backs quickly and we were on our way. We ordered an Uber and within 8 minutes were picked up in the designated Uber waiting area ($20 to hotel). There were plenty of local Saudis assisting the process from the beginning. It was needed as it was 22 hours and we were exhausted. Actual traffic on the roads as it gets busy after sundown during Ramadan. We arrived at the Crown Plaza Hotel at about 11:00 pm and had a very nice room with a Red Sea view. <b> <br /></b></span><p></p></div></div><p style="text-align: left;"><b></b></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><b>Wednesday, April 12th — Jeddah, Saudi Arabia / Embarkation Day <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBYQPpissRwLiyyoDMZlIHCXr2moA7fPwovBjB7MynbSx6OPwPMniK377Sc-QMLKRS03yvEdRv7SriWplvCDSys-uxMBbHq5aAVFBpGxQwn_U9o09mG-ZJS6exQh_5gc5bUpsDd62-ACiV4nxYFza-8j3oQ_Y_ySBdjddzpipACNIKzW3nHax8BLBS/s3575/IMG_7739.heic" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3575" data-original-width="1986" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBYQPpissRwLiyyoDMZlIHCXr2moA7fPwovBjB7MynbSx6OPwPMniK377Sc-QMLKRS03yvEdRv7SriWplvCDSys-uxMBbHq5aAVFBpGxQwn_U9o09mG-ZJS6exQh_5gc5bUpsDd62-ACiV4nxYFza-8j3oQ_Y_ySBdjddzpipACNIKzW3nHax8BLBS/w223-h400/IMG_7739.heic" width="223" /></a></div></b><span style="font-weight: normal;">We slept very well and enjoyed the room amenities, WiFi, and spacious room. Dining rooms are closed so food and drinks are only through room service during Ramadan. I did a short walkabout to the Corniche, but nothing was open nor was the famous fountain running. We arranged for a hotel shuttle to the ship at noon check-out. It’s a dry, dusty, and hot day so looking forward to shipboard amenities and food. Check-in by MSC was smooth and we checked all of our bags, but the Saudi Customs was as rigorous as the airport. Leaving the country is just as difficult as arriving…inspection for a proper Visa, including fingerprinting (as done yesterday) and a final check for the stamp on the passport. Really not too bad overall…we were at the buffet by 1:00ish. After a nice Salad and Pasta, we were soon at our cabin. We oriented ourselves with the cabin and had a wee nap as we waited for our luggage. The bags arrived and we were soon unpacked in our balcony cabin, our home for the next 18 days. At 6:30 we went to Muster Drill in the Strand Theater. The Safety drill was instructions but they did walk us to our actual muster meeting location. We then went to dinner in the La Reggia Dining Room. It’s one of the smaller venues that I prefer over the larger MDR as it is more pleasant IMHO (no children for one reason). I ordered the Hearthy Tuscan Soup, Mezzah Plater (one of the local choices with hummus, baba ghanoush, stuffed vine leaves), Seafood Linguini, and Lamb Chops with potatoes & asparagus. DW had a Greek Salad and Tomato Petals and Mozzarella Fiordilatte. I had the Arroz con Leches for dessert. All the food, bread, and service were very good. We went straight to the Theater after dinner for the Rock & Roll feature production show (photo). The two featured singers as well as the dancers were great. Very entertaining. We returned to the cabin and finished setting up and awaited sail away so we could visit some of the onboard shops for the embark day discount. Those plans became moot as the port was closed overnight due to high winds. We will hopefully be on our way in the morning. It was an easy and entertaining embarkation day on the MSC Spendida.<br /> <b><br />Thursday, April 13th — Jeddah to Yanbu, Saudi Arabia <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHKYJ8sUVoi__Dtb5JvQy5FoyVSWDNT0_madMoqqL1k6gu-FqCvNvvrBfqtGK3iVLGJeUZvgs9akGGuYoG9fgwKvwMdJ-hqU-XEmoTy4L74w92nw2Z9ish_Gp2ROjlqTYGSf6z6vVRYPofrYDrPgXN0qmXB_ckwMNlKxulHJGdaO6pmYK8OfKg8F7u/s4032/Yanbu.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHKYJ8sUVoi__Dtb5JvQy5FoyVSWDNT0_madMoqqL1k6gu-FqCvNvvrBfqtGK3iVLGJeUZvgs9akGGuYoG9fgwKvwMdJ-hqU-XEmoTy4L74w92nw2Z9ish_Gp2ROjlqTYGSf6z6vVRYPofrYDrPgXN0qmXB_ckwMNlKxulHJGdaO6pmYK8OfKg8F7u/w400-h300/Yanbu.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div></b></span></b><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">A dead calm as we remained in Jeddah port and calm once we left @ 5:30 am and entered the Red Sea. We slept well. DW ordered room service as she prefers and I went to the Dining Room for breakfast. No pork available, I expected that onshore but not on the ship. A supply problem I assume. The Turkey Bacon and Beef Sausage leave a lot to be desired. MDR Service was excellent and fast, my Fruit Plate was very good and Hot Milk was readily available. A relaxing morning on the ship and we looked at the shops as we sail to Yanbu. Following a wee nap, we had Pizza for lunch, it was great! We arrived at Yanbu at about 3:30 and we went down to our excursion meet at about 4:00, Our excursion today was </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Yanbu, The City of Two Souls. </span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">We drove away from the port in a brand new (never used) bus about half an hour through the desert to the ruins of <b>Yanbu Al Nakhal</b> and the <b>Al Jabriyah Water Spring</b>. We viewed old architecture approximately 200 years old of desert mud dwellings on top of ancient dwellings. They overlooked an Oasis consisting of a small beautiful green valley with a spring and clear running water. The village was abandoned 100 years ago so preserved as a photo in time. Interesting. We did see about a dozen camels in the wild on the way, DW spotted them and I don’t think anyone else on the bus noticed…there was a bit of a sandstorm at the time. After the tour, we returned to Yanbu Al Balad and visited a restored area near the ship (photo of entry). There was a restored Night Market that was active. Also many food stalls and crafts in this new Heritage area. The tour ended here and as it was now evening but we stayed to enjoy the nice breeze off the water and had some interesting food from vendors, I still had Saudi currency so we decided to hit the Market again and made some purchases before walking back to the ship. After refreshing we went to the La Prua Lounge for two Ginger Ales. Because of the ship's late arrival and late departure, no alcohol was served in port today. Put a damper on the White Party scheduled late tonight. We won’t sail until 2:00 am. It was an interesting day in Yanbu and on the MSC Spendida.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Friday, April 14. — Sea Day in the Red Sea </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlu8teXiBleTgE96fjYdY3Jh7OSUKRHt7_2IJXyZk9PgDz_Mj4ED_2iH6_APYrXmyfxmQPCOFrHZgVS0l-p5XyptXz1JjUCWKkqCOjHJE0lkb2L33TgG7gaBlncY_8HKKk4W_XmXD2ex2qvKUcO3QduSD7f9YNodxBOMCekJnteOm70i9UOfRdW9Vf/s3470/HugoSpritzer.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3470" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlu8teXiBleTgE96fjYdY3Jh7OSUKRHt7_2IJXyZk9PgDz_Mj4ED_2iH6_APYrXmyfxmQPCOFrHZgVS0l-p5XyptXz1JjUCWKkqCOjHJE0lkb2L33TgG7gaBlncY_8HKKk4W_XmXD2ex2qvKUcO3QduSD7f9YNodxBOMCekJnteOm70i9UOfRdW9Vf/s320/HugoSpritzer.jpeg" width="279" /></a></span></b></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Windy but calm seas overnight and I slept well. I was up early and confirmed ship time as we set back our clocks one hour during the night moving from Arabian time to Eastern European time for Egypt on Saturday. We both went to the La Reggia Dining Room for early breakfast at about 8:00 am. It was busy, I suspect many had failed to change their time, but we had a very nice table with a sea view to ourselves. We each ordered Fruit, Omelettes, and Hash browns, I also ordered Pancakes in lieu of meats. We have to attend a face to face with Egyptian Customs today so decided to go early, ahead of our designated (by deck) time hoping for a possible time change advantage; however, when we arrived the line went from the entry doors of the theater to the stage. It went fairly quickly with only one official stamping passport until a second replaced him. We had a good view of the </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">show</span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> that ensued, let's say a lot of arm-waving between customs officials, crew officers, and a few guests to boot…in several languages. The official closed his book and left the room. We had worked our way almost to the stage so waited it out…eventually two officials came back and the guests cheered to see them return. The line soon began to move quickly and we received our ‘quick entry visa stamps’. Entertaining for a sea day. Passing a now-long line extending to the casino we then went to the shops for goodies before returning to our cabin. We took a wee nap until a knock on the door…we received a bottle of Champagne, Chocolate, and Macaroons. Thank you, MSC. We attended the <b>Diamond Guest Reception</b> @ 6:00 pm in the La Prua Lounge. It was very nice with a choice of complimentary drinks. A very international group of guests attended. It was a classy event, they had quality entertainment, lots of servers, and the Captain did a toast. They went off the menu and prepared Hugo Spritzers (photo) for the DW and me as that is our MSC favorite. Thanks again MSC. Following we went straight to dinner. I ordered the Mezza Plater, Moroccan Harira Soup, Lobster Bisque, the Grilled Tournedos entree, and Coconut Tapioca Pudding for dessert. It was very good. We retired after dinner as we have a long excursion on Saturday with a 6:00 am meeting time. It was a nice relaxing day on the MSC Splendida.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Saturday, April 15 — Sokhna Port for Cairo, Egypt </b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFbeFMQ23ouwdaj2ZPempA4Svffk5pPhWM3QlbgtztM5J2qsIyA_xG51LFYdj9ZK8bFhsnjUAhAvWBMhAwI_-EStA7oJWOfe2QjUfodJVj4xWbwS9MMEoXIZefveoM-kPueGOjfkcV7bIhtGwFBAkKfNTyscJtDhvjzMO2hxecdN07pUw8Ly82UUjY/s3538/Sphinx.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2963" data-original-width="3538" height="335" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFbeFMQ23ouwdaj2ZPempA4Svffk5pPhWM3QlbgtztM5J2qsIyA_xG51LFYdj9ZK8bFhsnjUAhAvWBMhAwI_-EStA7oJWOfe2QjUfodJVj4xWbwS9MMEoXIZefveoM-kPueGOjfkcV7bIhtGwFBAkKfNTyscJtDhvjzMO2hxecdN07pUw8Ly82UUjY/w400-h335/Sphinx.jpeg" width="400" /></a></b></div>Smooth seas overnight, but did not sleep well, the anticipation of the BIG day and the fact we were up at 4:30 to prepare. I had breakfast at 5:15 am and the buffet was packed as most everyone had early excursions to the Pyramids. Meet time was 6:00 am just about the time we docked. First buses were called at 6:15 am, all were doing the Pyramids + one other location. We were on bus 29 and called a bit later. We had to go through Egyptian Customs first but it was easy compared to Saudi Arabia. Our bus had all passengers by 7:15 and we were soon on our way. Our excursion was MSC's GIZAH & SAKKARA. After an hour + drive to Cario and crossing the Nile River, our first stop was Saqqara Complex. Saqqara contains the oldest complete stone building complex known in history, the Pyramid of Djoser, built during the <span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Third Dynasty. </span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Another sixteen Egyptian kings built pyramids at Saqqara,
which are now in various states of preservation. The scope of the site
was a very pleasant surprise to me and we actually got to enter a tomb,
It was amazing. </span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">y. Another sixteen Egyptian kings built pyramids at Saqqara, which are now in various states of preservation. The scope of the site was a very pleasant surprise to me and we actually got to enter a tomb, It was amazing. Our next stop was the famous Great Pyramid one of the 7th Wonders of the Work. It is quite amazing as well as the 2nd and third primary Pyramids. We visited several locations within the Archeological Park including the Great Sphinx. A bit off-putting the vast number of hustlers at the Pyramid sites but I understand that it has been so for many years. At least the camels add some character. Still, quite an awe-inspiring experience to witness the majesty of seeing them for the first time. We then had a late luncheon buffet at Helnan Dreamland Hotel which was the best food I have enjoyed in years. Lots of Chefs and servers to assist. The Salad area was amazing with everything so fresh and appealing. The entrees included Beef, Meatballs, and Fish with other choices such as Scalloped Potatoes, Fresh Breads, and fresh Vegetables. The desserts were also very good. Great sites and great food. Our final stop was at Merit Center El Bazaar and Merit Papyrus House. I did see how they make papyrus and we did buy an Egyptian art print on papyrus. We returned to the ship at about 6:45 pm. We retired early as it was a fantastic but tiring day in Cairo.</span><p></p><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Sunday, April 16 — Sofaga and Luxor Egypt <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-WnS--dDmLvzyyJ60r44lV5kSeaitSpcT40SpSJXUAaLREsmsxXpkffsqzSyCK1TqHoo4ujcJRqUZKSHM7EbUIWR6AfGiUjoAxmgv3O_yUeQY0lTw6wtDE6sP5n64SLGQ_7yVY_hRFOe-yvqKfxh0tLmOB_cQ7ndA16yUfwAR4KUoCo6KDEdmVCP5/s4032/Luxor.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2276" data-original-width="4032" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-WnS--dDmLvzyyJ60r44lV5kSeaitSpcT40SpSJXUAaLREsmsxXpkffsqzSyCK1TqHoo4ujcJRqUZKSHM7EbUIWR6AfGiUjoAxmgv3O_yUeQY0lTw6wtDE6sP5n64SLGQ_7yVY_hRFOe-yvqKfxh0tLmOB_cQ7ndA16yUfwAR4KUoCo6KDEdmVCP5/w400-h226/Luxor.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div></b></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">We were up early again preparing for a private overnight adventure excursion to Luxor. I went up to the Buffet for breakfast and returned with items for the DW. We docked at 8:00 and by 8:30 we on the dock searching for our excursion. We found our Egypt Tours mini bus driver Ali and eventually 9 other adventurous guests and headed out for our 4-hour drive to Luxor. We were all friends by the time we arrived and met our Guide Mohmoud Nour in Luxor. Luxor is located on the Nile river and greener than most cities we have seen in Egypt. We went strait away to the Karnak Temple complex. We knew immediately that our guide was special: an expert Egyptologist and very considerate to the needs of the group. <b>Karnak Temple</b> dates from around 2055 BC to around 100 AD. Approximately thirty pharaohs contributed to the buildings, enabling it to reach a size, complexity, and diversity not seen elsewhere. It was amazing, exactly what a tourist wants to see when visiting an Egyptian ruin. Mahmoud promised authentic Egyptian food and he delivered we ate lunch in a local restaurant and we were the only tourist there. No menus in English so I can’t give specifics but basically a choice of several options of Beef, Chicken, Fish with extras. I had a mixed grill and lentil soup. They <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz4YItTTC0QdPLaD6DmVpCC2B_pR3bqoGOXAD6fhEIvmhuW8N4wOjK1E2dLGEBYBoCwA0UcXV4CS_zEZ4ZsKFhpwATbq5lwkdoLvJXmAY-lHF57P9QhZfv4LDsPRanrW6Zals33AD9Y0499YKVJEGE6HdTYB_lfWeN1hEsuDbQtQavgTEYaF8z0uTb/s4032/Rhamese.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz4YItTTC0QdPLaD6DmVpCC2B_pR3bqoGOXAD6fhEIvmhuW8N4wOjK1E2dLGEBYBoCwA0UcXV4CS_zEZ4ZsKFhpwATbq5lwkdoLvJXmAY-lHF57P9QhZfv4LDsPRanrW6Zals33AD9Y0499YKVJEGE6HdTYB_lfWeN1hEsuDbQtQavgTEYaF8z0uTb/s320/Rhamese.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>serve Ayesh Baladi (Native Bread) with Hummas, Pickled Relishes, Tomato Relish in common. Three of our eleven in group were Vegetarians so DW had company. After lunch we were taken to our hotel, the Pavillon a special annex (for groups) of the famous Winter Palace Hotel. Beautiful grounds with perfectly trimmed grass, flowers, palms, and lush fragrant landscaping. Our room was wonderful with a balcony overlooking the gardens. I had a quick dip in the pool to refresh. We met the group at 6:00 pm for an evening visit to Luxor Temple, just blocks away. Arriving at Sundown we did the exterior and Avenue of Sphinxes first as the Temple became illuminated by the special lighting. The <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luxor_Temple" target="_blank"><b>Luxor Temple</b></a> itself looks magnificent highlighted by the lights. To me perhaps giving an impression of how magnificent it looked in their ancient days when painted and maintained. After passing the Statues of Ramesses II at the entrance we visited the various interior chambers. </span>Parts of the temple were built by Amenhotep III, Tutankhamun, Ramesses II, and Alexander the Great.<span style="color: #0e101a;"> </span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">It was a wonderful experience, to me better than the Pyramids of Giza. We returned to the hotel at about 8:30 and DW and I walked the gardens and interior of the <b>Winter Palace Hotel</b> a historic British colonial-era luxury resort hotel opened in 1907. We love this style of hotel. Notable residents include Agatha Christie wrote Death on the Nile while staying at the hotel and George Herbert, 5th Earl of Carnarvon, a collector of Egyptian antiquities who financed archaeologist and Egyptologist Howard Carter's discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb in 1922. We had visited Lord Carnarvon’s home Highclere Castle in England and saw his collection a few years ago. (BTW-Highclere is better known to many as the home of the popular TV/Movies Downton Abbey). We then retired after such a long, busy, and exciting day.<br /><br /></span></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Monday, April 17 — Luxor, Egypt</b></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFJp5UjH40-4dK60YPr-1IIJ99dPfsHH8vQVFECKNT_NOFWv1z4M-1W08Yew9M3Wsh3ZA0IqjzNHBGxMO8wObAfBnjedaRg5T1E52yn9pDBR96KousvmnLWjcDbRq9EhxMhEiDa1gVjWJbpguso4eNFpywkg1qqfWtrysqeTZMQdjOAvv8A2tpwDvW/s4032/Baloons.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFJp5UjH40-4dK60YPr-1IIJ99dPfsHH8vQVFECKNT_NOFWv1z4M-1W08Yew9M3Wsh3ZA0IqjzNHBGxMO8wObAfBnjedaRg5T1E52yn9pDBR96KousvmnLWjcDbRq9EhxMhEiDa1gVjWJbpguso4eNFpywkg1qqfWtrysqeTZMQdjOAvv8A2tpwDvW/w400-h300/Baloons.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">We were up at 4:00 am to pack and prepare for our early morning <b>Balloon Ride</b>. We checked out, picked up our Breakfast Box. and met our balloon driver at 5:50 am. We took a water taxi across the Nile River and were picked up by a new driver who took us to our balloon company (there are several that launch). The five in our group joined others to make up the 28 max capacity of our basket. We soon launched with almost two dozen other balloons, spectacular in itself, but the views were fantastic. We went over amazing Temples, Monuments, and Tombs as well as views of the Nile Valley. It was amazing. Flight time was about 30+ minutes and landing was fine. What a place for one's first balloon ride. The vans followed the balloon and we were picked up straight away and dropped at the Nile River landing meeting our tour group, driver, and guide…all before 7:30 am. We went direct to the <b>Valley of the Kings</b> our primary stop of the day. It was the principal burial place of the major royal figures of the Egyptian New Kingdom, as well as many privileged <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIuqDy4ujgLpp_pcv4yVncPdvnql7-FagNSyCMzYbsKELbVr-WgRXuVK8vlHRsw_PyGsdZeh11AUWyFPDDYAC0bhajANQNCI0TaeWp2oxH5w9jOvBlAEkC4hKUQeH_ztOtvtR2Zg5a0oKqfeg0ffBrLv_kkyj5tZMRkFCuwusX5XpzUbMCCVYwMM62/s4032/tomb%20staircase.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIuqDy4ujgLpp_pcv4yVncPdvnql7-FagNSyCMzYbsKELbVr-WgRXuVK8vlHRsw_PyGsdZeh11AUWyFPDDYAC0bhajANQNCI0TaeWp2oxH5w9jOvBlAEkC4hKUQeH_ztOtvtR2Zg5a0oKqfeg0ffBrLv_kkyj5tZMRkFCuwusX5XpzUbMCCVYwMM62/s320/tomb%20staircase.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>nobles. The staircases and passageways of the </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Royal Tombs </span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">are elaborately decorated with scenes from Egyptian mythology and give clues as to the beliefs and funerary practices of the period. Including recent discoveries, there are 63 known tombs. We visited five including Tutankhamun and 3 from the Ramesses dynasty. They were breathtaking, I tried to find the funerary boat in each. We then began the next stops on the west bank of the Nile. Since we began early in the day but it was getting hot reaching 98° DW and I (and others in the group) took it easier the rest of the tour, especially since we had just seen these sites final two sites from the air. These included the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, Colossi of Memnon, and more. We stopped at an Artesans Market on the West Bank before heading back to the Nile River where we boarded a boat for a trip up the Nile to Banana Island where we had lunch. A large place where again we were the only tourists…so authentic Egyptian food. I had Chicken Shawarma. They served the usual bread, hummus, and relishes…plus bananas. After lunch, we boarded the boat back down the Nile River to the Winter Palace landing. We retrieved our bags, made a WC stop, and met our driver Ali. Here we said farewell to our guide Mohmoud Nour. We were very fortunate to have him. He is an independent with a degree in Egyptology, but a multi-generational local who lived on the west bank, and his family worked on the tombs for years. As a youth, his grandparents lived inside one of the ancient tombs. In reality, it was a member of his family in 1922 that was the water boy who discovered the steps to the tomb when his water-laden donkey stepped into a depression. He then informed Howard Carter the famed discoverer. This is a well-documented occurrence. I recommend him as a guide and he may be the best we have used in our many journeys. The long drive began back to Sofaga and we arrived back just under four hours. I took a quick shower and was able to make it to 6:30 dinner (a little late). I craved some traditional food…I ordered the Asparagus soup, Chateaubriand Beef, and Wildberry Cobbler for dessert. Too tired to do anything other than sleep so retired. It was the end of an exciting and wonderful trip to Luxor.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Tuesday, April 18. — Sea Day <b>in the Red Sea <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpbQ3A1ne_GyfxvRzffgHbNH1CEgdFtkZ4zqJ1s6MD9lnqWn8tIFQ_WrgdCg-X0iD5ME-KPqcQosp6_la21g7JpiQqSwDEusWyWcRpue9zrBgzd6ZAt9MmBtt3poxdOllGaqrGv_f_s1H1g1nP-j6Kpfkt1ifttlS_Cp2hcA6N5iqQYiuOipKxsmI_/s4032/Pool%20mosaic.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpbQ3A1ne_GyfxvRzffgHbNH1CEgdFtkZ4zqJ1s6MD9lnqWn8tIFQ_WrgdCg-X0iD5ME-KPqcQosp6_la21g7JpiQqSwDEusWyWcRpue9zrBgzd6ZAt9MmBtt3poxdOllGaqrGv_f_s1H1g1nP-j6Kpfkt1ifttlS_Cp2hcA6N5iqQYiuOipKxsmI_/s320/Pool%20mosaic.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div></b></b></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well. We changed our time forward overnight so back on the original Arabian time for Jordon tomorrow. We relaxed and I updated my Travel Blog this morning, then had breakfast at about 10:00 am in the Bora Bora Buffet on Deck 14. Adequate breakfast but they were running out of food, mugs, catsup, fruit, and more. I think many guests missed the MDR closing time due to the time change as it was very busy. We went to the port lecture on Jordan at 11:00 am. It was good and reminded me to confirm the information on my private tour. Also to have a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, closed-toe shoes, and an optional umbrella. Yesterday my sunglasses broke at the very last site, the earpiece just fell off as was holding them in my hand. Interestingly they were having a 20% off sale on sunglasses today in the shops, but the RayBans similar to mine were $230…no thanks. Luckily I went to the Swim Shop on deck 14 and got a nice pair for $45 (photo: corner mosaic on pool deck). After hearing the lecture it a reconfirmed that there will be a minimum of 3 miles of walking tomorrow. We are already tired and sore from the three connective days of long excursions so today will be a rest-only day. We did sneak up to the buffet for Pizza and I brought back the juiciest plums I have ever tasted. Egyptian I'm sure as they have such great fruit. At 6:00 pm we went for some complementary <b>Captain’s Night cocktails</b> at the La Prua Lounge and then to dinner in the La Reggia Dining Room. All six assigned were there for the first time, but a sea day helps. Tonight I ordered a Mezzah Plater, Herbed Salmon Gravlax, the Grilled Tournedos au Jus entree, and Bread and Butter Pudding for dessert. With another big excursion tomorrow we retired for the evening. It was a relaxing and much-needed sea day on the MSWC Splendida.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Wednesday, April 19 — Acaba, Jordon </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh67Psf4t3lgY8XJHJNcIH1OPdggG84gKj5eO2VWZmCgjOU-6EhvGrb4BvxkDOdt7PcmzCIkbCIFYLnXyNyemmX8CWegKbv3Z2zCiUzrB1XM85lPFyHlHpnCZn9JPZlHJnl-onEgtERT4BtMcPEsqVdMnx5P-kUekuLb5bn7Wgn7hMpB4bGeIWeBX4z/s4032/Petra.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh67Psf4t3lgY8XJHJNcIH1OPdggG84gKj5eO2VWZmCgjOU-6EhvGrb4BvxkDOdt7PcmzCIkbCIFYLnXyNyemmX8CWegKbv3Z2zCiUzrB1XM85lPFyHlHpnCZn9JPZlHJnl-onEgtERT4BtMcPEsqVdMnx5P-kUekuLb5bn7Wgn7hMpB4bGeIWeBX4z/w300-h400/Petra.jpeg" width="300" /></a></b></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well. We were still asleep when we docked in Aqaba at about 6:00 am. Since MSC originally stated that their Petra tours were sold out we have a private tour today @ 9:00 am so began getting ready at about 7:00ish. We soon left the ship and rode the 1st MSC shuttle into town. At the drop-off site, we were inundated by locals who wanted to sell tours or taxi rides. Having been accosted by locals in Egypt we were concerned, people here are much more civilized…a polite no is all that is needed. As we were early we did befriend one who did help (expecting nothing in return). This was our meeting location but the actual bus would be a block away. We took advantage of the nearby Hilton Hotel and did some shopping for a straw hat. I did have Jordanian Dinars. Our late bus (more below) finally arrived and we left at about 10:15 for the almost three-hour drive to Petra. <b>Petra</b> is a famous archaeological site in Jordan's southwestern desert. Dating to around 300 B.C., it was the capital of the Nabatean Kingdom. Accessed via a narrow canyon called <b>Al Siq</b>, it contains tombs and temples carved into pink sandstone cliffs. Its most famous structure is the 45m-high Al Khazneh, a temple with an ornate, Greek-style facade, and known as <b>The Treasury</b>. Not having much actual time at the site we proceeded on the walk into the Archeological area. The initial trail is gravel, then some blacktop, then ancient Roman Road as you get to the famous canyon. It is a beautiful approach once you hit the long narrow canyon and the shade is welcome on this hot day. Walking 1+ mile you reach the most famous Treasury site. It is most impressive and more massive than I visioned in the photos. In lieu of going to other sites beyond we luckily found a table and enjoyed some Coca-cola and the sites. A lot to take in with the local Bedouin, tourists, camels, dogs, donkeys, and more. We returned walking back the same path and to a restaurant for a buffet lunch before boarding the bus back to Aqaba. We arrived at exactly 7:05 pm just after the back-on-board time. Once refreshing ourselves we went up to the buffet for Pizza and then retired early. It was a long and strenuous day. We were very happy to see Petra, but the tour operator was the worst I have ever experienced causing undue stress for most on the tour (I’ll comment on that later). We were very happy once we returned to the MSC Splendida.</span><p></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Thursday, April 20. — Sea Day to Suez Canal South </b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinWfO__EvLvKdUrifxNkexcylV7Z8hW8fuzLsoEGruub1_DETYT_TL5tP8BJiGLN1DVgL8_LezpozWkwagyWqinXZvvHKkntIvs4yIWM9cyEi3yyoYaaN7XXCc3Oh8UjUVWry2Gi04dxOKJAFADbhB6IHMrxvQf0uTUJ88AvIKjSVHkSfmoWwB0zTR/s1280/Lobby.webp" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinWfO__EvLvKdUrifxNkexcylV7Z8hW8fuzLsoEGruub1_DETYT_TL5tP8BJiGLN1DVgL8_LezpozWkwagyWqinXZvvHKkntIvs4yIWM9cyEi3yyoYaaN7XXCc3Oh8UjUVWry2Gi04dxOKJAFADbhB6IHMrxvQf0uTUJ88AvIKjSVHkSfmoWwB0zTR/s320/Lobby.webp" width="320" /></a></b></div>Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well waking early to update my blog. Relaxing, writing, and updating various projects online all morning. Today we sailed from the Gulf of Aqaba to the Red Sea then position the ship just south of the Suez. We are to join a northbound transit of the canal tomorrow morning. At noon we went down to Deck 5 to La Reggia Dining Room for a proper Lunch. We discovered that we had failed to turn back our clocks last night and we were an hour early. We decided to lounge in the Lobby Bar area (photo) and enjoyed a Hugo Spritzer cocktail and wait. We review some Excursions while there. When the MDR opened we sat with some Australians that were on our tour yesterday. I ordered a Madison Salad, and two entrees: Fish & Chips and a Grilled Meat Skewer. They had my favorite MSC dessert a Floating Island (poached egg white, vanilla anglaise, caramel). After lunch, we read and took a long nap. It was refreshing. When we woke we decided to skip the MDR this evening and continued our rest. Four big excursions in five days are not easy. I noted our concerns about yesterday's excursion to Tour-Jordon. Interesting that we went from the best excursion ever to the worst in the same week. By 8:00 pm we were anchored among a huge line of ships, there were ships as far as the eye could see. Hopefully, cruise ships get priority tomorrow when we begin transit of the Suez Canal. I made a late Pizza run and a double surprise…meats on the Pizzas and Plums in the fruit section. I got two slices of Charcol Pizzas with hamburger and one slice of spicy salami. MSC still has the best Pizza at sea by far. It was a relaxing day at sea on the MSC Splendida.<p></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Friday, April 21. — Suez Canal Transit</b> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwgWrpOoY4NbMozNsF8omwVBHUafmGl6peYbx5avfhyIVeumSLNSQpzlvUxH_SB-qpkwcDHom9AU7m2v0iPtdXZL9UjjU6tCm5VTOgdpnIu0PcauMhzHNBiHZd3B97hhcf-TiFTNYTu4yy2QznsqInsMe3tpflUXRnSvxZKijFUYJ6gIcmk1CLshbQ/s4029/Suez%20Bridge.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1980" data-original-width="4029" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwgWrpOoY4NbMozNsF8omwVBHUafmGl6peYbx5avfhyIVeumSLNSQpzlvUxH_SB-qpkwcDHom9AU7m2v0iPtdXZL9UjjU6tCm5VTOgdpnIu0PcauMhzHNBiHZd3B97hhcf-TiFTNYTu4yy2QznsqInsMe3tpflUXRnSvxZKijFUYJ6gIcmk1CLshbQ/w400-h196/Suez%20Bridge.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>Anchored overnight so calm seas. I slept very well and woke at 5:30 am, the sun was bright so good view of the ships, and at 6:00 we began our approach to the canal. Looks like we will be leading the convoy, with a smaller passenger ship following. By 6:30 am we dropped the pilot and made a turn to starboard entering the canal itself. Just happened to be awake and on the correct side of the ship to see the action. Canal itself is rather plain no interesting features as you enter just equipment and several booms in the water. In the 125+ mile length we did get the Laurence of Arabia desert view with desert on each side, Also one major bridge at Ismailia (photo), a ferry crossing, and several settlements on the west side. The east bank had a stone fence with observation points that I assume were built by the Israeli army when they occupied the Sinai for many years following the Six-day War. We had a lot of business on Deck 5 mid-day with Guest Services, Excursion Desk, and then lunch in the La Reggia Dining Room. I ordered a nice Green Salad, the Chicken Wing appetizer, and the entree of Sliced Roast Beef with Mashed Potatoes and Green Beans. DW had a Spinach Crepe. A very nice Wild Berry Sundae for dessert. We have enjoyed the MDR lunches more than the evening meals on the sea days. I had a wee nap and woke <span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">about 4:00 pm </span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">as we arrived at the end of the Suez Canal and entered the Mediterranean Sea. At about 5pm we went to the Lobby Bar for a Peroni beer, then to the La Prua Lounge for cocktails. We did attend the Motown Show in the theater featuring the <b>Angelettes</b>. It was a fly-in act used as filler on longer cruises with three campy British gals singing. Not that good yet entertaining in its own way. Afterward, we went up to the Buffet and there was meat including pork everywhere…I assume the cruise line had an agreement while in the Red Sea to somewhat observe Ramadan. I had Pork Chops, Potatoes, and Beets. We then retired for the evening. It was a needed restful day while sailing the Suez Canal.</span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span><p></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Saturday, April 22 — Sea Day</b> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDupZqMsrqsrrj5vUy7LRlNUiAbF5d6pyx4jZqPXv2vCNDg2Qh9sZ-sheSX2WY6CqsjKT3dtDyU-R1m_gQutQ-f6RphnCYI_1Rmcdz4YLiqSb84fMGemhyHllc5XBMTLpwA1RPhsWQ3q704UN6J2AY8Uq4vJdMwjgJsZ4R2683qM-t8fotoU1dfv9x/s4032/sundae.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDupZqMsrqsrrj5vUy7LRlNUiAbF5d6pyx4jZqPXv2vCNDg2Qh9sZ-sheSX2WY6CqsjKT3dtDyU-R1m_gQutQ-f6RphnCYI_1Rmcdz4YLiqSb84fMGemhyHllc5XBMTLpwA1RPhsWQ3q704UN6J2AY8Uq4vJdMwjgJsZ4R2683qM-t8fotoU1dfv9x/w150-h200/sundae.jpeg" width="150" /></a></div>Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well. We changed our clocks forward again so we are now on Eastern European Time for Greece. I woke at about 7:30ish and updated my blog. We had an easy pajama day until noon when we went down to the La Reggia Dining Room for lunch. I ordered the Baby Shrimp & Vegetable Salpicon starter, Pan-seared fillets of Red Mullet, and Fruit Plate, the DW ordered Caprese Salad, Cauliflower Gnocchi, and the Fruit Sundae. We enjoyed the luncheons. it’s much cooler weather in the Mediterranean than in the Red Sea…that is very welcome. We did a walkabout the ship after lunch…guests were busy on outer decks, casino, dining rooms, playing trivia, spa, bingo, shopping, and many other activities. We had another relaxing afternoon and prepared for the next 6 ports in a row beginning tomorrow. At about 7:00 pm we went to the Bora Bora Buffet for dinner. I had an assortment of many things and yes a lot of meat choices, DW found a Pesto Pasta, one of her favorites. We didn’t go out this evening as we have an early excursion in the morning and a busy week ahead. It was a relaxing day on the MSC Splendida.<br /><p></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Sunday, April 23 — Island of Santorini, Greece </b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3zzqf7RMC0s--M5OTO4LUT2NcNTKDOMc5EiV6V3vX7YDCOxVcaLm-emsjAA2MlrIhx6DRavfovjcxOqyChCpFaQQeiU3y6tbfbXuyiSOwEv0rVOVNya3a-zL5bTiugxEesu8_GbVCeR7Sv16s52uOmezzTcdfzn39Q1MThBrTH-ibr6vlM5wndRmw/s4032/Santorini.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2501" data-original-width="4032" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3zzqf7RMC0s--M5OTO4LUT2NcNTKDOMc5EiV6V3vX7YDCOxVcaLm-emsjAA2MlrIhx6DRavfovjcxOqyChCpFaQQeiU3y6tbfbXuyiSOwEv0rVOVNya3a-zL5bTiugxEesu8_GbVCeR7Sv16s52uOmezzTcdfzn39Q1MThBrTH-ibr6vlM5wndRmw/w400-h248/Santorini.jpeg" width="400" /></a></b></span></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">We woke at 6:00 as we have a 7:00 am excursion meet time in the theater. We were here in the fall and we only did the primary town of Fira so we wanted to see the entire island on this trip. No excursions were released until an hour later, a mixup in tender starting times I heard. At about 8:00ish we got on the first tender to the commercial Athinios Ferry port. Tendering in the Santorini Caldera is a beautiful experience and it’s a lovely sunshine day. Soon we were on tour bus 4 and on our way to our first stop. </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Oia</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> is Santorini's most picturesque town and has some of the island's best hotels. It's located at the northern tip of the island and is famous for its fabulous views. We had an hour to explore on our own and we walked the long beautiful marble passageways along the cliff edge from one end of the village to the other. We had a wonderful pastry from a Bakery and enjoyed the views. At about 10:45 am, we re-boarded the bus and crossed back across the island to </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Santo Wines</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> for Snacks and a Wine Tasting. We had a very nice table with a view of the caldera for our one-hour visit (photo above). The final stop was the capital city of </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Fira</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">, the guide walked us up towards the largest church on the island, </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Candlemas Holy Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral of Thira</span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">. We visited inside and we were on our own the rest of the day. We visited the numerous shops and did a bit of walking. We stopped at Fanari Greek Restaurant which had a great view of the ship, the walking trail down, and the caldera. We enjoyed the Wifi, Beers, Water, fresh Pita bread, Saganaki cheese, and a great Tzatziki. It was very nice. Being next to the trail down the mountain to the port below, we thought about walking but did the fun thing and rode the donkeys down. My knees were grateful. There was a long line for the return tender to the ship but it went fairly well, we were back on board by 4:30 pm. We were tired, we did over 12,000 steps today so we had cabin time and retired early. It was a great day on the Island of Santorini with three different wonderful sea views.</span><p></p><div><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Monday, April 24 — Island of Mykonos, Greece </span></b></div><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></b></p><div><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_xXvRNuXuYhUWXjwXYBNusUQYKdkhuxAV7JtW-ppaHZjzW6z6jupQBFHrisbWKGkrczR12Nn7yya2VXkLC-xMG6c1kujZQZxNpuG9tcPGGVcW0pHV9Z4q_9yWpLG0WcmSb72ENlpPXrWN4_EcG6wpAHmi5ITkY7AGbTiqkU70SNNFeIIdoUZATW76/s4032/Mykonos.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_xXvRNuXuYhUWXjwXYBNusUQYKdkhuxAV7JtW-ppaHZjzW6z6jupQBFHrisbWKGkrczR12Nn7yya2VXkLC-xMG6c1kujZQZxNpuG9tcPGGVcW0pHV9Z4q_9yWpLG0WcmSb72ENlpPXrWN4_EcG6wpAHmi5ITkY7AGbTiqkU70SNNFeIIdoUZATW76/w400-h300/Mykonos.jpeg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-weight: normal;">Smooth seas overnight and we slept well. I watched us sail into port just after 7:00 am. It looks like another perfect weather day too. At about 8:30 I went to the La Reggia Dining Room for breakfast. The entire regular menu is available now and I ordered: Fruit Plate, Eggs Benedict, Potatoes, Bacon (English), Hot Milk, and Danish. It was very good. I then got two private tender tickets from Shore Excursions @ 10€ so I would save some time when we go over to the city of Mykonos. We left the cabin at about 10:30 am and walked to the ferry across the harbor and arrived in town at about 11:00. We walked the familiar and new passageways looking at shops and interesting architecture. We stopped for some Coca-Colas then continued our way to the famous Windmills where we took some photos. We then went to a place on the water we stopped at last October named the <b>Veranda</b>. Here we got a small waterside table on the water with a great view of the windmills (photo). I had two beers and we used the WiFi as well. Very nice. We did some more shopping and site seeing before stopping at <b>Paraportiana</b> located off the water on an old square. It seemed to cater to locals as they had a shared table and made deliveries. We had our big meal here, we ordered Fresh bread with butter and tapenade, Pita bread, Tzatziki, Fava split peas (local hummus style), Saganaki cheese, Local wine, and a large Fix beer. It was very good we enjoyed it very much. Also good Wifi, clean toilets, and good service…we recommend. We were very close to the harbor so took the next tender back to the ship. Overall a very pleasant day with perfect weather. This year as last year we enjoyed Mykonos better than Santorini. Following our tender ride we rested a bit until sail away. At about 18:00 we went to the La Prua Lounge for cocktails, a Hugo Spritz,</span> <span style="font-weight: normal;">and an Elderflower martini. At about 19:10 we went to the Bora Bora for a light dinner, I had Veal from the Carving Station, Spinach, Bread, and a selection of small deserts. We then retired as we have another port tomorrow. It was a fantastic day in Mykonos.</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b> </b></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Tuesday, April 25 -- Port of Piraeus for Athens, Greece <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmWfAdA8zvwizc4ZJshIJi-cym6UtCplR_n1mjKfSFruJMMC1plPasuXAgjyq4sOpI9OY1g0DHP2PtjPCbH3fkl3Pudz3kih9xI80ASA0_DULz52fsLLua-NhnQDMFS9tM5AycC_TgLNYNhh0c_-DSwQZgcm9I52sj40Jir-sNk1NMpXzwkUTx5kqJ/s4032/Museum.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmWfAdA8zvwizc4ZJshIJi-cym6UtCplR_n1mjKfSFruJMMC1plPasuXAgjyq4sOpI9OY1g0DHP2PtjPCbH3fkl3Pudz3kih9xI80ASA0_DULz52fsLLua-NhnQDMFS9tM5AycC_TgLNYNhh0c_-DSwQZgcm9I52sj40Jir-sNk1NMpXzwkUTx5kqJ/w400-h300/Museum.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div></b></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. At about 7:45 am I went to breakfast in the Bora-Bora Buffet…loving the Bacon and Eggs. Today we have a shuttle bus at 8:45 for a </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Plaka On Your Own</span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> tour. We have seen every site in Athens as we did the deluxe Dimitri tour a few ago; however, we had not been to the </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Acropolis Museum</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">. That was our mission today. Although the bus gave us too little time we did the entire museum and walked a bit in the Plaka area. I was impressed with the Museum, itself built over ancient ruins. The way the Parthenon is represented with modern materials then used to display the ancient art is amazing i.e.—stainless steel columns in place of the stone. The entire footprint of the Parthenon is represented on the third level of the Acropolis Museum to correspond with the upper level of the Parthenon. Then the surviving ancient art is hung in the proper position. Amazing. After visiting the museum we walked in the Plaka and enjoyed a nice ice creme. The weather is again perfect. We considered staying and taking a taxi back, but we will be back at Piraeus on Wednesday next week. We bought some snacks before returning to the ship. We did get back in time to take advantage of a lunch offer in the <b>Butchers Cut Steakhouse</b>. I had a nice NY Strip steak and DW had a Mac&Cheese. The M&C was not good, the best item by far was the Hearts of Palm Salad. It was wonderful. We had a short nap until we sailed away then updated the blog. At about sundown, we went to the buffet for Pizza…always good. It was a nice day at the Museum and on the MSC Splendida.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Wednesday, April 26 -- Katakolon, Greece <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjguAyNT9v4u2Iwwferw3k0dafai29jru9cpuXODg9XmHL97_s2rXIc_zH3BcgIbrZhJIEKNFFtc2lvRlU7rPAghwvNaOYM09WiPT8XkG0Oth9EqtNp-F84ewUtkT9alZxynHuZMqk6fMwwAh2jVbZqecweghNPwpndkw_RvErHWalF7KX9DyYZoEct/s3108/Officers.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2972" data-original-width="3108" height="383" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjguAyNT9v4u2Iwwferw3k0dafai29jru9cpuXODg9XmHL97_s2rXIc_zH3BcgIbrZhJIEKNFFtc2lvRlU7rPAghwvNaOYM09WiPT8XkG0Oth9EqtNp-F84ewUtkT9alZxynHuZMqk6fMwwAh2jVbZqecweghNPwpndkw_RvErHWalF7KX9DyYZoEct/w400-h383/Officers.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div></span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and we slept well. This is our third visit to this Greek port and we have seen the Olympus site so we are having a casual day. I went to breakfast at the buffet and had my Eggs & Bacon with hot milk. Still enjoying that bacon. At about 10:45 am we walked into the port town. It was cool and a very light rain but we made it to the waterfront where I stayed at Koursaros Coffee shop and enjoyed a Sprite while the DW shopped at the Main Street shops. We found some bargains last visit and she did it again. The weather improved and was nicer as we returned to the ship at about 1:00. We went straight to the La Reggia Dining Room for a proper lunch. I had a New Orleans Salad, Braised Cabbage Rolls, Turkey escalope with lemon, and the Wild Cherry Sundae for dessert. It was very good. We had a nice conversation with Melania the Hotel Director, she endured one of ‘my MSC stories’. Soon after returning to the cabin, the weather cleared so we had a nice 3:00 pm sail away under clear blue skies. I had time for a wee nap before preparing for the 18:00 <b>Diamond Party</b> in the Aft lounge on deck 7. There are 300 Diamonds on board thus the larger lounge. Nice entertainment by the regular aft lounge entertainers and yes they provided Hugo Spritzers to the DW and me. The Captain & Melania came by too. Thanks. We met friends in the Lobby and then went to the theater for the <b>George Michaels show</b>. It was entertaining…some really got into it. Afterward, I purchased an MSC jacket in the Logo Shop, with the special happy hour sale it was less than €20. Deal. We then retired to the cabin. It was a fun day on the MSC Spendida. <br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Thursday, April 27 -- Kotor, Montenegro </span></b><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcIrQYa9mjkwvxFmskO_eN39_Bwb6hDCr2iauwhKU1mVoeaxnwAAVABRodsDZrZg62j8FpJ6HHFgzyZSK4SgKyq3k264aD6DVK5uUZ-MmMmRnu0WXL6ng4KAcp6qHoHIUB76LkIJ7NSY3q3XzfTaV00K9Ei1NwEbrM6EnkQHQniN7Q89pJO7S1f70j/s2729/koto-2.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2502" data-original-width="2729" height="366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcIrQYa9mjkwvxFmskO_eN39_Bwb6hDCr2iauwhKU1mVoeaxnwAAVABRodsDZrZg62j8FpJ6HHFgzyZSK4SgKyq3k264aD6DVK5uUZ-MmMmRnu0WXL6ng4KAcp6qHoHIUB76LkIJ7NSY3q3XzfTaV00K9Ei1NwEbrM6EnkQHQniN7Q89pJO7S1f70j/w400-h366/koto-2.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. We turned our clocks back another hour and woke to a beautiful sunny sky. Hope it continues as we don’t arrive until 11:00 am in Montenegro. We were entering the huge Kotor Bay when I went upstairs to the buffet for Eggs & Bacon. When I returned to the cabin we watched from the balcony as we sailed into the inner Bay and towards Kotor. It’s a beautiful mountainside landscape and seems much like sailing in a fiord. Beautiful. We reached our Mooring station early, by 10:00 am. Our excursion, the </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Grand Tour of Montenegro</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">, meet time was 10:30, but we went early and have an early bus and they called us for the first guest tender off the boat at 10:20. It was a 20-minute tender to the port and soon the Bus 3 group (English) met next to the pier to begin our excursion. We began with a walking tour of <b>Old Town Kotor</b>. It is an old gated community with buildings dating back to the 8th century and many to the 12th century. There are a great number of monuments of medieval architecture: churches, cathedrals, palaces, and museums. Its beauty is complemented by the multitude of narrow streets, squares,<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP8SkZbenCZB2iVPBpQn2Rs63VqjiCCiObQYirEF0_X_n7x1FxsxJnDtR3ANyxI_vwHSJ9fSQsXHZZ2_BEamxWZWNd8bpEoKUiLv8uTYA7J1buhEgbjWWd0DJQbFzlwnx0gc9CHRiQEyT_Prmhx2CFc9EOPiRfMMyJ4vIiZlumZVuAmlhVwpHdSiiV/s4032/kotor-3.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP8SkZbenCZB2iVPBpQn2Rs63VqjiCCiObQYirEF0_X_n7x1FxsxJnDtR3ANyxI_vwHSJ9fSQsXHZZ2_BEamxWZWNd8bpEoKUiLv8uTYA7J1buhEgbjWWd0DJQbFzlwnx0gc9CHRiQEyT_Prmhx2CFc9EOPiRfMMyJ4vIiZlumZVuAmlhVwpHdSiiV/s320/kotor-3.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>and markets that are now: boutiques and clothes stores, souvenir shops, photo shops, jewelry shops, book stores, antique shops, many cafés, pizzerias, and more. You could easily spend several hours here exploring. After our walking tour, we boarded a bus to drive the </span><a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g295381-d17751879-Reviews-Kotor_Serpentine-Kotor_Kotor_Municipality.html" target="_blank"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Kotor Serpentine</span></b></a><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> a road going up the mountain containing 25 switch-back curves. The scenery and views are spectacular. It was an exciting drive-up. We stopped at a viewpoint where you could see both Bays and the Adriatic Sea. Amazing. Next, we stopped for a snack at a mountainside village, I had a Montenegrin Sandwich (local cheese, fresh bread, and Njeguši prosciutto ham) and the local beer. It was good. We then had a nice drive through the mountains of Lovcen National Park on the way to Budva. Our first stop was the restaurant Porto located direct on the waterfront where we had our meal. They served: Slaw, Montenegro Steak (veal wrapped with Njeguši prosciutto ham, and cheese), Potatoes, and mixed Rice. The slaw was great, the entree was not my cup of tea. It was then just a short walk to the <b>Budva Old Town</b>. This is another walled city…a miniature version of Kotor or Dubrovnik. The small streets and passageways were very nice marble making it easy to walk. The Buddha Citadel is the main feature. Most of the former medieval buildings are now Restaurants, Cafes, and Souvenir Shops. It was a beautiful atmosphere. We had 30+ minutes of free time to explore. We bussed back on a direct route arriving back about 6:30 pm. A long line for the returning tenders but we were soon safely back on board. DW brought Pizza down to the cabin for a late snack and we ate on the balcony enjoying Kotor Bay. It was our 5th really monumental excursion on this special trip…and Kotor is a port I’ve really been wanting to visit. Another great day.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Friday, April 28 -- Bari, Italy <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuNCBVg4PiO27n4-XptSa92xXUoB0dAcdN1nPfzZCidH0VJkBlcKCnWaqNA20VcJJqNBUom0xTRcS7656_dqjCDQsN1p6awSqNKrBht_qVUFw_J-xgL7jt0lPmmoxPxBkKrUbSHxjRyIFH6tH_MfSpB_DlL_OlLofqzQBWEgEAiqlYuTm-imDz4jhs/s4032/Bari%20helmet.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuNCBVg4PiO27n4-XptSa92xXUoB0dAcdN1nPfzZCidH0VJkBlcKCnWaqNA20VcJJqNBUom0xTRcS7656_dqjCDQsN1p6awSqNKrBht_qVUFw_J-xgL7jt0lPmmoxPxBkKrUbSHxjRyIFH6tH_MfSpB_DlL_OlLofqzQBWEgEAiqlYuTm-imDz4jhs/w240-h320/Bari%20helmet.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div></span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth sailing across the Adriatic Sea to Bari. We arrived by 8:00 am and we have no excursions planned other than just getting off and seeing the city. I had breakfast in the MDR, ordering Fruit Plate and Eggs Benedict, it was good. At about 9:30 we made our way down to the pier and the shuttle bus into Bari. We were dropped at the </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Teatro Petruzzelli</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> the ornate 1904 Opera House between Old Town and New Town Bari. Our first stop was Mcdonalds', a great start as I used the WiFi to get a good City Map on the iPhone, used the toilet and had a Coca-cola. We then headed to Old Town with the goal of visiting </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Basilica San Nicola</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> a pilgrimage site for Eastern Europe Roman Catholics & Orthodox Christians, built 1087–1197. I was completely amazed by the Medieval era passageways of the old town. We had just visited the old town areas of Koto and Budva that have been restored and now have modern shops, but we were experiencing real-time Italian families living in these narrow extensive passageways of small neighborhoods and piazzas. Beautifully maintained and clean with most buildings being restored but within the medieval infrastructure. A few were touristy near the Cathedral, but most were just everyday life of residents, businesses, cafes, and restaurants. The Basilica was amazing and includes the tomb of </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Nicholas" target="_blank">Saint Nicholas</a> </span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">one of the most notable Saints in early Christian churches (yes origin of Santa Claus) and especially revered in Eastern European Orthodox Churches. I’ve enjoyed reading<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqoFlyW92HPmT91y65DjbNLDaqMl-3bvObxNBOyQoiqy93KsSjIU1MCw2CJczqBvUFm9KosIqyc2igSvW2dW_c6N9NM8opUmrsgNzKhfu93bhfa2LUNVeLV0HtVmNXLm56OLq0bDHn-O68-F9Cw8DR-d7Ze338u1iiGeT9N1FFmE6rlRrOoH5VU6sC/s4016/Bari-nick.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4016" data-original-width="2627" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqoFlyW92HPmT91y65DjbNLDaqMl-3bvObxNBOyQoiqy93KsSjIU1MCw2CJczqBvUFm9KosIqyc2igSvW2dW_c6N9NM8opUmrsgNzKhfu93bhfa2LUNVeLV0HtVmNXLm56OLq0bDHn-O68-F9Cw8DR-d7Ze338u1iiGeT9N1FFmE6rlRrOoH5VU6sC/s320/Bari-nick.jpeg" width="209" /></a></div>about the Patron Saint of many including Sailors, merchants, archers, repentant thieves, children, brewers, pawnbrokers, unmarried people, and students. We then made our way to the </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="http://www.museoarcheologicosantascolastica.it/index.php/en/" target="_blank">Museo Archeologico di Santa Scolastica</a> </span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">just a few passageways north of the Basilica. This was one of the most amazing Museums I have visited. Comparable to the Acropolis Museum in Athens. It was built in the old 16th-century ruins of a Monastery and adjacent original Bastion or Sea Gate into the original Bari. It has just opened after extensive restoration. The archaeological history takes the visitor on a journey back in time, from the 19th century, through the Middle Ages, to Protohistory, into the foundations of the building. The site itself dates to the Bronze Age. Much of the building is on pillars (as in Athens) to preserve the sites below. The Bastion has a longer history explained in detail. Also home to rare collections of early Greek and Italian artifacts beautifully displayed (photo above). A beautiful venue, presentation, and facilities, and free. After this visit, we walked back through Old Town to another primary church the </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bari_Cathedral" target="_blank">Basilica Cattedrale Metropolitana Primaziale San Sabino</a>,</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> a very large 13th-century Romanesque church with a subterranean crypt also containing ancient relics. Not as ornate as San Nicola, but perhaps larger overall. From here we head back towards the new town and look for a restaurant for lunch. Many choices along the wide modern Boulevard and we choose one by the menu: Alterno. We leisurely dined outside on the sidewalk with a small park & activities of the new town. I had Pasta with Tomato sauce, sausage, and mushrooms, DW a selection of local cheeses. It was now about 14:30 so we walked back towards the original shuttle location stopping for some wonderful gelato along the way. I really enjoyed our walk in Bari without being rushed by a tour guide. Loved the architecture of the old town and the perfect weather. We were back in our cabin by 4:00 pm. We relaxed and watched sail away from Bari then up to the buffet to eat and watch the sun set, We retired after dinner. It was a wonderful day visiting the port city of Bari, Italy.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Saturday, April 29, 2023 -- Sea Day <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiab_tdaDijUrfAPQDKsRQcXWNx46-1IkWQ1eA5JC_EQ0YnU9EbJZ8oEgnGqVcdWilozk7cup0jbqzO9SDS0m9_ks2INefZARgbv7W44TqmGxlo1QfMBlDCOd0jY_cvauxSqvMk71oEti3-ItJoHvTnbGhIK0Aoaf5anu30MjPsIy6mUzHx1X_mcX9-/s1378/bc.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="620" data-original-width="1378" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiab_tdaDijUrfAPQDKsRQcXWNx46-1IkWQ1eA5JC_EQ0YnU9EbJZ8oEgnGqVcdWilozk7cup0jbqzO9SDS0m9_ks2INefZARgbv7W44TqmGxlo1QfMBlDCOd0jY_cvauxSqvMk71oEti3-ItJoHvTnbGhIK0Aoaf5anu30MjPsIy6mUzHx1X_mcX9-/w400-h180/bc.jpg" width="400" /></a></div></b></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. I woke early and updated my blog then we both went up to the Bora-Bora buffet for breakfast. The proper English bacon is gone, they are passing off a thin sliced fried pork shoulder as bacon and it is terrible. I’m off hot milk too as I’ve had a sensitive stomach of late…neither of my breakfast favorites. I did have fruit and fried eggs, they have had fresh fried eggs readily available all cruise. We went to the watch shop and had help with a pin that fell from my watch band in Kotor. Amazingly the eagle-eyed DW found the pin when my watch fell onto the cobblestone street of the old town. The weather was partly cloudy and cooler but guests are still on deck. This will be a final chance for casino, shopping, and activities for the majority that will debark tomorrow. We finally were able to stream some American television so watched Fox & Friends, of course, we were 6 hours later. The only English TV we have had for the past 6 days has been a Turkish channel that broadcasts in English (smart of them) so I know what’s happening in Turkey. We had a lazy day until we went to the </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Butchers Cut Steakhouse </span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">at about 7:00 pm. (photo of entry). They knew we weren’t that pleased with our previous visit so they were prepared for us. We had a nice table and great service as we did prior, but the food was much improved. Between us, we ordered: a NY Sirloin steak and a Filet Mignon steak. the Burrata Cheese & Beets, a Hearts of Palm Salad (without the Raspberry Sauce) with thick Balsamic dressing, two Baked Potatoes, Creamed Spinach, and Breads. For dessert: Lava Cake with ice creme & a warm Peanut Butter Cookie with ice creme, It was all very good and very filling. After dinner, we packed as we change cabins tomorrow as well as have a very early excursion. It was a pleasant final day for this cruise</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Personal HIGHLIGHTS of the Cruises</b><br />Luxor excursion, Balloon ride and Overnight stay<br />Great Pyramids of Egypt<br />Montenegro Tour<br />Petra<br />Our day in Bari<br />Greece: The Islands & Atheneum Museum<br />Suez Canal passage<br /><br /><br /><b>Observations about the MSC Splendida and cruise</b><br />POSITIVE:<br />Obviously the many unique ports we visited<br />Most stable ship I have ever sailed in high seas - stabilizers worked well<br />Hot milk is readily available.<br />Staff and Crew much nicer than the old MSC<br /><br />NEGATIVE:<br />No kleenex or tissues <br />Very protective of the Music Rolls (toilet paper)<br />Very little shower pressure in our cabin (unsure about other areas)<br />No English language TV stations. Not even BBC but a couple of days of CNBC<br />Sailing during Ramadan…too many restrictions<br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></b></div></div>Snoozemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08287635714818403539noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-666314469198049300.post-12148581477102553522023-02-25T14:11:00.037-06:002023-03-02T13:27:32.661-06:00Carnival Paradise - February 25, 2023<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkY7yDsLjNz7c3Pc_oZDuBdI1oSzfVC-yZb7Ymi3o58fMc6vX2qawavZ0LdO6nVP20v75mEGsiLeqqh7KcStgtmsFEfbOY0x86gleDW_PHPe4DWHr7kNImZoMKiql5IvCXBOINEeBIZC0tWzCENehZKAKLwiNxfL_9A2TCU2vW5tizya8yzRbj0a6k/s4032/IMG_6027.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkY7yDsLjNz7c3Pc_oZDuBdI1oSzfVC-yZb7Ymi3o58fMc6vX2qawavZ0LdO6nVP20v75mEGsiLeqqh7KcStgtmsFEfbOY0x86gleDW_PHPe4DWHr7kNImZoMKiql5IvCXBOINEeBIZC0tWzCENehZKAKLwiNxfL_9A2TCU2vW5tizya8yzRbj0a6k/w640-h480/IMG_6027.jpeg" width="640" /></a></span></p><div style="text-align: left;"><h3 style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Carnival Paradise Cruise Review</span></b></h3><b><u><span style="font-family: inherit;">Just the Facts</span></u></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Ship: Carnival Paradise, last of Fantasy Class ships launched Nov. 1998 @ 70,000 tons.<br />Captain: Giuseppe Castrogiovanni - Cruise Director: T-O double D on the M-I-C or Todd<br />Ports: Tampa, FL - Mahogany Bay, Honduras - Isla de Cozumel, Mexico -- Tampa, FL</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">This is a quick five-day cruise and I am sailing as a solo guest. This is my 8th cruise on the Carnival Paradise, my 110th Carnival cruise, and my 197th total cruise overall.</span></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> <b>Day One -- Saturday -- February 25th, 2023 -- Port of Tampa — Embarkation <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbkINLl48o_r2Gme21WCgwyIjbTHMhCU_qWe7ZqKIfDnVOuX58GjnDeBfqqJldKN79FDKu3XGZDdJQg2uiipzcJmqj4_Qi-ZaH2WA3cJPt8wrY0t_CU9Pnvk-N3sfISzhiOz5aDK7J_BhhLimusy1s9cV42jiC_7W4sSc6tWmbKvKb6B0n_t6RBX3A/s3321/IMG_6506.heic" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3321" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbkINLl48o_r2Gme21WCgwyIjbTHMhCU_qWe7ZqKIfDnVOuX58GjnDeBfqqJldKN79FDKu3XGZDdJQg2uiipzcJmqj4_Qi-ZaH2WA3cJPt8wrY0t_CU9Pnvk-N3sfISzhiOz5aDK7J_BhhLimusy1s9cV42jiC_7W4sSc6tWmbKvKb6B0n_t6RBX3A/w291-h320/IMG_6506.heic" width="291" /></a></div></b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I was up early and finished packing by 9:00 am and since I have an early check-in time I left for the short drive to Tampa. I was parked by 10:00 am. and walked to the terminal where they were already checking in guests. I passed through Security, then the Check-in station. FYI (Carnival President) Christine’s letter last week about guest conduct was obvious with a drug dog checking all bags entering the terminal. It is very well organized with separate setting areas for Diamonds, Platinum, and Suite guests. They started Boarding at 11:00 am and Diamond was first on the ship. I rolled on my bag as usual and dropped it at my Cabin on deck 6 before going up to Lido deck before the buffet gets busy. I had a nice Salad and a Sandwich from the Deli area then checked into my Muster Station. Passenger Cabins open at 1:30 pm, but I checked on mine, U-131, and it was finished early so I met my Cabin Steward and unpacked a bit earlier. It’s large for an interior cabin with ample storage and I have an updated larger Television than last on Paradise. The cabin feels quite comfortable compared to the smaller solo Studio I had on my previous cruise this month. I relaxed and watched West Side Story on TCM my favorite channel on Carnival ships. The internet seems to work well from my cabin location too. We sailed away a little late after 5:00 pm and one forgets how big Tampa Bay actually is … it was hours before we sailed under the bridge. I had a Guy’s Burger before they closed at 6:00 pm and watched a nice sunset over Tampa Bay. I did a walk about the ship, not a lot of action this evening, primarily the Welcome Aboard Show at 9:30 in the theater. I found the Beverage Manager Amol and two of my favorite bartenders today, that is a good thing. I retired early, I was supplied with ice so I enjoyed a beverage and updated this blog as well as booked a cruise for a client…always work to do. It was a long, busy, and easy embarkation day.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Day Two -- Sunday -- February 26th, 2023 -- Day at Sea. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq2pW6cDRuXcjS91aoFUGWNb7Cz78WLAAfw0OhMJD0Mv18_JsU55hwrvgesyP3ilLEzDTX6jh58Bru2KH2D-U3OiTUMwyTSyS87Z784neyb6x9_e5ic5jTJ1hzDG-zmTAWLa6mUtqVk1ByFMICn8XjAQp6xKHZE5Q6_NiMG66g1fYr9vXC2x6JVHho/s4032/IMG_7612.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq2pW6cDRuXcjS91aoFUGWNb7Cz78WLAAfw0OhMJD0Mv18_JsU55hwrvgesyP3ilLEzDTX6jh58Bru2KH2D-U3OiTUMwyTSyS87Z784neyb6x9_e5ic5jTJ1hzDG-zmTAWLa6mUtqVk1ByFMICn8XjAQp6xKHZE5Q6_NiMG66g1fYr9vXC2x6JVHho/w400-h300/IMG_7612.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div></span></b><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 12px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Smooth seas overnight, and I slept very well. At about 8:30 am, I went to the Elation Dining room (MDR) for the Sea day Brunch. It was very good, I had Steak & Eggs, Bacon, Fruit Bowl, Tomato Juice, and Hot Milk. It was very good, I still believe that Paradise has better food than the other Carnival ships. I’m guessing because quality control is better in a smaller kitchen and a good Executive Chef. I had a two-top table but enjoyed conversations with adjoining guests. The <b>VIFP exclusive Diamond Event </b>was held at 10:30 am in the Leonardo room on the Promenade deck. Only 21 Diamonds on this sailing so we have the cocktail party, I was hoping for the new Luncheon menu. Very good participation from the staff and Captain, they came and stayed and visited with guests (photo…the Captain is far right in photo, Amol below him). As a solo, I sat at the bar which was fine as I started with a couple of Bloody Marys and ended up with two excellent Elderflower Martinis. They did serve sushi and an assortment of Petit fours. I passed on the sushi but enjoyed the Petit fours. Thanks, Carnival Paradise it was nice. It’s a beautiful day today and guests are enjoying the outer decks, but after a nice breakfast brunch, and cocktails I had nap time this afternoon. Funny how priorities change as we get older. I did a walkabout the ship and went to the casino to get my $25 Diamond benefit. Nice. Again as a contrarian, it’s the time to be out and about while everyone else is having their Elegant evening. I enjoyed the sunset on my way to the Lido Marketplace for dinner. Tonight I had Roast Beef, Stuffed Chicken Breast, Broccoli, and Potato, it was good and I dined alfresco with an aft wake view. The seas have become more active as the sun set with some nice occasional rocking of the ship. The feature show tonight was <i>Epic Rock </i>in the theater, but I stayed on deck and enjoyed the weather and views until retiring to the cabin to watch a movie. It was a f<span style="font-family: inherit;">un and restful sea day on the Carnival Paradise.</span></span></p></div><div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><p style="color: #0d0d14; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><b>Day Three -- Monday -- February 27th, 2023 -- Mahogany Bay, Isla Roatan </b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0qX98MWK8tnavJL9h9F9_xadIp5SzNKn4b5GMDFbgiCfuQ9kZ4IB9dlO1xoXGqikuC-SQ1FQcREv2xW0AEb48LD23T-JndM1H9tTl7-UcQP3miNao_k8-vlRCXpGmMkvKLceiSV6NfJGI_ws0IdvtsbpP069s5Tpc-m8yjzAqMiqGm_sG2QV9y6-8/s2392/80'sPop.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2387" data-original-width="2392" height="399" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0qX98MWK8tnavJL9h9F9_xadIp5SzNKn4b5GMDFbgiCfuQ9kZ4IB9dlO1xoXGqikuC-SQ1FQcREv2xW0AEb48LD23T-JndM1H9tTl7-UcQP3miNao_k8-vlRCXpGmMkvKLceiSV6NfJGI_ws0IdvtsbpP069s5Tpc-m8yjzAqMiqGm_sG2QV9y6-8/w400-h399/80'sPop.jpeg" width="400" /></a></b></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Rolling seas overnight and I again slept very well. I was up early as I had rest yesterday so I finished some Travel business and reviewed some news. I went to the Elation Restaurant for breakfast at about 9:30, they had a busy morning, and it took a while after checking in to get a table, but it was table 203 in my favorite area. I ordered big: Three eggs sunny side up, Bacon, Ham, Hash Browns, Danish, Toast, Tomato Juice, and Hot Milk. A nice leisurely breakfast and it was very good too. Nengah had cleaned my cabin while I was out and I’m glad he did as I’m in no rush to debark today… the usual Monday online work to do. I had a wee nap then went to the Serenity Deck and enjoyed the hot tub. I like finding a jet for my right foot, it does wonders for tendonitis. I had my best meal of the cruise for a late lunch. They had a nice very nice Sirloin at the buffet Carving Station so I got Buns from Guy’s Burgers (with chipotle mayo) then had several slices of the sirloin (with light horseradish) and enjoyed two wonderful Steak Sandwiches. The meat was hot and moist and with the good bread, I thought I had a sandwich comparable to the famous Mother’s in New Orleans. I did a walkabout and ended up aft to watch our late departure from Mahogany Bay. I’m skipping dinner tonight so at about 7:30 pm I went to the Rotterdam Bar to see my friend Deepak, the best bartender on the ship. He prepared an excellent (fresh) Watermelon martini for me and then an Elderflower martini that was equally as good. I took a Cabin break before the 9:30 pm Production Show</span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> and while there a beautiful Cheese Platter arrived for me…Wow! thanks, Hotel Director Nuria Costal. (Who needs Hugo?) I was able to score front-row seats for the </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">80’s Pop to the Max</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">show and I was so glad I did. All new sets and staging for the entertainers…I enjoyed the show. Afterward time for one Pilsner Urquell at the Lobby Bar before retiring. That Cheese platter was great for a late snack. It was a very productive and FUN day for me on the Carnival Paradise.</span></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><p style="color: #0d0d14; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><b> </b></p><p style="color: #0d0d14; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><b>Day Four -- Tuesday -- February 28th, 2022 -- Cozumel, Mexico </b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA-l_QDn9Wt8o4g1oC56P9DCPzw-fb4LnCvj-01iLbZYfGghRTO9_vgVLujAoG7qh9k2NR_dIGK21nBwkzVEuDGFgYfKpCirtAlwGEvcekWIcP-LW8I6bnWWASbCPs1RI0TLR73K73w_T5SMbc2n64A8jkEYMN3moHvz9QA6HKOuDAEUdizx1jaAF_/s4032/Coz-delmar.HEIC" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA-l_QDn9Wt8o4g1oC56P9DCPzw-fb4LnCvj-01iLbZYfGghRTO9_vgVLujAoG7qh9k2NR_dIGK21nBwkzVEuDGFgYfKpCirtAlwGEvcekWIcP-LW8I6bnWWASbCPs1RI0TLR73K73w_T5SMbc2n64A8jkEYMN3moHvz9QA6HKOuDAEUdizx1jaAF_/s320/Coz-delmar.HEIC" width="320" /></a></b></div><span style="font-family: inherit;">Rolling seas continued and I slept well. We have a late arrival into Cozumel so no rushing this morning. I went to the Elation MDR for breakfast: Avocado Toast, Bacon, Ham, Hash Browns, Tomato juice, Grapefruit, and Hot Milk. Very good. We were docked at about 11:30 and I debarked at about 12:00 noon. I walked over to <b>Del Mar Latino</b> all-inclusive for the day. (photo right) Good food and drinks until 5:30 pm. Over the course of the day, I did the pool, swam in the Caribbean water, enjoyed Diet Coca-cola, my share of Mojitos, Guacamole, Chips, Pico de Gallo, Coconut Shrimp, the Pollo, Fries, & Salad Plate, Buffalo Wings, and more. The weather was perfect and the Caribbean water was wonderful…there were actually more fish to see in the water than I have seen here in a while. I bring goggles, but it may justify a breathing tube as well next visit. So the bottom line is there is no beach but the snorkeling is better. The bar closed at 4:30 but they left me with two Mojitos and I stayed to use the good WiFi service…much faster than the ship. I bought Vanilla from Cinco Soles for friends in Florida as I made my way back to the ship. We did not leave Cozumel until about 8:00 pm … nice to see the ship lit up at night. Once refreshed I did a walkabout the ship and shared some photos with Deepak at the Rotterdam Bar, he was curious about the unique bars on the new Celebration. I scored more goodies, a plate of cookies, still warm when delivered, and some Strawberries. Thanks, Nuria. A bit quieter on the ship this evening which is common on Cozumel night and I did retire early myself. It was a great port day in Cozumel. </span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><p style="color: #0d0d14; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> <b>Day Five -- Wednesday -- March 1st, 2023 —Fun Day at Sea </b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUOKC12EC2yjX1pf95Hsl3EkZu3EVabbVk7i9ES3ZukrJw1MGAdalegdcqHpWqUNzFRCG25LQAk8A4y5inLCkc14TV36Guodcg5M9yHEaBhpnQmlhnA_lFegoFYKIrYo1FgC0-Du5mTJcbqjCCXa52G4jEaxjMrFCzqJqFdHmWm3zzJMyBIedFhGiv/s4032/DiaPlat%20party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUOKC12EC2yjX1pf95Hsl3EkZu3EVabbVk7i9ES3ZukrJw1MGAdalegdcqHpWqUNzFRCG25LQAk8A4y5inLCkc14TV36Guodcg5M9yHEaBhpnQmlhnA_lFegoFYKIrYo1FgC0-Du5mTJcbqjCCXa52G4jEaxjMrFCzqJqFdHmWm3zzJMyBIedFhGiv/s320/DiaPlat%20party.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;">Smoother seas overnight and I slept very well. A lazy morning for me but at about 9:45 am I went to the Sea Day Brunch in the Elation Restaurant. I enjoyed my breakfasts this cruise and today was so as well. I ordered: Hot Milk, Danish, Tomato Juice, a Fruit Bowl, the Steak & Eggs, with sides of Bacon, Ham, and Hash Browns. Nengah again had my cabin cleaned before I returned, I like that…thanks. I’m continuing the lazy theme today, I had enough sun and sea in Cozumel. Good weather so guests are enjoying the outer decks today. Something different: I was relaxing on the Serenity deck located far aft when Security came and moved guests out for our safety…what? I hadn’t immediately noticed as I was in a covered area but there was black soot falling from our stack. No idea what was causing it i.e. downdraft, super burn, or whatever but it was new to me. I have had many aft-facing balconies and noticed occasional soot, but this was really coming down. I had a Guy’s Burger at about 4:00 pm before going to the 5:00 pm <b>Platinum & Diamond Party</b> in the Queen Mary lounge. My friends Susan & Joanna attended as well, they had never attended one before and I love to see the reactions of newbies. It makes me appreciate the event more. I did get the Most Sailed Days award, but more importantly, I had a chance to thank Hotel Director Nuria for the goodies on this cruise. The Captain was very kind to take some extra photos with my guests. We were late getting our cocktails so they eventually brought a lot of Cosmopolitans, enough that we stayed through the 6:30 Punchliner Comedy Show. It was a PG show and entertaining. One last cocktail with Deepak in the Rotterdam Bar bar before I hit the Lido buffet for a late Supper. I retired soon afterward. But watching the forward camera on TV while in bed I spied the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, so dressed and got up to deck 14 forward to see the bridge. We went under at 11:25 pm and it was a great experience. It was certainly a FUN evening on the Carnival Paradise.</span><p></p></span><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Debarkation — Thursday -- March 2nd, 2023 -- Port of Tampa</span></strong></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I sleep well although I woke at 5:00 am to finish packing. I have a 7:00 am meeting time for Diamonds, but I went early since we had been in port for hours. They only began debarking at the usual time of 7:00 am I was one of the first off by 7:05 and the very first through Border Customs as the few guests in front of me searched for passports, I use a passport card and zoomed through. I walked across to the parking garage and home at 8:15 am … well before all the passengers were off the Paradise.</span></p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Personal HIGHLIGHTS of the Cruises</b><br />Meeting new Friends<br />80s to the Max</span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;">Diamond & Platinum Party</span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;">Rotterdam Bar cocktails<br />Steak Sandwich<br />Cozumel Port Day<br />Friendly Staff and Crew<br /><br /><b>Observations about the Carnival Paradise</b><br />POSITIVE:<br />Smaller ship is easier to maneuver <br />Crew and Staff are excellent<br />Food is better over-all in the Main Dining Rooms than other Carnival ships (with same menus)<br />Salad Bar is very good and good location away from large buffet lines<br />Rarely a wait for elevators<br />Easy to walk<br /><br />NEGATIVE:<br />No Alchemy Bar. (that will be fixed in October 2023)<br />Very poor Internet<br />Lack of secondary dining options (ie. Mongolian Grill, Seafood Shack, etc.)<br /><br />Lots of Improvements<br />New door going onto the Serenity Deck<br /><b>New staging and sets for Production Shows</b><br />New Television sets in Cabins<br /> </span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><p style="color: #0d0d14; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></p><p style="color: #0d0d14; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></p><p style="color: #0d0d14; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><br /></p></span></div></div>Snoozemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08287635714818403539noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-666314469198049300.post-70369290019123838912023-01-28T11:00:00.050-06:002023-12-10T11:07:13.579-06:00Norwegian Escape - 28 January 2023 - Cruise Review<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBeOnbD7ueYDK-1rHcV_i_mf5ZxZ6weFY1Zr2tyl52tStND6DdZj-bZniesyT1xNhayqTztDxSEVuyxy_n_f6Geql15wiM662YarNZdPWO1YekyNG13QoRMhnznU6F5dpKLuZy22k2qHmxSGDFgxsQoRQC-474NMSU7dUA25YSSMHhljyeAur57eej/s1310/PuertoPlata.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="887" data-original-width="1310" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBeOnbD7ueYDK-1rHcV_i_mf5ZxZ6weFY1Zr2tyl52tStND6DdZj-bZniesyT1xNhayqTztDxSEVuyxy_n_f6Geql15wiM662YarNZdPWO1YekyNG13QoRMhnznU6F5dpKLuZy22k2qHmxSGDFgxsQoRQC-474NMSU7dUA25YSSMHhljyeAur57eej/w640-h434/PuertoPlata.jpg" width="640" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Norwegian Escape - 28 January 2023 - Cruise Review</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><p style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Just the Facts:</span></b></p><p style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Ship: </span><b style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><i style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Norwegian Escape</span></i></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> is a 165,000-ton Breakaway+ class ship launched in 2015 with a guest capacity of 4200-5000. </span></p><p style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Ports: Port Canaveral, Puerto Plata, St. Thomas, Tortola, Great Stirrup Cay<br /></span></p><p style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">This will be my first cruise on the Norwegian Escape, my 8th cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line, and my 196th cruise overall. I’m cruising as a solo. </span></p><p style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Saturday / February 28th, 2023 / Embarkation / Day 1 </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpcQyDYToM1Yw_yQU_uvThqSgBiQGXqJg2ByLBVX_k3YwQsSxDUPaqRClPXgvmRrKiuwjw-4V4o-mvcu9ID_nTIvSizALH3GRPfP-ncAp7_Bcvpo78wCL5DdfQ3PNTQ4eGz4jhfllFokYoP8dOvvbN-77HtaFrPUOIREbaKDXheuBT4Gkpk85l9Q0f/s1311/Port%20C.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1002" data-original-width="1311" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpcQyDYToM1Yw_yQU_uvThqSgBiQGXqJg2ByLBVX_k3YwQsSxDUPaqRClPXgvmRrKiuwjw-4V4o-mvcu9ID_nTIvSizALH3GRPfP-ncAp7_Bcvpo78wCL5DdfQ3PNTQ4eGz4jhfllFokYoP8dOvvbN-77HtaFrPUOIREbaKDXheuBT4Gkpk85l9Q0f/w400-h306/Port%20C.jpg" width="400" /></a><b style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></b></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">I finished packing early Saturday morning and I was off on my drive to Port Canaveral at about 8:20 am. I did the direct route: Hwy 52 to I-75 north, then east on Hwy 50 to the FL Turnpike, then Hwy 528 to the Beachline Expressway to the port and Atlantic beaches. I arrived at </span><b style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Park-N-Cruise</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> cruise parking at about 10:30 am when they opened for departure parking. A nice line already waiting but they are efficient and I was soon on my way. Park-N-Cruise is my overall favorite of all the parking locations and ports in Florida. We were soon at Port Canaveral, busy with six mega ships in port today. A bit of a line to enter NCLs terminal 10 and security, but once inside it went quickly…I was on the ship at about noon. I dropped off my bag at the cabin and went up to the Garden Cafe on deck 16 for a Buffet lunch. I was busy, but a lot of Food Stations for guests, I’ll learn about them soon. Today I had Fresh Shrimp, French Fries, a Turkey cutlet, a Banger Sausage, and Sauerkraut. It was very good. For dessert a Peach Cobbler. I then returned to the cabin to unpack and set up. I have one of the unique Studio Cabins designed for Solo guests. Small with many built-in features. At about 3:30 I went down to the Theater for Muster Drill…yes NCL has just restarted the traditional meet-up before sailing away. You sit in the theater and listen to the safety spiel and they show you how to wear your life jacket. The main problem is that when it’s over you have 5000 guests trying to get back to cabins all at the same time. A mess indeed. We soon sailed away and I had a relaxing short time in my Studio. The WiFi works very well (so far) and I’m learning to use the new, to me, NCL App. At about 6:00 pm I went to the Atrium Bar for two Cosmopolitans. Guests were certainly taking advantage of the inclusive drink program, every bar I passed today has been packed. But guests do tend to party hard on the first day. I had 6:30 Reservations at </span><b style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Savor</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> the smaller of the two MDRs (Main Dining Rooms). It was busy, but I scored a nice two-top at a window. Dinner was very good, I ordered: Crab & Cream Cheese Wontons, A Baby Spinach Salad (excellent), the Beef Sirloin Medallions with Steak Fries & Broccoli entree, and a Fruit Plate for dessert. The table was very nice with Starched linens, Bread Basket, and good Service including Bar Service. I did a walkabout after dinner. The public areas and even the passageways are smaller which makes the flow seem crowded. A lot to explore but I retired early, I had a long granddaughter day on Friday and a lot of walking today. It was a very nice embarkation day on the Norwegian Escape.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><b> </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><b>Sunday / January 29th, 2023 / Day at Sea / Day 2</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNygsZgkhFH5sH-5_KIEe6TNqE8lwkTm81gkVB9oHIxufELTgZBeYoK0P_qnim6R7BaYMNZeH5dNX4AqO1MoxT__Bs7h48O5f74WSqB9Wb3Ii0EH0SiKpSwpuUobKke35zflLmFzCCZOYwZszLxwZujk3b9KTluRtkbL1EGOrJQ5m3zHlmK3w1EldR/s4032/atrium.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNygsZgkhFH5sH-5_KIEe6TNqE8lwkTm81gkVB9oHIxufELTgZBeYoK0P_qnim6R7BaYMNZeH5dNX4AqO1MoxT__Bs7h48O5f74WSqB9Wb3Ii0EH0SiKpSwpuUobKke35zflLmFzCCZOYwZszLxwZujk3b9KTluRtkbL1EGOrJQ5m3zHlmK3w1EldR/w300-h400/atrium.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div>Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well. Although the cabin is designed for solos only the bed is full-size with two very large pillows…nice. I woke early and watched the sunrise from the forward camera…it will be a partly cloudy, but beautiful day. I went for breakfast in the Savor MDR. I ordered: a Bloody Mary, Fruit Bowl, and Eggs Benedict with sides of Bacon & Hash Browns. It was good as was the company at a shared table. I did a walkabout on the way back to the cabin and I was amazed that the Bars were already packed with guests. Interesting. At about 11:15 am I did my ship tour starting at the upper decks and working down. The pool decks and sun decks were packed. Decent entertainment on the pool deck stage too. I found one secretive area, port outside on deck 8. It’s the outdoor dining area for several restaurants so unused in the daytime…one bar was open too. I enjoyed another Bloody Mary, then a Pina Colada before heading to the Garden Cafe for lunch at 1:15 pm…I had a Hamburger & French Fries. It was very good and my friends know how particular I am with burgers. I did happen to get a fresh off-the-grill meat paddy and you build your own so it was made with TLC. Sweet relish and no dill available but other items (onions, lettuce) were good. The Fries were hot and fresh as well. Very pleased. Cabin time for a nice nap this afternoon and to watch the NFC Championship football game on the cabin TV. This evening I went to the Atrium for Cocktails and to watch the Golden Octaves musical group, it was nice. I had another great dinner tonight again in the Savor MDR. Tonight I ordered: Scotch Beef Barley Soup, a Cobb Salad, and the Pepper Crusted Roast Beef entree with Polenta & Spinach. It was an enjoyable evening, but I retired to the cabin in time for the exciting final quarter of the AFC Championship football game. It will be Philadelphia Eagles vs. Kansas City Chiefs in the Super Bowl. It was a very nice first sea day on the Norwegian Escape.<br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><b style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Monday / January 30th / Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic / Day 3 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitkn9XVH65hNZ3W6his1rYWUJ1zfbQ-47VJ5qYXU9hG7M-3nRUZ3vmBhhUzfHMRlf4LaMgJJyhjHjkoJ6Pnwy1VNlIy939cCE7uQI5k7FXQyuz9w1b7draZpxIYftI_CYYy1R8w_ExOGCGhwQ9HwvBcpyZ7tNEkHiHXB3l3uW2Uo35Z9ErMBoPk1Ox/s960/fort-puertoPlata.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitkn9XVH65hNZ3W6his1rYWUJ1zfbQ-47VJ5qYXU9hG7M-3nRUZ3vmBhhUzfHMRlf4LaMgJJyhjHjkoJ6Pnwy1VNlIy939cCE7uQI5k7FXQyuz9w1b7draZpxIYftI_CYYy1R8w_ExOGCGhwQ9HwvBcpyZ7tNEkHiHXB3l3uW2Uo35Z9ErMBoPk1Ox/w300-h400/fort-puertoPlata.jpg" width="300" /></a></div></span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well. We were docked when I woke up this morning. We did turn back our clocks overnight and the MDR hours changed from 7:00 - 9:00 on port days, but I did manage to get to Saor before it closed. I did have a nice 4-top table with tablecloth (I’m poking fun at Carnival) and very good service. I had my Texas Country breakfast: three Eggs sunny side up, Bacon, Ham, Hash Brown Potatoes, Fruit Plate, Danish (2), Tomato juice, and Hot Milk. It was excellent. The only negative was a fat old man wearing a sleeveless shirt in the formal dining room…no one wants to see your hairy armpits in the morning (another Carnival slam). After checking on the usual Monday morning business on the internet I went ashore at about 10:30 am. The new <a href="https://www.porttainobay.com/es/home" target="_blank">Taíno Bay Cruise Port</a> facility is very nice. It is an attraction and destination in itself. I planned on walking the old town today so did the hardest first going to </span><b style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Fortaleza San Felipe</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> a 15th-century Spanish fort with a long and colorful history. It is now a museum located at the entry to the harbor and now a nice public park and observation area. Only a $2 admission. I then walked over to El Faro de Puerto Plata, the old lighthouse. Next, I stopped at the unique Puerto Welcome Sign located between the park, the shore, and the Old Town for a photograph. I then walked up to the main Plaza and enjoyed watching the tourist groups pass by and seeing some old friends from a previous visit. I was glad I touring was on my own today. A visit to </span><b style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">St. Philip the Apostle Cathedral </span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">to reflect as I like to do in these old cities. I made my way to Pink Street, an attraction for Tourists but unique so worth the visit. There I stopped at <b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pachuchepop/" target="_blank">Pachuche</a></b> a Boutique Wine Bar (owned by a Cigar Company) for a nice rest and enjoy two local Presidente beers. Good Wifi and a sea breeze as well. I began my return walk passing by Umbrella Street and many Cigar shops, some touristy, but other actual production facilities. It was an amazingly interesting day in the old town. Once onboard I went directly to the Garden Cafe before it closed, I had a great bowl of Pho from the Noodle Station, a small Hamburger, and several Diet Cokes. Finally time for a refreshing shower in the cabin, and I mean it is in your Studio Cabin, not a separate bathroom. I took time to update the blog and have a nap. I went to the Garden Cafe for a wee dinner, a mixed salad with a Chicken Breast I sliced for the salad and a Pork cutlet with Mashed Potatoes. Not busy when I went at about 7:30 pm. I didn’t want cocktails so I went to The District Brew House which is also the defacto Piano Bar. The good news is that the beer is great, but the bad is the Piano player…really bad. I had a new (to me) beer on draught: </span><a href="https://funkybuddhabrewery.com/explore-our-beers/" target="_blank"><i style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Funky Buddha Floridian</span></i></a><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">…it was great I had another. At the very last moment I got into the 9:30 show in the Theater and scored a seat in row 6 center…the Karma is good. This is the show every lady on the ship has been raving about, </span><b style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The Choir of Man</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">. It was a great show, I love this musical concept, even two acapella numbers. Many ladies sitting down low where I was sitting had to be regulars and one would think we were at Chippendales. They loved it. A very long and busy day for this old guy…it was a great port day and ship day on the Norwegian Escape.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><b> </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><b>Tuesday / January 31st / St. Thomas, USVI / Day 4 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLI_-256Vtjf8yCgnR_8axYXfplYcxT4zWyQHtm-KE0amVjC3CLBAfm0Pwz3Hcc6tDh2TPvfYZG1m422CUvJff-E5d-NzgTQZt3XE95sp1PGzAwpUIlWKG15nzv8ZBWCdCRBct0uPabzZHMlhjYGNuEjXTH305QzP20qA3OVHUpBFabVWAq71Exv1i/s3767/StThomas%20view.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1860" data-original-width="3767" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLI_-256Vtjf8yCgnR_8axYXfplYcxT4zWyQHtm-KE0amVjC3CLBAfm0Pwz3Hcc6tDh2TPvfYZG1m422CUvJff-E5d-NzgTQZt3XE95sp1PGzAwpUIlWKG15nzv8ZBWCdCRBct0uPabzZHMlhjYGNuEjXTH305QzP20qA3OVHUpBFabVWAq71Exv1i/w400-h198/StThomas%20view.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Calm seas overnight and I slept well. We have a late arrival so a good day for sleeping late and having a relaxing morning. I got some Banana Bread this morning from the Studio Lounge next door for an early snack. Then did some online work while watching us sail into St. Thomas on the forward camera. I went up to the Garden Cafe at noon as planned but debark was running late so it was packed with guests…I did get some great Bacon as breakfast was still out. They finally opened the gangway at about 12:20 and it cleared out and they brought out fresh food for guests. I had a Hamburger, as it was hot and my first one was so good earlier in the week. I had a prepaid ticket from NCL for the Gondola up to <b>Paradise Point</b> so that was my plan for the day. We were the last ship in so at the outer pier and a long walk to the Gondola Station but I had lots of time. I was at the top of Paradise Point at about 2:00 pm and I had a nice table in the shade with a nice view. I enjoyed two of their special Painkillers and enjoyed the view. The weather was very nice with a cool breeze so it was nice. I returned to the ship at about 4:00ish. I refreshed and had a nice nap. At about 7:00 I went to the <b>District Brew House</b> for two of the </span><i style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Funky Buddha Floridian</span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> beers. Nice. I had an 8:00 reservation at Savor and was given a nice table at the window with something to actually see with another cruise ship on our port side. Tonight I ordered the Minestrone Soup, Roasted Beet Salad (excellent), and two entrees: Whole Roasted Sirloin with Baked Potato and the BBQ Mixed Grill. I was curious about the BBQ and correct that not up to standards, but the Steak was very good. For dessert, I had the Bananas Foster. After dinner, I wanted to see <i>Howl at the Moon</i> in the Headliners Comedy club as I met one of the entertainers, but the room was really packed. From what I could see it looked like a lot of fun with dueling piano bar + drums set up. This show alternates each night with the Comedians in this venue. I retired to the cabin and watched my first movie of the cruise, a Star Wars feature. It was a good day in St. Thomas and on the Norwegian Escape.<b> </b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b> </b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Wednesday / February 1st / Tortola, BVI / Day 5</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Tas4xoSGnyX1wH9aM2HfUxHEvRTD_5TKW8s1tRGgMcmKZL0DpGuseSzulGNuHg20JUG8cm4BJ7TpBUoipcSWJaFjZ7aLdRnfl9WbaKEN5KCu0DnrPFSfamhGqg7r11pQ_ZImm-EJlXrr7xikocD7C4ba_8O5iWXQ9DT0pTtJZaC_d14UqToie5yK/s4032/Virgin%20Is.heic" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1857" data-original-width="4032" height="184" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Tas4xoSGnyX1wH9aM2HfUxHEvRTD_5TKW8s1tRGgMcmKZL0DpGuseSzulGNuHg20JUG8cm4BJ7TpBUoipcSWJaFjZ7aLdRnfl9WbaKEN5KCu0DnrPFSfamhGqg7r11pQ_ZImm-EJlXrr7xikocD7C4ba_8O5iWXQ9DT0pTtJZaC_d14UqToie5yK/w400-h184/Virgin%20Is.heic" width="400" /></a></div></span><span style="color: #0e101a;">Smooth seas overnight and we were docked well before I got out of bed this morning. I was just here two weeks ago so no rush to get off the ship. I did some online work before going up to Garden Cafe. Opposite of yesterday with many guests off the ship and few at the buffet. I had made to order 3-Eggs over easy, Bacon, White Toast, Hash Browns, Orange Juice, and Milk. It was very good. I discovered on the message board in the elevator that the back on board is at 12:30…well no need to go ashore. I got a good table outside on deck 8 with a great starboard side view. And the nearby bar opened at noon. I brought my laptop so I was content. After sailing away I enjoyed watching us sail through the Little Sisters chain of islands of BVI, very scenic and had a great cool ocean breeze. I upgraded my two Diet Cokes to two Frozen Mango cocktails…even nicer. I had cabin time in the afternoon and monitored the market for the Fed announcement. A good day in the market. I had not been to the <b>Sugarcane Mojito Bar</b> yet so went there at about 6:45 pm. I had two hours before dinner so I decided to try all six of the featured Mojitos on the menu. The bartenders were very cooperative and it became a fun event for me. I sampled them all plus an extra shooter the bartenders offered during the process. IMHO the Pineapple Coconut and Raspberry Guava mojitos were very good, and the Bacardi and Coco were good, but the Jalapeño Cucumber and Spicy Passion ones not so much. One can’t go wrong with the basic Mojito recipe either. I had a late reservation for dinner tonight in the Manhattan MDR. It’s the larger MDR with a band and even a dance floor. Not the best option for a solo diner, but I wanted to see the venue. The food and service were good, I ordered: the Smoked Mozzarella Ravioli, and two entrees: Pan-seared Pacific Hake Fillet and Bacon-wrapped Cajan-spiced Shrimp. Both entrees were large portions and filling but the small ravioli appetizer was the best. I did a small walkabout of the ship before retiring to the cabin. It was a relaxing day on the Norwegian Escape.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0e101a;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0e101a;"><b>Thursday / February 2nd / Day at Sea / Day 6</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQsL95lErBg8ihvKC85YfCvog8h062PZnr0R1xVeqhKZMYcnDGjEHuscZyXtQvQ0qcNEUzx5kVkyE92qMLWboMKmgtqkC-CTfUKPfe_zbW2ykCxw3c4uyWQ3bjC97M4s5xEorMhY786LXuFZh7HiTP3rT7Si72r3p4G0sOczyhjf42kNUd9o8dPA3u/s4032/Teppanyaki.HEIC" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQsL95lErBg8ihvKC85YfCvog8h062PZnr0R1xVeqhKZMYcnDGjEHuscZyXtQvQ0qcNEUzx5kVkyE92qMLWboMKmgtqkC-CTfUKPfe_zbW2ykCxw3c4uyWQ3bjC97M4s5xEorMhY786LXuFZh7HiTP3rT7Si72r3p4G0sOczyhjf42kNUd9o8dPA3u/w300-h400/Teppanyaki.HEIC" width="300" /></a></div></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept fair, but late. I had a Banana for breakfast and did online work until noon when I went up to the Garden Cafe. I had a small amount of sliced Pork from the Carving Station, Chicken Milanese, Red Potatoes, & Meat Balls with Tomato sauce. In lieu of dessert, I had a small Asian plate of Kung Pao Chicken and Noodles. All good. After lunch, I went to deck 8 outside and luckily scored a table to enjoy the weather and sea breeze while surfing the Internet. I stayed outside all day until the market closed and I had run out of power on the laptop. A server kept me in Diet Coke all day so very nice. At about 6:15 pm I went to the Sugarcane Mojito Bar for the two mojitos I thought best, I can confirm that the Pineapple-Coconut was my favorite. I had my big premium dining experience tonight, I choose the </span><span><b>Teppanyaki</b><i> </i></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">experience. Typical set up with nine guests around the </span><span><i>Teppanyaki</i></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> grill and a Chef who prepares your food and entertains. We had our two starters, Soup and Salad, while the Chef cooked the Fried Rice. I ordered a Steak & Scallop combination but ended up with three portions that included Shrimp. It was a huge meal and very good…best meal of the cruise and individually one of the best of my cruise history. I had two Lycée cocktails and the Assorted Fruit for dessert. Tonight was my actual reservation for the production show </span><b style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The Choir of Men</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-color: transparent; background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">. I attended as I really enjoyed it on Monday night. I was early tonight and caught the unique opening that included audience members coming on stage for a beer. Another great performance. I did skip the encore so that I could avoid the mass exodus of the previous Monday, it’s become harder for me to walk up flights of stairs at the end of a day. I did retire to the cabin and updated this blog. It was a great day with a great meal on the Norwegian Escape.</span><span style="color: #0e101a;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0e101a;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #0e101a;">Friday / February 3rd / Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas / Day 7 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0PnXzyrXP3GaZ0NgpmK9cTVG5UtecXTw6zx6hk9hEOaOx86givw8NMUiYnDUWIl1qYXPp4DliMiZtVXY7k9YDWRKWaNudx150UCl5H9FQiuDKeQdFY5-Vxyq8ly36uOuT2soeJ3rA5XbhdhUWuSOMVfXFPDFNlDle3HVV0CHQpLXsv6AP5KZks7io/s4032/escapefromtender.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0PnXzyrXP3GaZ0NgpmK9cTVG5UtecXTw6zx6hk9hEOaOx86givw8NMUiYnDUWIl1qYXPp4DliMiZtVXY7k9YDWRKWaNudx150UCl5H9FQiuDKeQdFY5-Vxyq8ly36uOuT2soeJ3rA5XbhdhUWuSOMVfXFPDFNlDle3HVV0CHQpLXsv6AP5KZks7io/w400-h300/escapefromtender.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div></span></b><span style="color: #0e101a;">Slight seas overnight and I slept very well. I was up early and watched us arrive at Great Stirrup Cay as I ate breakfast in Savor. My final breakfast so I wanted it to be a good one: Fruit plate, three fried Eggs sunnyside-up, Bacon, Ham, Hash Browns, Tomato Juice, Toast, and hot Milk. It looks like it will be a good day for tendering so Guests should be happy. I had business to do today but I took a break to ride the tender over to Great Stirrup Cay just to get some sea air and a photo (left) of the ship…that was successful. I got off the tender and walked over to the next one departing…that process took an hour though. Upon return, I had a Hamburger for lunch, then finished up my business. The short nap was good too. No events or even alcohol for me today I want to get an early clean start in the morning. I did sit out on deck 8 again at sail away. It’s getting cooler. Tonight I had my final dinner at Savor, my go-to place for sit-down dining, but first my aperitifs at Mixers. Tonight I ordered: the Scallops in sauce, Smoked Mozzarella Ravioli, Rolled Beef Sirloin, Veal Bratwurst, and Apple Cobbler with Ice Creme. A final walkabout before returning to the cabin to start packing. Unfortunately, I feel a bug coming on so retired early. It was an easy final day on board the Norwegian Escape. BTW— I have been pronouncing the name of the ship as Es-Cop-A…people smile (my goal) so they like it or they think I’m a bit touched. A bit of both is true. <br /></span></div><p><span style="color: #0e101a;"><b>Saturday / February 4th / Debarkation Day / Port Canaveral, FL</b><br />Rocky seas on our last night. I woke early to finish packing. At about 7:15 am I went down to deck 7 and joined the line for self debark. They started about the time I got down there. It was Facial recognition at Customs so it went well, I was soon on the Shuttle bus and left the lot at about 8:00 am…fairly smooth process. I stopped and saw family in Orlando before getting home before 3:00 pm.<br /><br /><b>Ship</b><br />The ship is huge, but the lack of a larger central atrium and narrow corridors in the public areas makes the ship crowed and difficult to navigate from one area to another. The passageways on passenger decks are even narrower making it difficult to pass guests let alone dodge cleaning carts. Only two sets of elevator banks, but ten elevators in each bank. Art and decor is only fair IMHO although some theme areas are cleverly done.<br /></span></p><p><span style="color: #0e101a;"><b>Cabins</b><br />New to me are the Studio cabins for solo guests. The Studio cabins have their own area and a lounge. I had cabin 11501 near the lounge and private entry so good location. The bed is full size, the storage along one wall that includes your TV, shelving, and a small sink A Shower unit in the corner. The toilet is in a separate space across from shower. The unique mood lighting system is interesting. Small but fine for a solo.<br /><br /><b>Crew</b><br />All are well trained and efficient. Most of the crew are from the Philippines and there seem to be a lot of crew for the passenger ratio. Friendly and nice.<br /><b><br />Dining / Food / Bars / Entertainment</b><br />Fantastic to have Tablecloths in the MDRs. I love it. The Bars are almost always packed with guests…makes since since almost all passengers have a drink package as a part of the NCL booking system. The bartenders are quick, drinks are good and the passengers were very courteous.<br /><br /><u><b>Highlights of the Cruise</b></u><br />The Choir of Men<br />Teppanyaki Dinner<br />Puerto Plata Day<br />Savor Main Dining Room<br />St. Thomas Day</span><br /></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0e101a;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0e101a;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0e101a;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0e101a;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0e101a;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0e101a;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><p></p>Snoozemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08287635714818403539noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-666314469198049300.post-76754037590113989762023-01-07T12:53:00.080-06:002024-02-22T17:55:59.746-06:00Celebrity Apex Cruise Review - B2B - January 7 & 14, 2023<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCOFLtbCAhRpHuAUgXOfr7vYDzsatJ5movB3_TvIeipRZbcO_pWA7iX_m70lTus9RUQcCh5WAaak-kqBZHUvHThQWkzP9dcPItemF6eTYSn9UfKegcu5JugUs8_IaLGdLQcyY-i0mQiKkrEaJNY4mY6yYzVtIV9pToxLfuvEPYj9-N0gNC4KDcH5Xf/s2220/Apex.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1040" data-original-width="2220" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCOFLtbCAhRpHuAUgXOfr7vYDzsatJ5movB3_TvIeipRZbcO_pWA7iX_m70lTus9RUQcCh5WAaak-kqBZHUvHThQWkzP9dcPItemF6eTYSn9UfKegcu5JugUs8_IaLGdLQcyY-i0mQiKkrEaJNY4mY6yYzVtIV9pToxLfuvEPYj9-N0gNC4KDcH5Xf/w640-h300/Apex.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Celebrity Apex Cruise Review - January 7&14, 2023</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Just the Facts:</span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><u>Ship</u>: </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Celebrity Apex</span></i></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> is the second vessel in the company's </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Edge</span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> class of ships @ 130,000 tons. Her debut sailing was from Athens on June 19, 2021, with a guest capacity of 2,900 passengers. <br /></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><u>Ports</u>: Ft. Lauderdale FL - Key West FL - Belize City, Belize - Cozumel, Mexico - Georgetown, Grand Cayman - San Juan, Puerto Rico - Tortola, BVI - Basseterre, St. Kitts Is.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Captain: Nikolaos Christodoulakis<br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">I’ve never sailed with Celebrity so the Apex will be my 1st and 2nd cruises on her and with the company. I’m cruising with my Dear Wife (DW) on a B2B (back2back). Although my first Celebrity cruises, these are my 194th and 195th cruises overall. We will sail for 14 consecutive nights on board the Celebrity Apex. </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Saturday / January 7th, 2022 Embarkation / Day 1 </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG06gx0qSykms8TN5hbO_DVm_UF09R_9oD0qYET1H92TU3gSH6zoqBENRtWFrURnkn_Gl4D4FQmjU_nqRKutmNX5ckUZjD_WawxbBXYcvAPzLacthCG4GK-FOuE0UUcN9fo49ZXBg8sdWqPou8N-6G6PCq8II8kFReo_DBoLivCqCoUwrnz3-8D8Yq/s4032/IMG_7322.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG06gx0qSykms8TN5hbO_DVm_UF09R_9oD0qYET1H92TU3gSH6zoqBENRtWFrURnkn_Gl4D4FQmjU_nqRKutmNX5ckUZjD_WawxbBXYcvAPzLacthCG4GK-FOuE0UUcN9fo49ZXBg8sdWqPou8N-6G6PCq8II8kFReo_DBoLivCqCoUwrnz3-8D8Yq/w400-h300/IMG_7322.jpeg" width="400" /></a></span></b></div>I finished packing early Saturday morning and we were off on our drive to Ft. Lauderdale at about 7:20 am. We did the I-75 route crossing the Sunshine Skyway Bridge and south to Alligator Alley crossing the Everglades to the Atlantic coast. We drove into Fort Lauderdale to Park-N-Go cruise parking arriving at about 11:20 am. The parking lot was very busy but it was very well organized. They had our VW unloaded and bags in the shuttle before we had a chance to walk the few feet over to it. We were last on and immediately on our way to the ship. We checked one bag and I rolled on my duffle as usual for us. The initial ID entry was easy, the security check and bag scanning was easy, the Check-in station was easy, and we were on the ship at 11:40 am. No waiting anywhere. Amazingly fast, <u>20 minutes from car to cabin.</u> I’m very impressed. We dropped our bags in the cabin and went up to deck 14 and the Oceanview Cafe (buffet). They have a large variety of Food Stations…I like the system. I had a Mongolian Grill with beef, chicken, and a selection of vegetables. I also had a small portion of Roast beef from the Carving Station, it was excellent, and reminded me of the traditional roast beef on embarkation day from years ago. I enjoyed some Pistachio creme-filled pastries from the Bakery area…BTW, real Butter and a variety of fresh bread. We then went to our Muster Station on Deck 4 before returning to the cabin. Back on deck 7, we saw DW’s luggage so took it to cabin 7119. We have a nice balcony located forward on the port side…just back and below the ship’s Bridge. It’s a small balcony, but designed to be a part of the cabin, completely covered and like a lanai for the cabin…I really like it. Not as much storage as one would like but the cabin is of adequate size and well-decorated. I hung my clothes and set up for the cruise with time for rest and even a wee nap. We decided to go casual this evening eating at the <b>Oceanview Cafe</b>; however, they do not have near as many choices as they did for lunch. Truthfully every male I saw was wearing shorts and I suspect like I didn’t want to dress for dinner on the first night. My Chicken dish and beef stew were good. The Chocolate Fondue is not something I recall seeing on any other cruise ship. We stopped at the outdoor pool bar and enjoyed the interesting lighting on the ship before retiring to the cabin. Narayan our Cabin Steward did a turn down for us including fresh ice and chocolates on the pillows. We had movie time and rest this evening. It was an easy embarkation day on the Celebrity Apex.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div><b>Sunday / January 8th / Key West, FL / Day 2 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0UkpI3UrnvNZBHnMNKyRvTzWwomUChnIhoorYxgrnWjHtMue8J2Tea1RUYptMu3XLBngY_8DEqqJlf001r_PTnXrpFT0QxAa2XkEZEsO_fAH3wSW3AxCDYdNA_IWVbe6AgiLfPo7yzklHuSP3UaIvMEoIDyW5plEwZC7iW6RPE3PxpShyy8jsriba/s275/Southernmost_Marker_2.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="275" data-original-width="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0UkpI3UrnvNZBHnMNKyRvTzWwomUChnIhoorYxgrnWjHtMue8J2Tea1RUYptMu3XLBngY_8DEqqJlf001r_PTnXrpFT0QxAa2XkEZEsO_fAH3wSW3AxCDYdNA_IWVbe6AgiLfPo7yzklHuSP3UaIvMEoIDyW5plEwZC7iW6RPE3PxpShyy8jsriba/s16000/Southernmost_Marker_2.jpg" /></a></div></b>Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well. The bed is huge, an oversize King with nice large pillows too. We were docked in Key West when I woke at 7:30 and it was a bright beautiful day. We had complimentary room service continental breakfast delivered at about 8:30. It was very good and we enjoyed it on our balcony. Good morning to catch up on online business since we have multiple WiFi options here in Key West. We left the cabin at about 10:45 am and headed off the ship. I’m very impressed with the Gangway Area, a very nice designated area with nice decor. We were docked right in town and we did the usual looking in the various shops and walked through the already-opened bars along Duval Street. We stopped for lunch at a place other hamburger aficionados recommend: <a href="https://fritascubanburgers.com/" target="_blank">Frita’s Cuban Burgers</a>. It’s a small place and you eat al fresco similar to street food. Very good menu but I wanted the Standard Burger and the Yucca Fries. Both were good, the fries were very unique to me. Well worth the visit. We decided to go by DW’s grandfather's old house at 1015 Packer Street just a few blocks away. Someone has purchased his series of Shotgun houses in the Historic District and improved them since we last visited them about 15 years ago. About 20+ years ago we began investigating her Grandfather's supposed Key West murder. He built the houses in 1938/39 and was murdered there in 1940. We had the assistance of a local historical researcher, copies of the plats from the courthouse, period news articles, and most importantly an interview with a neighbor who lived in one of the houses. Very interesting situation, we think we know the true story. We have decided to address this again now that we live in Florida. We enjoy the architecture of old Key West and visiting. We ended up at the original Kermit's Key Lime Shoppe and sat in the courtyard enjoying a nice Key Lime Pie before returning to the ship and sail away. At about 5:00 pm we went down to the Martini Bar located on decks 3 & 4 mid-ship. It’s a very nice very large bar with live music and an adequate number of servers. This was our first experience with the Celebrity Elite guest-level beverage benefit. It is wonderful that Celebrity recognizes our guest status from Royal Caribbean cruises. We have a nice menu of complementary cocktails, wine, and soda to enjoy. Cosmopolitans were on the list so that was our drink for this evening. The drinks are served in smaller glasses, but you can order as many as you wish from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Very nice. We ended up staying the entire time, the music was great, but primarily because we had an assigned dining time of 8:15 pm. I assumed that you would be seated according to the day and time you request; however, it is done by seating times. Also, it can be done for the entire week so experienced Celebrity guests reserved various times on embarkation day. This doesn’t allow for no-shows or activities on port days. We did go to the <b>Cyprus Restaurant</b> earlier than assigned and were seated straight away. Dinner was very good, I ordered the Greek Saganaki and Escargot appetizers, the NY Strip Steak entree, and the Panna Cotta for dessert. We retired to the cabin after dinner. It was a great day walking in Key West and a learning day on the Celebrity Apex.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Monday, January 9th / Sea Day / Day 3 <br /></b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQV8qmh-DjiCvxx_F2pQFgnLaN-QQIB7xXSFTo6QoS91pfbaKWjde99Y9Vx1VX6IU1QHGlGaJD9HiRupxycQxwIpKXrSYg1f3_KiH6WTw5vQUs9A2R0A9sUxipnjk5Se-VfNPTrwjoKv2guAPbG3A-jOodjjAUewCFJmbEfZYA5YO62etvTCNr8WaS/s4032/Oceanview%20Cafe%20entry.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQV8qmh-DjiCvxx_F2pQFgnLaN-QQIB7xXSFTo6QoS91pfbaKWjde99Y9Vx1VX6IU1QHGlGaJD9HiRupxycQxwIpKXrSYg1f3_KiH6WTw5vQUs9A2R0A9sUxipnjk5Se-VfNPTrwjoKv2guAPbG3A-jOodjjAUewCFJmbEfZYA5YO62etvTCNr8WaS/w400-h300/Oceanview%20Cafe%20entry.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>Smooth seas overnight and we slept very well. A telephone call from room service woke us at about. 8:30 am. We ordered the same breakfast but it was too bright on the balcony this morning so had breakfast in bed. Very nice. I had a busy morning updating this blog and usual Monday morning business. Another discovery this morning is that you can use your mobile phone as your cabin key…another first for me. We did some exploring on the ship today, the Eden area is very unique and we ended up eating a small sandwich there from the grille area. We visited the casino to get some MatchPlay certificates that are a part of our elite benefits. Not sure if we will use them, but perhaps, I’d have preferred FreePlay chips. We went to Oceanview buffet for lunch, I had a very nice Mongolian Wok plate with more variety than the previous one on day one, and also a freshly made Creme Brûlée for dessert. We had cabin/balcony/movie time in the afternoon. I also worked on our plans for our big Asia/Europe/Red Sea adventure in April. It will be our biggest adventure to date. At about 5:15 we went to the Pool Bar to stock up on some Cokes for tonight's big game and I had time for two complementary Heineken beers. We had dinner from the Oceanview and dined outside on the aft deck watching our wake and the beautiful sunset. This has been one of my favorite contrarian things to do on a formal night…same here very few people dining on the outer deck. There was a much better selection of food tonight than on day one, I had Fish & Chips to go with my beer, but they had a lot of options. The Fish&Chip were very good and they had sliced lemons, tarter sauce, & malt vinegar available…very well done. We took some snacks back to the cabin for game night and of course, I mean the NCAA Football National Championship game. My team, the Oklahoma Sooners didn’t make it, but the DW’s team did make the finals, the TCU Horned Frogs. I’m sure I was the only guest wearing a purple TCU hat today. Georgia was heavily favored and won by even more than expected. I thank Celebrity for carrying ESPN and other popular television stations. It was a very nice sea day on the Celebrity Apex.</div><div><br /></div><div><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Tuesday, January 10th / Belize City, Belize / Day 4 </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgiHtr19PmeEmOUEyPTP73xirz3GlRx7UE0dUezaXrf2mEknE9nksaX24fHbQE4DuK9ju6xGh80Z2gBTLKGqbO2Mlsxfj_UpfHOVvW6Tdi7pK8GHcAqOUueOb3V5zB0ux_l5Vpv36rwM1e--TO4a7kII_JD8PVvhxGwCkrvaxjg0wgnjT-IRK-uuy2/s4032/roof%20garden.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgiHtr19PmeEmOUEyPTP73xirz3GlRx7UE0dUezaXrf2mEknE9nksaX24fHbQE4DuK9ju6xGh80Z2gBTLKGqbO2Mlsxfj_UpfHOVvW6Tdi7pK8GHcAqOUueOb3V5zB0ux_l5Vpv36rwM1e--TO4a7kII_JD8PVvhxGwCkrvaxjg0wgnjT-IRK-uuy2/s320/roof%20garden.jpeg" width="320" /></a></b></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Calm seas overnight and I slept very well. It was an overcast morning so good for sleeping late, especially since we are not tendering into Belize City today. We did a nice walkabout and discovered the <b>Roof Top Garden</b> area (photo) on deck 15 aft. We enjoyed the live plants and got ideas for our new backyard garden at the Florida Villa…also has a nice view of the Caribbean. A great place to relax. We had a nice lunch in the Oceanview Cafe, I had some Roast Beef and a Chicken Breast from the Carving Station with Mashed Potatoes and Vegetables. Also, a made-to-order Pasta… you choose the pasta, sauces, and spices to add. I did Spaghetti, Marinara, Peppers & Onion. The bread has been wonderful on this ship. The Rice Pudding for dessert was wonderful. We had afternoon cabin time. At 5:00 we returned to deck 15 to the aft-facing bar next to the garden area for a Cocktail hour. A nice place for relaxing drinks and a view of the wake, it was interesting to watch us sail away in a unique zig-zag to avoid the coral reefs. We had dinner reservations at Cosmopolitan this evening. This is our second of the four Main Dining Rooms. The DW had a Caprese Salad and a unique Vegetarian entree, I ordered the Escargot, Butternut Squash Soup, and Manhattan Steak. All was excellent. The flavored kinds of butter with the bread are fantastic. We both had Carrot Cake for dessert…it was the best I have ever had. We were going to see the lighting in the Garden area (we will) but ended up retiring following our cocktails and fine meal. I fell asleep early, but was up in the night using faster WiFi and finally got return Air flights booked for our April Adventure. It was a very enjoyable stay-on-board day on the Celebrity Apex.</span></div><div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span> <br /></div><div><b>Wednesday January 11th / Isla de Cozumel, Mexico / Day 5 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-DWRAP4UZDdMUlh5QNZXAHucgoTEliZ-tuFwIhEU5PxMVVLSo6cyZRJe82lobMs4MLv_IRCrj6uG8AzzThWBuVsHCvNyHk1yN1yIVGIZTzn6-GRwnxsqJ2f5kiAYc5hOd9-exqpbrqp0lLuNz0KI24qtM7zQubbys8NmH0JHgejXQbuEotMeSh4ke/s4032/Sunset-1.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-DWRAP4UZDdMUlh5QNZXAHucgoTEliZ-tuFwIhEU5PxMVVLSo6cyZRJe82lobMs4MLv_IRCrj6uG8AzzThWBuVsHCvNyHk1yN1yIVGIZTzn6-GRwnxsqJ2f5kiAYc5hOd9-exqpbrqp0lLuNz0KI24qtM7zQubbys8NmH0JHgejXQbuEotMeSh4ke/w400-h300/Sunset-1.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div></b>Smooth seas overnight and we were docked before I got out of bed this morning. We’re docked at the International Pier (RCL’s) and it’s a beautiful day. We went to the Ocean View for a light breakfast…nice selections including Hot Milk one of my favorites at breakfast. We debarked at about 10:00 and took a taxi into San Miguel. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/WoodysCozumel/" target="_blank">Woody’s Bar & Grill</a> was already open so we claimed table 7 for the day. It was good seeing my favorite senior waiter David. We were also able to spend time with our good friend and owner Nelly, always great catching up with her. We enjoyed the good Mexican Coca-cola, then enjoyed some Guacamole, Pico de Gallo, and chips. In the afternoon I enjoyed several Bohemia Cerveza. Over the day, DW did some shopping, I had a haircut and bought a new Panama hat, we purchased some glass tumblers for use at the Florida Villa, and visited the old San Miguel church. It was nice to be in the old neighborhood. We had an early sail away so back on the ship by 3:30 pm. At about 5:00 we went to Eden for cocktails but decided to go to the Rooftop Garden to watch the beautiful sunset and enjoy a few beers (photo). Tonight we had dinner in the Oceanview Cafe, I had some pork shoulder from the Carving Station with potatoes, but the real treat was the Chicken Chow Mein, it was delicious. Best I have ever had. The evening buffet may not have as many choices as at lunch, but the quality of the food is amazing. After dinner, we attended our first production show: The Tree of Life. It was an amazing show encompassing Singers, Dancers, and Acrobats with great stage sets and LED back screens. It even snowed during the winter scene. We retired after the busy evening. It was a great port day in Cozumel and an evening on the Celebrity Apex.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Thursday, January 12th / Georgetown, Grand Cayman / Day 6 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFs5lKPjPw5cm9wIYIvcEybWfFMoCnogE05Ha91N5uiEWmXci7Iao9SUe1Pc_sGA4jgDNRj3WedXabEkcBAIRS_6necM7cv6Ur9WIKD1rMFXgBwv9L0feA47XhCQiBWrMhp1IyR-OjG2o5WYmhT10UsSMmCEpAzU1zzv_Pq8RF2Pjg8SNZu2RkuOQv/s2737/LifeBuoy.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2713" data-original-width="2737" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFs5lKPjPw5cm9wIYIvcEybWfFMoCnogE05Ha91N5uiEWmXci7Iao9SUe1Pc_sGA4jgDNRj3WedXabEkcBAIRS_6necM7cv6Ur9WIKD1rMFXgBwv9L0feA47XhCQiBWrMhp1IyR-OjG2o5WYmhT10UsSMmCEpAzU1zzv_Pq8RF2Pjg8SNZu2RkuOQv/w200-h198/LifeBuoy.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div></b>Smooth seas overnight and I slept well and late. We didn’t arrive and anchor off of Georgetown until about 10:00 am. We spent the morning at the main pool while most guests were off the ship. The water and pool are very nice. We went for lunch at Oceanview Cafe and it was Italian Day. Every popular Italian dish you can imagine was available. I had a sampler plate, a little Chicken Parmesan, Veal Parmesan, Assorted fried fish, Pastas, Spinach Manicotti, Eggplant Parmesan, Italian Bean Soup, and various Cannoli for dessert. The Spinach Manicotti was the best item. After lunch we did a walkabout then relaxed having Cabin and Balcony time…the water is a very pretty blue here. Later we went to Eden for cocktails, then to Normandie, the French Themed restaurant and 3rd of the 4 Main restaurants on the Apex. We had a wonderful meal, we split a Baked Brie Cheese (excellent), then I ordered the Escargot, Beef Tenderloin En Croute, and the Broiled Lobster Tail with Baked Alaska for dessert. All very good. Next, we saw the show 3-Divias in the Theater. It was three excellent vocalists doing covers of great female vocalists from the 60s - 90s. They do two different shows per cruise so we will enjoy their other show next week. After a short walkabout the ship we retired to watch a movie. It was a very good foodie day on the Celebrity Apex.<br /></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Friday, January 13th / Fun Day at Sea / Day 7 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg5L3hqVjdxBvWM_AnuFFOy22B94KrmUAGbyOdybMiEp5ar4ng0NuRJEmrS4ZVnOc8JGt_rc06WHrTCLTqqlaL3gTqTg7wH__aKkLSBqoNy8rBLqS9f38t_hyVFR-sv_VIKwpbW436nMLorTyPf2IJupGeGqVZgnmOr1sPG59UySLibjYhaL0dxsPq/s4032/IMG_7396.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg5L3hqVjdxBvWM_AnuFFOy22B94KrmUAGbyOdybMiEp5ar4ng0NuRJEmrS4ZVnOc8JGt_rc06WHrTCLTqqlaL3gTqTg7wH__aKkLSBqoNy8rBLqS9f38t_hyVFR-sv_VIKwpbW436nMLorTyPf2IJupGeGqVZgnmOr1sPG59UySLibjYhaL0dxsPq/w400-h300/IMG_7396.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div></b>Slight seas overnight and I slept very well. At about 9:00 am I went to <b>Le Grand Bistro</b> on deck 4 as they serve a light breakfast for Elite Guests. It takes a cruise to discover the various locations and benefits for Elites and the breakfast and dining options…then you can determine the best routine for you. We like the Room Service but this special breakfast option from 8-10:00 am is wonderful. You have 6 options including Salmon & Bagel, Pastry Basket, Light deli Meat, or Cheeses. I had a Fruit Plate, Danish, and Hot Milk. The hot milk was a nice surprise. At least we discovered it on the last day of this cruise. The DW went to the pool early as it’s a busy sea day and ended up doing her workout and the Pool exercises directed by Cruise Staff. We then went up to the Roof Top Garden to watch the new Tom Cruise Top Gun movie on the Big Screen. It was good and the weather was nice. We then went to the Oceanview Cafe for our big meal of the day as we are reserving the evening for entertainment. It was International Day for the Buffet and good selections. I had a custom Sandwich, Turkey & Roast Beef from the Carving Station, Broccoli, Mashed Potatoes, Cole Slaw, and Apple Crum for dessert. DW had a very unique dessert on a fresh crape with personally selected ingredients. It looked great too with the Carmel drizzle (most I had seen were Chocolate). It began raining while we were eating so the area was packed by 2:00 pm as guests left the outer pool deck. Some cabin time and enjoyed sitting on the balcony and watching the storm clouds and the island of Cuba on our port side. We went to the Sunset Bar on 15 aft for a beer & coke, then went to The Grill for French Fries and a Hot Dog as we aren’t doing a formal dinner tonight. We went early to the Theater for good seats for <b>Rockumentary</b> (photo) an excellent production show. The stage changes from venue to venue representing old concerts from the past, from Beatles at Shea Stadium to Woodstock to many others…very well done. The singers and dancers were great, the presentation was even better. After retiring to the cabin we watched a movie from the Movie List selections…we chose <i>Bullet Train</i> starring Brad Pitt…it was great. It was a very good final sea day for the last day of this cruise on the Celebrity Apex.</div><div> </div><div></div><div><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Saturday, January 14th / Embarkation Day / Day 8 of B2B </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvxTYizX0_8ffPjkj4pI1r2DMoLIOL4jenqNZeegGrSlcCyCHqK8OONyheeSc2J1R7RzRgcXmg2uMPKMjhmHFS3OQ5HS1lhZ_pWveunHPMsKPIbo6t1EO9yRlKqPzSWaWkm7U405R2HrhrG7nIZ49iBAB4ViFpdT7GqCBwtOfK_RCnCT4t21_byAyk/s3024/balcony.heic" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2734" data-original-width="3024" height="361" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvxTYizX0_8ffPjkj4pI1r2DMoLIOL4jenqNZeegGrSlcCyCHqK8OONyheeSc2J1R7RzRgcXmg2uMPKMjhmHFS3OQ5HS1lhZ_pWveunHPMsKPIbo6t1EO9yRlKqPzSWaWkm7U405R2HrhrG7nIZ49iBAB4ViFpdT7GqCBwtOfK_RCnCT4t21_byAyk/w400-h361/balcony.heic" width="400" /></a></b></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth Seas overnight and I slept well. We woke early to finish packing and prepare for a cabin change before we have our B2B meeting this morning. I went up to the Ocean View and the weather is very cold and breezy. I returned through the interior passageway. For breakfast, I had three fresh Eggs cooked to order, Bacon, Hash Browns, assorted Fruit, and Milk. It was good. We actually heard the first in-cabin announcements this morning…announcing that it was time to leave the cabins. We really enjoyed not having all those announcements that other cruise lines do too often. We left our bags at the old cabin and went to our 9:00 am meet-up in the Eden Lounge area. At about 9:30 the 200 of us B2B guests were escorted down to a Customs waiting area where we received our new S&S cabin cards, then through Virtual Imaging border control, and then back onto the ship. It was a very easy process. We went to our new cabin and had no bags so we went to the previous cabin to retrieve them. The cabins were very close. Our new cabin has a full en suite balcony and it really is a lanai. The outer wall, towards the sea, is all glass and you can open the upper portion as you please just like a power window. You also have a power screen that you can use to block the sun if needed. It covers the entire window. You also have folding partition doors that separate the balcony/lanai from the cabin, they fold flat against the outer walls so as not to block the view. Amazing design. I’m glad we decided to change cabins on this cruise. We went to Ocean View Cafe for lunch, I have a Stir-fry (Mongolian grill) just as I did a week ago, it was even better as were the Pistachio Cremes. We did our muster drill then returned to the cabin to take advantage of fast WiFi for business then take an actual nap (remember no announcements to disturb you). We had a lazy afternoon but did more work on April’s big adventure. I had a nice solo dinner at the Oceanview Cafe: Beef & Onion entree, Mashed Potatoes, and Mixed Vegetables. I took a large plate of Bread Sticks and butter as a snack for the DW and Movie Night. It was a busy day for us as on the Celebrity Apex.</span></div><div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Sunday, January 15th / Fun Day at Sea / Day 9 of B2B </b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_pxmWkHX6dKQD3SZOJeqHXkyI9lKz0q-PuLerEViVqATAm1_yjaWbw83sgMXtLmoKsUHQx_1pYyXjwR7Eg1v2xRTPoLnz3_PvnD-o3lDhEv8FUD6EK_YQCosCPxvBHfBvLbLPlSUEyS9wsPlu-uhsmTRaKikxxrI_WhKm7sqkaLgwWqNmJedIocvz/s4032/solarium.HEIC" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_pxmWkHX6dKQD3SZOJeqHXkyI9lKz0q-PuLerEViVqATAm1_yjaWbw83sgMXtLmoKsUHQx_1pYyXjwR7Eg1v2xRTPoLnz3_PvnD-o3lDhEv8FUD6EK_YQCosCPxvBHfBvLbLPlSUEyS9wsPlu-uhsmTRaKikxxrI_WhKm7sqkaLgwWqNmJedIocvz/w200-h150/solarium.HEIC" width="200" /></a></b></span></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Rolling seas overnight and I slept well. We met new friends for breakfast at <b>Le Grand Bistro</b> at 9:00 am. Something that I learned during this visit is that some specialty drinks are also included for Elite guests. DW had a Bellini and I had a Bloody Mary. We had the Ultimate Platter and a Fruit Platter. It was very good food as well as the company and service. Very nice venue too. Afterward, we joined a team for General Trivia in the Main Lounge, we did fairly well. We had cabin time then went for a late lunch at about 2:00 pm in the Oceanview Cafe. It was Caribbean Day with Peas & Rice, Jerk Chicken, Jerk Pork, Plantains, etc., but didn’t appeal to me…I had another Stir-Fry and a selection of desserts including Bread Pudding. We then watched a movie until our 5:00 pm Cocktail hour, we did the contrarian thing tonight and DW went swimming in the Solarium pool and I went to the pool bar. A few Heinekens were nice and we got some Coca-cola for later. DW was the only guest in the pool. We stayed an hour+ then returned to the cabin. We are enjoying our balcony cabin, it is very unique, the TV screen is large, and it’s well-decorated and cozy. We watched movies and researched our port stops beginning tomorrow. It was a very restful sea day onboard the Celebrity Apex.<br /></span><p></p></div><div></div><div></div><div><b>Monday, January 16th / San Juan, PR / Day 10 of B2B <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiF9f3Hi_7XX0wMsa8NO9SPAWbqq7IYerphxaj0mHEFb41s6nCob3uLH082Ta-v06v6A_sn95BP2FU-27Spf3K0l4OrQgpqEjKHYA87AZv5e3WJ-xgDVeoNu9xH1fiscnoMle4PqCwNSaxp2NtGLdxPD59-BxJYQ-QRcsSuhK6HZOE99GZtNI7wnjG/s2683/OSJ%20Fountain.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2646" data-original-width="2683" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiF9f3Hi_7XX0wMsa8NO9SPAWbqq7IYerphxaj0mHEFb41s6nCob3uLH082Ta-v06v6A_sn95BP2FU-27Spf3K0l4OrQgpqEjKHYA87AZv5e3WJ-xgDVeoNu9xH1fiscnoMle4PqCwNSaxp2NtGLdxPD59-BxJYQ-QRcsSuhK6HZOE99GZtNI7wnjG/w200-h198/OSJ%20Fountain.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div></b>Slight rolling of seas just enough to rock one to sleep. I forgot to change our clocks with the time change and was late for our friend's meet-up at breakfast at Le Grand Bistro. I had a Bellini, a Fruit Plate, a Danish, and Hot Milk. We had the trivia team already together to go to the Grand Plaza for two games of Trivia. It was fun and the new friends are all charming. We have a late arrival at OSJ today so we enjoyed cabin time until lunch. I went to Oceanview Cafe as usual and enjoy two selections from the Carving Station: Turkey & Pork Shoulder. Also Mashed Potatoes and Mixed Vegetables with Apple Crumble and Boston Creme Pie for dessert. More cabin time until we approached the entry to San Juan harbor where we experience some high-rolling waves. We tilted twice guessing 12°+ it was exciting. After we were docked we headed ashore with friends at about 4:00ish for a walkabout OSJ. We walked the harbor then the Boulevard to the Fountain, then the sea walk below the walls to the old original Gate. From there we stopped at El Convento for a beer and soft drinks. The Cathedral closes daily at 4:00 pm so we went to <b>La Taberna Lúpulo</b> where the guys stayed for beers and the girls went shopping. We later met the girls in the park and went to the famous restaurant <b>Barrachina</b> for food and drinks. Then walked back to the ship arriving just before our 9:30 back on-board time. It was really nice walking about with the beautiful city lights and perfect weather. We retired and nursed our ailments from walking the cobblestoned streets and watched the Dallas/Tampa Bay NFL playoff game from bed. It was a great day in San Juan.</div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Tuesday, January 17th / Tortola, BWI / Day 11 of B2B </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9xHjz2eeNjxTSb2EsmRFjbOPJemmxsSzTTwYykx390NdSsi4qZypRC_Ne0XH3pkvEV5VA04VhEWKTR-Nk_yl16f0AWeQpI4CUt_QhKPqZ8DKHS-XJYi7qYF-xH40P3GSY4qkFE6aTRj7XwodJWf1X2gdUTZpy6279Cx4orKRXWKu4ZA8FH1bBc2VJ/s4032/Tortola%20view.HEIC" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9xHjz2eeNjxTSb2EsmRFjbOPJemmxsSzTTwYykx390NdSsi4qZypRC_Ne0XH3pkvEV5VA04VhEWKTR-Nk_yl16f0AWeQpI4CUt_QhKPqZ8DKHS-XJYi7qYF-xH40P3GSY4qkFE6aTRj7XwodJWf1X2gdUTZpy6279Cx4orKRXWKu4ZA8FH1bBc2VJ/w400-h300/Tortola%20view.HEIC" width="400" /></a></b></div>Rolling seas as we left San Juan and overnight…perfect for sleeping. We were already docked at the Tortola Cruise Ship Pier when I woke. At about 9:00 am I went to the Ocean View Cafe for perhaps my best breakfast of the cruise. I had three Eggs made to order, fresh hot Toast, Bacon (lots), Hash Browns, Ham, and Hot Milk. After breakfast, we debarked the ship and walked into the pier area. As the only ship here and having been docked two hours it was not busy at all. We booked a two-hour island tour ($25 pp) in an open-air Jitney. We traveled over the mountains to the other side of the island stopping at several view locations. We got out at three: Stoutt's Lookout Bar, the Callwood Rum Distillery in a 400+-year-old building, and Myett's Restaurant in Cane Garden Bay to walk out on their nice beach. We shared a Painkiller cocktail and took in the sight of Jost Van Dyke Island just across the water. The views were beautiful as was the water. Upon arrival, back at the pier, we stopped at Myett’s by the Pier for two more Painkillers, Bottled water, and some French Fries. We also did some shopping scoring some white cotton items for our desert trip in April. After some rest, I went to the Elite-only event Music and Mixology. They had a flair bartender and a feature musical group serving three mini cocktails: a Manhattan, a Spicy Pimms, and a Mai Tai. It was a very nice half-hour event. We went to the Oceanview Cafe for dinner and joined friends. My food was good, I had Pork Leg from the Carving Station with Vegetables and a creamy Pasta casserole. A Trifle for dessert. We had a great conversation with our new friends before heading back to the cabin for a movie and bed. It was a fun day on Tortola and the Celebrity Apex.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Wednesday, January 18th / Saint Kitts, Leeward Islands / Day 12 of B2B </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibeBwq-0zJZ669JWwxEEEENVsx7AGvOwxsnR8Byz0RkyIplRSuO73-oDujymYkY3eZndctLzSR0GjOy4SNpXIeVRb8juwQ1vQ6Dnw87oGmXcZ1_7XKb3XOQ9LHcJR80NwUkOVAwJYbTx0Y-obkZQCzhpcmIE4EFHBq8gwN6SlT_sctPYt69wNZw1fH/s3938/Dancers%20Basseterre.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2725" data-original-width="3938" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibeBwq-0zJZ669JWwxEEEENVsx7AGvOwxsnR8Byz0RkyIplRSuO73-oDujymYkY3eZndctLzSR0GjOy4SNpXIeVRb8juwQ1vQ6Dnw87oGmXcZ1_7XKb3XOQ9LHcJR80NwUkOVAwJYbTx0Y-obkZQCzhpcmIE4EFHBq8gwN6SlT_sctPYt69wNZw1fH/w400-h276/Dancers%20Basseterre.jpeg" width="400" /></a></b></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well. Guests were debarking by 8:30 am. At about 10:00 am the DW went to the Solarium to do pool exercise and I went to the Oceanview Cafe for another good breakfast. I went to the Poached Egg station where they prepared a great and freshly made Eggs Benedict for me. It was great as were the Bacon, Hash Brown Potatoes, and Hot Milk. I soon joined DW in the Solarium and I really enjoyed the Hot Tub, especially getting a water jet on my foot. Did wonders for the tendonitis, If back I’m going to consider one of those jetted walk-in tubs. We had cabin time the rest of the morning. At 1:00 pm we had a light lunch, I had a nice Turkey Sandwich. We soon afterward debarked the ship and walked down the long docking pier to the large pier arrival area. We looked at a few shops and watched a group of costumed dancers when the DW saw a Payless Shoes store on the approach to town, She ended up with two pairs of shoes as it is hard to find shoes for her pixie feet. We then walked into old Basseterre then back to the pier and back on the ship. We then attended a special event in <b>Eden</b> for Elite guests where they had the solo entertainer Georgia perform as well as one of the Acrobats. Up close and personal show for us on front lounge seats. The complementary cocktails were nice too. We had an early reservation at <b>Normandie Restaurant.</b> I do like the ambiance of the MDRs and table linens and service. Tonight I ordered Baked Brie, Escargot, and Beef Tenderloin. All great. DW said her Polenta was really good. We had Queen cake and Ice Creme for dessert, only so-so, but overall a great meal. We had TV and movie time, Edward Scissorhands, in the cabin tonight. It was another great day on the Celebrity Apex.</span><p></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Thursday, January 19th / at Sea / Day 13 of B2B </b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQUHom5tLYsdAiaWuG4YRdiBWpeDuG3-YwnADZvJE8cLoexUbZmnPunIpl7aa-sykWCHiWO-9r53LD12jYvhRchxmI2o3H073qRAPA_ByrYMgaHY3bMkBFgdamfr-KPc5k8YseFcayMkuyEREZCX-nObnvewTsAJMli1fEBxsFFGVyjrZdagG-vOPt/s4032/IMG_7339.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQUHom5tLYsdAiaWuG4YRdiBWpeDuG3-YwnADZvJE8cLoexUbZmnPunIpl7aa-sykWCHiWO-9r53LD12jYvhRchxmI2o3H073qRAPA_ByrYMgaHY3bMkBFgdamfr-KPc5k8YseFcayMkuyEREZCX-nObnvewTsAJMli1fEBxsFFGVyjrZdagG-vOPt/s320/IMG_7339.jpeg" width="320" /></a></b></div>Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. We went to the elite breakfast @ Le Grand Bistro at 9:00 am. and met friends. I had the Ultimate Platter and DW had a Fruit Platter plus Danish, Bloody Mary, and Hot Milk. It was good. afterward, we went to the Club for 10;15 am Trivia with the full team. It was fun as usual. We then did a walkabout and had cabin time. At about 1:00 I had my first Hamburger from the Grill on the Pool deck. It was good. The Trivia team met for Trivia again at 1:45 pm for Time Play Live: Interactive Trivia. You do it online watching the question on screens in the room and answering questions on your phone, Very interesting and good fun. It was movie time in the Afternoon then we went to Eden for Cocktails. The Eden space is very unique and a great place to enjoy complimentary Elite drinks. Tonight we had dinner in the <b>Cyprus Restaurant</b>. I ordered the Taverna Salad (Greek), Hot Melted Cheese Saganaki, the Lemon Dill Chicken Souvlaki entree, and a Lobster Tail with Baked Alaska for dessert. It was all very good. We watched another movie before retiring. I have really enjoyed the Infinite Balcony…it’s a fantastic concept. Our cabin steward has also done a great job as well as keeping us stocked with ice. We like to drink Coca-Cola and snack on Cookies that we pick up on our walkabouts. This is a great ship and it was a fun and interesting day on the Celebrity Apex.<br /><p></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Friday, January 20th / Fun Day at Sea / Day 14 of B2B </b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXOGq68OkUhzWhnS24O1UM9RR6lliqHLsYAkXkxmqqGbcCbLd4S72-flzHZPsYGmh-de5tv7mpoiE9twBiT-hDNNTsQ7steoa_OYtGzAjN1zG2wWmwCBRZpRoczZgBZ5wIa5jXS0Sv41cZV9JO_H6GyHy45uOyIcVJaxEyXptooZ6lPvV_JBGmIvG1/s2894/IMG_7375.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2894" data-original-width="2111" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXOGq68OkUhzWhnS24O1UM9RR6lliqHLsYAkXkxmqqGbcCbLd4S72-flzHZPsYGmh-de5tv7mpoiE9twBiT-hDNNTsQ7steoa_OYtGzAjN1zG2wWmwCBRZpRoczZgBZ5wIa5jXS0Sv41cZV9JO_H6GyHy45uOyIcVJaxEyXptooZ6lPvV_JBGmIvG1/w146-h200/IMG_7375.jpeg" width="146" /></a></b></div>Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. We set our clocks back to Eastern Time Zone overnight. I went up to the Ocean View Cafe primarily to get some ham from the Carving Station, I did as well as some bacon and one Eggs Benedict. I had a meat craving. The two of us still went to Le Grand Bistro at 9:00 am. to meet friends. We both ordered the Fruit Plate and had a Danish. I also had a Bloody Mary and Hot Milk. Afterward, DW went swimming and I went to Trivia. We’re getting better, with 15 of 20 correct questions today. We watched another movie in the cabin and then went to the Oceanview Cafe for lunch. I got two nice slices of Turkey from the Carving Station and took them to the Sandwich Station where I had a great turkey Sandwich made for me. It was excellent. We spent some time visiting in the Solarium and watched another movie this afternoon. We went to Eden for cocktails at about 4:45 pm, our new friends came by to say farewell this evening. We had a mini-show as entertainers came by for a sound check while we were there, they were great, we won’t make their 10:15 pm show though. We had dinner at 5:45 in <b>Tuscany Restaurant</b>, the fourth and final restaurant of the main restaurants on board. Unfortunately, the least liked of the four for me as the special items were not really to my liking. I ordered the Asiago Cheese Flan, the Escargot, the Strozzapreti Carbonara entree, and the Dulce de Leech Cream Catalana for dessert. It was good, but I was hoping for more Italian choices. We did a final walkabout then retired to the cabin to pack for tomorrow's debarkation. It was a very relaxing final day on the Celebrity Apex.<p></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Saturday, January 21st / Debarkation / Ft. Lauderdale</span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I was up very early. I finished packing and we were ready to roll by 7:00 am. We watched from the balcony for the first off the ship and at about 7:20 we saw guests on the gangway. We left the cabin, scored an elevator, and were on deck 5 and heading off the ship straight away. Face recognition got us through Border Control and we were out the door. We found our shuttle bus that was already there (woo hoo) and were second on board. It soon filled and we were off to the lot. There it was luck of the draw as to finding your car. The driver does take off and loads your bags, a nice service, but slow if you are the last car. Still, we were in our car at about 8:10 am. We were off headed north on I-95 taking the cut across Florida route. Less mileage but more cities to slow one down. We stopped at S&L Burgers in Lakeland for lunch then made it home at about 2:25 pm. It was a really easy debarkation from the Apex and Port Canaveral.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Ship</span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">I love the Edge class of ship primarily for the Infinite Balconies. The ship still seems new due to constant cleaning and maintenance. Beautiful artwork and statues. My favorite areas are Eden and Rooftop Garden.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Cabins</span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Week One: we had cabin 7119 a balcony forward on deck 7. It has a unique balcony they classify as partially obscured, but reinforced as it was very far forward with two chairs and a table outside. The usual push button safe, king bed, couch, reading lamps at the bedside, a nice small refrigerator, chair at dresser/desk, and large screen TV. There are two small wardrobes and one set of drawers at the dresser. The bathroom is nice with glass doors at the shower. Week Two: we had cabin 7140 a full infinite balcony located just off the forward elevators. I like this concept with the balcony as a part of the cabin.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Crew</span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">All are well trained and efficient. Our cabin stewards Narayan & Jarot were very good and friendly. The wait staff in the MDRs and Bars were also friendly and did a good job serving us. All crew greeted you as you passed them…very nice.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Dining / Food / Bars / Entertainment</span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The Apex overall has very good food and was all new to us. Excellent quality and preparation of all. We never ate in a Specialty Restaurant but there were many to choose from. Fantastic to have Tablecloths in the MDRs. </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Highlights of the Cruise</span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">the BREAD</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Infinite Balcony </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Cozumel day</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Rockumentary Show</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">St. Thomas day</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Main Dining Rooms</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b></b><br /><br /></span></p></div>Snoozemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08287635714818403539noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-666314469198049300.post-67461396754962659532022-12-04T21:00:00.095-06:002023-01-07T13:37:02.918-06:00Carnival Celebration B2B Cruise - December 4 & 11, 2022<p style="text-align: left;"> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx9taaTtNSytgzsfJsdro7X1IK87dGM4V5TyJU83oavl9uewC-YCfboPMFHr4mdxYp1rLcPL_tGC5b_0W_hDhXnOfCvSzCoe55KsrE4yc3qwQ9WsmG_8KSxXQ21f3DRXtJhIaxbBXXFuejIzAAUFathmnDC9o4EYxvBQlR3exrKdR7GzcdYqTH_z6N/s1000/Celbration.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="1000" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx9taaTtNSytgzsfJsdro7X1IK87dGM4V5TyJU83oavl9uewC-YCfboPMFHr4mdxYp1rLcPL_tGC5b_0W_hDhXnOfCvSzCoe55KsrE4yc3qwQ9WsmG_8KSxXQ21f3DRXtJhIaxbBXXFuejIzAAUFathmnDC9o4EYxvBQlR3exrKdR7GzcdYqTH_z6N/w640-h352/Celbration.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span> </span><span> <span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><b> </b></span><b>Carnival Celebration B2B Cruise Review</b><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><u>Just the Facts:</u></b><br />Ship: Carnival Celebration is the 2nd of the new XL Class ship launched in 2022 at 183,500 Tons & 6500 max guest capacity.<br />Captain: Andrea Catalani - Hotel Director: Pierre - Cruise Director: Lee<br />Ports: Miami. FL - Amber Cove - San Juan - St. Maartin - Miami</p><p style="text-align: justify;">This is only the 4th cruise sailing of the new Carnival Celebration and of course my 1st on her. I’m cruising with the Dear Wife (DW) on a B2B (back2back) for 15 days and have several friends and clients on these two cruises. This is my 108th and 109th Carnival cruises, and 192nd and 193rd cruises overall. We will sail 15 consecutive nights on board the new Carnival Celebration. <br /></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Sunday / December 4th, 2022 Embarkation / Day 1 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBn6zzoVYy8YDCdnWowqFLsRGUm5qGFWX4quV1tRtkVJtTcuSH6fuzVPVssV5e_r4Ba6o7OQrowOn_dfoTkCs1nDtup2nl1NsivBz6aUfrrRza0s2k61-EWn5DVps7RUdJ_w_l7xxXljrJeCD53J4vewg6Y6xZK6KJ_dXNbohjItsFVe95bcMUjiBz/s960/Miami%20sailaway.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBn6zzoVYy8YDCdnWowqFLsRGUm5qGFWX4quV1tRtkVJtTcuSH6fuzVPVssV5e_r4Ba6o7OQrowOn_dfoTkCs1nDtup2nl1NsivBz6aUfrrRza0s2k61-EWn5DVps7RUdJ_w_l7xxXljrJeCD53J4vewg6Y6xZK6KJ_dXNbohjItsFVe95bcMUjiBz/w400-h300/Miami%20sailaway.jpg" width="400" /></a></div></b>I finished packing early Sunday morning and we were off on our drive to Miami at about 6:45 am. We did the I-75 route crossing the Sunshine Skyway Bridge and south to Alligator Alley crossing the Everglades to the Atlantic coast. We drove into downtown Miami to Premier Cruise Parking arriving at about 11:00 am. The parking garage was very busy and by the time we were checked in and parked we had an hour wait to get a shuttle over to the pier. We saw old friends and made new friends in that long shuttle line. We finally arrived at the new Terminal F on cruise ship row at about 12:45 pm. From this point onward, it was a very smooth process. We checked one bag and I rolled mine on as usual. Then entered the Terminal and we did have a priority line for security and guest check-in. The Diamond lounge looked very nice but we proceeded directly through and boarded the ship. We ran into our cruise friends on deck six on the way to the aft elevators and our cabin. We arrived at our aft-facing balcony cabin on deck nine at about 1:20. Very nice to have a NEW cabin…very clean with no stains or wear and tear at all...very different from the recently sailed Carnival Pride. We have a huge balcony directly above the Summer Landing pool. It will be interesting and convenient being above the Summer Landing Area with a Bar, Lounge, entertainment, and BBQ (and secret breakfast) area. We went by our Muster Station F-7 on the way to the new Golden Jubilee Bar. This bar is a celebration of Carnival’s 50th birthday. It is decorated with Carnival ship memorabilia and the menu has old classic cocktails, very interesting. I saw several veteran Cocktail Servers and Friends while enjoying a couple of classic Mojitos. We went back to the cabin to enjoy the sail-away and fortunately, DW’s luggage had arrived so we settled in for the week. Our balcony was a fantastic location for viewing sail away and we also sailed at sunset … very special views of Miami, the other ships, the pool, and more. Enjoyed it. I met friends in our group at the Golden Jubilee (same location as the Brass Magnolia on Mardi Gras) then we had dinner in the MDR, the Festival Restaurant on deck 7. I had Tomato Soup, Sweet & Sour Shrimp, the Pollo Parmigiana Della Cucina (a great chicken farm dish from the Cucina de Capitano Menu) entree, and a fruit plate for dessert. I retired to the cabin and was soon asleep after this long and busy day. An overall fine embarkation day for the Carnival Celebration.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Monday, December 5th / Fun Day at Sea / Day 2</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2dz0t0jQ0LiSIkglujPf5Nx45iBtI_TaoX49q62DjIi4U-u7Nr1OVE1vGYJFFQFv_EcpeCrZrjK2euHbxhfvRtkqMnIzd_3K_bvcmnxRFr1zc5-uBbkw7fFhqsPPC_7pEpSkgZ3qjZ3-1Ntj72AjiBPnGXoOvKo4IXLh04X19TfQy24yyRGbnfgN1/s4032/IMG_7166.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2dz0t0jQ0LiSIkglujPf5Nx45iBtI_TaoX49q62DjIi4U-u7Nr1OVE1vGYJFFQFv_EcpeCrZrjK2euHbxhfvRtkqMnIzd_3K_bvcmnxRFr1zc5-uBbkw7fFhqsPPC_7pEpSkgZ3qjZ3-1Ntj72AjiBPnGXoOvKo4IXLh04X19TfQy24yyRGbnfgN1/w300-h400/IMG_7166.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div>Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well. Absolutely no noise at all from the Summer Landing area below our cabin location. I went down to Summer Landing for breakfast and was very disappointed…yes they had the (kind of secret) breakfast buffet, but the eggs, both Ham Benedict and Scrambled, were cold. Very cold. I don’t know why as they were warm on the Mardi Gras. They did have the grapefruit that I enjoy and I took some rolls, toast, peanut butter, and juices back up for DW and we enjoyed snacking on the balcony. Beautiful weather too. About mid-morning we decided to tour the ship starting from the top down so went up to the Serenity Deck on deck 18 forward. It was already packed with guests and hot tubs and the bar was very busy. We worked our way down to deck 17 and then the busy Lido deck 16. So far the same as Mardi Gras. We walked by the busy main swimming pools, the Red Frog Tiki Bar, and Blue Iguana, then through the Lido Marketplace all the way to the aft pool area. Our friends were there at a table so we visited with them and people-watched. It was amazing to see the long lines form at Big Chicken, it’s certainly no longer a secret for sure. We broke up at lunchtime. DW and I went to ChiBang for lunch. She ordered a vegetarian Tortilla Bowl and I ordered two Asian Noodle Bowls, a Chicken, and a Beef. Different style noodles and both were good; however, the beef one was exceptional IMHO. I will do this again. We went back up to 16 to continue our tour and actually sampled two items from Street Eats, I wanted to test the Thai food, and DW sampled the Fries. We watched an urban dance-off between guests organized by the DJ and Fun Squad. A lot of participants, but urban music is not my thing, certainly interesting to watch though. Continuing our tour we skipped the passenger decks down to the next stop: deck 8 and DW’s first visit to Summer Landing. Sitting there were our friends just finishing their BBQ lunch from Pig & Anchor. I did enjoy a Farmers Ale and it was great to see Nellie again behind the bar, she was excited to see me from the antics we had at the Pig on Mardi Gras. We finally had to break up our group as we’ll be meeting for cocktails prior and we older guests need a nap. Tour to be continued later. After cabin time we went down to the Golden Jubilee on deck 6 our designated meeting place for cocktail hour. I enjoyed a couple of Harvey Wallbangers as we visited our friends and were joined by other friends. The Captain and senior staff came by as they returned from the Center Stage and the Elegant Night Captain's Toast and greeted us as did many former cruise friends, staff, and acquaintances. A FUN time. We had six for dinner at Cucina de Capitano this evening. DW ordered Arancini, Caprese Salad, and Pasta Pomodoro and really enjoyed it as it’s not easy to get a proper vegetarian meal. I ordered Arancini, Nona’s Meatball, the wonderful grilled Pork Chop entree, and Tiramisu for dessert. Excellent dinner. FYI-now only one meatball is served on the Nona’s order. It was almost 10:00 pm by the time we finished, so no entertainment tonight, and back to the cabin for us. It was a very enjoyable Sea Day on the new Carnival Celebration.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Tuesday, December 6th / Amber Cove, Dominican Republic / Day 3 </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibWu-NQNJh1wc4N3VZg-GtV_xhZ4gWx9FAi_W_zV1SlI8R9PG7BrgTD_R7kovq4LIYBAL-FRewVAx2IPuuvLPBY92t2hTNjuIar5QvD4jw4__7wG-H-v566DCKO9LmLeCotwENi_JArinEv3vL7qUDBWa7yBb_zwrKLIERx1UpMtN_v5SKGfBGR0vS/s3448/AmberCove%20copy.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2428" data-original-width="3448" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibWu-NQNJh1wc4N3VZg-GtV_xhZ4gWx9FAi_W_zV1SlI8R9PG7BrgTD_R7kovq4LIYBAL-FRewVAx2IPuuvLPBY92t2hTNjuIar5QvD4jw4__7wG-H-v566DCKO9LmLeCotwENi_JArinEv3vL7qUDBWa7yBb_zwrKLIERx1UpMtN_v5SKGfBGR0vS/s320/AmberCove%20copy.jpeg" width="320" /></a></span></b></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and we slept very well. We were docked in Amber Cove early and it was a beautiful day. We went up to the Lido Marketplace for breakfast at about 9:15 am and it was busy, but the eggs and food were hot. We were invited by good friends to share their private over-the-water cabana in Amber Cove so we went there arriving at about 10:00 am. (Photo: The over-water Cabanas taken from our aft balcony) This was a new experience for me and the cabana was very nice with WiFi, Loungers, TV, a small Refrigerator, Bar Service, a great view of the ship, and of course the water. Due to a recent storm, the water was a bit murky but I enjoyed swimming. I enjoyed my share of beer as they had Bohemia one of my favorite brands as well as Presidente the popular local beer. Chips, Bottled water, and Coca-cola included. Food available by menu. We had an early return time of 3:30 pm so at 3:00 we were back on board and enjoying a wonderful meal at Big Chicken. It was great. We went then back to the cabin for a nap…and with the beers and a full belly, I slept until 7:00 pm well past our meet friends for dinner time. We had a movie night watching the classics </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Giant</span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> and <i>Casablanca</i> on TCM, and rested. It was a unique day at Amber Cove.</span><p></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Wednesday, December 7th / San Juan, Puerto Rico / Day 4 </b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhizgUs88BKtJpX8th_syskxlRJCixs6baW_D3tFXt7ZzDxEFTDmJ-JVo-4O2JJpcoA4IMs9JEUGu22sweFmdPiK7L_ssXu7VeUK4YkibcDoVuA_ZOUNyiGM_53-F3QHoxvL6ZinkO-SUBJipmC4dNr2QL-QWh7m3GTVhy3bXynFKjdv61EPfF2sDRt/s3007/OSJ.heic" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2168" data-original-width="3007" height="289" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhizgUs88BKtJpX8th_syskxlRJCixs6baW_D3tFXt7ZzDxEFTDmJ-JVo-4O2JJpcoA4IMs9JEUGu22sweFmdPiK7L_ssXu7VeUK4YkibcDoVuA_ZOUNyiGM_53-F3QHoxvL6ZinkO-SUBJipmC4dNr2QL-QWh7m3GTVhy3bXynFKjdv61EPfF2sDRt/w400-h289/OSJ.heic" width="400" /></a></b></span></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Calm seas but located far aft there is more rocking movement, enough to create an annoying knocking sound from the sidewall adjacent to the bed. I woke early but had enough rest. I went to the Festivale Restaurant (MDR) for breakfast just after it opened, I had a very nice 2-top table at the aft windows and watched us sail past El Morro Castle and into the harbor. I ordered: Hot Milk, Grapefruit, Danish, 3 eggs Sunny-side up, Bacon, Ham, Hash Browns, and toast. It was very good…fresh and hot. I then got some Croissants for the DW, she misses the complimentary Continental breakfast that was her norm on a cruise. Full sun and a hot day so we decided to stay on board and take advantage of a near-empty ship, it was nice. Also, a good time to do business since our phones and WiFi work in Puerto Rico. A good walk about the ship finishing our tour and stopping at the Lido for a light lunch. We both had a salad from the Salad Bar and I had a Banger & Chorizo from Sea Dogs. Cookies and Passion Fruit Gelato for sweets. It clouded up and a light rain made the balcony more enjoyable in the afternoon. At 5:00 pm we went to the </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Golden Jubilee </span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">for cocktails. The theme of the bar is Carnival’s 50th anniversary and since it wasn’t as busy I had time to view the mementos from previous Carnival Ships. They have Glass from the original Mardi Gras, the actual Tabletops from the Fascination, the original Builders Plate from the original Celebration, and the Carnivale’s original (old fashion) Telegraph from Bridge to the Engine room. They also have exact reproductions of Blue Prints and Mirror Art by Joe Farcus of several original Carnival Ships. and the Chairs are reproductions of the chairs in Carnavale’s Riverboat Lounge. A very interesting theme and is very well done. Some friends went to the feature production at the center stage (I’ll go to the repeat showing) and some to dinner. We chose the Cucina del Capitano as they have a much better variety of vegetarian choices for the DW. Items she enjoys are the Arancini, Caprese Salad, Penne Pomodoro, Parmesan Semolina Gnocchi (side), Eggplant Parmigiana, and four other vegetable sides. Perfect for vegetarians. Tonight I ordered Nona’s Meatball, the Minestrone Soup, the Veal Marsala entree, and the Baba Napoletano for dessert. The Veal was excellent as was the service by our waiter Antolin. After dinner we did a short walkabout before retiring, not as many guests out and about, I assume they were recovering from a big day in San Juan. It was a very enjoyable stay-on-board day on the Celebration.</span><p></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p><div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Thursday, December 8th / St. Maarten, NA / Day 5 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjvbjKWqJGxN4W9_2_CuEUCCHS6TVvKx9pHmnL4uhulkg2gNsO5IQ6wLDED4slYnKH8m64p05VNrBYftzXLHmkxNRH5cWd_SJDBDf8uTiz_WGN-xQUaSCACrN7c5wXTnxsBT6o-vgiOnGrHTRA1SCbiQFvJvXAteEdKT2BRDVxOYiBr71bHpDHjOt6/s4032/XmasTree.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjvbjKWqJGxN4W9_2_CuEUCCHS6TVvKx9pHmnL4uhulkg2gNsO5IQ6wLDED4slYnKH8m64p05VNrBYftzXLHmkxNRH5cWd_SJDBDf8uTiz_WGN-xQUaSCACrN7c5wXTnxsBT6o-vgiOnGrHTRA1SCbiQFvJvXAteEdKT2BRDVxOYiBr71bHpDHjOt6/w233-h291/XmasTree.jpeg" width="233" /></a></div></b></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight so no knocking and I slept very well. I woke in the night so updated the blog, the WiFi works very well on this ship. We were docked well before I woke again at about 8:30 am in the port of St. Maartin. Usually up to six ships here, but only the Celebration and three small ships today. I went up to the <b>Blue Iguana</b> for the first time, usually my favorite location for breakfast on Carnival ships. I had Huevos Rancheros with Pico de Gallo, Shredded Cheese, and Salsas. I also had an Arepas and took one back to the cabin for the DW. We went swimming in the Summer Landing Pool just below our balcony. More guests staying on board than yesterday, but friends were already there so we had a lounging area for the morning. Not that many actually in the pool though. Afterward, we had some cabin time before going to <b>Big Chicken </b>for a late lunch. After lunch, we had movie time watching </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Barefoot Contessa</span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> on TCM. I went to the Alchemy Bar for the first time. Of course, I knew all three Alchemists and there were friends from my Breeze travels there too. Nicola made me a nice cocktail and it was Fun. The Christmas Show was on the Center Stage this evening as well as the </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Amor Cubano</span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> production show in the Theater. A lot of Comedy Shows in both the Punchliner and the Limelight Lounge. I went by Miami Slice and brought a Pizza back to the cabin for a late-night snack/dinner…the pizza was good... MSC quality. It was another Fun stay-on-board the ship day on the Celebration.</span><span style="color: #0e101a;"> </span></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0e101a;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0e101a;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0e101a;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0e101a;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0e101a;"><b>Friday, December 9th / Fun Day at Sea / Day 6 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2fWpSFQPMdkCy6f5KcAW2jaWEQgCooNzcRmOUoZCDO4Jhhn4iMc92t4BI8XO--SrkRF2EYHsf3XQqZ2SVE-N4L8eRC3l_wzXtGumTRVxzuFsqCE7GP1trkLtY5ID5w60CWtHQqdonKkE_6dsHqv1oEsyAYakcTWkTaLA0PMIdZuSAI4iugqy96C3L/s4032/steak.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2fWpSFQPMdkCy6f5KcAW2jaWEQgCooNzcRmOUoZCDO4Jhhn4iMc92t4BI8XO--SrkRF2EYHsf3XQqZ2SVE-N4L8eRC3l_wzXtGumTRVxzuFsqCE7GP1trkLtY5ID5w60CWtHQqdonKkE_6dsHqv1oEsyAYakcTWkTaLA0PMIdZuSAI4iugqy96C3L/w200-h150/steak.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div></b>Rolling seas overnight and I slept well, I was up early so updated this blog, did some business, and paid bills…the WiFi continues to work well. I went down to Summer Landing for breakfast, the eggs were actually warm to hot, a huge change from Monday…in fact a good breakfast and not busy at all. The seas are too rough today for swimming in the pools. Nice sunshine and weather for outdoor activities, but not in the pools. Then busy with the Carnival Jubilee cancelation notices this morning. I had seven client bookings canceled as well as my transatlantic. Memories of the Mardi Gras cancellations. We met our friends for the <b>Diamond Luncheon</b> at 11:45 we had eight people in our group among the other 360 Diamond Guests. I ordered the Pork Belly, the NY Strip Steak x2 (photo), and Tres Leches for dessert. Both Bar & Food Service was very good. We decided to continue the party in the Golden Jubilee afterward and we had quite a party that continued until 8:00 pm. If you stay in one spot long enough everyone you know will eventually come by…I saw many past cruising friends, Diamond friends, and good friends. We even had pizza delivered using the Hub. Great FUN. Of course, I retired as soon as we returned to the cabin. It was a FUN day sailing the Carnival Celebration<br /><b><br /></b></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Saturday, December 10th / Fun Day at Sea / Day 7 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgPxdyIccA6ytNVYL6zbLw6aCfVdsfBXULWpXLKb-3s3SNa3AV5tC4hhOJeZlN_hwdiyVkJOmhs-8ec_JUA78ezkF19Uee8QL3ULGYv3auq1cKVr83v9EK6cZhENZudhLGMI0lQxHvjGlDrGTac84-CkriW1BqGViCc8vR7x7MGtGE-6TXhqLsxBZE/s1024/carnival-bar-820-bar-menu-655x1024.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="655" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgPxdyIccA6ytNVYL6zbLw6aCfVdsfBXULWpXLKb-3s3SNa3AV5tC4hhOJeZlN_hwdiyVkJOmhs-8ec_JUA78ezkF19Uee8QL3ULGYv3auq1cKVr83v9EK6cZhENZudhLGMI0lQxHvjGlDrGTac84-CkriW1BqGViCc8vR7x7MGtGE-6TXhqLsxBZE/w128-h200/carnival-bar-820-bar-menu-655x1024.jpg" width="128" /></a></div></b>Rolling seas overnight, but not as bad as Friday. I slept very well and long as I needed to recover from the 8-hour party. We went to the Sea Day Brunch at about 10:30 am. I ordered the Steak & Eggs, Bacon, Hash Browns, Danish, Bloody Mary, Hot Milk, and the Assorted Cookies dessert for later in the cabin. We had a relaxing movie day in the cabin. Those old TCM movies are great and really the only decent TV channel available. I did an afternoon walkabout picking up our Celebration Pins and gifts (still the Koozies) and made a stop at Big Chicken before it closes at 5:00 pm. I made it to the Time Machine LED show by the Latitudes Bar on deck 6, it was interesting…something different for Carnival. We missed the Production shows this cruise, but plan on it for next cruise. I had cocktails tonight at the <b>820 Bar</b> with Lidja one of my favorite Alchemists from the Breeze. They have some specialty cocktails (photo), I preferred the Mango 305 over the Key Lime Pie. My friends came by and they had done the same as me eating early on this final night of this cruise. I retired early to purchase my WiFi for the second week, almost forgot, and to preliminary pack as we are changing cabins. It was a good final sea day for the last day of this cruise.<br /></span><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Sunday, December 11th / Embarkation Day / Day 8 of B2B </b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbSMfdnIsQ6UPynR_kiPvVx8sJNRiwcZXFxqju5tt97trsCHMNb5C4XufbaHECDnDFi9Y1gSxG5V0l6Gg9frVyMrzw_BsrdFG6j1cE_7PuS31vXcmI9te-rxxN6zU2rHsJz5ETCrZd8zH8Uo60CZP9jxjfV8LC1Nj9uYbDCuJzzL10Mgw51I-g4lth/s3864/CelebrationCoin.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2678" data-original-width="3864" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbSMfdnIsQ6UPynR_kiPvVx8sJNRiwcZXFxqju5tt97trsCHMNb5C4XufbaHECDnDFi9Y1gSxG5V0l6Gg9frVyMrzw_BsrdFG6j1cE_7PuS31vXcmI9te-rxxN6zU2rHsJz5ETCrZd8zH8Uo60CZP9jxjfV8LC1Nj9uYbDCuJzzL10Mgw51I-g4lth/w400-h278/CelebrationCoin.jpeg" width="400" /></a></b></span></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth Seas overnight and I slept well. We had been docked a while when I got up at 7:30 am and had a quick breakfast at Big Chicken as debarkation began. I then returned to the cabin to pack as we change cabins today. Fortunately, it’s just down the passageway from the current cabin with the same room steward. Since the guests left early we were able to get moved into the new cabin before our 9:00 am meet time for B2B’s. All of our friends were there and eventually, the 250+ B2B guests received their new cards and had new photos taken. At about 10:00 am we were off to Border control and the Facial Recognition system. All was well with our group and we were back on board before 11:00 am. We have coupons for the Welcome Cocktail and Photos so straight back to the new cabin. We quickly changed for the Summer Landing Pool hoping to get pool calisthenics in before guests arrived. We ended up in the Hot Tub…much warmer! I had Pig & Anchor BBQ for lunch, and DW had the Macaroni & Cheese with Pretzel roll. The BBQ was quite good, I didn’t have any last week. It really got busy so we returned to the cabin to unpack and set up for the next 8 days. We have a suite, really just a larger & longer cabin with a sitting area and two big screen Televisions. The bathroom is larger too. It will do. We met the group for cocktails in Golden Jubilee then had dinner in Cucina del Capitano. I had the Veal Marsala again as well as Arancini, Nonas Meatball, Minestrone Soup, and Tiramisu for dessert. We ate a bit early so that the group could see more shows on this cruise. They had a variety of Preview scenes at Center Stage and Amor Cubano in the Theater. A lot of music in various venues and Comedy in Limelight and in the Punchliner. A busy day for guests. It was a busy day for us as well on the Carnival Celebration.</span><p></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Monday, December 12th / Fun Day at Sea / Day 9 of B2B </b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFLFZnZE6JPOZOr_dIo1su097d2_RTXumDbId0OoSJU_ZU1PZPHpjDB5GruTwoP-oJYpfuyUTgK8vHyYqWMgFAcR0OjFqbN7pGYTNb-7RAYW46Fq6ja_Wwgnu2hSSDkBSxcz-GUHLqqS-jBPpH2pAKiM0jsdK91ROHTS7LYUmXtD1xbSATz8Ik7MRb/s3285/ChiBang.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3285" data-original-width="2241" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFLFZnZE6JPOZOr_dIo1su097d2_RTXumDbId0OoSJU_ZU1PZPHpjDB5GruTwoP-oJYpfuyUTgK8vHyYqWMgFAcR0OjFqbN7pGYTNb-7RAYW46Fq6ja_Wwgnu2hSSDkBSxcz-GUHLqqS-jBPpH2pAKiM0jsdK91ROHTS7LYUmXtD1xbSATz8Ik7MRb/w136-h200/ChiBang.jpeg" width="136" /></a></b></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Very smooth seas overnight and I slept well. A lazy cabin morning and I had fruit for breakfast. We had TCM movie time, </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Cool Hand Luke</span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> and I did some Monday morning business until lunch. We went to ChiBang for Noodle Bowls, not as much meat in the Beef Bowl as last week, but I did order two so it was fine…easy too. I did a walkabout, does seem as many guests outdoors as last week, perhaps a bit cooler. Along deck 8 seems to be the area most overlooked for both sunbathing and activities. Balcony time in the afternoon until we met our friends at Golden Jubilee for cocktails. Fun time...it's great to have good friends on board. We returned to ChiBang for dinner as it’s a completely different menu and we have not eaten there for dinner as yet. I ordered a lot and all of it was very good to excellent: Egg Drop Soup, Slow-Braised Pork Belly (much better than the Diamond Luncheon), Spring Rolls, Pot Stickers, the Kung Pao Chicken entree, Hakka Noodles, and Tres Leches for dessert. Also a very nice Lycée Martini...my favorite at a Chinese venue. We all split up for Casino, Center Stage feature show, or Cabin. The DW and I retired, and we are enjoying our suite very much. It was a restful sea day onboard the Carnival Celebration.</span><p></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Tuesday, December 13th / Grand Turk / Day 10 of B2B </b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq2085OwYJG8zHabDDY8LsKYvZhKqJttK8NY8n3m0Q3zwiL7_PIgOCV7-qnAjD6_Fn2D24A5d7K8ZETg8_d18Z95K5uG--dm9FYSxy-3KZG6t8RmAMsO8hrx9kWEMM7dpWwt6_NAv4qI3am8NTxseNL_spYMCI3AKHx0ujmo2WYRlQFNh5u-JmWg_x/s4032/GrandTurkBeach.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq2085OwYJG8zHabDDY8LsKYvZhKqJttK8NY8n3m0Q3zwiL7_PIgOCV7-qnAjD6_Fn2D24A5d7K8ZETg8_d18Z95K5uG--dm9FYSxy-3KZG6t8RmAMsO8hrx9kWEMM7dpWwt6_NAv4qI3am8NTxseNL_spYMCI3AKHx0ujmo2WYRlQFNh5u-JmWg_x/w320-h240/GrandTurkBeach.jpeg" width="320" /></a></b></span></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Slight rolling of seas just enough to rock one to sleep. We slept late and I again had Fruit for breakfast. Our friends are going to Jack’s Shack today. We are not going off the ship, we were just in Grand Turk a few weeks ago, and we enjoy the ship with fewer guests onboard. I did a nice walkabout the ship then did some work online. The beaches and water here are beautiful, you can see a lot of the island from the upper decks. We watched some classic black&white TCM movies with the Falcon, a Detective. We enjoyed them. For lunch we went to the Deco Deli, DW had Swiss Cheese on Rye bread (off menu), I had the #5-Reuben (classic) and a #9-Pan Con Lichon (Pork, onion, mojo sauce on Cuban Bread). We ate outside on deck 8, the under-utilized deck I have mentioned. Then sat at the Summer Landing pool on deck 8 enjoying the perfect weather an views of the beach…looks like a lot of people at Jack’s Shack, but a lot of new competition along the beach. We had an early dinner before Big Chicken closed for the evening. Then we sat outside on our balcony to watch the sunset and our brief sail-away. We only backed from the dock and anchored just off the beach for hours. We are close to our next port so perhaps the Captain wanted the protected waters for the big Circus Production show with aerial performances tonight, but who knows? Just seems very odd…I’ve never experienced it here. It was an easy relaxing day on the Carnival Celebration.<br /><br /><b>Wednesday, December 14th / Amber Cove, Dominican Republic / Day 11 of B2B</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6kBO4ju_FcPgrTO6rySTMf-0oHcwsNQthJqtSbIiyNnkeSJhzJ6M8pK0goiOrTUmyGjRmALu_ma-kY9lYiJzEreaFojwinfPzqVcv1CpynZtfynvErAeErzy6sAf4eUbZOSB4x58EpwMpjpZGm60kfv0eSItBwILhygXp--AujSn0Wlh9rTwAnZsV/s4032/Hispaniola%20Sunset.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6kBO4ju_FcPgrTO6rySTMf-0oHcwsNQthJqtSbIiyNnkeSJhzJ6M8pK0goiOrTUmyGjRmALu_ma-kY9lYiJzEreaFojwinfPzqVcv1CpynZtfynvErAeErzy6sAf4eUbZOSB4x58EpwMpjpZGm60kfv0eSItBwILhygXp--AujSn0Wlh9rTwAnZsV/s320/Hispaniola%20Sunset.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>Smooth seas overnight, just enough action to rock you asleep. We slept late as we aren’t getting off the ship today. Fruit again for breakfast as I’m trying to limit some calories and still enjoy some unique food onboard. We did a walkabout the ship, the beaches and water are not as pretty as Grand Turk yesterday. I did some work from bed this morning and we have shade on the balcony so balcony time as well. I had my Spa day today getting a very nice pedicure and massage…I’m getting spoiled…my previous one was on the Carnival Pride. Afterward, I went for my first Guy’s Burger, it was busy as guests were already returning from Amber Cove, as we do leave early. My hamburgers were great as were the fries. We sailed at 3:50 pm and we watched from the balcony, the Spirit sailed just after we did. We sailed around the island and we could see Puerto Plata and two NCL ships docked there, It was a clear day and I could see the huge Christ Statue on top of the mountain. You have to know where to look. A beautiful sunset sail from </span><span>Hispaniola</span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> (photo). We went to the Lido Marketplace for the first time for dinner. The selections were very good, I had Roast Beef from the Carving Station and two small NY Strip steaks plus side dishes. It was very good. The DW was able to find Salad and Rice for herself. We found a unique dessert, hard to describe, similar to a warm bread pudding but made from cereal with a sweet topping side. It was excellent. Lots of good entertainment tonight, but after that nice meal we decided to have a movie night. We watched the classic The More the Merrier (1943), and the comedy Out of the Blue (1947). I had never seen the 2nd and it was hilarious. We are enjoying TCM. It was another easy relaxing day on the Carnival Celebration. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Thursday, December 15th / San Juan, Puerto Rico / Day 12 of B2B</b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc7ryZU1GTywZBpDTg38C_4IB5EEaKztaqCSpnvFp27320pC9guujh89SFVJzGd2HDN8bYa186CxyvgmQhLHesz5oWSdGA4c8sDN6BCYTgDJdm-8Pa0BNEdDvxHvjgHxMysE555W4pItqL6s5xJk_ymUzc-L82Gu0DuREvC4FzANIoLI28avz4zYKl/s3873/OSJ%20Fountain.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2677" data-original-width="3873" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc7ryZU1GTywZBpDTg38C_4IB5EEaKztaqCSpnvFp27320pC9guujh89SFVJzGd2HDN8bYa186CxyvgmQhLHesz5oWSdGA4c8sDN6BCYTgDJdm-8Pa0BNEdDvxHvjgHxMysE555W4pItqL6s5xJk_ymUzc-L82Gu0DuREvC4FzANIoLI28avz4zYKl/w400-h276/OSJ%20Fountain.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well. We were entering the harbor as we woke this morning. We had a nice breakfast at Blue Iguana, I had my usual and the DW had a freshly Scrambled egg on a tortilla with queso. We left the ship at about 10:00 am for our day in OSJ (Old San Juan). We went along the harbor front and noticed them setting up for the Holiday Festival before we began our walk uphill. Our first stop was Marshall’s, I waited in the Park outside the main entry. (seems I recall doing that many times when I take friends on the OSJ tour. There are a lot of locals in the tourist areas, I suppose because of the Festival. The next stop was for a Diet Coke, Water, and a local Magnum beer on Fortaliza street. Visited a few shops before ouR stop at <b>Catedral Basilica Menor de San Juan Bautista</b>. We spent some time here as usual and I always visit Ponce DeLeon’s memorial located inside the Church. We walked down to the <b>Puerta de San Juan </b>(1635), the old iconic gate through the fortified walls. Now at sea level, we walked around the outer walls to <b>Paseo de la Princesa</b>, the 1853 urban European-style promenade. I love the fountain here, especially at night. Next was the Festival grounds and we saw the early vendors and displays. We purchased some great homemade cookies. When we got back to the Harbor Walkway we stopped at <b>La Casita de Rones</b>, the well-known small Restaurant on the Harbor. I’ve never been able to get in (long wait times) but with the attractive lady with me, we were able to score two seats at the Bar. DW had a frozen Margarita and I had the local Pina Colada. Very nice. The last stop was at Walgreens…we picked up toiletries, snacks, and Coca-cola. We were back on the ship by 4:00ish. We sat on the balcony and enjoyed the Regal Princess’ sail away. I love the theme of </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The Love Boat</span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> they play on the ship horns as they sail. Once they sailed we had a great cool breeze on our balcony. Yea! We enjoyed dinner in the Marketplace we went again this night. I had Ham from the Carving Station (excellent), Two small steaks, Broccoli, Breaded Cauliflower, and Rice…the DW had the Vegetables, Rice, and Salad. It was very good. For dessert, I had Bread Pudding. We retired to the cabin after getting in our 8000 steps today. It was a fine day in OSJ and the ship.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Friday, December 16th / St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands / Day 13 of B2B </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn0ngGum9PVEvxjEMRG-xUz8JWTHuh6C2nB3GhM7hkAJp-__aKRP8O8fg4QC8EsTL3icK46_TKh_-CPQhwHbW7A684XUMyyobtoqoegVJBvd-iKAAYhE2ixiajoHhnLw-M-UCF-8ezImPjDQRzNIRop5c8AWJfp9C4OML34nxvkVJJ0oEItRpnVLRV/s4032/CreequeAlley.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn0ngGum9PVEvxjEMRG-xUz8JWTHuh6C2nB3GhM7hkAJp-__aKRP8O8fg4QC8EsTL3icK46_TKh_-CPQhwHbW7A684XUMyyobtoqoegVJBvd-iKAAYhE2ixiajoHhnLw-M-UCF-8ezImPjDQRzNIRop5c8AWJfp9C4OML34nxvkVJJ0oEItRpnVLRV/w300-h400/CreequeAlley.jpeg" width="300" /></a></b></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. We had been docked well before I woke at about 8:00 am. We went to the Blue Iguana again for breakfast…it was very good. We are the only ship docked here today. We left the ship at about 10:30 am and took a taxi into Charlotte Amalie. We really enjoyed the nice shops and the old historical area of the old port. We met the owner of the <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g147405-d6996157-Reviews-Side_Street_Pub-Charlotte_Amalie_St_Thomas_U_S_Virgin_Islands.html" target="_blank">Side Street Pub</a> which is located at Creque Alley in the old town. We had a great discussion about the significance of Creeque Alley to Rock Music history specifically the Mamas & Papas. It was here in a bar owned by Hugh Duffy that the band members worked while honing their music…including writing </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">California Dreaming</span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">. I asked him how many Pub customers are even aware of this and his answer was: “98% have no clue”. My personal favorite Momas & Popas song is the one named <i>Creeque Alley</i> about the formation of the group and the transition from Folk music to Rock. We did some more shopping and then returned to Side Street for refreshments and snacks. Most of the seating is outdoors and very pleasant with a sea breeze. We ordered a Bushwacker+, CocaCola, Water, and Chips and Dips including Pico de Gallo, Salsa, Frijoles, and Queso Cheese…all was very good. We met new friends as well. We taxied back at about 2:50 pm as we have a 4:00 pm sail time. We met our friends in the Heroes Bar of Summer Landing upon reboarding. Time for a couple of Farmers Ales until sail away. Thanks, Mike. We sat on the balcony for sunset as we left the Virgin Islands behind us. We ate at the Lido Marketplace again tonight as it really is best for DW and her vegetarian needs. I also enjoyed it, tonight I had Pork Shoulder from the Carving Station, Breaded Chicken Breast, two BBQ Ribs, Soup, Baked Potato, Broccoli, and Bread Pudding for dessert. It was great. It was a super FUN day in St. Thomas and on the Carnival Celebration.</span><p></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Saturday, December 17th / Fun Day at Sea / Day 14 of B2B </b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIfYxvpTzH8OqovjqOjFsojtq5o5pVlWyOgDejyLX9kyjAwvXMSjtX3hOKSi6LuB2OasTIxYtA1fJ7WL9XwVTmTQjKy7h6W4aKoq-3AiS6kcvdFCcufWPPXlkLGG61-Cja6xipPJ4bBZvP_LzI6kPUvCXuH0IZ_VcXIQtFT9amS5rZo6YcrikafqFk/s3754/Wall.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3754" height="161" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIfYxvpTzH8OqovjqOjFsojtq5o5pVlWyOgDejyLX9kyjAwvXMSjtX3hOKSi6LuB2OasTIxYtA1fJ7WL9XwVTmTQjKy7h6W4aKoq-3AiS6kcvdFCcufWPPXlkLGG61-Cja6xipPJ4bBZvP_LzI6kPUvCXuH0IZ_VcXIQtFT9amS5rZo6YcrikafqFk/w200-h161/Wall.jpeg" width="200" /></a></b></span></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept well waking at about 10:00 am. I had a banana for breakfast from our fruit bowl to ‘hold me’ until the Diamond Luncheon at noon. A beautiful day and guests are enjoying the outer decks today. I met our friends at about 11:45 and we got a nice six-top table in the prime location for the Cruise Director and Captain’s comments. The menu was the same and I again had two NY Strip Steaks as one of my friends unknown to me ordered an extra for me, a running joke as I usually have the DW’s steak but she didn’t attend. The Steak was actually very good as were the small Salad, and Fruit plate. The tall (her mother was Montenegrin) and attractive Alexandria really kept us in the cocktails too. Not as many Diamond guests as last week, maybe 300. We again stopped in the Golden Jubilee to finish our cocktails but for perhaps an hour+ not the rest of the day as the last cruise. It was nap time when I returned to the cabin. At about 7:00 pm we went to the Lido Marketplace for the DW’s Vegetarian meal. I had a light dinner: Prime Rib from the Carving Station with Horseradish and Bread Pudding for dessert. I retired early as I was still happy from the complementary cocktails from the Luncheon. It was an easy restful and needed sea day on the Carnival Celebration.<br /><br /></span><p></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Sunday, December 18th / Fun Day at Sea / Day 15 of B2B</b> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9NCrvd5CT-pWxyICxuenvB-xD27SygEOI6Swp_-aMMmQF24lYUVVUUexklqI9SLYglrFbpnIH5m0UN_B423hwwG4ri9smNNA_QTEF2XE8GfikFt6pn8Xn7EGiqR_SHLbHAPVWM7NauF5b5nbR_s9SagqX68bq_6hbMuSwGw6KYg3xkykAMTzFTOug/s3263/IMG_7287.HEIC" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2508" data-original-width="3263" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9NCrvd5CT-pWxyICxuenvB-xD27SygEOI6Swp_-aMMmQF24lYUVVUUexklqI9SLYglrFbpnIH5m0UN_B423hwwG4ri9smNNA_QTEF2XE8GfikFt6pn8Xn7EGiqR_SHLbHAPVWM7NauF5b5nbR_s9SagqX68bq_6hbMuSwGw6KYg3xkykAMTzFTOug/w400-h308/IMG_7287.HEIC" width="400" /></a></div>Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. I went down one deck to Pig & Anchor for a light breakfast, the eggs were hot, and I brought back Croissants and Grapefruit to eat on the shady balcony this morning. We did a morning walkabout this morning and got our Diamond free-play chips turning them into $60 Casino chips at the Roulette Wheel. I also cashed out my chips for the year $140, low compared to last year, but on our last eight Carnival Cruises, we received $25 in cash and not chips. I also got a nice photo of the two senior Alchemists at the Alchemy Bar to update the Alchemy Bar Facebook page (photo). We ended up on Lido Deck at about 12:30 pm so I had my last Big Chicken of the cruise. DW had a salad and picked up items for an express breakfast in the morning when we have an early debarkation time. DW began packing and we watched a movie before meeting our friends for our final cocktail hour in Golden Jubilee. We had dinner tonight in Cucina del Capitano, I had the same meal as the previous visit: Arancini, Nona’s Meatball, the Minestrone Soup, the Veal Marsala entree, and the Tiramisu for dessert. It was very good. After dinner, the DW returned to the cabin to pack and I used my complimentary Diamond event cocktail at Latitudes. Ana prepared a very nice Caipirinha for me. I then went to the Piano Bar to listen to a set by Eden and get a photo with Nadia. It was rather quiet on the ship by 10:00 pm … everyone was busy packing I guess and that’s what I did as well. It was a very nice final day on the Carnival Celebration.<p></p></div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Monday, December 19th / Miami Debarkation </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4nxgoZK8MP8Zp2GLbJ2RVNWnmF9bOJt8tPkMTiOjgMIiBzI_aCq8dpeqTKBI6BJfIXTqqbCImBesj7S8yctG3_gPEPfRGo4wQQ5euA0OkgGq-O7Pke50ip67bN7sAgMdzAUvysXm5GsnUI5duWa9IjUarIx1aB_QHYfvrNE-hntx5GRwuh2qcyFC5/s4032/Miami%20b4%20dawn.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4nxgoZK8MP8Zp2GLbJ2RVNWnmF9bOJt8tPkMTiOjgMIiBzI_aCq8dpeqTKBI6BJfIXTqqbCImBesj7S8yctG3_gPEPfRGo4wQQ5euA0OkgGq-O7Pke50ip67bN7sAgMdzAUvysXm5GsnUI5duWa9IjUarIx1aB_QHYfvrNE-hntx5GRwuh2qcyFC5/s320/Miami%20b4%20dawn.jpeg" width="320" /></a></b></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">I was up by 5:00 am as we sailed past Miami Beach and into Miami’s famous cruise row before dawn in Miami (photo). I had time to finalize packing and have breakfast before meeting the Diamond priority walk-off at 7:00 am. We actually were off before 7:15 am so waiting for the shuttle to Premier Parking for half an hour. But by 8:15 am we were heading down the road arriving at the Villa at about 12:45 pm. Easy Peasy. </span><p></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Ship</span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The newest ship in the fleet with that new ship smell, so to speak. The XL class is a unique and great improvement for Carnival. The same basic design as the Mardi Gras with an extra staircase and new Zones and Bars. </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Cabins</span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><u style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Week One:</span></u><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> we had cabin 9507 an aft-facing balcony on deck 9. It has a huge balcony, but only two chairs and a table outside. The usual push button safe, queen bed, couch, two shelves, reading lamps at the bedside, a nice small refrigerator, bench at dresser/desk, and large screen TV. There are two large wardrobes and one set of drawers at the dresser. The bathroom is small and compact, but glass doors at the shower. </span><u style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Week Two:</span></u><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> we had cabin 9459 a suite located just off the aft elevators and the same Cabin Steward. The balcony was not as large, but the cabin was much larger. The usual push button safe, queen bed, two shelves, reading lamps at the bedside, a nice small refrigerator, chair at dresser/desk, and two large screen TVs. There are two large lighted wardrobes and one set of drawers at the dresser. The bathroom was much larger with sliding glass doors at the larger shower…also premium toiletries. The best is the separate sitting area with a couch and vanity. Very nice.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Crew</span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Loved seeing all the veteran Alchemists on board. Our cabin steward Joven was very good and friendly. The wait staff in the MDR and specialty restaurants were also friendly and did a good job serving us. They usually do have the best crew members on the new flagship.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Dining / Food / Bars / Entertainment</span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The MDR food is the long-time standard Carnival menu, they have added 50th birthday throw-back classic dishes. The Specialty Restaurants are numerous and very good. My favorites were Big Chicken and Cucina de Capitano.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large;">It was a FUN cruise on the new Carnival Celebration </span><br /></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p> </div>Snoozemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08287635714818403539noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-666314469198049300.post-13904290968928268652022-10-30T00:10:00.069-05:002022-11-12T15:04:55.582-06:00 Carnival Pride TransAtlantic Cruise Review<p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBYBxl6SJxdZqLCN_EWtmY7P8Ec6UPxc3iuOCPWCexW4tRIUFLWpe8dNY4kQpzekCuSe4HAFEDuZvUdwCb-rTZcI97NB-ziqOyEP3T0TVEbh3DtA68tLBmMMJfZUPlrjQUGOIGWUJp3HeJ7XPfYrDg9Cr59EyV5zxWlHGz-Xv1-9pAu38J3Jm-qYaH/s3607/Pride-2.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1730" data-original-width="3607" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBYBxl6SJxdZqLCN_EWtmY7P8Ec6UPxc3iuOCPWCexW4tRIUFLWpe8dNY4kQpzekCuSe4HAFEDuZvUdwCb-rTZcI97NB-ziqOyEP3T0TVEbh3DtA68tLBmMMJfZUPlrjQUGOIGWUJp3HeJ7XPfYrDg9Cr59EyV5zxWlHGz-Xv1-9pAu38J3Jm-qYaH/w640-h306/Pride-2.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><b> Carnival Pride TransAtlantic Cruise Review </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b> </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><u>Just the Facts:</u><br /></b>Ship: Carnival Pride is a Spirit-class ship launched in 2001 at 88,500 Tons & 2100+ guest capacity.<br />Captain: Rino Constanzo Hotel Director: Stephen Chastney Cruise Director: Felipe Couto<br />Ports: Lisbon, Portugal - Ponta Delgada, Azores - Praia Da Vitoria, Azores - Bermuda - Grand Turk - Tampa, FL</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This is the third of three consecutive cruises on the Carnival Pride. I am sailing with the Dear Wife and know many guests. This is my 3rd cruise on the Pride, my 107th Carnival cruise, and 191st cruise overall.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Sunday October 30th / Embarkation / Lisbon, Portugal / Day 1</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDGUkx1PmAcXX6SRjHv5Gl7HfcmQuLQxPkraZK53WBGoG-DqMn9592Xz8ttkC1rmn_7qMunS0qKv5P13FDZbE52EWcxvUXDnGTjIycLXiYwhQ4Xg16xASIZFOMJXJ6ZXELgvZuO5EM4ftil0iXa3eVLbEjl4peOVvS63ySNZTGbFqTjstDiiCSuoWh/s1678/O%CC%81bidos_view592.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1119" data-original-width="1678" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDGUkx1PmAcXX6SRjHv5Gl7HfcmQuLQxPkraZK53WBGoG-DqMn9592Xz8ttkC1rmn_7qMunS0qKv5P13FDZbE52EWcxvUXDnGTjIycLXiYwhQ4Xg16xASIZFOMJXJ6ZXELgvZuO5EM4ftil0iXa3eVLbEjl4peOVvS63ySNZTGbFqTjstDiiCSuoWh/w400-h266/O%CC%81bidos_view592.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">This is another easy transition day as we are already on board the ship. With over 600+ B2B (back-to-back) guests, we are going to try to make it even easier by scheduling an excursion today using our Transit Cards and avoiding the B2B formalities until later in the day thus avoiding the hassles of debarking and embarking going on in the rushed morning hours. Overnight the seas were the highest of any of the previous cruises. I was awake by 5:00 am and we were already docked in Lisbon. I took advantage of super fast internet (rare) to finalize the previous one and start this new blog review online. Also to check NCAA football scores from the USA and do some business. I went to the MDR at about 7:00 am for my usual full breakfast then we went to our excursion meet before 8:00 am, the good news is that they gave us our new sail & sign cards as I had hoped. Our excursion today was to </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Obidos</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> (photo) an ancient former Roman town that by the 14th century became a </span><span><span>prominent</span></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> Medieval Fortified City. When access to the sea became blocked in the 18th century the city lost population and favor; however, that preserved the character of the old city and in the early 20th century tourists came to see the preserved ancient bastions, walls, and churches of the walled city on the hill. Now it is the most picturesque and well-preserved in Portugal. A wonderful place to visit…clean, full of varied shops and restaurants, restored churches, and more. It is now known for bookstores, Sour Cherrys & fruit, and Chocolate. A very interesting historical town within the walls. We did a nice panoramic tour of Lisbon's Boulevards, Parks, Squares, and Neighborhoods on the return. Reembarking the ship was easy once through security and we were back at the ship by 2:00 pm. Debark & embark seemed to go very well, I noticed that there were 100’s well-dressed uniformed helpers from Portuguese tourism doing many tasks today both in the terminal and on board the ship. I think Lisbon has a great future of becoming a cruise hub in the future. I soon had a Funderstruck Burger from Guy’s before afternoon nap time in the cabin. We really enjoyed sailing away after sunset, the lights of Lisbon looked great as we sailed out, as did the </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Christ the Redeemer Statue</span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> and passing under the bridge. I went to dinner in the MDR just to get my Roasted Tomato Soup and Sweet & Sour Shrimp. It was good. I then retired to the cabin. It was a great tour of Obidos today.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Monday, October 31st / Halloween / Fun Day at Sea / Day 2</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrKJ4SYpg9VDWKAkWCjJm6FmRt2okSd9CK2p59jWRHo8pF47PJ3FjpWLJieSLJPwG0Z7FBBemAS1qSdXSycLJKP04DIpUCL83_mpaqgzb8jwavCOpEcWtp0rTDA-KAJD08789rXl32C2Cb9Gh-PLdscIxwU6mw4hFwvZw-yqxBBUMLUlSJFKsEQ14N/s4032/IMG_7089.HEIC" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrKJ4SYpg9VDWKAkWCjJm6FmRt2okSd9CK2p59jWRHo8pF47PJ3FjpWLJieSLJPwG0Z7FBBemAS1qSdXSycLJKP04DIpUCL83_mpaqgzb8jwavCOpEcWtp0rTDA-KAJD08789rXl32C2Cb9Gh-PLdscIxwU6mw4hFwvZw-yqxBBUMLUlSJFKsEQ14N/s320/IMG_7089.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div>Rolling seas overnight were a sharp contrast to our previous 18 days in the Mediterranean Sea. I did sleep well but also got up in the night for WiFi. I want to change our patterns to stay up later for the shows this cruise since fewer ports of call. We changed our clocks/time back one hour, we are now on Ponta Delgada time and +3 from Florida time. DW brought back various Danish for breakfast in bed this morning…Today will be a rest and recovery day from all the excursions and ports of the previous two cruises. The seas are still rough through the day, with lots of guests taking a day of rest just as we are doing. The ship was well decorated for Halloween and many guests wore costumes. It was television, movies, and HGTV most of the day and evening for us. I went up to Lido Marketplace for a late lunch. Then DW later brought fries from Guy’s back to the cabin. We skipped dinner other than our snacks and stayed in this evening so missed the Halloween costume event as it started so late @ 10:30 pm. I saw five Halloween parties last year on the Breeze and spent this holiday on ship for many years so not missing anything new. It was a lazy Halloween for us on the Carnival Pride.<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Tuesday, November 1st / Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal / Day 3</b> <span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvc2RDiZMplbv2JK5FGzSa-12GhcFdrXOIXPZGbj6PFLNAad1hPFGMXdk3uchWPlHfe2SKRO4oNYUNCe941QQdaKC8NSR_yKtSJwIP5F_Hpq9E__3xkMHXie05OH94FTLQjm534BfMdyXmpQ_W1M76SkOd1JoCC3tSNY5x1BbhR3DG76jpEVJhn-te/s4032/IMG_7097.HEIC" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvc2RDiZMplbv2JK5FGzSa-12GhcFdrXOIXPZGbj6PFLNAad1hPFGMXdk3uchWPlHfe2SKRO4oNYUNCe941QQdaKC8NSR_yKtSJwIP5F_Hpq9E__3xkMHXie05OH94FTLQjm534BfMdyXmpQ_W1M76SkOd1JoCC3tSNY5x1BbhR3DG76jpEVJhn-te/w400-h300/IMG_7097.HEIC" width="400" /></a></div>Continued rough seas overnight but I slept well. Wifi not good even in the middle of the night. I went to the MDR and had a shared table for breakfast this morning. I ordered 3-eggs sunny-side up with all my extras and it was good. It calmed and we had nice weather sailing into port at about 10:00 am. We were docked at about 10:30 am and we were off the ship soon afterward. It’s a holiday here today so most shops were closed. We walked to the main square and visited the Church, there were some activities for All Saints day. We stopped at a cafe for Coca-Cola and the best WiFi we had all day, but soon it began to sprinkle and the forecasted rain was on its way. We walked back to the port stopping at a grocery and bought seven 1-liter bottles of Coca-cola (I brought my own bag) for the journey back. We were back on before the heavier rain began. Lunch was at the Lido Marketplace, a Funderstruck Burger for me and Vegetables for the DW. WiFi was not to be on the ship, but we watched a great movie, </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The Greatest Showman</span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> on Carnival’s television movie channel. We did a walkabout the ship as we don’t sail away until after 7:00, but most guests, other than late tours, seem to be back on board. Another movie </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Judy</span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">, I had not seen before today. Excellent. I went to Lido for a late dinner, Linguine night was one of my favorite MDR meals, but it is better on the buffet. It had been too dry of late but from the pan, you control how much sauce you want, and the steak was better too. Still learning after all those cruises. It was a good day on the Carnival Pride.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Wednesday November 2nd / <strike>Praia Da Vitoria, Azores</strike> / Day 4</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTpHF7SHP4nUrYQDduoAGDDGMV5ym3d4LlFM8AA-grpvQaCs0cETrITu7JOcb9vcYstNuNiw_WhJQSj5TjI3homrm0D6HCXEWZXJwaU9rWZqubRfOj4Unx9nZ7mdozdQ6nQzBFUkZzRuENmUzCnA0e16phhjwUxwV1Mb0B1izi5cFt9dBAntZhJ78X/s2048/313400482_10220901508559131_6729999748479363629_n.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTpHF7SHP4nUrYQDduoAGDDGMV5ym3d4LlFM8AA-grpvQaCs0cETrITu7JOcb9vcYstNuNiw_WhJQSj5TjI3homrm0D6HCXEWZXJwaU9rWZqubRfOj4Unx9nZ7mdozdQ6nQzBFUkZzRuENmUzCnA0e16phhjwUxwV1Mb0B1izi5cFt9dBAntZhJ78X/w200-h200/313400482_10220901508559131_6729999748479363629_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Still rolling seas overnight, but not as bad as the two previous nights. We have started out a bit rough. I slept very well. I woke at about 3:00 am and the WiFi was finally working so updated this blog and did some work. At 7:10 am and within sight of the island the Captain announced that due to weather we would be unable to dock in Praia Da Vitoria today. Hopefully, now we’ll be able to break through this weather to smoother seas sooner. We did a walkabout stopping at the casino for $ and at Pixels for gifts. Also bought some candy from Cherry on Top and noticed all to new events happening such as dance and trivia on our unscheduled sea day. I ran into my friend Lance on the way to Guy’s Burgers, we had a late lunch and a beer on the covered deck and it looks like the weather wants to improve…still no WiFi though. We actually had nap time today and by the time we woke Wifi was beginning to work and we could see some cloudy/blue skies. We went to the Alchemy Bar for cocktails, I had a nice Absinth drink, then went to Lance Montalto’s 8:30 comedy show. It was the tame show and he had a packed responsive house. Afterward, I checked out the Lido Marketplace and they were still serving food at that late hour, the Steak & Baked Potato was actually very good. Retired to the cabin and had some internet time before sleep. It was the first of many consecutive sea days on the Pride.<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> <br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Thursday November 3rd / Fun Day at Sea / Day 5</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsw2V40PIYySA-bMh7sYRr3kWstajHAK-eoMIbBgCZxbF5hxKQcIJtOw9XobSOZvAuCydTbiO82jPc4Q616mSdxwv01oeOvkZgq5kbaRBNqM1-tu6UREFhb_4DdyEm8rEpqo0tm7Jh7u1Mmb7EPJu7PmQdw6N7AibXF21KiePGaXV-Ef1POrOicdC8/s4032/Punchliner.HEIC" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsw2V40PIYySA-bMh7sYRr3kWstajHAK-eoMIbBgCZxbF5hxKQcIJtOw9XobSOZvAuCydTbiO82jPc4Q616mSdxwv01oeOvkZgq5kbaRBNqM1-tu6UREFhb_4DdyEm8rEpqo0tm7Jh7u1Mmb7EPJu7PmQdw6N7AibXF21KiePGaXV-Ef1POrOicdC8/w200-h150/Punchliner.HEIC" width="200" /></a></div>Smoother seas overnight but still rolling…I slept very well although up early. Wifi morning until we went to the Normandie Restaurant for the Sea Day Brunch. DW had a Cheese Omelette and Potatoes, I had the Steak & Eggs plus my favorites. We also had our Sea Day Bloody Mary and Bellini. The sun was out by the time we returned and it looked great … so a balcony/cabin/TV day for us. I did a walkabout and guests seem to be enjoying the activities on the ship I met my friend Lance for dinner and we sat at a share table. It was great, Lance loves an audience and the meal was much better than previous two cruises. There were a lot of crew changes before the Transatlantic and I believe a lot must have been in the galley. I ordered the Italian Wedding Soup, a Lobster, Prime Rib cooked perfectly, and a Cream Brûlée for dessert. I went to the 10:30 pm Punchliner Comedy Show (photo) as Lance was the Headliner…very funny and material I had not heard. Late night for me. It was a funny day on the Carnival Pride.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Friday, November 4th / Fun Day at Sea / Day 6</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqJOKkm3NsGSy3nTEx23JZj5oFmkrut28nsymgQ6zjChYwrT7eeaP1BBbQgLKCH7TXdqJpsE4iLDu_9OrBIki8V2KE0knWUe_c_xlva_8eUqgOrKwD_3V2jlo1fHSFPknvVoknAxnyfTz4Ijbyv8vdrW-Lsx2idlRtebWMUFz-H8drSNVl0R5ZlOfT/s4032/IMG_7114.HEIC" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqJOKkm3NsGSy3nTEx23JZj5oFmkrut28nsymgQ6zjChYwrT7eeaP1BBbQgLKCH7TXdqJpsE4iLDu_9OrBIki8V2KE0knWUe_c_xlva_8eUqgOrKwD_3V2jlo1fHSFPknvVoknAxnyfTz4Ijbyv8vdrW-Lsx2idlRtebWMUFz-H8drSNVl0R5ZlOfT/w320-h240/IMG_7114.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Rolling seas overnight again, but I slept very well. We moved our clocks back one hour @ 2:00 am. Just one hours off of Bermuda time and two off of Florida time. I was awake early at dawn but it was very overcast and damp so poor WiFi and no sunrise behind the ship as we sail west. DW brought some Danish for breakfast as the weather improved. I attended the </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Diamond Luncheon</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> @ 11:30 am in the Normandie Restaurant with my friend Lance. The Captain was there, the first time of three I attended on the ship, but nice to see him. I had a nice table with nice guests, both couples on casino fares yet still received shareholder benefits, and I who paid 6X their fare was refused shareholder OBC. I am so over Carnival at this point. The same menu and I ordered the Pork Belly, Steak, and Fruit plate, it was good, better than the previous two. Cocktail servers were plentiful and I appreciated that. It clouded up again so WiFi was slow, but it was nap time in the cabin for the rest of the afternoon. I did see a Rainbow from the balcony so hopefully, that’s a good sign for tomorrow. I went to Guy’s before the 6:00 pm closing for a nice burger, then to Cherry on Top for dessert. Rough weather and seas again late so time for sleep. It was a Cosmopolitan kind of day on the Pride.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Saturday, November 5th / Fun Day at Sea / Day 7</b></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCgYVvQNf16DIp2v4PSDazEuMG81EXZdUgerHJCLWsnJiNhrG2oBZ8Top_FLcMIp-S2n8fjZnGSXTTOIElw3RWPe60UenBtOjeUf5l52sDoVojiZ6fFeEgxEDRJc1FIguRSvu9myU1OVTacoQExEEMal_T_Gu8BIehdaAEPByy--NcpYfG4AEpu18Y/s3770/IMG_7121.heic" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3770" data-original-width="2275" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCgYVvQNf16DIp2v4PSDazEuMG81EXZdUgerHJCLWsnJiNhrG2oBZ8Top_FLcMIp-S2n8fjZnGSXTTOIElw3RWPe60UenBtOjeUf5l52sDoVojiZ6fFeEgxEDRJc1FIguRSvu9myU1OVTacoQExEEMal_T_Gu8BIehdaAEPByy--NcpYfG4AEpu18Y/w121-h200/IMG_7121.heic" width="121" /></a></div></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Rough seas again overnight, but I slept well, We moved our clocks back one hour again @ 2:00 am. Now on Atlantic or Bermuda time and one off of Florida time. It’s Throwback Saturday on the Pride and we had a printed </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Carnival Capers </span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">delivered with events from 1987 scheduled throughout the day. Interesting. We went to the MDR for a full breakfast at about 9:00 am. DW ordered Orange juice, a Feta Cheese omelet, and Potatoes. I ordered Hot Milk, Tomato Juice, Three Eggs easy up, Toast, Bacon, & Hash Browns. To share we ordered: Avocado Toast and a Waffle. We did a walkabout the ship and also stopped by Guest Services where I expressed my disappointment regarding the Shareholder situation. We went to the Serenity Deck and scored a Clam-shell so we enjoyed the sea air and people-watching until about 3:00 pm or NCAA early game time. The TCU game was on cabin TV and they remained undefeated at 9-0 with the win over Texas Tech. I followed the OU game receiving streaming play-by-play on the Laptop. They had an old fashion formal night </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Captains Reception</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> before the set dining times in the Theater…didn’t attend. This evening I prepared some comfort food from the Lido Marketplace. I combined a Pasta & Ground Beef & Tomato Casserole with some Mashed Potatoes from the buffet, and Cheese from the salad bar to create my own goulash-style dish. I enjoyed it. The weather again turned cloudy and wet after sundown, it’s not been an easy cruise. TV and movie time for the rest of the night. It was a unique Throwback day on the Pride.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Sunday, November 6th / Fun Day at Sea / Day 8 </b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2ypo5pc8Qyro5qqS0UHQYGa975IXGK6XKFI0hRQqn5XaNRHYhsd9IfaJ0DiupAr-8HLWga_SmyxHDRoXe7BFv0UFqd1BSZjoWIKB00eZQJl2lIJ_OV1FU5vMiml9FCJe1kzBqQh-_U9Pa3ecPc-fTUtEJGL7-C4iNGR-1bIYx2cI2J-K-vm6izxtd/s3629/jockey.heic" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3629" data-original-width="1505" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2ypo5pc8Qyro5qqS0UHQYGa975IXGK6XKFI0hRQqn5XaNRHYhsd9IfaJ0DiupAr-8HLWga_SmyxHDRoXe7BFv0UFqd1BSZjoWIKB00eZQJl2lIJ_OV1FU5vMiml9FCJe1kzBqQh-_U9Pa3ecPc-fTUtEJGL7-C4iNGR-1bIYx2cI2J-K-vm6izxtd/w83-h200/jockey.heic" width="83" /></a></div>Rough seas again overnight and I slept very well considering. For the third consecutive night, we turned back our clocks @ 2:00 am. This one was for Daylight Savings time. We are still on Bermuda (Atlantic) time and only one hour off of Florida time. This is our 8th consecutive day of rainy weather and choppy seas. If this was a person's first transatlantic I doubt they would do another. Certainly, the worst of the nine I have done. I went to the MDR for breakfast, my usual, and sat at a shared table, then at 10:00 am when the excursion desk opened I canceled our Monday excursion for Bermuda. I don’t want to do a full-day tour in rainy and windy weather. Many guests wore their NFL team gear today, too bad they could not follow their games as the WiFi was down for the entire day. I did Chinese food for lunch in the lido Marketplace, the Orange Chicken was good, but I do miss the Mongolian Wok. I was able to get a small bit of balcony time in between showers. The casino was doing well, but it was another boring sea day for us. At about 5:30 pm I had a Guy’s Burger, thank goodness we have a retractable roof over that pool area, in another 15 minutes there was a long line of guests at Guy’s getting burgers before they close at 6:00 pm. On the walk through the passageways I noticed a lot of excursion cancellation notices in the mailboxes and Snoozing signs out, many guests riding it out in bed I assume. It was movie night in the cabin, </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The Eyes of Tammy Faye</span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> about Tammy Faye Baker was a very interesting movie. Still no Wifi and in fact, we had the hardest and heaviest rain of the cruise this evening. It was a dreary wet sea day on the Pride. <br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Monday, November 7th / Bermuda / Day 9</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinZR6n-7oJ9cv-5TCDv2vsQaSoFcjtlqO-29y8k1JyHEiFlbzcntn1XtIOx3YFkmQpzTIbs16ojS8m9eYn8T-nqq3D6WgoormKSnJ6xp2HYTHXS4GLXWwM3KRI_BRiYtUuc3sYbdITi4VoyNlhR36FeU1B6uYykkyPTH5-9OZco9yvmJAmuhPXRDRR/s3680/IMG_7127.heic" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1804" data-original-width="3680" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinZR6n-7oJ9cv-5TCDv2vsQaSoFcjtlqO-29y8k1JyHEiFlbzcntn1XtIOx3YFkmQpzTIbs16ojS8m9eYn8T-nqq3D6WgoormKSnJ6xp2HYTHXS4GLXWwM3KRI_BRiYtUuc3sYbdITi4VoyNlhR36FeU1B6uYykkyPTH5-9OZco9yvmJAmuhPXRDRR/w400-h196/IMG_7127.heic" width="400" /></a></div></span>Again rolling and heavy seas overnight as we sailed more directly to Bermuda. The Captain has tried to avoid rain cells during the daytime, but at night he does not. I was up early updating this blog although I can’t post it until we get WiFi again. I’m hoping for a break in the weather this morning so that we can at least dock today and guests can get off the ship for a while, they need it. When we arrived on the lee side of the island at about 6:40 am it was the first time the ship hasn’t pitched & rolled since we left Ponta Delgado a week ago. Very overcast and very windy, and we had to have a tug boat assist in getting us to the <b>Kings Wharf </b>at the old Navy Ship Yard docks. We finally tied down at about 8:20 am. I had an enjoyable breakfast in the MDR with Hot Milk. We are docked aft to aft with the Norwegian Pearl and when we had heavy rain you couldn’t even see the other ship. The rain stopped and soon afterward (10:15 am) the ship's WiFi began to work. Great! I have a lot of business to do this Monday morning. At about 11:30 during a break in the weather, we went ashore to do a walkabout in the Navy Yard. We went to the <b>Frog & Onion Pub</b>, which we visited on our last overnight cruise visit. We split one order of Nachos and one beer @ $37.50 a bit dear IMHO (but they are known for that). We walked around the shops located in the old military barracks, but soon headed back when it began to drizzle. Wifi turned poor again…disappointing. We had dinner in the Lido Marketplace, nothing special, but basically the same menu as in the MDR. We had a cabin TV night again as the seas again became rough as soon as we got around the island of Bermuda. They have closed all the port holes and have installed safety barriers on all the Ocean View windows on deck one, we are expecting even worse weather because of TS Nicole, let’s hope they don’t do deck 2 tomorrow. It was a Bermudian kind of day today on the Pride.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Tuesday, November 8th / Fun Day at Sea / Day 10</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5tGNxYqVLcjhcIKWEVqpER7D3B7t36uqH4q1ZcNqaePsyrfPfUKe-BSjEIWCf30buJj8G985zBXoWgNcVzfT4B8txXEO4flnGrwEEAKq4YqVg-URYExN3A82KRlNMde7DL1hmTQW55WT4k7crusIddWoYb8dRcnT6DSuyay2Ann-r5vJ-e_ig5Sog/s4032/IMG_7129.HEIC" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5tGNxYqVLcjhcIKWEVqpER7D3B7t36uqH4q1ZcNqaePsyrfPfUKe-BSjEIWCf30buJj8G985zBXoWgNcVzfT4B8txXEO4flnGrwEEAKq4YqVg-URYExN3A82KRlNMde7DL1hmTQW55WT4k7crusIddWoYb8dRcnT6DSuyay2Ann-r5vJ-e_ig5Sog/w200-h150/IMG_7129.HEIC" width="200" /></a></div></span>Rough seas overnight have become the norm for this cruise. In addition to barricading the lower windows, they have drained all the pools and stowed most outdoor loungers, chairs, and tables, removed items from tables and shelves, and anything that can move. Looks like TS Nicole is between us and home. We also turned back our clocks @ 2:00 am for the final time. We are now in Tampa Florida destination time. At daybreak we were sailing through the rain with little visibility, forget about any internet service, they set up a status information channel on the TV, but it’s not working either. I had a light breakfast and lunch on Lido, I did an improvised sandwich getting sliced pork from the Carving Station and fresh rolls adding spicy mustard. With a salad, it was one of my better lunches. The weather, not the seas, improved during the day. I got an hour of nice balcony time before sunset, then a full moon (photo). The clearer sky also helped me get WiFi as well. I had dinner before going to see the Beatles Tribute Show by Lance Montalto in the Butterflies Lounge. He had a SRO crowd when I went there at about 8:15 pm. A stop in the Casino then Cherry on Top before retiring to the cabin. It was a nasty weather day that improved by nightfall on the Pride.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Wednesday November 9th / Grand Cayman / Day 11 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHiRI-NhTLWkWMKPJVHZZd6p41qCw-paXq3GvDUfVgJXJU9JQkJE6rNw_pqEGhoXB3IWTKEvH2A3Yg0xGAUyBV4b9D_FVK5yVxMG0zbpWOpo6acpwKi2HLz7tILU7HwY-v4kSPf-s7Jyu_zoJQ0NOMFlkV4kQyvprq2qPrDoSFf9beYvBqjIQ3GlDV/s3612/lighthouse.HEIC" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3612" data-original-width="2441" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHiRI-NhTLWkWMKPJVHZZd6p41qCw-paXq3GvDUfVgJXJU9JQkJE6rNw_pqEGhoXB3IWTKEvH2A3Yg0xGAUyBV4b9D_FVK5yVxMG0zbpWOpo6acpwKi2HLz7tILU7HwY-v4kSPf-s7Jyu_zoJQ0NOMFlkV4kQyvprq2qPrDoSFf9beYvBqjIQ3GlDV/w270-h400/lighthouse.HEIC" width="270" /></a></div></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Much smoother seas overnight and I slept well although up very early. The sunrise is early too on the eastern edge of the EST @ 5:50 am. We do have WiFi with the improved weather so I reviewed election results and others news for the first time in a while. They have refilled the swimming pools and it looks like we may be getting back to a normal cruise today as we are now south of TS Nicole. We docked a bit earlier than scheduled next to the Carnival Freedom. It was interesting to see the damaged whale tail funnel from the recent fire on board the Freedom. We left the ship at about 10:00 am and rented a Golf Cart. We drove to the Lighthouse seeing lots of wild donkeys along the way. The water here is beautiful, but the island really is not at all. Then to <b>Cockburn Town</b> to purchase some primitive art similar to what I purchased on my last visit here. There were a lot of tourists there, I was surprised, but there were several tourist buses stopped on the way to a beach break and on tours. It eventually cleared, an advantage of having a golf cart, and I had a beer and looked at the shops. The next stop was <b>Jack’s Shack</b> and we lucked out and scored a table. A larger new bar area than the previous and it was busy. I enjoyed a few Turk Head lager beers and hit the water on this rather warm day. We returned early and were back onboard by 3:00 pm. This was the first somewhat normal or typical cruise day and guests were enjoying it at the beach or at the pools onboard the ship. I watched sail away @ 6:30 pm…a beautiful full moon and lights of the Freedom and Grand Turk as we sailed into the night. We were invited to dine Al Fresco @ 7:30 pm on the Lido Deck. It was different and anything different is good. A perfect evening for it with a nice breeze. It was basically an enhanced MDR menu but I enjoyed a table with a tablecloth and ambiance. I ordered Stuffed Mushrooms, Cobb Salad, Stuffed Pork Chop, and Fruit Plate for dessert. A nice little extra for Diamond guests on this long cruise. It was the best weather day and an island kind of day on the Carnival Pride.</span><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Thursday, November 10th / Fun Day at Sea / Day 12 </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibrQPylaKzsBaZD283lgaI9Meq7qwMV68dKuAnoPCLeAPEWrO0Q8R1a6rubGx3poGeqEzPjQsJlXiGmXKkcsoHcjwNKun4-o9LCsU1pbO8ZZFgg_SP0mqNy89-YZU6vWoGeSJRwx3ADDYsiMsJ3pzUA4a_qXe1jhcNWhwXEQNJBu-NVxYNYsNpXz8s/s3308/IMG_7147.heic" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1328" data-original-width="3308" height="128" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibrQPylaKzsBaZD283lgaI9Meq7qwMV68dKuAnoPCLeAPEWrO0Q8R1a6rubGx3poGeqEzPjQsJlXiGmXKkcsoHcjwNKun4-o9LCsU1pbO8ZZFgg_SP0mqNy89-YZU6vWoGeSJRwx3ADDYsiMsJ3pzUA4a_qXe1jhcNWhwXEQNJBu-NVxYNYsNpXz8s/s320/IMG_7147.heic" width="320" /></a><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></b></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well. It’s been a while since I’ve been able to write my standard opening to a day's review. It does make me appreciate it more. The DW brought Danish down from the Lido Marketplace for breakfast on this bright sunshiny day. In fact, we had to close the drapes as it was heating up the cabin. We had a casual morning watching the </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Ford vs. Ferrari </span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">movie and then went up to deck three so the cabin steward could have the room to clean. I did a walkabout cashing out at the casino and applying some cash on my ship account at Guest Services. BTW-there is not a Texas Hold ‘Em table on the Pride. I then had a very nice Guy’s hamburger for a late lunch. The rest of the afternoon I had cabin time to monitor the Market, a record positive day. Sweet! I had a happy-hour planned on the balcony @ 4:00 pm but some rain showers drove me indoors for an hour. I have beer to drink bought in Turkey and it’s a beautiful evening…so it was wonderful. I had been watching a cruise ship gaining on us since well before 4:00 pm and it caught us and passed on the starboard side about 7:45-8:00 pm. Beautiful with the ship lights and lightning in the background. I went to get a pizza for the cabin at about 8:15, it was good and my first of the 3 cruises. I still haven’t had any ice creme. A Television evening until sleep. It was a FUN and profitable sea day on the Pride.</span> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Friday, November 11th / Fun Day at Sea / Day 13 </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ekePbdeV-YF_T_wIIVlGVqsoIwDjrF2To9Y3pPCwb3E29YnMhNzyTNQTwK6F4CAtrGlY6-k-whbEAkOIAxC9w62CVcw2cvbYnxHJtKkNZEL9bKkLgkJfO3LpYer0HV8X9d0a9fVmU4nSRVMu1sbIlcpTMGGtoIvbIpAmaxMls1CGO-53LRI1y80Z/s3407/IMG_7151.heic" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2890" data-original-width="3407" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ekePbdeV-YF_T_wIIVlGVqsoIwDjrF2To9Y3pPCwb3E29YnMhNzyTNQTwK6F4CAtrGlY6-k-whbEAkOIAxC9w62CVcw2cvbYnxHJtKkNZEL9bKkLgkJfO3LpYer0HV8X9d0a9fVmU4nSRVMu1sbIlcpTMGGtoIvbIpAmaxMls1CGO-53LRI1y80Z/s320/IMG_7151.heic" width="320" /></a></span></b></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well on this last day of the cruise. A relaxing morning before I went to the MDR for the Carnival Seaday Brunch. I had a hearty breakfast as I will have my usual sausage & biscuit once I get home. I had a Fruit Bowl, Eggs Benedict, two eggs sunny side, Hash Browns, Bacon, and Hot milk. I then went to Guest Services to cancel my Internet Plan and since I prepaid the plan with OBC they will send an OBC credit and I’ll still have the WiFi through tomorrow morning, better than I expected. If I actually get the credit. The sun hits our balcony today and we have the curtains closed so we had movie time </span><em style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">JoJo Rabbit</span></em><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">, a dark comedy about WWII. We both had Blue Iguana bowls for lunch today, always a good option. Ice Creme in the dessert section today...I never used the soft serve. We did some preliminary packing this afternoon and I reserved a Lyft ride for 8:30 am on Saturday so I hope all goes smoothly with debarkation. At 4:45 pm I went to the theater for the Diamond & Platinum party, just so happened I was again the high cruiser, all three on the B2B2B. This time the Captain was in attendance so I had a photo taken with Captain </span>Constanzo<span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> and Felipe the Cruise Director (photo above right). I then made it to Guy’s before they closed at 6:00 pm and had a hamburger: The Ringer, it is a good one. We finished packing as we put the bags out tonight for pickup. Time for another movie before sleep time. It was a nice final sea day on the Pride.</span><p></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></p></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Saturday, November 12th / Tampa Florida. / Debarkation</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p>We woke early and packed our carry-on bags then went to the Ivory Lounge, the designated Diamond meet location about 7:00 am. Although we have pickup bags we wanted to get on deck 3 for ease of debarking. We anticipated the calling of bags since we have number 1 and followed the self-assist after about a 15-minute wait. It was perfect as they called Numbers 1 & 2 while we were in line for customs. It's a manual process as they claim the WiFi will not support facial recognition as yet. I found our bags easily and I believe we were the actual first guests out that had checked bags. We walked to the Florida Aquarium arriving at about 8:15 am, perfect for our scheduled 8:30 Lyft pick-up ($65+tip). We were home by 9:30 am. Super easy debarkation.<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Cabin</span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">We have had the same cabin, 8270 an aft-facing balcony on deck 8 for all three cruises. That made it very easy for us. It has a push-button safe, a queen bed, a couch, two nightstands, lamps by the bed, a small refrigerator, a seat at the dresser/desk, and a very small TV. There are three large wardrobes, one set of drawers, and one storage cabinet, and we used a large portable fan on some occasions. </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Crew</span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Our cabin stewards were adequate and friendly. The wait staff in the MDR were also friendly and did a good job serving us. The GS (Guest Services) staff and excursion desk are very friendly and nice.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Dining / Food / Bars / Entertainment</span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The food is the long-time standard Carnival menu, they have added 50th birthday throw-back classic dishes. Food quality was not as good as my recent Carnival Paradise cruises though. Overall quite average for Carnival and below average compared to other cruise lines. Entertainment was mediocre at best. The comedians were best choice with Lance Montalto #1. The Alchemy Bar disappointing. <br /></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Diamond Card</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> — The usual Carnival benefits; the casino does give the $25 in cash, a Diamond luncheon, Chocolate strawberries on request (we didn’t), Laundry, Pin, and a drink koozie as a gift.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Highlights of the Cruise</span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Of course, Carnival can not control the weather but the poor weather and high seas made the cruise difficult to enjoy. There were some nicer days, but very few, and only one day of thirteen that it didn’t rain. With very limited TV channels and poor internet and the fact that we have seen every production show and played every triva game, the days became rather long and boring for us. Not the best cruise and frankly I now question even taking another transatlantic. I know I am happier with the </span>XL-class cruise ships.</p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>The first two cruises of this B2B2B adventure in the Mediterranean Sea were wonderful. All the ports in Italy, Greece, and Turkey were FUN and very enjoyable.</b><br /></span></p><p></p></div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: left;"></p>Snoozemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08287635714818403539noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-666314469198049300.post-56308241071593760762022-10-21T05:30:00.048-05:002022-11-14T17:19:56.744-06:00Carnival Pride Mediteranian Cruise Review<p style="text-align: left;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7vTlzjmysTZ1_PY53jeGeBI3dPsYil9Tye8IfxraiqZosGoG3aShs-Zi2udlTC2fq7uvVZtdd0CvsLZN2DHnfXWLOXM8MbLWKHXppraFPu70eSFYL9v4m4WGhvoAK926Me-5CXHz3QmTWnGzZmWiuZsAeg2J-OR9E59uKmKM_cHDzuhCvxIQyIG1u/s3607/Pride-2.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1730" data-original-width="3607" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7vTlzjmysTZ1_PY53jeGeBI3dPsYil9Tye8IfxraiqZosGoG3aShs-Zi2udlTC2fq7uvVZtdd0CvsLZN2DHnfXWLOXM8MbLWKHXppraFPu70eSFYL9v4m4WGhvoAK926Me-5CXHz3QmTWnGzZmWiuZsAeg2J-OR9E59uKmKM_cHDzuhCvxIQyIG1u/w640-h306/Pride-2.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><h4 style="text-align: center;">Carnival Pride Cruise Review October 21, 2022</h4><div style="text-align: left;"><b><u>Just the Facts: </u></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Ship: Carnival Pride is a Spirit-class ship launched in 2001 at 88,500 Tons & 2100 guest capacity.</span><br /><span style="font-weight: normal;"></span><span style="font-weight: normal;">Captain: Rino Constanzo Hotel Director: Stephen Chastney Cruise Director: Felipe Couto</span><br /><span style="font-weight: normal;"></span><span style="font-weight: normal;">Ports: Civitaveccia, Italy - Naples, Italy - Messina, Sicily - Valletta, Malta - Malaga, Spain - Gibralter - Portimao, Portugal - Lisbon, Portugal</span><br /><span style="font-weight: normal;"></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"></span><span style="font-weight: normal;">This is the second of three consecutive cruises on the Carnival Pride. I am sailing with the Dear Wife and friends from Thailand. This is my 2nd cruise on the Pride my 106th Carnival cruise, and 190th cruise overall.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><br /><span style="font-weight: normal;"></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Friday October 21st / Embarkation / Civitavecchia, Italy / Day 1 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZBkro2iNioFdfZ5WqU_e3uhYwnrEuTMpB5DjsPc1JqGeAmXt2uIcm3e2QlrMd31GQG_x7SZUVswMy6p4R5-b71WUB-BIOTx9xnFACXiEhNfkcudqP8EVhseLlzH6MV-q07CM6RcU_DJnidDX4586j_CtvmkdbixIxZDEcC__jD6fr5B3Lo-_Rd2Ko/s800/Civitavecchia-2.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZBkro2iNioFdfZ5WqU_e3uhYwnrEuTMpB5DjsPc1JqGeAmXt2uIcm3e2QlrMd31GQG_x7SZUVswMy6p4R5-b71WUB-BIOTx9xnFACXiEhNfkcudqP8EVhseLlzH6MV-q07CM6RcU_DJnidDX4586j_CtvmkdbixIxZDEcC__jD6fr5B3Lo-_Rd2Ko/w400-h300/Civitavecchia-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div></b><b><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">An easy transition day as we are already on the ship and we only have to meet the other 200+ B2B guests at 8:00 am and receive our new Sail & Sign cards for this cruise. No requirements for customs within the European Union so one of the easiest embarkations and we were back in the cabin by 9:00 am. There were some hiccups with many B2B cards not being activated but soon straightened out. I made some excursion changes when they opened at 11:00 am and by 11:30 the four of us left the ship. We walked to the newish large </span></span><span style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Piazza Della Vita </span></span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">located along the seaside and stopped at Chalet Gariba a very nice open seaside cafe/bar. Great place to relax and enjoy the weather and people-watch as well as have a few refreshments. The Piazza also has Palm Trees and unique art work (photo). Using Google Maps we found a highly rated Bistro named </span></span><span style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Cavoli A Merenda</span></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> only six blocks away and went for a late lunch. It was a great experience, a beautiful small outdoor location, with fresh farm food, wine, beer, and bakery items. Great place for a vegetarian. We all ordered off the special day menu and enjoyed it very much…this made our day. We walked back towards the ship and I stopped at a Mini-market close to the shuttle location to purchase Coca-Cola, Peroni beer, and Lay’s Potato Chips. We were back on board and visited our Muster Station by 4:00 pm. There were six ships docked in Civitavecchia today, as the sun sat they looked impressive as we sailed away. I had dinner at our new table (222) in the Normandie Restaurant tonight. I ordered the classic Roasted Tomato Soup (it was excellent), the Sweet & Sour Shrimp (very good), the Pollo Parmigiana Della Cucina (a great chicken dish from the Cucina de Capitano Menu) entree, and a nice Tiramisu for dessert. An excellent Menu. I retired soon afterward. It was a very nice transition day in Civitavecchia and on the Pride.</span></span></div></b><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Saturday October 22nd / Naples, Italy / Day 2</b></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGG_T-A1fV7t1dDhPjNPVnTKSx81aqA6JU4Gt3GHx4ECQeCXJTb-Uj2Rxb-EIwtJE19Iw5JDnUXayvRr6z1x199cUVPp6E1BAb1EkYSyfTERPfzmDGnU-PbHnvcldf1wKsUiJqSd1bZ0uARl8WVjxDHzrCDAg-VKY8PhdLeDwpR6uT1d1m3F9JwePj/s4032/IMG_6888.HEIC" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGG_T-A1fV7t1dDhPjNPVnTKSx81aqA6JU4Gt3GHx4ECQeCXJTb-Uj2Rxb-EIwtJE19Iw5JDnUXayvRr6z1x199cUVPp6E1BAb1EkYSyfTERPfzmDGnU-PbHnvcldf1wKsUiJqSd1bZ0uARl8WVjxDHzrCDAg-VKY8PhdLeDwpR6uT1d1m3F9JwePj/w400-h300/IMG_6888.HEIC" width="400" /></a></div>Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. We were up early for our busy day. I went to the MDR at about 7:00 am for a nice breakfast: Western Omelet, Bacon, Hash Browns, Grapefruit, Tomato Juice, and Hot Milk. Our Excursion is </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">the Ancient Ruins of Herculaneum</span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> and left the ship at 8:30 am. We arrived at the </span><b><span style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Herculaneum</span></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Archeological Park</b> within an hour and began our 2.5-hour tour. This Roman seaside town was destroyed in the famous Mt. Vesuvius eruption in 79 AD. Not as large a site as the more famous Pompei, but it was better preserved. Numerous homes have been uncovered with original painted walls, flooring of various types, household items, and more (photo right). It was well worth the time and effort to see it all. There are also two museums with relics. We returned to the ship just after noon and prepared for another attempt at a walkabout in Naples. We were docked in the prime port location unlike on Thursday so closer to the better areas of downtown. Our goal was to get some sweets from the famous <b>Gran Caffe Gambrinus</b> and find a pizza place along the way. We found the famous local pizza establishment, but it was an hour's wait to get a seat. We walked through the Large beautiful Galleria Umberto I and exited on the busiest pedestrian street in Naples: Via Toledo. It was midday Saturday and half the population of Naples was on the street. Every walk-up pizza location had long lines, but we lucked into a table at L.u.i.s.e Restaurant. We ordered a White wine, a large draft of Peroni beer, and a Pizza Pie. We were soon joined by our friend out on a solo walkabout of his own. Great for people watching as at least 1000+ passed by while we ate. We walked down to the very busy Gambrinus and bought pastries for takeaway. Then walked back to the ship arriving back at about 3:15 pm. We did 12,300 steps between the tour and walk today, second only to the Santorini day last cruise.</span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> Serious rest until dinner tonight I had the Escargot, Shrimp Cocktail, Lentil-Pumpkin-Chorizo Soup, the Weiner Schnitzel entree, and Cheesecake for dessert. After dinner I retired to the cabin and sleep. It was a busy and interesting day in Napoli.<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Sunday October 23rd / Messina Sicily, Italy / Day 3</b></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXw7ayq8W08eeuaQzHUUJDOWOUm7-wrljRyznJZMyFLM4qHaEfvx3_p3ZkxGwm8R6spK2xiB1RcNtPuc1z3NtdaTaZyIUCeKNeLDBXNlCDgg7Q6A057oBGKsKfsAerKl62AxmHJPXaUhw8ZI4e6MShTou9GRr_P-Z1mVrBX37G8dEXLbEroNYK04HT/s3619/BellTower-Messina.HEIC" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3619" data-original-width="1476" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXw7ayq8W08eeuaQzHUUJDOWOUm7-wrljRyznJZMyFLM4qHaEfvx3_p3ZkxGwm8R6spK2xiB1RcNtPuc1z3NtdaTaZyIUCeKNeLDBXNlCDgg7Q6A057oBGKsKfsAerKl62AxmHJPXaUhw8ZI4e6MShTou9GRr_P-Z1mVrBX37G8dEXLbEroNYK04HT/w164-h400/BellTower-Messina.HEIC" width="164" /></a></div></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Calm seas overnight and I slept well, I was awake when we sailed into the harbor of Messina near sunrise @ 7:15 am... We are not doing an excursion just planning to walk around the city so an easy morning for us. I had a nice Omelet+ from the Lido at about 8:30 am and took some pastries back to the cabin for the DW. At about 10:00 we left the ship and walked the few blocks over to Piazza del Duomo. Here we visited the </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> and stayed for the 10:30 Mass. We then had two Coca-Colas in the Piazza while waiting for the noon presentation at the </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Campanile Del Duomo Di Messina </span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">(photo left) or the Church Clocktower. It was impressive…similar to or better than what one would see in Munich or Prague at their famous clocktowers. BTW-you can catch the HoHo buses here if you wish… an easy walk from the cruise port. I knew because of a great experience in Genoa that many fine restaurants in Italy offer a nice Sunday midday meal. I researched Messina and found a great restaurant with a Michelin award called </span><a href="https://guide.michelin.com/us/en/sicilia/messina/restaurant/sacha" target="_blank"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Ristorante Sacha</span></b></a><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> about a 15-minute walk. We arrived at about 12:40 and were the first guests. I recognized the Chef when we entered as I had just seen his photo on Facebook, I greeted him and we instantly had great service. We were also seated at the prime table to be able to see the Chef at work…similar to a Chef Table concept. Amazing. There is a Sous Chef, Cook, and the (celebrity) Chef supervises and does the presentations. Since we were first we saw all of it being prepared. Very unique serving dishes with each course too. The food was amazing, I may do a full review of it, but for brevity, we had a Veggie Sampler, Shrimp Sampler, Pumpkin Risotto, Lobster, Fresh Fish, Unique vegetables, and an amazing Pear for dessert. Perhaps dear, but less than the price of an excursion and more enjoyable to me. We walked back along the harbor enjoying the perfect weather, also no traffic on a Sunday. We returned to the Cathedral to go through the Museum, we also had the option of climbing the Clock Tower…but no. We returned to the ship at 3:30 to relax from our walkabout and observe our 4:30 scheduled sail away from the port into the busy <i>Straights of Messina</i>. I updated this blog then went to dinner @ 8:15 pm. and all four of us attended for first time this cruise. For dinner tonight I ordered the Linguine and Meatballs as a starter, the Tuscan Minestrone Soup, the Tenderloin Steak entree, and Roasted Pineapple for dessert. We retired after dinner following a full fun day in Messina. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Monday October 24th / Valletta, Malta / Day 4</b></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSBCZgHdybQ6EJtFTweAsbA1odRKfYaGtcT-NHCGIuNs4NNoLFGc9uq16lehhopnkc8y_Ec9Er2EN89uINPhXdd41DIAkPYLBZPWvpe4J90PYDBm2u-AKIgqdrmom-b_9AjoXv9fbqwfh2wJxfDQGrMnBd2aopTqz6--BxJW4v8fJVJfFtuJLqL-Sa/s4032/IMG_6944.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSBCZgHdybQ6EJtFTweAsbA1odRKfYaGtcT-NHCGIuNs4NNoLFGc9uq16lehhopnkc8y_Ec9Er2EN89uINPhXdd41DIAkPYLBZPWvpe4J90PYDBm2u-AKIgqdrmom-b_9AjoXv9fbqwfh2wJxfDQGrMnBd2aopTqz6--BxJW4v8fJVJfFtuJLqL-Sa/w400-h300/IMG_6944.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well. I woke at about 6:00 am and we were docking in the impressive port and walled city of Valletta at about 7:00 am. I went to the MDR for breakfast before they closed at 9:00 am for three fried Eggs, Bacon, Hash Browns, Grapefruit, Tomato Juice, and proper Hot Milk. We then began our big walkabout in Valetta starting with the 20+ minute walk uphill to the City from the harbor. We did it properly and went through the original City Gates and soon stopped at a Cafe for Coca-Cola and rest a bit. Then on to the <b>St. John’s Co-Cathedral</b> the premier tourist site in Valetta. Opened in 1578, the exterior is rather austere and reminiscent of a fortress, but the interior is very ornate, one of the most unique places we have visited. It’s also home to an art masterpiece: <b><i>The Beheading of St. John the Baptist </i>(1608) by Caravaggio </b>(photo right)<b>.</b> It was our second visit but still awe-inspiring. We enjoyed walking the streets and St. Georges Square with buildings dating back to the 15th & 16th centuries. We took a tour of a private palace: <b>Casa Rocca Piccola</b> built in the 16th century. It was very interesting and the original kitchen is now a restaurant: <b>La Giara</b> where we ate our lunch. I had one of their specialties, Tagliatelle al Ragu of Wild Boer, it was delicious. We continued our walk and had some specialty ice creme as we headed back towards the ship. It was a warm day @ 81° so we returned by 3:00 pm and we sailed about 5:00. A beautiful fortified harbor so a nice sail away. Cabin time to rest the rest of the evening. DW brought goodies down from Lido for us to snack on until we fell asleep. It was a wonderful but tiring day in Malta.</span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> <br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Tuesday October 25 / Fun Day at Sea / Day 5</b> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well, I watched the sunrise from the aft balcony as we are sailing due west this morning. We went to the MDR for the Sea Day Brunch and Mayong was our waiter, later joined by our friends at the next table so it was make-up for missing dinner last night. We enjoyed our Diamond cocktails, a Bloody Mary, and Bellini and I ordered: Steak&Eggs, Hash Browns, Bacon, Danish, Toast, Tomato Juice, and Hot Milk. It was a good breakfast. Afterward, we went to collect our $25 Casino gifts, I got $1 bills to use as tips for servers. We then returned to the cabin where I worked on documents for our next cruise, our call in Bermuda requires extra entry forms. Very few sea days to get business done on a port-intensive cruise. I booked an excursion, picked up our diamond gifts, bought candy at Cherry on Top, then had a Guy’s Hamburger for a late lunch. Just a nice relaxing day. We went to the <b>Elegant Night Dinner</b> in the Normandie MDR, DW had a special Vegetable plate, and I ordered the Italian wedding soup, Prime Rib with Baked Potato, Lobster Tail, and Creme Brûlée and a Banana Split for dessert. A nice meal and good service. After dinner, we took a walk before retiring to the cabin. It was both a relaxing and productive sea day on the Carnival Pride sailing the Mediterranean Sea.</span></div></div></div><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></b></p><div style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Wednesday, October 26 / Fun Day at Sea / Day 6</span></b></div><div style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well. I was awake at dawn and watched the sunrise behind the ship as we sail west in the Mediterranean Sea. The coast of Africa was visible on our port side for most of the day. You could even see an occasional Saharan dust cloud pass over us. The sweet DW brought pastries down for breakfast as I finalized our Bermuda entry paperwork. At 11:30 we went to deck 3 and the <b>Diamond Guest Luncheon</b> in the Normandie Restaurant. I ordered the usual but had the advantage of finishing the DW’s dishes as well. I had a Salad, Pork Belly, Sea Bass, NY Strip Steak, with Tres Leches, and Fruit Plate for dessert. Very good food, good friends, and plentiful cocktails so a great luncheon. DW went to Lido to get vegetarian food then it was cabin time for the rest of the afternoon. Great weather on the balcony and interesting ‘dust devils’ on occasion so we had a very lazy day in the cabin & outside. I went to the Lido for dinner, the Tex-Mex pasta bowl sounded like comfort food to me, especially when I added cheddar cheese and a dollop of mashed potatoes. I did a walkabout the ship, everyone enjoying themselves on this final sea day. A stop at Cherries on Top for some candy, I prefer that to a cocktail on occasion. With a notice that our excursion now meets at 8:00 am, we decided to retire early. It was a relaxing day on the Carnival Pride.</span></div><div style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Thursday, October 27th / Malaga, Spain / Day 7 </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbpdrvUrsMWePjLZG3Qezin4bCzOKU1OrscXUhXr48FqoeXjGSJQf5BeTLR97uuajCVGC-q-fdjXRIdq6Y_s9jEV1Ebyhcd7N5HTgOjqKfDVGM_s3wWl3CSNE-GdQmCabpHDfDMGVFq7_4peZuXugkNHxfbPRvNInkbMMs69NMDTw7FqfGlucB8u5P/s1000/site_0313_0001-1000-671-20090929160107.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="671" data-original-width="1000" height="269" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbpdrvUrsMWePjLZG3Qezin4bCzOKU1OrscXUhXr48FqoeXjGSJQf5BeTLR97uuajCVGC-q-fdjXRIdq6Y_s9jEV1Ebyhcd7N5HTgOjqKfDVGM_s3wWl3CSNE-GdQmCabpHDfDMGVFq7_4peZuXugkNHxfbPRvNInkbMMs69NMDTw7FqfGlucB8u5P/w400-h269/site_0313_0001-1000-671-20090929160107.jpg" width="400" /></a></b></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept well, I was up early before we docked at about 7:00 am. I went up to Lido for a quick breakfast as we had to meet for our excursion at 8:00 am, Today we are doing </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Cordoba Highlights</span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">. It’s almost a 2-hour drive to the ancient city of Cordoba founded by Rome about 152 BC. On the drive up we past the world's largest Olive Tree plantations. The scenery was amazing. Arriving in Cordoba we walked through lanes and passageways of the Old Town and the Jewish quarter. The </span><a href="https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/313/gallery/" target="_blank"><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Historic Center of Cordoba</span></i></a><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> is UNESCO listed site, of course, the </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mosque%E2%80%93Cathedral_of_C%C3%B3rdoba" target="_blank"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba</span></b></a><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> is the jewel. The site was earliest a Roman Temple site, then the Great Mosque from 756 - 12th century, and a Catholic Cathedral from the 13th century. An amazing and huge building certainly worth a visit. We had more than an hour on our own to shop and eat lunch. I wanted to try the traditional dish of the city: </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salmorejo" target="_blank"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Salmorejo</span></b></a><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> made of tomatoes, bread, extra virgin olive oil, and garlic. Then topped with Serrano ham & local cheese and served cold. Very interesting. I had some nice local ice creme from a shop for dessert. and we did a small amount of shopping. We arrived back at the ship at about 4:45 for our 5:30 back-on-board time. Tonight I had a Funderstruck Burger from Guy’s. They don’t advertise it, but they will make it if you properly and specifically order it. It was good. Our friends ate at the unique Steakhouse located in the funnel of the ship. They said it was very nice. I enjoyed the sail away as you can watch the city and then the mountains disappear as you sail further into the Mediterranean Sea. Sundown was a bonus. We had cabin time until retiring. It was an Andalusian kind of day on the Carnival Pride.</span><p></p><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Friday, October 28 / Gibraltar, British Overseas Territory / Day 8</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9mb5bwCuVcwgWt3bAXsQ0tx8CAvn7gCwtAe5FY1hwry4s0EgnZzbLmMVq6-O5H62N2kMdg6_I5z30Bz7ye0lpgSjj3uSyNBeoiFz2B46m71rqaJBKK3dmGLqKyHJ5GPDprFOOEwQmDZEn73DdyrU3-lNabltLqqe6LFs0vhafoD0LlT91C6-UVFlh/s3024/IMG_3425.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9mb5bwCuVcwgWt3bAXsQ0tx8CAvn7gCwtAe5FY1hwry4s0EgnZzbLmMVq6-O5H62N2kMdg6_I5z30Bz7ye0lpgSjj3uSyNBeoiFz2B46m71rqaJBKK3dmGLqKyHJ5GPDprFOOEwQmDZEn73DdyrU3-lNabltLqqe6LFs0vhafoD0LlT91C6-UVFlh/w400-h400/IMG_3425.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Smooth seas again overnight and I slept very well. We were docked before dawn, but we’re doing our own thing today so we could sleep late. It was foggy in the early hours so we didn’t leave the ship until after 10:00 am. Since we leave at 4:00 we ruled out going up on the Rock since we did that extensively on our last visit here. We walked from the port to the High Street, much of it Pedestrian only, and found numerous General Shops, British Pubs, Restaurants, Souvenir Shops, Government Buildings, and more. They use British Pounds Sterling here, but we use the Apple card now exclusively overseas. Great value against the US dollar now so a lot of bargains for us. We did get a lot of items for the long upcoming transatlantic cruise including MacVitties biscuits & cookies, vitamins, candy, Coca-cola, and more. We walked the entire length of Main Street to the old Gibraltar Cemetery. It was interesting with most graves being Royal Navy officers from the 19th century. We found the Admiral Nelson statue and then started our walk back. We stopped at a great pub: <b>Lord Nelson Pub</b>. Great pub atmosphere, beer, wine, and fast WiFi. I ordered Fish & Chips, it was fantastic…served with lemon, tartar sauce, and mushy peas. The fish was huge. We stayed as long as possible (3 pints long) before returning to the ship. We watched the sail away and the Rock of Gibraltar disappear as we sailed (photo from 2016 visit). I had a short nap and almost missed dinner…it was steak night too. I ordered: Stuffed Mushrooms, Shrimp Cocktail, 4-Season Salad, the Filet Mignon entree, and Key Lime for dessert. It was a good meal. I returned to the cabin, checked the market, and turned our clocks back one hour as we change time zones overnight. It was a FUN port day in Gibraltar.<p></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Saturday, October 29th / </b></span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Portimão</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>, Portugal</b></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b> / Day 9</b><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXS-LRMZCd2yxE5rPkI94MairjyeOTRfrajAJP59KUic2IMtHMwm5XnPwaUuJzBhpyg1fEjFaM87CesYX86pSakzThg4YucvTT-7FS4CGP_JbjAbaSp-c3hC47Vgkm29PYIEZqI0ZlIxtJxY4Sj9zbmKo0nk0gWy2aUZuYkDeQS5OIZlJfjKl9ikar/s1600/1600px-Pasteis_de_Nata.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXS-LRMZCd2yxE5rPkI94MairjyeOTRfrajAJP59KUic2IMtHMwm5XnPwaUuJzBhpyg1fEjFaM87CesYX86pSakzThg4YucvTT-7FS4CGP_JbjAbaSp-c3hC47Vgkm29PYIEZqI0ZlIxtJxY4Sj9zbmKo0nk0gWy2aUZuYkDeQS5OIZlJfjKl9ikar/s320/1600px-Pasteis_de_Nata.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Rolling seas overnight as we sailed from the Mediterranean Sea into the Atlantic Ocean. We were anchored off of Portimao on the south coast of Portugal at first light. I was awake by this time and went to the MDR for an early breakfast, I ordered Grapefruit, Danish, Eggs Benedict, Bacon, Hash Browns, Tomato Juice, and Hot Milk. We then met our friends at the Diamond guest gathering spot at 8:30 am for priority tender service to shore arriving at the port just after 9:30 am. We walked towards the old town and found a very nice cafe/restaurant, the Casa Inglesa located along the harbor. We had our first <i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Pastéis de Nata</span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> (photo left) with soda, water, or coffee. Very nice as was the internet. After resting from our long walk from the port we then toured some of the city of Portimão before stopping for lunch at </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Taberna Portimão</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> a unique restaurant located on a narrow street in the old town. We had a great meal for four, I had the Veal served with Rice, Salad, and Mushrooms. We then began the long walk back to the port arriving to a very long line to be tendered back to the ship. It was about a half-hour wait. Once back on board we rested and I attended the Platinum & Diamond Cocktail Party at 4:45 pm. I was once again the cruise guest with the highest number of days: 705 on Carnival…we visited after the party while finishing our cocktails as we began to sail away. This is our friend's final day on board the ship as we begin our Transatlantic cruise tomorrow. For dinner tonight I ordered: Cobb Salad, Dill Lemon Comfort Soup, Country Fried Chicken, and Baked Alaska. Very tired after so much walking today so strait to the cabin and soon to bed. It was a nice day at a new port with great weather and friends…</span><p></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Highlights of the Cruise</b><br />The Fantastic Weather during the entire cruise</p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">St. John’s Co-Cathedral and Valetta<br />Ruins of Herculaneum <br />The meal at Ristorante Sacha in Messina<br /><span style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Campanile Del Duomo Di Messina</span></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p></div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div>Snoozemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08287635714818403539noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-666314469198049300.post-9891293526761022322022-10-10T11:19:00.073-05:002022-11-11T05:26:34.700-06:00Carnival Pride Mediteranian Cruise Review<h4 style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd4r7Hr0IDHX2X7nIbgnveczwssGxImQeHCUllhSVVWRxek-geF45nD5Vmdzk5bSqAQgHRECPsdcQMFKsPPK16Qm1PKK6Vw96USwgr7UI5Y28VTY2cUh3ujYuHeCpAV5OkGX48v0cmQUcH3pXxZczsrfOhOD-0YwIKYDM56SFQ8KXmLwxVuKz2R0fe/s900/pride.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="567" data-original-width="900" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd4r7Hr0IDHX2X7nIbgnveczwssGxImQeHCUllhSVVWRxek-geF45nD5Vmdzk5bSqAQgHRECPsdcQMFKsPPK16Qm1PKK6Vw96USwgr7UI5Y28VTY2cUh3ujYuHeCpAV5OkGX48v0cmQUcH3pXxZczsrfOhOD-0YwIKYDM56SFQ8KXmLwxVuKz2R0fe/w640-h404/pride.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> Carnival Pride Cruise Review October 11, 2022</h4><div style="text-align: left;"><b><u>Just the Facts:</u> </b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Ship: Carnival Pride is a Spirit-class ship launched in 2001 at 88,500 tons & 2200 guest capacity.<br />Captain: Maurizio Ruggiero - Hotel Director: Stephen Chastney - Cruise Director: Felipe Couto<br />Ports: Civitaveccia, Italy - Mykonos, Greece - Kusadasi, Turkey - Santorini, Greece - Athens, Greece - Katacolon, Greece - Messina, Sicily - Naples, Italy.</div><p style="text-align: left;">This is my first cruise to Europe since 2019 and the pre-covid era. I’m cruising with the Dear Wife and this is the first of three consecutive cruises on the Carnival Pride. This is also my first cruise on the Pride but my 105th Carnival cruise, and 189th cruise overall I do have some friends and clients sailing that will be fun to see. We will have 31 consecutive nights on board the Carnival Pride. <b> </b></p><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Monday / October 10, 2022 / Travel Day <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihCBMWNK5OwBG7mzII2H_A9OYjfH0Gr12dtGR1lLCyqwibW1QVjRLNLb8Cvw0qs-vTCMHZo4g49ayW2R7LKZxajQC6Gs9EbrXPoRCg6Va24jcQecrEm0sm2ItQLVy0UnQfwuiuzFpsP3TKR60C7jf1YUoLPgxGCUdjGe1a8r4OA0Jeo1O-sDu0xe2u/s1168/American_Airlines_Boeing_777-200_N775AN_Photo_251_(13836950534).jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="455" data-original-width="1168" height="125" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihCBMWNK5OwBG7mzII2H_A9OYjfH0Gr12dtGR1lLCyqwibW1QVjRLNLb8Cvw0qs-vTCMHZo4g49ayW2R7LKZxajQC6Gs9EbrXPoRCg6Va24jcQecrEm0sm2ItQLVy0UnQfwuiuzFpsP3TKR60C7jf1YUoLPgxGCUdjGe1a8r4OA0Jeo1O-sDu0xe2u/s320/American_Airlines_Boeing_777-200_N775AN_Photo_251_(13836950534).jpg" width="320" /></a></div></b><div style="text-align: justify;">I finished packing early Monday morning and off for the Tampa airport at about 10:45 am. The DD and Grand dropped us off at American and we proceeded to check our two bags through to Rome. We went through security and everything went quickly. We were at our gate 1.5 hours before our flight to Charlotte NC. The flight was only just over an hour and we arrived with time to spare for our 4:45 flight to Rome. We were boarded on the 777-200 aircraft (photo) and have our favorite cheap seats on row 36. Everything was going well until there was a problem with the plane and we all had to debark the plane, Oh My! We walked across the airport for the second time today to our new gate and aircraft for our Rome flight rescheduled for a 7:00 pm departure. We re-boarded and we were away at about 7:20 pm. We had the same seats and I watched 4 episodes of Taylor Sheridan’s 1883 and the new Elvis movie, not much sleep if any. An interesting travel day.</div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Tuesday October 11 / Embarkation / Rome & <span>Civitavecchia</span>, Italy / Day 1 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKkKceUKnU1LnLsVkh-M95T5vcgzwLHAnx_u0OoXt9ZE4Ug72Ab2jPuJbvQavzFW6fi_ar6g9CxXxMXE_YNXtASitFsDaqJqE-TemGLy_Ffqdw8aN34PhYDlJIj8YMMl8gdWJD5ArGIV-DYVJPXqsQofpOOJ7UKTr-lPk-KuAAYu8Ko0s5ymnxd3NB/s640/itinerary.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKkKceUKnU1LnLsVkh-M95T5vcgzwLHAnx_u0OoXt9ZE4Ug72Ab2jPuJbvQavzFW6fi_ar6g9CxXxMXE_YNXtASitFsDaqJqE-TemGLy_Ffqdw8aN34PhYDlJIj8YMMl8gdWJD5ArGIV-DYVJPXqsQofpOOJ7UKTr-lPk-KuAAYu8Ko0s5ymnxd3NB/s320/itinerary.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></b><div style="text-align: justify;">We landed about 10:00 am Rome time and being a late arrival it made it very easy to clear local customs…and yes you do clear customs before you get your baggage (won a bet on this). We had to wait in the airport for an hour + for our shuttle time to the Port of Civitavecchia. We were both walking zombies by the time our noon shuttle left at 1:00 pm. It was an easy one-hour drive to the port and security and check-in went very smooth, we did the mandatory Boat Drill on the way to our cabin arriving by 2:30. Very tempting to just sleep but we went up one deck to Lido to eat. I had one Guy’s Burger with fries and DW had Macaroni & Cheese with Broccoli and Guy’s french fries. We met our Cabin Steward Joe and surprisingly our luggage was soon delivered…that is always a relief. We were both too tired to unpack and it was finally Nap time. I slept from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm very soundly, as I never even heard the loud boat drill blasts, announcements, nor the sail away. At about 11:00 pm I went down to Guest Services as I was having trouble logging into Wifi and met Alexandra from Bucharest who guessed a firewall problem…I then recalled I had the same problem on Harmony of the Seas and with one click in Network Settings fixed it. Wifi working great. I then did a late-night walk about on the ship stopping to check the Red Frog Pub and then spent some time in the Ivory Piano Bar on Deck 3 forward. I returned to the cabin, hung my clothes, and did a partial set-up for my 31-day stay. After updating this blog it was a return to bed for still-needed sleep. A long adventurous embarkation day for the Carnival Pride.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Monday October 12 / Day at Sea / Day 2</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb-TwskgVdKn5BMhr4IpYtEvVCufI8tfprYDRPSW0QoHMie-m5dn4rFTOOvZpQJOzRmhn19ZAsbMUsKZrfcXHI9iUOxQT4Al8quaIhecLgE8BHJVJyVuVPPXE_ESWjh5tk73vy1p0V9r9WiOG3xBpt6AxqAkczggZ6-_Vdb0eSL2QngFzwWhKO4pbH/s4032/IMG_6599.HEIC" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb-TwskgVdKn5BMhr4IpYtEvVCufI8tfprYDRPSW0QoHMie-m5dn4rFTOOvZpQJOzRmhn19ZAsbMUsKZrfcXHI9iUOxQT4Al8quaIhecLgE8BHJVJyVuVPPXE_ESWjh5tk73vy1p0V9r9WiOG3xBpt6AxqAkczggZ6-_Vdb0eSL2QngFzwWhKO4pbH/s320/IMG_6599.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div>Smooth seas overnight and we slept with our aft balcony door open to hear the seas. It was a pleasant evening with temperatures about 70°… sweet. Now we feel as though we are on a cruise, rested, and ready for our adventure. At about 8:45 am DW went up to Lido to get a Continental breakfast. We will certainly miss the hanger cards you placed on the cabin door the night before. I usually go out for breakfast, but DW always had a light Continental delivered. We are not fans of the new room service policy on Carnival. Joe brought us more hangers and DW began unpacking this morning. We did a nice long walkabout familiarizing ourselves with the ship, having sailed the Legend several times it is coming back to us. We met friends on Serenity Deck and then had lunch. I did the Asian Grill in the Lido Marketplace, it was fine but I prefer a Mongolian Grill. It was nice seeing good friends again. At about 2:30ish we sailed by the Stromboli volcano (photo) just north of Sicily that erupted a few days ago. Nice bonus as we sail towards the straits between Italy and Sicily. We took a short nap before meeting our friends at the Alchemy Bar for cocktails. It’s a larger Alchemy with an entertainment stage located on deck 2. Nice bar areas and also lounge chairs. We went to early set dining in the Normandie Restaurant on this Captain’s Elegant Night. I ordered the Italian wedding soup., Prime Rib with Baked Potato, Lobster Tail, and Fruit Plate for dessert. It was good. After dinner, we retired to the cabin for some TV and relaxation before sleep. It was a fun first sea day on the Pride.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Thursday October 13 / Day at Sea / Day 3</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Dj57r-kM5KpAvqIW6KVyCN__tVAoUvSy2xGrSFMiNz-UOiK5VVe0j5UC7IAwjTQ3F-3kNm8IHokaJn8LaHPdxGObPKFi8EVRTiY8h4bJaCLaKne-Q1LYoOnNc1jR6559lSmZzzeDgAzoqi79Xf5vsh9iFDeJZCRyQfFiDL3Ytc4CsRxU_XACqgJ7/s4032/aft%20sunset.HEIC" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Dj57r-kM5KpAvqIW6KVyCN__tVAoUvSy2xGrSFMiNz-UOiK5VVe0j5UC7IAwjTQ3F-3kNm8IHokaJn8LaHPdxGObPKFi8EVRTiY8h4bJaCLaKne-Q1LYoOnNc1jR6559lSmZzzeDgAzoqi79Xf5vsh9iFDeJZCRyQfFiDL3Ytc4CsRxU_XACqgJ7/w400-h300/aft%20sunset.HEIC" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Calm seas and I slept well as we moved our clocks forward one hour overnight. I did get up early to use the internet as I've done for years. At about 7:30 am I went up to the Blue Iguana for breakfast. I had my favorite huevos rancheros with two fresh fried eggs, cheese, salsa, and watermelon. It was good. I returned to the cabin with danish + for DW when she awakes. Very pleasant out on the balcony this morning too. At 11:30 they had the <b>Diamond Luncheon</b>. A big crowd, probably 160+ Diamonds on board. DW skipped, not a Vegetarian-friendly menu, but my Thai friends attended. I had the Salad, NY Strip Steak, and Fruit Plate. The steak was good. The cocktails were good, but the great surprise was that they were serving real Coca-Cola products. I scored four Coke Zeros for the DW. Hopefully, they will have them ship-wide in the bars, if not I will need to discover the stash. Friends returned to the cabin to visit then it was afternoon nap time. After watching the beautiful sunset from our aft balcony (photo) we went on a walkabout the ship and attended the Playlist Productions show in the Taj Mahal Theater. The show was </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Getaway Island </span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">a campy show with lots of Giget-style beach songs, a boy meets girl theme with a Volcano for excitement. It was interesting. It was now time for dinner at our new time and location for the rest of the cruise. We now eat at late sitting set-time dining and we have a nice booth in the Normandie Restaurant. Tonight I ordered the Baked Ziti as a starter, the Escargot and the Wienerschnitzel entree from the 50th birthday selections, and a Panna Cotta for dessert. It was good. The service team was good as well. We retired to the cabin after dinner to prepare for our first port of call tomorrow. It was an easy relaxing sea day on the Pride.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Friday October 14 / Mykonos, Greece / Day 4 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrImF5T4v-Mkvie5nSgIbxgqVtZ0q3oje8Lnnr5dCac1Vn1sxuNzADQeZwZp-20fIvBUjOJcO_GPG41uOH5tyv9Uv_Pj2Or7znXb3bDelTomSO4S9o14anGzNTBDRQRa9n6p4G5pQnQffVnSztPuzxBvXeR5sdDtQ2txHX0Gn9unh1a6HV1lKHCdS9/s3185/Mykonos.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3185" data-original-width="2145" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrImF5T4v-Mkvie5nSgIbxgqVtZ0q3oje8Lnnr5dCac1Vn1sxuNzADQeZwZp-20fIvBUjOJcO_GPG41uOH5tyv9Uv_Pj2Or7znXb3bDelTomSO4S9o14anGzNTBDRQRa9n6p4G5pQnQffVnSztPuzxBvXeR5sdDtQ2txHX0Gn9unh1a6HV1lKHCdS9/s320/Mykonos.jpeg" width="216" /></a></div></b>Smooth seas and I slept very well. We were docked before I woke at 8:15 am in the new port Mykonos. This is a new Greek Island for me so looking forward to seeing as much as I can. I went to the MDR for breakfast before they closed at 9:00 am for Eggs Benedict, Bacon, Hash Browns, Grapefruit, Tomato Juice, and proper Hot Milk. The milk was perfect, but they admitted that they get more requests for it in Europe. Our group of four left the ship at about 10:00 and walked to the ferry (€8 return) that takes guests from the new port to the old port and Mykonos town. As we were a little later we were able to walk right on board for the short journey. The weather was ideal and we walked the beautiful passageways of the village. We of course stopped at the six windmills as well as many of the shops. They have souvenir shops as well as high-end shopping. DW even found reel leather shoes…usually, a difficult task for her as she has such tiny feet. Our first refreshment stop was at the Veranda where I had the first greek beer of this trip and a wonderful view of the Windmills across the narrow bay inlet. Nice. We made a beer stop in the shopping district along the narrow streets, but the best beer choices were at Birra Birra with numerous beers on draft (including Czech). That was our final stop before taking the ferry back to the ship arriving back at about 4:45 pm. A short rest before 8:15 dinner. It’s Linguine night, I ordered a Linguine, then combine it with the Meatball appetizer, and an extra portion of Marinara…you get a very nice bowl of Pasta this way. I also ordered the Tenderloin entree and the Pineapple for dessert. We retired afterward as we have an early excursion tomorrow. It was a great day in Mykonos.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Saturday October 15 / Kusadasi, Turkey / Day 5 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgho8GO-2YgpjZWO2Ds3Z2xeOkphtko5oPvoZL0G3PoQa0vyVQa6xkS7IH58FJoQv__xplbxmPUY4M021sZ47qqHXTCJf6jMKvsulZUECeu2xT3B7w-TqzO3ZCyYbtRprVRGvNQzLhkBoodfJ21NB7urkA0cD5b-rsuFHPubMcT-xPZFA8RAdTjDNym/s4032/IMG_6682.HEIC" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgho8GO-2YgpjZWO2Ds3Z2xeOkphtko5oPvoZL0G3PoQa0vyVQa6xkS7IH58FJoQv__xplbxmPUY4M021sZ47qqHXTCJf6jMKvsulZUECeu2xT3B7w-TqzO3ZCyYbtRprVRGvNQzLhkBoodfJ21NB7urkA0cD5b-rsuFHPubMcT-xPZFA8RAdTjDNym/w300-h400/IMG_6682.HEIC" width="300" /></a></div></b>Smooth seas overnight and I slept well, I was up a bit in the night so researched sites on today's excursion. I went for an early breakfast in the Lido Marketplace then off for our early 8:00 am meet for our excursion. We are doing the <i>Magnificent Miletus & the Temple of Apollo</i> excursion and we were away by 8:15 am. We barely made it, but only 20 on our bus so nice group. Just a quick view of the port area as we leave for the one-hour drive to <b>Miletus</b> an ancient city now primarily in ruins. The first stop and main feature here is the huge Greek Theater, the second largest in ancient Greece and fairly well preserved although in ruins. The history here is amazing, perhaps the most well-known speaker here (to us) was the Apostle Paul who gave his last public sermon here (ACTS, chapter XX). The second stop is the Museum with local artifacts also located nearby. Next an additional 15-minute drive to the <b>Temple of Apollo </b>(photo right). This is also a Greek Temple and one of only two Greek Temples with an Oracle (Delphi the other). This was a major pilgrimage site, even Alexander the Great came here to see the Oracle. This was a very interesting visit and excursion overall, of course, you have the mandatory Turkish Carpet tour at the end, but the complementary drinks and toilet were nice. We had time before heading back to the ship and the DW scored a new handbag and cotton top, we also bought some Turkish Delights for gifts and beer & Coke for the cabin. It was a fun day with perfect 70° weather. Back on the ship, I had Guy’s burger and then a nap. The Housekeeping Director had a very nice fan delivered to the cabin too. Thanks. We met our friends at about 7:30 for a cocktail and then had dinner at 8:15 pm. It was a weaker menu tonight, I ordered Baked Potato Soup, Seafood Newburg, and the Steak entree from the daily grill. DW had the Penne Pasta. We returned to the cabin and I updated the blog before retiring. A great excursion day in Turkey.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><p style="text-align: left;"></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Sunday October 16 / Island of Santorini, Greece / Day 6 </b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Tl7UPO2V-xFlrlfcLEOWxruEFgMLBCFL8S2HvzDTd3lcM2eE7mNwHQXB_cDhJ62D7onOJa1X_5mTYmuj14d4PIVOzS35wUw1alBbzZv_6jgf_zJjUIfQtEvb69HaJiGMzsr53GolcrpD3oX_Im_TVH0Pm8Ih6T4adTu-9yTyJ8nCkkPbrYlX7UD-/s3692/IMG_6723.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2166" data-original-width="3692" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Tl7UPO2V-xFlrlfcLEOWxruEFgMLBCFL8S2HvzDTd3lcM2eE7mNwHQXB_cDhJ62D7onOJa1X_5mTYmuj14d4PIVOzS35wUw1alBbzZv_6jgf_zJjUIfQtEvb69HaJiGMzsr53GolcrpD3oX_Im_TVH0Pm8Ih6T4adTu-9yTyJ8nCkkPbrYlX7UD-/w400-h235/IMG_6723.jpeg" width="400" /></a></b></div><p></p><div>Higher seas for the first time so bouncy overnight, I enjoy rocking, bouncing not as much. We were anchored in the waters of the caldera off of <b>Santorini</b> before dawn. We met our friends at 8:00 am to get the early Diamond VIP water shuttles over to the island. The line for the gondolas (€4 each way pp) up to the village was already a long line, but we were up top by 9:00 am. Our friends were going to walk but ended up taking the donkeys and beating us up there. We had breakfast at a rooftop cafe to allow the shops to open, we could have made a better choice. We did our walkabout finding popular photo spots then back towards the main village to shop and look around. The weather was overcast and cool but felt good because of the walking. I stopped at Elia a very nice Restaurant to drink a beer and use their WiFi while the others shopped. DW was back first, we shared a Greek Salad and Hummus with Pita Bread. She did get a very nice linen shirt, I got the bill. The others returned so the last round of Greek beer was before a final walkabout for DW and me as we took the Gondola back down. Our friends stayed longer and then ended up walking down…that had to be tough. After a nap we watched us sail away from our aft balcony, a beautiful experience. We ate at the Lido Marketplace, DW had a Salad, and I had Chicken Marsala, Pork loin, Mashed Potatoes, three small mixed salads, and a lovely Bread Pudding for dessert. We had a TV night back at the cabin and I looked at excursion options for tomorrow. It was a very interesting visit to Santorini.</div><div> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Monday October 17 / Piraeus for Athens, Greece / Day 7 </b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmYlO9I9vrYJUM9ij-kH2ehU-hwT-ZNXSS3bwaI_R6aXqG-P04pD773FznFlpQbDU14W1hUjU9sq3yJ2Bpn4_XECO4QXBtpPYj5st-141_7QGWnr4Jyu6Su-OmotRpFMwCBKceG8s9EDZPrGQD9SckjLOk03fL-mdbqi5nuatXymJ_5VqYKddGccx0/s4032/IMG_6752.HEIC" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmYlO9I9vrYJUM9ij-kH2ehU-hwT-ZNXSS3bwaI_R6aXqG-P04pD773FznFlpQbDU14W1hUjU9sq3yJ2Bpn4_XECO4QXBtpPYj5st-141_7QGWnr4Jyu6Su-OmotRpFMwCBKceG8s9EDZPrGQD9SckjLOk03fL-mdbqi5nuatXymJ_5VqYKddGccx0/s320/IMG_6752.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div>Again rolling seas overnight, but I slept fairly well, although waking a few times. We were docked in Piraeus along with many other cruise ships when I woke at 7:30 am. We took an easy morning as we are not going to Athens today. I went up to Lido for breakfast at about 9:15 and it wasn’t busy as most are already off on excursions. No line at the omelet station so I had a 3-egg Western Omelette as well as Ham, Hash browns, and a Pancake. We left the ship at 10:00 am took the first shuttle to Terminal B and left the secure area for a walk into the city. The first stop was the <b>Church of Agios Nikolaos</b> about a 15-minute walk. A beautiful Greek Orthodox church with amazing art, and a LOT of gold and silver incorporated in the art itself. We then walked to the <b>Archaeological Museum of Piraeus </b>only a few blocks away. An amazing and inexpensive museum (€4) with statuary and artifacts from antiquity, similar to the museum in Athens but smaller, the items were actually from the Piraeus area. We discovered that we were on the Piraeus City Walk, I had noticed the yellow markings on the sidewalk so we decided to continue the walk. The next stop was for Coca-cola at a Cafe at the old harbor, now the area's yacht club…a nice neighborhood. We continued the walk into the city center shopping area and several very nice pedestrian streets. Our favorite shop was Hansel & Gretel, a cute and unique candy/ice creme/bakery combination. We stopped at Arlekinos a nice restaurant on one of these pedestrian streets. We relaxed and enjoyed the weather and people-watching. They had Mythos beer on tap so I enjoyed several and we snacked on some unique Pita bread, Baked Feta cheese with pesto, and a great Tzatziki Sauce. Very enjoyable. We continued the City Walk past the governmental buildings then lost the marking on the sidewalk. It was fine as I knew the general way back towards the port and we came upon a barber shop…so I had a much-needed haircut (€ 5 cheaper than Cozumel). From there we decided to catch a taxi back to the terminal (€5) to beat the arrival of the returning Athens tours. We were back at the cabin by 3:30 pm…a great excursion day. I sat on the balcony and updated this blog and enjoyed the views and weather. I went to Guy’s burgers before they closed at 6:00 for my dinner, DW had a salad from the Lido Marketplace. It’s a rest & TV movie night for us. A fantastic day in Piraeus Greece.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Tuesday October 18 / Katacolon, Greece / Day 8 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDmxMqXzvOhdsJCx0ivKpCwrMIM5egskT0rZn0hn47ljKC7nkoGtlcjcP_ncrThfGroPj80-tlYDliOCIhqr5YxEBdhvJ6fNyaWMgbhN7ee_KhFbQfH7LslJk61FXr-gKxs47XkAKaCicie5_HKRzdTf2hoG9QUmVBTF5Akw29MWS9D7cSMvfCX2jw/s3019/IMG_6773.heic" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3019" data-original-width="2937" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDmxMqXzvOhdsJCx0ivKpCwrMIM5egskT0rZn0hn47ljKC7nkoGtlcjcP_ncrThfGroPj80-tlYDliOCIhqr5YxEBdhvJ6fNyaWMgbhN7ee_KhFbQfH7LslJk61FXr-gKxs47XkAKaCicie5_HKRzdTf2hoG9QUmVBTF5Akw29MWS9D7cSMvfCX2jw/w389-h400/IMG_6773.heic" width="389" /></a></div></b>Rolling seas again overnight and slept well although I had my common two-hour WiFi session during the early hours. We were docked at the port of Katakolon when I finally awoke at about 9:00 am. The MSC Musica is also docked here. Olympiad, the birthplace of the ancient Greek Olympics is the primary attraction here and most guests will visit it. We have done it. DW and I went to the Blue Iguana for breakfast as we are in no rush to debark, we know the village here is very small. At about 10:30 we went down to the dock and made the short walk into the village consisting of only three streets parallel to the waterfront and beyond a nice park area. We visited several shops and scouted a place for lunch. The weather was perfect and sunny yet only 70-72° The shops were open to bargains as their season is almost over so the DW was pleased. So I set up at a waterside restaurant (see photo) to enjoy a beverage, the view, and the weather while she shopped. She returned with our friends and we made a day of it. We had an assortment of goodies: Alpha beer, red & white Wine, Pita Bread, Tzatziki Sauce, a couple of nice Greek entrees, fresh olives, and the DW finally got her Saganaki or Greek fried cheese. We all enjoyed our afternoon very much. We returned to the ship in time for the 4:30 pm Platinum & Diamond party in the theater. Amazingly I was the high cruiser on the ship so I was called to the stage for a photo, but I did the Ray thing and had my photo taken between the two female officers and not Felipe the CD…just injecting a little humor. We had our two cocktails apiece and surprisingly our server brought us a last call (unordered) so we continued our party of four out in the aft lobby area in plush chairs as we sailed away. It was just the two guys for dinner tonight in the MDR. It was the second Elegant night or colloquially called ‘Steak Night’. My Filet Mignon was very good as was the Soup, Stuffed Mushrooms, and Salad. Very contented I retired to the cabin after dinner. Good friends, good weather, and good food made for a great day in Katakolon.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Wednesday, October 19 / Messina, Sicily, Italy </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuq1fuFTQUfe_K6Z5d71jFUjtScLx8hUB9GfiHwQLRoI1k1LAKFZr38qlGaWts45W8GkhjsqpEZ6F-t_-MhZOQiaZvef6pVpHXg0DDOCiEOV8IOfQo3s1fXmU0QCePfPwAsurS5wZaD5vmy9gLLPR67017N86jciCa8hWyP0syDC_0ov4JntKHMKBD/s2769/IMG_6819.heic" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2726" data-original-width="2769" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuq1fuFTQUfe_K6Z5d71jFUjtScLx8hUB9GfiHwQLRoI1k1LAKFZr38qlGaWts45W8GkhjsqpEZ6F-t_-MhZOQiaZvef6pVpHXg0DDOCiEOV8IOfQo3s1fXmU0QCePfPwAsurS5wZaD5vmy9gLLPR67017N86jciCa8hWyP0syDC_0ov4JntKHMKBD/s320/IMG_6819.heic" width="320" /></a></b></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept well with the typical Wifi session to update this blog in the wee hours. At about 7:45 I went to the MDR for breakfast, I ordered: Eggs Benedict, French Toast with banana, Hash Browns, Bacon, Grapefruit, Milk, and Tomato Juice. We have a ship excursion today, it’s officially called </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Messina’s Famous Movie Sites,</span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> but it is known as the </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Godfather Tour</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">. We were off again earlier than our 9:45 posted time by 9:30 am so don’t be late for your excursions. After about an hour's drive and a lot of winding roads, we came to the beautiful village of </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Savoca</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">. From the small town square, you can see the <b>Church of San Nicolo</b> where Michael Corleone got married to his Sicilian wife, Apollonia. We didn’t walk up as all the scenes were on the outside and the road down to the town square and both clearly visible from the square (photo right). That allowed us more time at the famous <b>Bar Vitelli</b> featured in several scenes in the movie. We enjoyed a local beer and a Coca-Cola and sat where Micheal had his conversation with Apollonia’s father. Very Cool. Between the tourists coming and going I was able to get some good photos. Our next stop was another beautiful mountain village: <b>Forza d’Agrò</b> where two churches were used in other scenes. The winding road up allowed for spectacular panoramic views of the coast and beaches of this area. Amazing. We had time (barely) for a local pizza, half Margarita & half Pepperoni. The pepperoni was delicious and a just bit spicy. An hour's drive back to Messina and we were back on the ship by 3:30. Very easy rebounding as we are ahead of most tours. I enjoyed the view from our aft balcony as we are direct across from the gold statue at the harbor entry. Time for enjoying the weather, a Coke, and update this blog update as I watch the ships passing through the straits of Messina. I went to another guy’s only dinner in the MDR, tonight I ordered: French Onion Soup, Green Salad, Chicken Breast stuffed with Spinach, BBQ Pork Spare Ribs, and Apple Pie for dessert. A short walkabout to pick up my Diamond Gifts at Pixels before retiring. It was a great excursion day in <b>Savoca Sicily</b>.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Thursday October 20 / Naples, Italy <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmVYJJ5u6awRD7WuPPwacari4jax567g42kK_PoiORGwOccFwWoVD1seLS6c53vnmdibre9ySFQtTdNIn_088IxjlzhUm27nkqpDyNNtSOmrX-_S0UUDRWgMQJ0DB9zSJNWBIx-isrn4l1jezHWq5zgQbkJHke1Z4hWX4EC8SfN9ce3GTlV7YIVnhK/s564/Pride%20Slides.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="376" data-original-width="564" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmVYJJ5u6awRD7WuPPwacari4jax567g42kK_PoiORGwOccFwWoVD1seLS6c53vnmdibre9ySFQtTdNIn_088IxjlzhUm27nkqpDyNNtSOmrX-_S0UUDRWgMQJ0DB9zSJNWBIx-isrn4l1jezHWq5zgQbkJHke1Z4hWX4EC8SfN9ce3GTlV7YIVnhK/w400-h266/Pride%20Slides.jpg" width="400" /></a></div></span></b>Smooth seas overnight, I did my usual up in the wee hours to use WiFi, I did get a lot of Bosque Travel business done before going back to sleep. At about 7:45 I went to the MDR for breakfast, I got proper Hot Milk this morning as well as Avocado Toast, French Toast, Hash Browns, Tomato Juice, and Bacon. I had an appointment for a Pedicure at 9:00 am in the Pride Spa, it was very enjoyable and needed since I haven’t been to Cozumel in a while. A value too since I had a $50 off coupon. It was $44 with the tip. We planned to go to Herculaneum by private taxi, but that was pretty much impossible as all the taxis want to do tours only…and don’t allow independents, Uber, etc. near the ports. We’ll try to do a Herculaneum tour if need be in two days when we return. So we did a walkabout around the port area. On our first visit to Naples many years ago we hired a taxi tour and our driver, a native of Naples, commented to us "that Naples is the ‘Armpit of Europe’" he wasn’t wrong. Nothing appealing at all so we returned to the ship. Only use this port as a jumping-off spot to go somewhere nice. Upon return, we pretty much had the run of the ship with few guests aboard at midday. I enjoyed the hot tub on the Serenity Deck and looking up from the hot tub decided I would do the two big water slides. The Green Thunder is the thrill side where you stand on a platform and the floor drop from under and down you go…Wow…it is a thrill for sure. The second water slide is the Twister and common on other ships…still fast and fun. A good day to do it as it’s the warmest day of the cruise so far @ 78° and sunny. I enjoyed a nice Guy’s Burger for a late lunch, then nap and movie time the rest of the day in the cabin. A light buffet dinner before retiring this evening. New cruise begins tomorrow.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b> </b><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Cabin<br /></b>We have had the same cabin, 8270 an aft-facing balcony on deck 8 for all three cruises. That made it very easy for us. It has a push-button safe, a queen bed, a couch, two nightstands, lamps by the bed, a small refrigerator, a seat at the dresser/desk, and a very small TV. There are three large wardrobes, one set of drawers, and one storage cabinet, and we used a large portable fan on many occasions. <br /><b> </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Crew<br /></b>Our cabin steward Joe was adequate and friendly. The wait staff in the MDR were also friendly and did a good job serving us. The GS (Guest Services) staff is very friendly and nice.<br /><b><br />Dining / Food / Bars / Entertainment<br /></b>The food is the long-time standard Carnival menu, they have added 50th birthday throw-back classic dishes. Food quality not as good as my recent Carnival Paradise cruises though. <b><br /><br />Diamond Card — </b>The usual Carnival benefits; the casino does give the $25 in cash, Diamond luncheon, Chocolate strawberries on request (we didn’t), Laundry, Pin, and drink coozie as gift.<br /><b><br />Highlights of the Cruise<br /></b>Village of Mykonos<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Village of Savoca on Sicily's Godfather excursion</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Excursion of ancient Greek sites in Turkey</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Katakolon Day</div><div style="text-align: justify;">City Walk in Piraeus<br />Santorini<br /><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b> </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b> </b></div><br /><p></p>Snoozemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08287635714818403539noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-666314469198049300.post-55894417567520179792022-09-18T10:30:00.043-05:002022-10-11T18:48:47.731-05:00Harmony of the Seas Cruise Review - September 18, 2022<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1CQKoTSBfDBL3OqbhihV4fGOHj_tfry9AQipfgLPKMFWSkTMU0aBxhqbxg_f3TBo4yAjREEArRzqvHos9b4iu3kXKtEmNFBW5XFRuOkVwlP1oOGWiWjwh8tOPwvt-naAFCLsm2sJMSOnl0DDE641W69wsZefnXworlto9k6qyIu5EEeAPmItZgPll/s2560/Harmony_of_the_Seas_(ship,_2016)_002.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1403" data-original-width="2560" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1CQKoTSBfDBL3OqbhihV4fGOHj_tfry9AQipfgLPKMFWSkTMU0aBxhqbxg_f3TBo4yAjREEArRzqvHos9b4iu3kXKtEmNFBW5XFRuOkVwlP1oOGWiWjwh8tOPwvt-naAFCLsm2sJMSOnl0DDE641W69wsZefnXworlto9k6qyIu5EEeAPmItZgPll/w640-h350/Harmony_of_the_Seas_(ship,_2016)_002.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><h4 style="text-align: center;"> Harmony of the Seas Review September 18, 2022</h4><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i><u> Just The Facts:</u></i></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Ship: Harmony of the Seas - Royal Caribbeans (3rd) Oasis Class @ 227,000 gross tons</span></div><div style="text-align: left;">Launched: May <span style="font-weight: normal;">2016 - 5500 pax @ double occupancy - 6780 pax @ maximum </span> </div><div style="text-align: left;">Captain: Captain Johnny - Cruise Director: Mark Whitley<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Ports: Port Canaveral - Costa Maya, Mexico - Cozumel, Mexico - Port Everglases - Port Canaveral<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Very excited about this cruise as it was my first cruise on an Oasis Class ship, the largest cruise ships in the world. So this is my 1st cruise on the Harmony of the Seas, my 34th Royal Caribbean cruise, and 188th cruise overall. I’m sailing with the Dear Wife (DW) on primarily a relaxation cruise for her. The cruise was changed from an Eastern Caribbean itinerary to a Western due to hurricane weather.<br /><br /><b>Day One--Sunday—Embarkation</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqQ_ODXwIG7fW3t8mg0qX9pGkHck37XF4PysK6IXYQQh8WzTI2qBmUZovdGRTNJTVyF5z2_YHUr9Q6Z0f-PgEKfBVEf899j58plF_OOsJTvzSCHzswqY-AutQRmo5e6mkfZAD3XAAvKZ4T6Dc4zUj01sinbl2BZ2QJTWCo_Clu0FFwHJ3zmLG0YoZP/s4032/IMG_6553.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqQ_ODXwIG7fW3t8mg0qX9pGkHck37XF4PysK6IXYQQh8WzTI2qBmUZovdGRTNJTVyF5z2_YHUr9Q6Z0f-PgEKfBVEf899j58plF_OOsJTvzSCHzswqY-AutQRmo5e6mkfZAD3XAAvKZ4T6Dc4zUj01sinbl2BZ2QJTWCo_Clu0FFwHJ3zmLG0YoZP/w300-h400/IMG_6553.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div>We were up early enough to finish packing and hit the road by 9:30 am. This is now my eighth time driving to Port Canaveral so used to it now. We arrived at the Park-N-Cruise parking lot about noon time and it wasn’t as busy as I thought it would be…we checked in and went onto an already waiting shuttle. We went to pier one and rolled our bags over to the lines to enter the building and the Security checkpoint. We were ahead of our time but joined a line and by luck, it moved faster than the others. After a 10-minute wait, we were in another 10-minute line to go through Security. No problems so we went upstairs for a third 10-minute line for check-in. After this point, we had a 15-20 minute wait to actually get to boarding. Once entering the Harmony on deck five Promenade we made our way up to our Cabin on deck six by 1:15 pm. Not that bad considering there are almost 6000 guests boarding today. We have a great location very near the aft elevators on the port side. We have easy access to the upper and main promenades and most venues. Since we roll on our bags we began cabin setup straight away. Two separate wardrobes make it very easy for us. We love the balcony cabin design. We went on a walkabout checking in at our Muster Station E-2 then heading up to the Windjammer for a late lunch before it closed at 3:30 pm. They have a great stand-alone Salad Station and that’s what we both had to eat. Very nice as was the Bread Pudding from one of several dessert stations. I noticed a Pasta Station as we left, I will visit that another day. DW had a nap and I watched our sail away from our balcony. I saw the new NASA warning signs on the channel…we know they were installed due to this very ship sailing into the launch zone causing a cancellation for a launch in January. But if it had not the DW and I would not have seen the rescheduled launch from the Mariner of the Seas on February 3rd. NASA is located on the north side of the ship channel so a great view of a launch. We’ll only be just beyond the launch zone for tonight's launch at 6:15 pm, I’m hopeful we will see it. Alicia, from Trinidad, is our Cabin Steward. She came by and brought robes and we discussed cleaning times. They still do a turn-down service in the evenings too. Sweet. Our cabin is located just off the upper Promenade aft atrium so we have easy access to the main Promenade Mall and at the entry to the outer Boardwalk zone. While DW rested I did a walkabout the ship starting with the Boardwalk (photo). I had a Paloma cocktail at Sabor and watched guests at Johnny Rocket’s, the Carousel, and Aquatheater. I then went up to deck 8 and walked through Central Park, the location of several Restaurants and a beautiful setting for them. I made my way to Boleros for a cocktail and people-watching. I stopped at Cafe Promenade for two Veggie Sandwiches for DW so easy with our cabin location. I went to dinner in the MDR (main dining room) on deck 3 at about 8:45, a long line even with reservations but it quickly. I ordered the Escargots a la Bourguignonne, Garden Salad, the New York Strip Steak entree, and Key Lime Pie for dessert. It was excellent, but I enjoyed the Bread and the Tablecloth very much. I then retired to the cabin…It was a great first day on the Harmony of the Seas.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Day Two—Monday—CoCoCay, Bahamas</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivD_gj5yaYbBLbmMRtp8qyUQRmO7OV5iFon-YGztgx4EmbwQEwV314fGxVmWh9GdRA1C6eRUcl1iZR-ohqfEcL_nRpdb8z4B-yqPmOthTyhzYRdWylLBmzwK5d28Ei41KsWlx_8CbM2KD_2TR5iaGhUFiCfIH3OtEzuVjy-cPLDX1s0a_UdwDEmS3j/s1014/royal-caribbean-rising-tide-bar.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="1014" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivD_gj5yaYbBLbmMRtp8qyUQRmO7OV5iFon-YGztgx4EmbwQEwV314fGxVmWh9GdRA1C6eRUcl1iZR-ohqfEcL_nRpdb8z4B-yqPmOthTyhzYRdWylLBmzwK5d28Ei41KsWlx_8CbM2KD_2TR5iaGhUFiCfIH3OtEzuVjy-cPLDX1s0a_UdwDEmS3j/w400-h178/royal-caribbean-rising-tide-bar.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Smooth seas overnight and a very restful night. Today is funeral of Queen Elizabeth II. We have the BBC News channel (in HD) on our cabin TV so fortunate for that. It began in the wee hours and DW watched the entire coverage. She had ordered her usual Room Service continental breakfast in bed and I did the same. I had two danish and a nice fruit plate. We are docked at CoCo Cay, but no plans to debark today. The Queen's funeral ended about noon then we went up to the Windjammer for lunch. They had two of my favorites: Pork Chops and a Mongolian Grill. I had both and DW had a Guacamole Salad. We then did a nice long walkabout the ship, it was nice with most guests off at CoCo Cay, visited a lot of places on this new-to-us mega-ship. Our cabin was cleaned by the time we arrived back so we had Cabin time the rest of the day. At about 6:15 we went to visit the Diamond Club on deck 4…it’s a nice lounge but no view of the sea. They had the standard Hors’d’vourse and several servers to fill cocktail orders. It was nice, but nothing special. We enjoyed visiting with new friends and having a cocktail and snacks. We went to the Rising Tide Bar (photo) just for the experience of a moving bar, but I had a wonderful Elderflower martini so we stayed for a while. We exited at the Central Park level to see the lights then went up to the Solarium, the Bistro had already closed but we toured the multiple lounging areas. We soon retired for the evening but enjoyed a very nice evening on the Harmony of the Seas.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Day Three--Tuesday—Sea Day <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8xKEYuf5hNxmSHFYa6SrQPtDkB8XosqQmu8Ztj1U-0W0N68NhF8Z8-mnmZgcPX7ejsJ2gz3PYkW3d8_HgWEFJO6Uch9HjCvFzUpf1DI5TFSEuuatrrVutL_kPIWGeBCczv3zrWUdluPF_4A6Dagot2_a-0IbNugOBhCxExyRlO6EjuHSk6vPevd5i/s2615/skate.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2615" data-original-width="2602" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8xKEYuf5hNxmSHFYa6SrQPtDkB8XosqQmu8Ztj1U-0W0N68NhF8Z8-mnmZgcPX7ejsJ2gz3PYkW3d8_HgWEFJO6Uch9HjCvFzUpf1DI5TFSEuuatrrVutL_kPIWGeBCczv3zrWUdluPF_4A6Dagot2_a-0IbNugOBhCxExyRlO6EjuHSk6vPevd5i/w199-h200/skate.jpeg" width="199" /></a></div></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept well although up early enough to see the sunrise. We had Danish & Donuts delivered by Room Service at about 8:30…the donuts were very fresh. A good start for a relaxing sea day today. We had a walkabout the ship, still so much to see. For lunch we went up to the Windjammer, I had two nice cutlets and fresh pasta from the Pasta Bar. Unfortunately, the cook put in way too much garlic and it was overwhelming. I attribute this to my starting to feel poorly. My sinuses began bothering me as the day commenced. We attended the Ice Show </span><b><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">I Skate</span></i></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> this afternoon in Studio B. We had center front row seats in the prime section so that was nice. (photo left) It was a good show with a lot of talented ice skaters but did seem to have the costumes and storylines as in previous years, A very enjoyable show. Afterward we had nice sandwiches from the Park Cafe in Central Park for dinner then stocked up on extra Cokes from the Schooner Bar for a cabin evening. Movie night in the cabin. It was a very nice sea day sailing on the Harmony of the Seas.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Day Four—Wednesday—Costa Maya, Mexico </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-AvjuuIm4f3fwjuT1h4NzfdbZjbU7-G1eibfES1ki2LdsPrMziwtwToYN7sJMdFR_9MLdE0r00BskKPTdXMXRCePp7b2gq67YpCNLBBRGoga8D1-KeDbpO_ozysQ_wI7Fdo-ZvTNULz-IUZzbfPYtDtAc0tGCKcuvabQfBcgLsO43nyBX2sDmaFs5/s500/aquatheater.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="333" data-original-width="500" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-AvjuuIm4f3fwjuT1h4NzfdbZjbU7-G1eibfES1ki2LdsPrMziwtwToYN7sJMdFR_9MLdE0r00BskKPTdXMXRCePp7b2gq67YpCNLBBRGoga8D1-KeDbpO_ozysQ_wI7Fdo-ZvTNULz-IUZzbfPYtDtAc0tGCKcuvabQfBcgLsO43nyBX2sDmaFs5/w200-h133/aquatheater.jpg" width="200" /></a></b></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept well, but definitely suffering from a cold this morning so I stayed in bed. DW brought sandwiches and I snuck around the corner to Boardwalk Sea Dogs for an early dinner. At 7:00 pm we went to the Aqua-theater to see the show </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The Fine Line. </span></i><span style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">(RCL photo right) </span></span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">This was my first show of this type ever. It was very interesting featuring aquatics, dance, diving, aerialists, and more. A long show of about 50+ minutes and has a very large cast of two dozen performers. Very glad I saw it but not sure I need a repeat any time soon. The day was basically bed, show & bed. Alica our cabin steward has been great, she brought lots of ice, extra towels for the hot showers, and extra boxes of kleenex. I’m feeling a bit better but DW may be coming down with it. Thank goodness for excellent cabin television. Nonetheless, it was an interesting day on the Harmony of the Seas.</span><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Day Five—Thursday--Cozumel </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsEllCVYeZyVIG1W0Fz_bP17Rxmgd90YgltV-l6vNCk03o8hAI4DS-ZBov0MmyZM_ZbjFhSysLhyPhaAk1XZO-G1VrMM-blSPdpVVO3foD8Nqz_oIlz1AoPBD1AisPzBxXvzAOro2IA0HtRCXnnZnPKC8OpqFT8oikQY2eQT3KKhbiv3ztSmrMsOVe/s1125/harmony-of-the-seas.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="568" data-original-width="1125" height="162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsEllCVYeZyVIG1W0Fz_bP17Rxmgd90YgltV-l6vNCk03o8hAI4DS-ZBov0MmyZM_ZbjFhSysLhyPhaAk1XZO-G1VrMM-blSPdpVVO3foD8Nqz_oIlz1AoPBD1AisPzBxXvzAOro2IA0HtRCXnnZnPKC8OpqFT8oikQY2eQT3KKhbiv3ztSmrMsOVe/s320/harmony-of-the-seas.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></b></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I again slept well. We had our light breakfast in bed again this morning. I’m afraid that the DW has now caught my cold. She ended up staying on the ship and I went to Del Mar Latino Club. I stopped along the way and bought some Cefalexina medicine to help shake our colds. I had an alcohol-free day but ate my share of Mexican goodies while I was there. I enjoyed Guacamole, Coconut Shrimp, the Pollo dinner, Juices, and Coca-Cola light. We were the only ship at the International Pier and The Vista, Dream, and Paradise were at Costa Maya. Guests from all three ships were at Del Mar Latino. I went back to the ship early to get the meds to DW arriving back about 3:30 pm. Alicia stocked up the cabin for us as usual. We’re missing one of our primary reservations tonight for the Production Show in the theater, but better to play it safe for all. I/we ordered Room Service: a premium hamburger, french fries, and grilled cheese. It was delivered within 30 minutes. The burger was very good, but all the french fries were cold. We watched BBC-HD a channel we may have to get at home. We made the evening as good as we could on the Harmony of the Seas.<br /></span><p></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Day Six — Friday—Sea Day </b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZFAvJMOeE6WGUydIl9nO7QLuh1UZgTGvAhzH4soGrtkCjtc-Az1kxWxGb7PWHfRUSRP3mcyRNYiE5hvTMxaIRA2jkM0qu04wTOMBRmfVgRZO6q4EHlSsToJcwP4e36sMZkSbYt4oYTG6fjt5Vxn8USxXHqXTaPyAu_gda6ZJ-pMRekyKDwVOGkH4m/s4032/sunset.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZFAvJMOeE6WGUydIl9nO7QLuh1UZgTGvAhzH4soGrtkCjtc-Az1kxWxGb7PWHfRUSRP3mcyRNYiE5hvTMxaIRA2jkM0qu04wTOMBRmfVgRZO6q4EHlSsToJcwP4e36sMZkSbYt4oYTG6fjt5Vxn8USxXHqXTaPyAu_gda6ZJ-pMRekyKDwVOGkH4m/w400-h300/sunset.jpeg" width="400" /></a></b></span></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept as best as I could with a now congested system and sore throat. Room Service came about 8:30, they have been consistent and orders usually correct. I had balcony time today, it was shaded, a nice breeze, and beautiful blue seas. The WiFi may actually work better on the balcony than inside the cabin. I went to have a light lunch at the Windjammer and I brought some salads back for DW who is having a Pajama Day. I stocked up on Diet Coca-cola and water as well. Really beautiful weather on the balcony so making a full day of that situation. We are cruising close enough to the Florida Keys this afternoon to get 3-bars on the cell phone. That makes working so much easier to have both laptop and cell phone…so many financial websites require two-factor authentication and hard to do on a cruise ship where only one devise can be logged in at one time.Smooth seas overnight and I slept as best as I could with a now congested system and sore throat. Room Service came about 8:30, they have been consistent, and orders are usually correct. I had balcony time today, it was shaded, a nice breeze, and beautiful blue seas. The WiFi may actually work better on the balcony than inside the cabin. I went to have a light lunch at the Windjammer and I brought some salads back for DW who is having a Pajama Day. I stocked up on Diet Coca-cola and water as well. Really beautiful weather on the balcony so making a full day of that situation. We are cruising close enough to the Florida Keys this afternoon to get 3-bars on the cell phone. That makes working so much easier to have both a laptop and cell phone…so many financial sites require two-factor authentication and that is hard to do on a cruise ship where only one device can be logged in at one time. I went to the Windjammer about sundown for dinner having two small filled steaks and wedge potatoes. I got Mashed potatoes and rice for DW, so sorry she’s still feeling poorly. It was another TV night in the cabin, our show reservations had been changed or disappeared anyway. They have had some problems with bookings. My adavice is to book everything you can (shows, comedy, events) for the entire week as soon as you board the ship. </span><p></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Day Seven — Saturday—Sea Day </b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOoekfHUe2ijncEFUJQGNjY_JrrMQyYrDy2SwrZchMO72IkvVJynhksf8y9bA-porJyDpzbuiNwyM2aLLGMYlv6Ka6sqA2ZMJA0DAHbiR3Uom5Fdq7X8qwl73I9zSVfLr_cABgF-fS5S0_fmsbjpIYlxPRqqH02Mtj9mb2y2pgVV9bwsZJAG6Okxow/s1200/harmony-central-park-slides.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOoekfHUe2ijncEFUJQGNjY_JrrMQyYrDy2SwrZchMO72IkvVJynhksf8y9bA-porJyDpzbuiNwyM2aLLGMYlv6Ka6sqA2ZMJA0DAHbiR3Uom5Fdq7X8qwl73I9zSVfLr_cABgF-fS5S0_fmsbjpIYlxPRqqH02Mtj9mb2y2pgVV9bwsZJAG6Okxow/s320/harmony-central-park-slides.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></span></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. I woke very early and we were docked at Post Everglades for refueling. I’m feeling much better, just a lingering cough now. At about 7:45 I went up to the Windjammer for my first and only proper breakfast of the cruise, not too busy so I had numerous choices. I had Fried eggs, Scrambled eggs, freshly sliced Ham, self serve Bacon. Sausage, grilled Tomato, Hash-brown Potatoes, Orange Juice, and Milk. It was excellent. We sailed from Port Everglades at about 9:30 am so great views of the beaches and resorts of south Florida as we sail out. My plan for the day is NCAA football. I had a very nice roast beef sandwich from the Park Cafe located in Central Park (photo) and watched a helicopter evacuation from the balcony and cabin TV. The seas have become quite choppy but this huge ship doesn’t pitch or roll much at all. I stocked the cabin with snacks and cokes for the games. My team didn’t play until 8:00 pm and I was fortunate that it was one of the few games also on cabin TV. I was very happy with that, but not the OU game results. We did some preliminary packing before retiring. It was an interesting final day on The Harmony of the Seas.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Sunday—Debarkation</span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. I was again up very early so time to finish packing. We were docked about 6:00 am in Port Canaveral and self-assist started rolling off by 7:00 and we were among the first 200+ off the ship. We rolled off and through security straight to the parking shuttle. Very impressed with Cruise-n-Park… the shuttle was there, a quick ride to the lot, the car was waiting (valet), and off the lot by 7:45 am. Amazing. Arrived back at the Villa in Pasco County by 9:45 am.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Cabin</span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">We had cabin 6268 a balcony on the port side just off the aft atrium. The best thing about the cabin was: location, location, location. So easy to access the Royal Promenade and Boardwalk with the Schooner Bar next door. Features: Two Wardrobes, Vanity with drawers, small Refrigerator, Keypad safe, Couch, King Bed, Nightstands, Chair at vanity, Chairs & small table on the balcony, Standard Bath with enclosed shower, and HD TV.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Highlights of the Cruise</span></b></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">I loved the ship; however, it’s difficult to objectively note highlights because one or both of us were sick on days 3-7. That changes all priorities. I learned enough to know that one needs to be prepared as soon as you board if you want to take advantage of all the shows and events. Make an itinerary straightaway. I do want to sail the Harmony again, I know I will be sailing the Allure (a sister ship) in June. Although I had a few good meals and ate a lot of RCLs signature Oatmeal Raisin cookies I lost weight on this cruise, I don't recommend getting sick to do it though.<br /></span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Note to Ray: In research of my Royal Caribbean cruise history I had left off two older cruises,,,so RCL and Overall count bumps up by two.</p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><u><br /></u></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><u>My Royal Caribbean Cruise History</u></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br />You have 34 past cruises<br /><br />7 nt eastern caribbean & perfect day<br />Harmony of the Seas<br />Sep 18 — Sep 25, 2022<br />Reservation: 8239956<br /><br />7 night western caribbean cruise<br />Liberty of the Seas<br />May 15 — May 22, 2022<br />Reservation: 8343641<br /><br />5 night western caribbean & perfect day<br />Mariner of the Seas<br />Feb 3 — Feb 8, 2022<br />Points earned: 5<br /><br />5 night western caribbean cruise<br />Brilliance of the Seas<br />Jan 8 — Jan 13, 2022<br />Points earned: 20<br /><br />14 night canary islands transatlantic<br />Rhapsody of the Seas<br />Nov 30 — Dec 14, 2021<br />Reservation: 4764394<br /><br />7 night western caribbean cruise<br />Liberty of the Seas<br />Apr 21 — Apr 28, 2019<br />Points earned: 14<br /><br />7 night western caribbean cruise<br />Liberty of the Seas<br />Oct 21 — Oct 28, 2018<br />Points earned: 14<br /><br />16 night azores & ireland transatlantic<br />Brilliance of the Seas<br />Sep 1 — Sep 17, 2018<br />Points earned: 16<br /><br />5 night western caribbean cruise<br />Vision of the Seas<br />Dec 9 — Dec 14, 2017<br />Points earned: 10<br /><br />14 night canary islands & cococay cruise<br />Rhapsody of the Seas<br />Nov 5 — Nov 19, 2017<br />Points earned: 14<br /><br />7 night western caribbean cruise<br />Liberty of the Seas<br />Oct 1 — Oct 8, 2017<br />Points earned: 14<br /><br />9 night exotic asia cruise<br />Mariner of the Seas<br />Sep 1 — Sep 10, 2017<br />Points earned: 18<br /><br />7 night western caribbean cruise<br />Liberty of the Seas<br />Oct 2 — Oct 9, 2016<br />Points earned: 14<br /><br />7 night western caribbean cruise<br />Liberty of the Seas<br />Sep 11 — Sep 18, 2016<br />Points earned: 7<br /><br />7 night western caribbean cruise<br />Navigator of the Seas<br />Sep 20 — Sep 27, 2015<br />Points earned: 7<br /><br />7 night western caribbean cruise<br />Navigator of the Seas<br />Dec 14 — Dec 21, 2014<br />Points earned: 14<br /><br />7 night western caribbean cruise<br />Navigator of the Seas<br />Mar 23 — Mar 30, 2014<br />Points earned: 7<br /><br />7 night western caribbean cruise<br />Mariner of the Seas<br />Jan 29 — Feb 5, 2012<br />Points earned: 7<br /><br />7 night western caribbean cruise<br />Voyager of the Seas<br />Jan 9 — Jan 16, 2011<br />Points earned: 7<br /><br />14 night transatlantic westbound cruise<br />Voyager of the Seas<br />Nov 29 — Dec 13, 2009<br />Points earned: 2<br /><br />7 night mediterranean cruise<br />Voyager of the Seas<br />Nov 22 — Nov 29, 2009<br />Points earned: 1<br /><br />7 night pacific coastal cruise<br />Mariner of the Seas<br />Jun 14 — Jun 21, 2009<br />Points earned: 1<br /><br />7 night western caribbean cruise<br />Voyager of the Seas<br />Jan 11 — Jan 18, 2009<br />Points earned: 1<br /><br />7 night western caribbean cruise<br />Voyager of the Seas<br />Jan 11 — Jan 18, 2009<br />Points earned: 1<br /><br />3 night bahamas cruise<br />Majesty of the Seas<br />Sep 19 — Sep 22, 2008<br />Points earned: 1<br /><br />4 night bahamas cruise<br />Majesty of the Seas<br />Sep 15 — Sep 19, 2008<br />Points earned: 1<br /><br />7 night western caribbean cruise<br />Voyager of the Seas<br />Mar 9 — Mar 16, 2008<br />Points earned: 1<br /><br />7 night western caribbean cruise<br />Voyager of the Seas<br />Jan 13 — Jan 20, 2008<br />Points earned: 1<br /><br />7 night southern caribbean cruise<br />Adventure of the Seas<br />Sep 30 — Oct 7, 2007<br />Points earned: 1<br /><br />7 night western caribbean cruise<br />Rhapsody of the Seas<br />Aug 26 — Sep 2, 2007<br />Points earned: 1<br /><br />7 night western caribbean cruise<br />Rhapsody of the Seas<br />Jan 14 — Jan 21, 2007<br />Points earned: 1<br /><br />5 night western caribbean cruise<br />Splendour of the Seas<br />Dec 9 — Dec 14, 2006<br />Points earned: 1<br /><br />7 night western caribbean cruise<br />Rhapsody of the Seas<br />Sep 24 — Oct 1, 2006<br />Points earned: 1<br /><br />7 night western caribbean cruise<br />Rhapsody of the Seas<br />Sep 11 — Sep 18, 2005<br />Points earned: 1<br /><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p></p></div>Snoozemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08287635714818403539noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-666314469198049300.post-50632806929277758412022-09-05T09:30:00.050-05:002022-10-02T14:30:27.138-05:00 Carnival Paradise Cruise Review - B2B - September 5 & 10, 2022<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO_oTShTaWAh0hMAm1RSTh2vXLQkqXH702iE9xaLS_QnIk8DkaJXayIsDOmwcNYfCGy_82qzvMKporwx8qfiOrkRhKMGQWki7P82LmTvKdhxXHrSRxDobQCv-VuI64rjNidxDkcRslNtdu3iMXsJf5n80LwqzjH5Q60g0z3nEpukZ6dJyvgMUAgzht/s2048/Paradise%20bridge.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; 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<p style="text-align: center;"><b>Carnival Paradise Cruise Review - B2B - September 5th & 10th, 2022</b><br /></p><div style="text-align: left;"><u>Just the Facts:</u> </div><div style="text-align: left;">Ship: Carnival Paradise, last of Fantasy Class ships launched Nov. 1998 @ 70,000 tons. </div><div style="text-align: left;">Sailing: August 22 & Aug 27, 2022 - two 5 day cruises - Sailing out of Port of Tampa, Florida</div><div style="text-align: left;">Captain: Massimiliano Roja - Hotel Director: Hugo Hidalgo </div><div style="text-align: left;">Cruise Directors - 1st cruise: T-O double D on the M-I-C or Todd - 2nd cruise; Lei Lei<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Ports: Tampa, FL - Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands - Isla de Cozumel, Mexico (2) - Mahogany Bay, Honduras - Tampa, FL</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;">I
am sailing as a solo guest. This is my 6th & 7th cruises on the
Carnival Paradise, my 103rd & 104th Carnival cruises, and my 184th & 185th total cruises overall.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Day One -- Monday -- September 5th, 2022 -- Port of Tampa — Embarkation <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNtsY1hpm8S-TYxrmtie8HDcJafkKTFeOaNFWy7UsPXCVtOU1fNjvrWMEx7aagHG94v-dWshHiKEwXHPuJkjvKzHtHY3upOcd0lN1hSyjYsxnhZMEvHM4EAEjcET5XDdpMSzMOIVX3NMLjosIBGlVHoLAQDtJYxSpqrUxAaLmUWIYiCyTugtD_mBT4/s3742/Turtle.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3742" data-original-width="2901" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNtsY1hpm8S-TYxrmtie8HDcJafkKTFeOaNFWy7UsPXCVtOU1fNjvrWMEx7aagHG94v-dWshHiKEwXHPuJkjvKzHtHY3upOcd0lN1hSyjYsxnhZMEvHM4EAEjcET5XDdpMSzMOIVX3NMLjosIBGlVHoLAQDtJYxSpqrUxAaLmUWIYiCyTugtD_mBT4/w310-h400/Turtle.jpeg" width="310" /></a></div></b>This embarkation day started the same as just a few weeks ago with a family trip to the Florida Aquarium. The DW & I picked up the DD and granddaughter at about 9:10 am and made our way to the downtown Tampa waterfront and the Florida Aquarium. We are new Aquarium Members and it just so happens that the Aquarium member parking is closer to the cruise terminal than any cruise parking. We had a great morning at the Aquarium and were better prepared to allow the GD to get wet in the nice waterpark area. Of course, we visited the displays and our favorite places as well. It was very busy with it being Labor Day…10 times the crowd of the previous Monday. We had a specialty cocktail, beer, and coke while GD spent an hour in the Splash Zone. It was 1:00 pm when we left so I knew by the time I got from the parking lot to the ship that passenger cabins would be open on the Paradise, which just makes everything easier on board for all guests. It went very smoothly with check-in and yes I was at my cabin by 1:30 pm. My cabin is E-55 and the best of the recent three. Better internet and is nice and cool inside considering that it is an Oceanview cabin. After unpacking I went to my Muster Station on deck 8 then to the Lido deck for a light lunch. The Paradise does have an excellent Salad Bar station, actually better than most newer Carnival Ships, so a nice salad was perfect. Back to the cabin to book a cruise for a client and I met Dudi my Cabin Steward for this cruise. He brought both ice and a robe as well as set up a cleaning schedule for the week. On the previous two cruises, I missed sailing under the Skyway Bridge, asleep on one and at dinner on the second. I made a point to see it up close on deck 11. Not the highest, but most forward. We were a little later than the last cruise so I had a nice view of the approach and of us sailing under…looking up it seems as if we are just slipping under, the guests above sure made some noise. I then went back to the Lido Marketplace for dinner. I had the Sweet & Sour Shrimp, Roast Beef, the Poblano Pepper Soup, and a Cranberry Roll. It was good. Just time for a nice sunset then I retired to the cabin. It was a long, busy, and great embarkation day.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b> Day Two -- Tuesday -- September 6th, 2022 -- Day at Sea </b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0zf3YOKJZ-KM2AaSR8dbSSgau0YFrDzyqLa-ZmT6akIiT9rYjaecC17g3ds1VTb4nQyAD1tBAvoKOqw-6vvpO91ZaAdcwQDcdnXu5NySl786E7wA97kf4c65TXGq-m11h2ajegTC3c8VHmAth6E0qq9ZGyne14K7zr1RtsG7lzXKRTBHA7YQTtkSy/s4032/IMG_6453.HEIC" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0zf3YOKJZ-KM2AaSR8dbSSgau0YFrDzyqLa-ZmT6akIiT9rYjaecC17g3ds1VTb4nQyAD1tBAvoKOqw-6vvpO91ZaAdcwQDcdnXu5NySl786E7wA97kf4c65TXGq-m11h2ajegTC3c8VHmAth6E0qq9ZGyne14K7zr1RtsG7lzXKRTBHA7YQTtkSy/w400-h300/IMG_6453.HEIC" width="400" /></a></div>Smooth seas overnight, and I slept very well. I was up early, the WiFi is not as good as when we were in Tampa but better than my first cabin last week. I later went back to sleep and slept until 9:30…so some very much-needed rest, but I did do 6600 steps yesterday. I had some housekeeping time as I forgot to hang my shirts and got laundry ready for Rudi. There were enough Diamonds on board to justify a <b>Diamond Luncheon</b> and it was held at 11:00 am in the Destiny Restaurant. I sat at a ten-top table with very nice guests. The Entertainment Director introduced the Senior Staff (I wonder if Hugo is gone) and there were sufficient cocktail servers to make everyone happy. I had a Bloody Mary for a starter. The menu was the standard for Diamonds and I ordered both the Green Salad and the NY Strip Steak entree. For dessert a fancy fruit plate and another Elderflower martini. It was a fun luncheon. Afterward, I went to the casino to get my $25 Diamond benefit and watched for a while. I will return to play. The weather is very good and guests are enjoying it on the outer decks, but too hot for me…cabin time and more rest for me. I tried to book the Del Mar Latino for this week in Cozumel, but it was full so booked it for our visit on the 13th. I then took a nice long nap and woke just in time for Sundown. I went to the Lido Marketplace and had Roast Beef and Seafood, it was good. Again as a contrarian, it’s the time to be out and about while everyone else is having their Elegant evening. The feature show was </span><i style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Epic Rock </span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">in the theater, but I stayed on deck and enjoyed the weather and beautiful Sunset. </span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Only one person in the pool, sweet. </span>A pleasant walkabout the ship before retiring. Rudi freshened my cabin and left more ice...I like him. It was a fun and restful sea day on the Carnival Paradise.</span> <br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Day Three -- Wednesday -- September 7th, 2022 -- Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2UiWkNfg9IpeAWikw6tdHvh_8R0iT1gP3pmleoUJYaB_35A_mtdQSyG_8M4LpPE4I9my1KRKHevNPlmHREy4wgd71zERgFAxmM2nCs7ldkKhbDaFo_g2BjIi4_pMoNX1-zqm0B0pU5I-EubxDGXxBVkB7QBNdc1X6gm0xLhzYLJ33o9i0mbwslpQM/s3481/IMG_6456.heic" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1718" data-original-width="3481" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2UiWkNfg9IpeAWikw6tdHvh_8R0iT1gP3pmleoUJYaB_35A_mtdQSyG_8M4LpPE4I9my1KRKHevNPlmHREy4wgd71zERgFAxmM2nCs7ldkKhbDaFo_g2BjIi4_pMoNX1-zqm0B0pU5I-EubxDGXxBVkB7QBNdc1X6gm0xLhzYLJ33o9i0mbwslpQM/w400-h198/IMG_6456.heic" width="400" /></a></b></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I again slept very well. I was up very early as I had rest yesterday. I went to the Elation MDR for the first time and saw the great crew who call me by name on sight now. I had my usual: Eggs Benedict, Bacon, Hash Browns, Milk, danish, Tomato juice, and a Grapefruit. A nice leisurely breakfast since I am staying on board the ship. I had cabin time but left it for Dudi to clean and set up an HQ on Lido deck port side with a nice view of the Liberty of the Seas, the Carnival Vista (both from Galveston, Texas), and the Seven-mile beach. Internet would have been my only reason to get off, but the WiFi seems to work much better while in port so it’s been good this morning. The old-timers have taken over the pool as it should be when in port, I thought I was back in Meadow Oaks with all my Senior friends. Glad they are getting quality deck time while they can on an empty ship. I enjoyed my Coca-colas at my table and had a productive day including booking a Transatlantic and Mediterranean cruise on the Celebrity Constellation for 2023. Guests began water-tendering back in the afternoon and we got a light shower that cooled off the outer decks…nice. I went to Guy’s for my first and new on the menu </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Funderstruck Burger</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">…you can’t get any more Tex-Mex than one of these. Donkey Sauce, Meat Patty, Special Cheese, Nacho Seasoning, Fried Onion & Jalapenos, Charra Beans (touch), Pico de Gallo (touch). Amazing and sorry it took me so long to try it, I know I’m a creature of habit, but this is well worth it. As we did a 180° turn to leave Grand Cayman I lost my shade on deck so abandoned the HQ for the cabin. I went to the <b>Casino</b> primarily to load my card in order to determine if I’d ever get a casino offer and sat in at the Texas-Hold’em table. Very first hand and a big pot the new guy (me) draws a full house: AAAQQ. I’m sure that made the regular players unhappy as I soon split to go to the Comedy Show. The comedian was <b>Valerie Storm</b> and she did a show that was good as I have seen in a long while. I was told she was good and she is…packed room too. Stopped for a late cheesecake up on Lido and sat outdoors aft and watched the Carnival Vista following us towards Cozumel. Beautiful lights and evening. It was a very nice productive day for me on Carnival Paradise.</span></span><p></p></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Day Four -- Thursday -- September 8th, 2022 -- Cozumel, Mexico <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij6uuUW7G0UvOSNzVmxnf5JGcGXDq1vCdcZaTH89LrDxBKZ2IM__VS1M0uZABIXtouHMWD305MoICEEAFTSgwelmZImUikxXlmLFpNw_BwOQDW79kIrGC1H1xNPdI3p6U78kWATRJ0Z3jSshkJ3CVJd_HDVfIpbFp5I-YQzSgf_dl9j4G5ehQ5bkA6/s4032/IMG_6460.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij6uuUW7G0UvOSNzVmxnf5JGcGXDq1vCdcZaTH89LrDxBKZ2IM__VS1M0uZABIXtouHMWD305MoICEEAFTSgwelmZImUikxXlmLFpNw_BwOQDW79kIrGC1H1xNPdI3p6U78kWATRJ0Z3jSshkJ3CVJd_HDVfIpbFp5I-YQzSgf_dl9j4G5ehQ5bkA6/w400-h300/IMG_6460.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div></b>Smooth Caribbean seas sailing west and I slept fair, off and on. We have a late arrival into Cozumel so no rushing this morning. The local port officials didn’t allow debark until all three ships were docked so it was a madhouse once the Vista, Dream, and Paradise passengers hit the pier. When I saw that there were NO ships at the International pier I made a change of plans and went to the old El Cid Hotel for the day. It’s just beyond the International pier and is usually dominated by RCL guests and crew. Not so busy today so I got an all-inclusive day pass for $52 and spent the day. It was nice to have a new HQ in Cozumel for the day. I found a more secluded spot with a table, chairs, and electrical outlet just off of the smaller beach. (photo is view from table) Better access to water, a nice pool, and food is restaurant quality & quantity. I haven't been here in many years but enjoyed it. Some pluses: they furnish the towels, a nice toilet/changing area, waiters & servers, shade, water access in two different areas, choice of dining in the restaurant (must have a shirt & dry, etc.) or in my case a table, a huge swimming pool, and a closer walk to the cruise terminal. I got a lot of business and financial work done as well as hitting the nice Caribbean water in the Strait of Cozumel twice today. I arrived back at Puerto Maya pier at about 5:30 pm and saw Mike Pack on the pier, he is now a supervisor of the fleet cruise directors and just boarded the Paradise yesterday. Good to visit with him…I also saw Hugo our Hotel Director so he is alive and well. Cabin time to rest and clean up. At about 7:45 I went to the Elation Dining room for dinner and scored my favorite solo table #201. I ordered two retro 50th birthday dishes: French Onion soup, Supreme of Poulet Farcie (chicken breast stuffed with spinach & cheese), BBQ ribs, and a Fruit Plate. This is one of the best MDR dinner menus I have seen on a Carnival ship in many years. A quick swing by the Piano Bar and a walkabout before retiring It was a tiring yet very productive port day in Cozumel.</div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Day Five -- Friday -- September 9th, 2022 —Fun Day at Sea</b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiChlUHYoN60PohDiEYk1s8hHMenoPAKfAge9Pbgfm4Bj06zbeMJtZtm3LwzQVKYdT8aWB3a5T136k-lDtyS0Qk11WPBAyZV-8pIlyEoeEvJCaGwB_AJMhj0pBSR6inUzaAAYsWwSbtA_xu6Sjr04DKnL3HO9LZWzsI1_IYLrAXVBw4yahcCn3dncFS/s4032/lobbybar.HEIC" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiChlUHYoN60PohDiEYk1s8hHMenoPAKfAge9Pbgfm4Bj06zbeMJtZtm3LwzQVKYdT8aWB3a5T136k-lDtyS0Qk11WPBAyZV-8pIlyEoeEvJCaGwB_AJMhj0pBSR6inUzaAAYsWwSbtA_xu6Sjr04DKnL3HO9LZWzsI1_IYLrAXVBw4yahcCn3dncFS/w300-h400/lobbybar.HEIC" width="300" /></a></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">For the first time this cruise a little bit of rolling seas overnight and some lightning as we transitioned from the Caribbean into the Gulf of Mexico. I was up early again to get a little better internet while updating this blog. I had fruit for breakfast from my Fruit Basket. Since it is overcast with drizzle I struggled through the crappy internet and had a cabin morning. I did a noon walkabout picking up my Diamond gifts and cashing out of the casino. Two cruises in a row cashing out with a little more than I had put on my card. I stopped at Guy’s for the new Funderstruck burger…that’s two on this cruise. Dudi had the cabin looking great when I returned, he has been an outstanding cabin steward. He goes above and beyond the minimal requirements and takes pride in his service. I’m glad that I will have him again next cruise as I’m only moving next door. I went to </span><b style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Tea Time</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> in the Elation MDR, my first Tea since they recently restarted it. I enjoyed the Scones and Apple Tarts, but nothing else appealed to me. I don’t do chocolate or coffee flavors, but if you do, they had goodies for you. I have to try to remember to bring my own tea bags next time. The <b>Diamond and Platinum Party</b> was held at 5:00 pm in the Queen Mary Lounge. A full room with live music and numerous bar servers so everyone was content with their cocktails, including me. I was actually the high cruiser, but they called someone else and I was really fine with it, I enjoyed my cocktails. This was the first appearance of the Captain at a cruise event since the Covid protocols. Nice to see cruising getting back to normal. I stopped at the Lobby Bar and listened to some excellent <b>Steel Drum music</b> (photo above) and enjoyed some Pilsner Urquell's…. Tonight I had dinner in the Elation MDR…I ordered the Dill Lemon Comfort Soup, Cobb Salad, Jerk Pork Loin entree, and a fruit plate for dessert. It was very good. After dinner, I went to the Piano Bar and Rolando is getting better with each cruise, he did say he was moving to a new ship soon. It was a lovely final day on the Carnival Paradise.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Day Six - Debarkation/Embarkation — Saturday -- September 10th, 2022 -- Port of Tampa <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1GykAKHjD1ju_Up4b4IqG_Znl2Uno0wJ45_19pyudMHZeJD2bVPIX2D-iyoe_f6tVdPx9djr-rN8T00btHGE-wmyozU6rPWScS15X4Kz4Gfg1i7GSyU_ltTcwQGE1nNqMfDPeI6-bl_nisY9d4OSgzOhnqR61MIVCG_gFTLBKqrMPqXE-K8IBb7qf/s4032/IMG_6498.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1GykAKHjD1ju_Up4b4IqG_Znl2Uno0wJ45_19pyudMHZeJD2bVPIX2D-iyoe_f6tVdPx9djr-rN8T00btHGE-wmyozU6rPWScS15X4Kz4Gfg1i7GSyU_ltTcwQGE1nNqMfDPeI6-bl_nisY9d4OSgzOhnqR61MIVCG_gFTLBKqrMPqXE-K8IBb7qf/w400-h300/IMG_6498.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div></b>Calm seas overnight and I slept well. I was awake when we docked in Tampa at 6:00 am. I went to breakfast in Elation and had Avocado Toast with Mellon and Danish. Then began packing as I have to change cabins today, but easy just going next door. They were debarking guests by 7:05 am and had the all off by 9:30 am. Pretty smooth. I met the B2B guests at 9:15 and at about 9:30 went through customs and returned to the ship. I returned to the cabin to unpack and set up for this week. With fast Tampa internet today I updated this blog and reviewed the progress on the kitchen remodel at home. About 11:00 am I did a walkabout the ship before many guests had boarded then had a Guys cheeseburger with chili and fries as an early lunch as I had plans for a noon kickoff for the Alabama vs. Texas football game. It was a very exciting game and well worth watching. It ended up being a one-point victory for Bama. I watched our 4:00ish sail away from the aft deck and took some photos of the Florida Aquarium (photo) that has become important to our family in our sailings from Tampa. I had an early dinner in the Elation MDR when it opened at 5:30 pm as my team has a 7:00 pm kickoff this evening. Dinner was very good, I ordered the Tomato Soup, Sweet & Sour Shrimp, the Pollo Parmigiana Della Cucina entree from the Cucina menu, and a Tiramisu for dessert. I had my usual waiters and good service at table #201 and I was out in time for kickoff. The WiFi was not near as good as when we were in Tampa but I was able to enjoy the game. My Oklahoma Sooners won. They delivered the B2B Fruit Bowl with specific items I had requested so I had late-night game snacks as well. It was a great turn-around and football day for an experienced cruiser on the Carnival Paradise.<br /> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Day Seven — Sunday -- September 11th, 2022 — Fun Day at Sea</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6OozhgHEafSaSJC1loefc3gia0F8XM3hzZco-L0uEgqOAo8vpjhWIB-IkAqmNdfv1C--vJWgDln1YPPyqxesOt5hVxlSvhCpGB96G8r-wCTaD_59LXAtUwKpLF_Qt8NZK4KNPyK_WhDI31Ed0_8vAQs4LyZJAFgwQq5ldJCKvO1S1fcY_jwvJqZ6j/s3321/IMG_6506.heic" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3321" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6OozhgHEafSaSJC1loefc3gia0F8XM3hzZco-L0uEgqOAo8vpjhWIB-IkAqmNdfv1C--vJWgDln1YPPyqxesOt5hVxlSvhCpGB96G8r-wCTaD_59LXAtUwKpLF_Qt8NZK4KNPyK_WhDI31Ed0_8vAQs4LyZJAFgwQq5ldJCKvO1S1fcY_jwvJqZ6j/s320/IMG_6506.heic" width="291" /></a></div></span><span style="color: #0e101a;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well. I did some early morning housekeeping arranging laundry service and a fruit bowl breakfast. I did a walkabout and collected my $25 Diamond casino credit and established a pin number for my casino account for later, then picked up my Diamond gifts from Pixels, I received a Carnival Elation pin that was the first Carnival ship I ever sailed back in 2004. There were enough Diamonds on board to justify a Diamond Luncheon and it was held at 11:00 am in the Destiny Restaurant. I had a nice table and the Entertainment Director introduced the Senior Staff...the big surprise was that the Captain was in attendance for the first time in 2 1/2 years. Nice. I had the same server as the previous cruise and there were sufficient cocktail servers to make everyone happy. The menu was the standard for Diamonds and I ordered both the Green Salad starter and the NY Strip Steak entree. The waiter actually brought me a Pork Belly appetizer with the entree as he knew I probably would like one…and I did. For dessert a fancy fruit plate and another Elderflower martini. It was a fun luncheon with new friends. I stopped at the Lobby Bar to finish my last martini and had water as I visited with new friends. Then I did the usual for the first sea day…nap time. I slept until 6:00ish so a good rest. I went up to the Lido Marketplace Deli and had two sandwiches: the Pepper Steak and a Reuben. They used regular sliced bread and hot dog bun…not very good compared to other ships. Potato Chips were good (they are Lays). I sat on the outer deck for sunset, a lot of cloud cover but a very pleasant evening. I then visited the casino and played some Texas Hold-em…not a good night for me, but I did get a free beer, a Pilsner Urquell of course. Short walkabout before retiring. It was a fun and restful sea day on the Carnival Paradise.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Day Eight — Monday -- September 12th, 2022 — Mahogany Bay, Isla Roatan <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijn6O1aA6BvR4uO0TqqI1iYnN1Ahsd2kJoqA023A2lWpMjyZCC0Dugq5Rj4iUon7OmAcLXb5jkeeN01bhZ1RzgQc4fQaGtedwOYnz5gVh3fT8qZ8_wx4QcdUJOX_T5ExWHNO7yvQ9wnLobXN5SK5uU1F_T_U9FL_Nntuux6HHXiIvlH637r6q9sWG4/s3107/IMG_6508.HEIC" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2898" data-original-width="3107" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijn6O1aA6BvR4uO0TqqI1iYnN1Ahsd2kJoqA023A2lWpMjyZCC0Dugq5Rj4iUon7OmAcLXb5jkeeN01bhZ1RzgQc4fQaGtedwOYnz5gVh3fT8qZ8_wx4QcdUJOX_T5ExWHNO7yvQ9wnLobXN5SK5uU1F_T_U9FL_Nntuux6HHXiIvlH637r6q9sWG4/s320/IMG_6508.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div></span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas again and I slept well. I was up in the night and began booking WiFi and port Excursions for my three Europe cruises next month. I wanted to beat Carnival’s October price increases. Even though I have the Premium WiFi this cruise it’s not that great so when other guests are asleep, it’s a bit better. When I did get back to sleep I didn’t get around until mid-morning. Those bananas from the fruit basket come in handy and they delivered a refill fruit tray later in the day. We didn’t dock until after 11:00 am so it was a slow morning for most guests. I went to Guy’s Burgers when it opened at noon and had a Funderstruck and a Chili burger…they seem to go together. Packed with Crew as they get to eat at these venues on port days. My option was to get off the ship after lunch and purchased the $5 Mahogany Bay Wifi from the kiosk on the pier, but with most guests off it was a little better on board than it was earlier. I did my Monday morning business and had a nice cabin day. When it cooled outside I spent a nice amount of time on Deck 11 enjoying watching the guests and the cooling breeze. It was nice sundown this evening too. I went for a late dinner in the Elation MDR, it was very busy after 8:30 and I was surprised. I ordered the Broccoli Soup, the Meatballs & Linguini, the Tenderloin Steak entree, and the Pineapple for dessert. It was all very good, I even had extra Sauce for the Pasta. I was going to attend the 9:45 Production Show, but I saw that it was set up with stools that indicate an abbreviated show without props or costumes so I passed. I did a walkabout around the ship and then retired. It was a productive and pleasant day on Carnival Paradise.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Day Nine -- Tuesday -- September 13th, 2022 -- Cozumel, Mexico</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRbZHkSMJAoI7OI73wv1G-A8YajOyJK-NQyygWD8Tu0JSEyoxDlggZNhb1W4m_uMVy_qpGyd1caGrM0CWjOuHAK_Xm50R06E8CyowcCTjI0iC5HncHShCN48nS0QPwuUwcvJLU-IxGGH---fZqHAXfTlnsNZeB16dmYhxlAfOTOHsVxiLC8_lUMYCF/s4032/Coz.HEIC" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRbZHkSMJAoI7OI73wv1G-A8YajOyJK-NQyygWD8Tu0JSEyoxDlggZNhb1W4m_uMVy_qpGyd1caGrM0CWjOuHAK_Xm50R06E8CyowcCTjI0iC5HncHShCN48nS0QPwuUwcvJLU-IxGGH---fZqHAXfTlnsNZeB16dmYhxlAfOTOHsVxiLC8_lUMYCF/s320/Coz.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div>Again smooth seas overnight and just enough waves for nice sleeping. I was up early to update this blog as the internet is a bit faster in the wee hours. I went back to sleep and then was up for our late arrival at Puerto Maya. I went to my 2nd favorite place in Cozumel: Del Mar Latino Resort. Walked there from the ship arriving about noonish ship time which gave me plenty of time for the all-inclusive spirits and food as they are on central time now on the island…six hours. I started with a quick dip in the pool to cool off from the walk and ordered a diet Coke, Pico de Gallo, Chips, and Guacamole to start. I did get in the Caribbean Sea and it was very refreshing, not much of a beach, but the snorkeling is good. Over the course of the day, I had numerous Mojitos, Coconut Shrimp, Mojitos, Guacamole, Mojitos, grilled Pollo (chicken), Mojitos, Ice Creme, and more. I more than closed them down as I stayed beyond service hours just to use the fast internet service. I really used the internet most of the day as there was a lot for me to do on this big market drop day and keep up with a punch list for kitchen repairs back at home. Much faster internet than on the Paradise. I started back about 6:50 pm for our 7:30 back on board time. I had a nice visit with Senior Staff on the pier. Once I was cleaned up it was already late so I decided to order room service and they were very prompt. I can say that the new BLTs are no comparison to the classic room service ones in years past. It’s really a Turkey Sandwich with Turkey Bacon & slice Turkey meat. The extra French Fries ($2) were plentiful and good. I retired soon after eating, it was an active and busy day. Always a FUN port day in Cozumel.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Day Ten -- Wednesday -- September 14th, 2022 —Fun Day at Sea</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinUFCkUgO5DrgBx7B-XXxhewDrampGYZTF1vO1F6N8WQ4uA7-77XmBEhfh6kw77-PWFzRRbx4S9joboljGiDHZmGeIkMOWJnW9c52DcouNuYnQJRy7MFv4dA8rUGyI_rRmMMBhi1CdXUGGpN3HXc8g02tl9mG-ADg0R8sqZJzjjHHKBWw3TaEUViKr/s3423/IMG_6542.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3423" data-original-width="2713" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinUFCkUgO5DrgBx7B-XXxhewDrampGYZTF1vO1F6N8WQ4uA7-77XmBEhfh6kw77-PWFzRRbx4S9joboljGiDHZmGeIkMOWJnW9c52DcouNuYnQJRy7MFv4dA8rUGyI_rRmMMBhi1CdXUGGpN3HXc8g02tl9mG-ADg0R8sqZJzjjHHKBWw3TaEUViKr/w318-h400/IMG_6542.jpeg" width="318" /></a></div>Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. Partly cloudy weather, but cleared during the day. This morning I went to the Elation MDR for the featured Sea Day Brunch. I had a Bloody Mary, Steak & Eggs+, Hash Browns, Hickory Bacon, Danish, French Toast, Tomato Juice, and Milk. It was very good and my favorite table was available. I had cabin time and spent some time on the outer decks as well. I even ventured up to Deck 15, the Sun Deck, with only four people in that huge space. I made it to the 3:30 PG Comedy Show with Valerie Storm, she did well. Some comedians don’t do well with a PG set. The <b>Platinum & Diamond party</b> (photo right) was at 5:00 pm and I decided to have some beer and not martinis this evening. Thanks to Amol for assuring me that I had Pilsner Urquell to enjoy. I happened to run into Executive Chef JJ on the Promenade deck and we discussed ranching, meat production, steaks, and more. He said he would fix a very nice Sirloin steak for me tonight so when I checked in at the Elation Dining room this evening they contacted him. I had my favorite table (#201) and a wonderful meal. I ordered the Cobb Salad, The Lemon Dill Soup, and the nice Sirloin Steak from the Steak House selections. The steak was tender and perfectly cooked. I was more than pleased. Best meal of my four recent cruises. Thank you Chef JJ. I also had very friendly guests at the next table. I offered them my two bottles of champagne that I will not be using, very convenient as their cabin is direct across from mine. After dinner I was able to watch the Steel Drum music in the Lobby Bar, the Bohemian Rhapsody set is unbelievably great. I enjoyed visiting with Deepak one of the bartenders there, he is very professional and as good as any Alchemist. I made it back to the Punchliner Comedy show with Jeff Harms, he was entertaining. Dudi has been doing turn-down service for me for ten days, I appreciate coming back late to a nice cabin. I had a message from a client and successfully booked him on an MSC cruise for October but, I had to go to the lobby to get the WiFi to work enough to do it…just bad internet on this ship in the majority of the cabins. It was a wonderful last sea day on the Carnival Breeze.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Debarkation — Thursday -- September 15th, 2022 -- Port of Tampa<br /></b>Smooth seas overnight and I sleep well. I was awake at 5:00 am as we were sailing into the upper bay and I was packed by 6:00 am as we came along the pier. I have a 7:00 am meet time for Diamonds but since I’m already on Deck 7 I’ll just wait until they come down, no need to carry my bag ups just to bring it back down. I was off by 7:15 and met a Lyft driver at the Aquarium for my ride home. I was home at 8:15 am well before all the passengers are off the Paradise.<br /><br /><br /><u><b>My observations about the Carnival Paradise</b></u></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><u><b> </b></u><br />POSITIVE:<br />Smaller ship is easier to maneuver <br />Crew and Staff are excellent<br />Food is better over-all in the Main Dining Rooms than other Carnival ships (with same menus)<br />Salad Bar is very good and good location away from larger buffet lines<br />Rarely a wait for elevators<br /><br />NEGATIVE:<br />No Alchemy Bar<br />Very poor Internet<br />Lack of secondary dining options (ie. Mongolian Grill, Seafood Shack, Steakhouse, etc.)<br /><br /><br />Sunshine Parkway Bridge Times<br />Out bound: 6:30 pm. In bound: 3:50 am<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></span></div><p></p></div>Snoozemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08287635714818403539noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-666314469198049300.post-15404276489188170002022-08-22T09:00:00.110-05:002022-09-06T21:24:38.203-05:00Carnival Paradise Cruise Review - B2B - August 22 & 25, 2022<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4e5JoEeyzJOLywoVNzJNkGiiPak7BUNjmgXyFAJU7MAKiTeGUHtLdZMKh7R_ZP_c06OdCT4CieFPT4R1k_TI62npq2QGAXmcRdHpqBQAJcCSoZ74nn1rJXKcRvopTb-h_ByIpN2d0KFIG9mYniC4RrbdQVQ0-40BXdNZ-q54_yUrktY_PwxYuXUYg/s960/Paradise%20sunet.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4e5JoEeyzJOLywoVNzJNkGiiPak7BUNjmgXyFAJU7MAKiTeGUHtLdZMKh7R_ZP_c06OdCT4CieFPT4R1k_TI62npq2QGAXmcRdHpqBQAJcCSoZ74nn1rJXKcRvopTb-h_ByIpN2d0KFIG9mYniC4RrbdQVQ0-40BXdNZ-q54_yUrktY_PwxYuXUYg/w509-h286/Paradise%20sunet.jpg" width="509" /></a></div><p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Carnival Paradise Cruise Review - B2B - August 22 & 25, 2022 </b><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><u> </u></div><div style="text-align: left;"><u>Just the Facts:</u> </div><div style="text-align: left;">Ship: Carnival Paradise, last of Fantasy Class ships launched Nov. 1998 @ 70,000 tons. </div><div style="text-align: left;">Sailing: August 22 & Aug 27, 2022 - two 5 day cruises - Sailing out of Port of Tampa, Florida</div><div style="text-align: left;">Captain: Massimiliano Roja - Hotel Director: Hugo Hidalgo - Cruise Director: T-O double D on the M-I-C or Todd</div><div style="text-align: left;">Ports: Tampa, FL - Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands - Isla de Cozumel, Mexico (2) - Mahogany Bay, Honduras - Tampa, FL</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;">I am sailing as a solo guest. This is my 4th & 5th cruises on the Carnival Paradise, my 101st & 102nd Carnival cruises, and my 182nd total cruise overall.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><b>Day One -- Monday -- August 22nd, 2022 -- Port of Tampa — Embarkation <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgXUAK8Lmc55lRE7Wn_-FjnOyHtSFprUmCTJIxopdVRii1So4E4TaFGvGOT38Z75G7rsNYSFUD1xIwIEKIlJeTYDVU388kRGrVRKRuFMR-mErAZQyJvbqfEHImaUKqnfG8T5C0DirFCirc4wkwKjeY1KesdnxkJ0bSOWNeV1-KQso4fPJSESE31NdN/s4032/IMG_6296%20copy.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgXUAK8Lmc55lRE7Wn_-FjnOyHtSFprUmCTJIxopdVRii1So4E4TaFGvGOT38Z75G7rsNYSFUD1xIwIEKIlJeTYDVU388kRGrVRKRuFMR-mErAZQyJvbqfEHImaUKqnfG8T5C0DirFCirc4wkwKjeY1KesdnxkJ0bSOWNeV1-KQso4fPJSESE31NdN/w400-h300/IMG_6296%20copy.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">This is a very easy embarkation day sailing from my new home port of Tampa. The DW & I picked up the DD and granddaughter about 8:30 am and made our way to the </span><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Florida Aquarium</span></strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> in Tampa. We are new Aquarium Members and it just so happens that the Aquarium member parking is closer to the cruise terminal than any cruise parking. We had a great morning at the Aquarium…it’s a great facility and the GD was thrilled with the exhibits and display tanks…I liked them too. About 12:30 pm I headed back to the parking lot and retrieved my travel bag and walked across the street to the Carnival Paradise. The early crowds have boarded, so I breezed my way through security and check-in and was in my cabin before 1:00 pm. I had already walked a lot before boarding so the first priority was some rest. About 2:00 I went on a walkabout going by my ‘Muster Station’ then to Lido deck for a light lunch. The Paradise does have an excellent Salad Bar station, actually better than most newer Carnival Ships, so a nice salad was perfect. I met Mohammed, my cabin Stewart, and he fixed me up with ice and a robe. I unpacked, did my cabin set up, then took a nice long nap. I woke at about 8:00 pm and quickly made reservations at the Elation Restaurant. I went to the lobby bar and enjoyed a Cosmopolitan, my second of the day as my friend Amol, a Beverage Manager, bought me one. I’m listed as a 100 Milestone on this cruise, thanks Amol, I’ll take it. I was soon called to dinner and had a nice 2-top (#201) table and as the timing was good, a dance show by the Waiters. I ordered the Roasted Tomato Soup, a Shrimp Cocktail, and the Strip-loin steak entree. A small fruit plate for dessert and all was good including service. I’m glad I went to dinner in the MDR. I returned to the cabin to do my usual Monday business, but the internet has been very bad today. Hopefully, it will get better. It was a busy day with easy embarkation.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Day Two -- Tuesday -- August 23rd, 2022 -- Day at Sea</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR3s9KauQrmQL9LGDVIM2sABmlLOOVhaTdCDChJxdOF5Fl5pzhXmaKpS9b_fW2N8ZkffQ-Cwg8p9k3_H1udXeh8G-YnR7Zn_vxdhzuDShZCg0CDCh-EY0yOQbdUWOd2tpAtH-bxbxldIh-PMVRuHSjOynCJmYv8Ks2YnvUa0ol_c5gp0rdorAJTjUF/s3088/IMG_6311.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2316" data-original-width="3088" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR3s9KauQrmQL9LGDVIM2sABmlLOOVhaTdCDChJxdOF5Fl5pzhXmaKpS9b_fW2N8ZkffQ-Cwg8p9k3_H1udXeh8G-YnR7Zn_vxdhzuDShZCg0CDCh-EY0yOQbdUWOd2tpAtH-bxbxldIh-PMVRuHSjOynCJmYv8Ks2YnvUa0ol_c5gp0rdorAJTjUF/w320-h240/IMG_6311.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight, and I slept very well in my interior cabin. I was up early but still had poor WiFi so no online business or Blog updates. I went back to sleep and slept until 9:00…so some very much-needed rest, but I did do 7000 steps yesterday. I went to Blue Iguana for breakfast, very disappointing. Paradise is unique in that Guy’s, the Omelette Station, and Blue Iguana is actually one continuous space on the outdoor Lido deck so Blue Iguana is just different. The Arepas were the worst I have ever had anywhere at any time, but I was there later in the morning than normal. The better option is to get a fresh omelet next to it and then get the Salsas from Blue Iguana. I should have known that from my last review too. I went to the </span><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Diamond Gathering</span></strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> at 10:00 am in the Leonardo Lounge. It was hosted by my friend Hugo who I first met on the Carnival Breeze many moons ago, Congratulations to him on his promotion to Hotel Director. I had my fair share of Bloody Mary's at the bar, they were excellent. The Coconut Shrimp was wonderful too. The Staff Officers were very congenial to the guests and the Bar Servers were very accommodating as well. Also, live music and a perfect size room for the number of Diamonds. An excellent gathering. I took my laptop to the old location of the Business area near Guest Services and was able to get a WiFi connection, very slow, but the best I can get at this time. Updated some business accounts and travel work, but Blog will have to wait. The weather is very good and guests are enjoying it on the outer decks, but too hot for me…cabin time and more for some rest for me. This evening I went back to the lobby to get internet and I listened to the entire set of the Steel Drum player. He was excellent, especially his rendition of Bohemian Rhapsody. Tonight is elegant night, but I did the contrarian thing and had dinner on the outer deck aft. I had a very nice salad. It was a beautiful evening and a good time to be out and about as most guests are at dinner. The feature show was the </span><em style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">80’s Pop to the Max</span></em><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> in the theater, but I stayed on deck and enjoyed the weather and beautiful Sunset. A pleasant walkabout the ship before retiring. It was a fun and restful sea day on the Carnival Paradise.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Day Three -- Wednesday -- August 24th, 2022 -- Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPBl76xUvsbakjXW9bYMTnJx8p6a_jS_WP1pZk_NIPI2wWRNyxOE4QmgOpWV5nGj5m8tyjNTGfbCjIzYngumjd4xEt4tKSibySpp3IxUgtF1vAhDTJvC6PMHTS5IV0134F55mUJmslVNfvtOdRwb0UVzLvv4j2llmL8cDOk0THzQnCv-pOx5kw7dEc/s3789/IMG_6323.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2565" data-original-width="3789" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPBl76xUvsbakjXW9bYMTnJx8p6a_jS_WP1pZk_NIPI2wWRNyxOE4QmgOpWV5nGj5m8tyjNTGfbCjIzYngumjd4xEt4tKSibySpp3IxUgtF1vAhDTJvC6PMHTS5IV0134F55mUJmslVNfvtOdRwb0UVzLvv4j2llmL8cDOk0THzQnCv-pOx5kw7dEc/w400-h271/IMG_6323.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I again slept very well. I was up very early as I have an excursion booked, a rarity for me at this port as I have visited so many times. I went to the Lido for a light breakfast at about 7:45 am then to the Queen Mary Lounge to await the Water Shuttle (the new name for a tender) to go ashore. The weather is very overcast which I prefer to hot sun. We are anchored with two Texas ships: the Carnival Vista and Royal’s Liberty of the Seas. The usual confusion finding one specific tour, especially at the older & small old dock in downtown Georgetown. My excursion was at the </span><a class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.turtle.ky/" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #4a6ee0; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;" target="_blank"><b style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Cayman Turtle Center.</span></b></a><b style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> They had an interesting area to snorkel with the turtles. They furnish the gear needed and there was a beach area as well. It was fun and a different experience. I then toured the park and had time for some local beer at the Restaurant. We were bused back to the pier and on one of the last shuttles back to the ship. I had a nice nap upon return, easier in an interior cabin. Tonight is my favorite menu in the Dining Room so I went to the Elation MDR early for me about 6:30 pm. (Table #201) I ordered both the Minestrone Soup and the Poblano Pepper Soup, the Linguine with the Meatballs as a starter, the Beef Tenderloin entree, and the roasted Pineapple dessert. It was very good as was the service. As we are sailing due west we were sailing into the Sunset, a little different. I watched fro forward deck above the Bridge and also discovered the WiFi was good at that location, unfortunately, there is no place to sit. I then did a walkabout stopping at the Photo Gallery for the Diamond gifts and at the Casino for the Diamond Free-play, but they just gave me $25 cash…sweet. Listened to music on the U.S. Stage on Promenade before retiring. It was an interesting and busy day in Grand Cayman and on the Paradise.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><b>Day Four -- Thursday -- August 25th, 2022 -- Cozumel, Mexico</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4bial_jSMtcyQkluYRpxNkZLQNY0HA6iDQankFVeqeX8LVZ2klQYKepfR-oCp9lYNzA_fIsT7FNKyRkH-U7KL6XH3rDfszVqTEjzf2lwmCDRP8P6icJWuhu5mZdkw-ngX33vWsXX_y2ScMVTEJX5P2kNMpHfsAiUDn43ao9XWCXG_IvIpv1FZwUYS/s3566/IMG_6339.heic" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2433" data-original-width="3566" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4bial_jSMtcyQkluYRpxNkZLQNY0HA6iDQankFVeqeX8LVZ2klQYKepfR-oCp9lYNzA_fIsT7FNKyRkH-U7KL6XH3rDfszVqTEjzf2lwmCDRP8P6icJWuhu5mZdkw-ngX33vWsXX_y2ScMVTEJX5P2kNMpHfsAiUDn43ao9XWCXG_IvIpv1FZwUYS/w400-h272/IMG_6339.heic" width="400" /></a></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth Caribbean seas sailing west and I slept very well. We have a late arrival into Cozumel so no rushing this morning…I went to the Elation Dining Room for a breakfast and I sat at my favorite solo table (#201). I ordered Hot Milk, Danish, Tomato Juice, Eggs Benedict, Bacon, and Potatoes. It was excellent. We were docked with the carnival Vista and Carnival Dream, both from Galveston, TX so a LOT of guests on the pier arrived about the same time. Same long line at Taxi stands so I went to my secret taxi stand outside and was lucky to get a taxi and he dropped me right at Antonio’s Barber Shop. My hair is long as you can see from the previous photo so we went a different style haircut: long on top and short on the sides…we’ll see how people react. It still looks like a Jimmy McGill haircut. So off to </span><a class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.blogger.com/#" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; color: #4a6ee0; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;" target="_blank"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; color: #4a6ee0; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Woody’s Bar & Grill</span></a><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">, the best bar on the island, with the fastest and much-needed WiFi. Good drinks, good food, fast internet, LIVE entertainment, great staff, and owners...Woody's is the best for a meal or drink while visiting the island. I got a lot of business and financial work done including booking a couple of Tahiti cruises for good friends and clients. I also had time for my Pedicure at </span><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Sensi Spa</span></strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> since we have a late sail away. And since my work was done time for some Bohemia Clara's before leaving Woody's. I arrived back at Puerto Maya pier at about 6:30 pm, that’s the latest back on board I’ve done in Cozumel in years (see photo above). It will even be later next cruise and reminds me of the days when we actually stayed until midnight at the Puerto Langosta pier in the 80s. I’m glad I went to the MDR for a late dinner, I was actually pleasantly shocked that it was so fabulously good. I ordered two retro 50th birthday dishes: French Onion soup, Supreme of Poulet Farcie (chicken breast stuffed with spinach & cheese), Broiled Strip-loin Steak, and a Fruit Plate. This was the best MDR dinner I have had on a Carnival ship in many years. It was a very productive port day in Cozumel.</span></div><p></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Day Five -- Friday -- August 26th, 2022 —Fun Day at Sea <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEBLiqm1FEqib44-uKS0Fae0GIbTZ5iWQyplsIBzYsfzULh--c4xdBVWsblQPVgSn-MI0pIqAQEjIyhHtuJokUPjCEXG1JN6Ge8KmSjHhE7AbfvyCZpPGuIoJesTFTBmf8wBVZ8DB0oA29EXu6jKPDwQnMqp5ltNDyGQUn2WuROi4aZqoFYjsWVbzZ/s4032/Paradise%20lobby.HEIC" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEBLiqm1FEqib44-uKS0Fae0GIbTZ5iWQyplsIBzYsfzULh--c4xdBVWsblQPVgSn-MI0pIqAQEjIyhHtuJokUPjCEXG1JN6Ge8KmSjHhE7AbfvyCZpPGuIoJesTFTBmf8wBVZ8DB0oA29EXu6jKPDwQnMqp5ltNDyGQUn2WuROi4aZqoFYjsWVbzZ/w300-h400/Paradise%20lobby.HEIC" width="300" /></a></div></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well and late. I went to the </span><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Sea day Brunch</span></strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> in the Elation dining room. I was impressed with the service, I was brought hot milk without asking soon after I sat. I ordered the Steak & Eggs, Bacon, Hash Browns, and a Bloody Mary. I am very pleased by this dining room's service and food. The weather is great today and guests are enjoying the outer decks. I did a walkabout to enjoy the fresh sea air and finished visiting all decks and areas of the ship and spent time on the Serenity Deck located forward. I watched a movie this afternoon on TCM one of the few good TV channels available on Carnival ships. They do have nice large TV sets mounted in the corner of the cabin...it wasn't long ago that they had very small ones here on Paradise in the interior cabins. I went to a trivia contest about TV theme songs...missed a few. I had my first Guy’s burger which will also be my dinner this evening. It was cooked perfectly crisp, but the meat was cold, I don’t do cheese so when it was brought from the grill I assumed it was freshly done, but it wasn’t...it was cold. Very disappointing. I should just stick with a cheeseburger from the rotation or actually test the meat before walking away. I attended the Platinum/Diamond Gathering in the Queen Mary Lounge...it was well attended. Hugo runs a good show and almost all the Senior Staff attended. I sat at the Bar and had two nice Elderflower Martinis, then took some diet Pepsis back to the cabin for a Gone With The Wind evening on TCM. The GWTW 1+ hour Special Documentary prior to the movie was very interesting and of course the best movie of all time. Made for long viewing. It was a relaxing sea day for a veteran cruiser such as myself on the Carnival Paradise.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Day Six - Debarkation/Embarkation — Saturday -- August 27th, 2022 -- Port of Tampa</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg620zifn4t3yfdfXItyKt2xhbRKcbzApEaQBzDj7R4qJUAIsAw7mzfnK7oiGgXeKJK4qRGHkVzZkJKeXBWBdqVA_RaqzV7z6tTAgpZkjz6wftK0GN_m1V5s8Go8xjIPuPKtUlquX1Byq-4gsRE1ot--gqJDKQkohW7PgxuFR99tD1iJcxs2f_i7L-k/s2048/Paradise%20bridge.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1367" data-original-width="2048" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg620zifn4t3yfdfXItyKt2xhbRKcbzApEaQBzDj7R4qJUAIsAw7mzfnK7oiGgXeKJK4qRGHkVzZkJKeXBWBdqVA_RaqzV7z6tTAgpZkjz6wftK0GN_m1V5s8Go8xjIPuPKtUlquX1Byq-4gsRE1ot--gqJDKQkohW7PgxuFR99tD1iJcxs2f_i7L-k/w400-h268/Paradise%20bridge.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Calm seas overnight and I slept well. We were docked in Tampa by the time I awoke at 6:15 am. I went to breakfast in Elation and had Avocado Toast with Eggs, Bacon, and Hash Browns. Then began packing as I have to change cabins today. They were debarking guests by 7:30 am and had the all off by 9:45 am. Pretty smooth. I met the B2B guests at 9:15 and at about 10:00 went through customs and returned to the ship. Thanks to my new cabin steward Gede for helping with my move. With fast Tampa internet today I update this blog and review progress on the kitchen remodel. All is well...ready to begin the second cruise. I met friends just boarding today and had a tasty salad in the Lido Marketplace, it was nice visiting with them. I then had some cabin time to finalize some exotic cruise bookings while I have good WiFi, just hoping that this service continues in my new ocean view cabin location once we sail away. I did a walkabout and actually watched some of the sail away party on Lido deck. I have an early set time for dining on this cruise in the Destiny Dining room at 6:00 pm. A good change for me. I met my friends at window table 311 and we had a good serving team. Tonight I ordered Roasted Poblano and Corn Soup, Sweet & Sour Shrimp, the Pollo Parmigiana Della Cucina entree from the Cucina menu, and a Fruit Plate for dessert. It was a very good and enjoyable meal and was served and finished within 75 minutes. We passed under the Skyway Bridge during dinner at approximately 6:30 pm. After dinner, I attended the first comedy show featuring Kim Harrison. I enjoyed it and met her after the show, although this was my first time to actually see her we knew each other by reputation…good or bad :-). Another walkabout including looking for plums or cookies from the Lido, but ended up later ordering some cookies from Room Service for an evening snack. It was a great turn-around day on the Carnival Paradise.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Day Seven — Sunday -- August 28th, 2022 — Fun Day at Sea <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi00w9vsnZ7QvqCLhOpHviJZU1v_i6rlnCR7Aq13e_zeyxCV9GyqkPBJ0XBZTeNv1RwLNZbQY-uJt0ioFqD_W6qjsrIuO7zAg98eXfpGd5elkg4X7VH4CeFm2842ilcammCEcPWinLxVYMMUh0qoF3G0fjeT9pV8_3WDNhJD38sNDtaSvg7sBY1HSlJ/s3074/80s%20to%20the%20Max.HEIC" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3074" data-original-width="2988" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi00w9vsnZ7QvqCLhOpHviJZU1v_i6rlnCR7Aq13e_zeyxCV9GyqkPBJ0XBZTeNv1RwLNZbQY-uJt0ioFqD_W6qjsrIuO7zAg98eXfpGd5elkg4X7VH4CeFm2842ilcammCEcPWinLxVYMMUh0qoF3G0fjeT9pV8_3WDNhJD38sNDtaSvg7sBY1HSlJ/w389-h400/80s%20to%20the%20Max.HEIC" width="389" /></a></div></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well and late. I did some early morning housekeeping arranging laundry service and ordering a proper fruit bowl. There were enough Diamonds on board to justify a </span><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Diamond Luncheon</span></strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> and it was held at 11:00 am in the Destiny Restaurant. I met my cruise friends and we sat with new friends at a roundtop table at the entry next to the entertainer. Hotel Director Hugo introduced the Senior Staff and there were sufficient cocktail servers to make everyone happy. The menu was the standard for Diamonds and I ordered both the Green Salad and Pork Belly appetizers and the NY Strip Steak entree. For dessert a fancy fruit plate and another Elderflower martini. It was a fun luncheon with new and old friends. As usual, following this event, it was nap time for me. I slept very well to 6:00 pm dinner time. I don’t do a lot of Elegant night dinners but having set time dining it is easier to do. Tonight I ordered a Creme of Mushroom Soup, Spaghetti Carbonara as a starter, and the Filet Mignon from the Steakhouse menu with a fruit plate for dessert. The soup and steak were excellent, We attended the first showing of the </span><em style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">80s Pop to the Max</span></em><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> show in the Theater. It was a good show although not one of my favorites. Then we attended </span><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Kim Harrison</span></strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">’s adult comedy show…very entertaining and had lots of belly laughs. We decided to check out this new Piano Bar player Reynaldo and he turned out to be the best surprise entertainment of the evening. Great talent and personable and learning the Piano Bar system. We were later joined by our new friends from lunch and amazingly we all had seats at the Piano. It was different and Fun. A late night for me retiring after 11:00 pm. It was a fun and entertaining sea day on the Carnival Paradise.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><b style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Day Eight — Monday -- August 29th, 2022 — Mahogany Bay, Isla Roatan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnlozI3RnyN4urCPwPbwJr0pWqklUJ-jlW4RxBTCN-ob93GUjoReWRah5xcJfVnpJObFxXtDUrIJ_uz5RnCWoN_x5jfl1XmqAu39p4t0s0CgGBfmH9mjdu6kFrE6lFpjfRxzWaiwWocx9rGRjhkja8iwMvrp-F_wpLfGSY54-MAa8IzG81ylFQlCVO/s4032/Reynaldo.HEIC" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnlozI3RnyN4urCPwPbwJr0pWqklUJ-jlW4RxBTCN-ob93GUjoReWRah5xcJfVnpJObFxXtDUrIJ_uz5RnCWoN_x5jfl1XmqAu39p4t0s0CgGBfmH9mjdu6kFrE6lFpjfRxzWaiwWocx9rGRjhkja8iwMvrp-F_wpLfGSY54-MAa8IzG81ylFQlCVO/w300-h400/Reynaldo.HEIC" width="300" /></a></div></span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas again and I slept well. I was up early and updated this blog. The WiFi in my new cabin is much better than on the last cruise. Not that fast but adequate. I had breakfast in the Elation MDR…Eggs Benedict, Bacon, Hash Browns, & Melon. We are docked in Mahogany Bay today but I’m planning on staying onboard as I have a lot of business to transact today and did so all morning. I took a walkabout at about 11:30 to allow Gede and the team to clean my cabin. I saw both old & new friends out on Serenity Deck…seems experienced cruisers tend to stay onboard in many ports. I had a Guy’s burger and asked them to grill the meat fresh for me and they did…much better than last week's burger. It’s a hot and humid day today so I was happy to get back to the cabin to return to work after being on deck a while. My ocean view cabin runs about 5° warmer than my interior cabin last cruise, but I do have a fan that helps maintain temperatures of about 71° - 72°. I finished up my work at about 4:30 pm. and then began thinking about my special dinner tonight. I booked the </span><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Chef’s Table</span></strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> as I had seen it being held in the Library on the previous cruise. It looked interesting and I like the venue, the Library is decorated in a unique nautical theme so I signed up on the first night of the cruise with our Maitre’D in the Destiny MDR. Our group of 16 met at 6:00 pm in the Lobby area and then went up to the Library. We had assigned seating and they did a group photo to begin. It was a three+ hour experience that include the Executive Chef, the Magician, and a select service team. I’ll post the complete menu at the end of this review but the major courses were: Chef’s Taste - Duck - Our Surf & Turf - Sea Bass - Lamb - Prime NY Strip - Patisserie - Mignardises. It was an enjoyable experience, it’s been years since I did my last Chef’s table, and since the Paradise has no premium restaurants, by far the best meal on this ship. Afterward just a short walk across to the </span><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Piano Bar</span></strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> for some time with Reynaldo and friends. It’s interesting as Reynaldo is new to the Piano Bar format so he is learning as he goes and seems surprised by some of the popular sing-along songs and piano bar tunes with the non-published crowd responses. He did </span><em style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Family Tradition</span></em><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> for the first time and once he got the crowd responses, (not in his music sheet) it clicked with him and he loved it. It was more fun watching him learn than the tunes themselves. He would do a classical show tune in which he was trained and was wonderful. I soon retired my old bones…it was a unique day on the Carnival Paradise.</span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><b style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Day Nine -- Tuesday -- August 30th, 2022 -- Cozumel, Mexico <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIGGWeq1_dRVkT41jyjIfI112ZMX-MXSKxdkS2DJQcBK40hRpahDO8U2HLHgZ698JSQPzD5kLnKxbAWazy5-zsfsT66kkUtdRV4MMFmH4QnW8PIHQwnvGqySMhRrLJtETHK_2G8V4c-S_e4gWrd9qWZYbmRcPrrm6k8DHdyBGm-PoDRM8g7JoLQ-Nv/s4032/Coz.HEIC" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIGGWeq1_dRVkT41jyjIfI112ZMX-MXSKxdkS2DJQcBK40hRpahDO8U2HLHgZ698JSQPzD5kLnKxbAWazy5-zsfsT66kkUtdRV4MMFmH4QnW8PIHQwnvGqySMhRrLJtETHK_2G8V4c-S_e4gWrd9qWZYbmRcPrrm6k8DHdyBGm-PoDRM8g7JoLQ-Nv/s320/Coz.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div></span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Again smooth seas overnight and just enough waves for nice sleeping. I was up early to balance an account from yesterday's work and update this blog as the internet is a bit faster in the wee hours. I went back to sleep and then was up for our late arrival at Puerto Maya. I went to my 2nd favorite place in Cozumel: Del Mar Resort with friends and others from the ship. Walked there from the ship arriving at about noon ship time which gave us plenty of time for the all-inclusive spirits and food as they are on central time now on the island…five hours. I started with a quick dip in the pool to cool off from the walk and ordered a diet Coke, Pico de Gallo, Chips, and Guacamole to start. Luckily it was an overcast day so not as hot as it could have been. Met new friends from other ships as well as our own and everyone was in a happy mood, Over the course of the day, I had numerous Mojitos, Coconut Shrimp, Mojitos, Guacamole, Mojitos, grilled Pollo with Salad & Potatoes (see photo), Mojitos, Ice Creme, and more. I more than closed them down as I stayed beyond service hours just to use the fast internet service. I walked back to the ship arriving closer to 7:00 pm so two late departure times in a row for Cozumel. I like it. Kudos to my cabin steward Gede who refilled the ice bucket again knowing of my later arrival back on board. That's excellent extra personal service. After a brief rest and cleaning the sand off I went to the Elation MDR for dinner, good to see my servers from the previous cruise and they even gave me my old table #201. The location, service, and food were very good. I ordered the Wild Rice & Chicken Soup, BBQ Pork Spareribs, Poulet Farcie (stuffed chicken breast), and a Fruit Plate for dessert. Just a very short walk-about on the ship then retiring by 9:30 after a busy day. It was a FUN port day in Cozumel.</span></div><div style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Day Ten -- Wednesday -- August 31st, 2022 —Fun Day at Sea</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxzedgVZIHnP6p4WmB6JcC8vY_UxXDOswBYeM1k1IlRgBLPgJ0o1G-fEGFkXRk7leS45LY3bXy8FdUQPVqxUxyApq4k3fFpuJt81coZs0DP65D_aU9zFNjZgiCL6qT4LCNOxivaB8Eq9g_xHkVBaO7z9b-3CMto0eh3QRvaEanmY4yMG7Bqfs4JYkN/s4032/IMG_6366.HEIC" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxzedgVZIHnP6p4WmB6JcC8vY_UxXDOswBYeM1k1IlRgBLPgJ0o1G-fEGFkXRk7leS45LY3bXy8FdUQPVqxUxyApq4k3fFpuJt81coZs0DP65D_aU9zFNjZgiCL6qT4LCNOxivaB8Eq9g_xHkVBaO7z9b-3CMto0eh3QRvaEanmY4yMG7Bqfs4JYkN/s320/IMG_6366.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">For the first time a little bit of rolling seas overnight as we transitioned from the Caribbean into the Gulf of Mexico. I was up early again to get a little better internet while updating this blog. I had fruit for breakfast from my B2B complementary Fruit Basket from the Hotel Director. It’s very nice that they have a refill card so you can get fresh and specific fruit items. I struggled through the crappy internet even going forward to the Bridge to get better reception. Nope. The fortunate thing about that walk is that I saw a Dolphin swim from under the ship…it was cool in the beautiful blue seawater. Best Dolphin sighting I have seen in these waters. I was at <b>Guy’s Burgers</b> soon after they opened at noon. The burgers were nice and hot, but I forgot to get the new Funderstruck burger…I will next voyage. Busy this afternoon, but did another walk about and cashed out my casino card…yes, I played a few slots this cruise. I was testing what it takes to get a casino fare offer. I came out ahead by $17 + my $25 cash Diamond free-play…so now I’ll wait a while to see if any casino offers come about. The interline offers to Travel Agents are pretty much over now. The <b>Diamond and Platinum party</b> was held at 5:00 pm in the Queen Mary Lounge. A full room with live music and numerous bar servers so everyone was content with their cocktails, including me. Dinner at 6:00 pm in the Destiny MDR just below the lounge so very convent. Tonight I ordered the Dill Lemon Comfort Soup, two Étouffée of Langoustine, Cobb Salad, Jerk Pork Loin entree, and the Bobaloo Cake for dessert. The Langoustine, entree, and dessert were the 50th birthday selections from old Carnival menus. The soup was the best item IMHO. Next was the second feature production: </span><i style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">80s Pop to the Max</span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">. A good show, better than the previous one. Some casual time until the <b>Piano Bar</b> (photo) opened at 9:00 pm. Reynaldo is so personable and he attempted all the songs he promised to learn by the last evening. The crowd was the regulars from the previous evenings and seemed to love Reynaldos efforts. His talent and voice are excellent and he will soon master this venue. He did learn the David Alan Coe classic </span><i style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Perfect Country Song</span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> to the delight of the room. It was a lovely final day on the Carnival Paradise.</span><br /><br /><b> Debarkation — Thursday -- September 1st, 2022 -- Port of Tampa<br /></b>Smooth sailing on our final night, but didn't sleep that well ... Up very early, in fact, saw us pass under the Sunshine Parkway Bridge @ 3:50 am. But I did finalize this review and pack. I had a nice final day breakfast in the Elation at table #201. Eggs Benedict, Bacon, Hash Browns, and Danish. I rolled off the ship at about 7:10 am with the Diamond Group, went through customs, then and walked over to the Aquarium to be picked up around 8:15 am. An easy port.<br /><br /><br /><b>Personal HIGHLIGHTS of the Cruises</b><br />Snorkeling with the Turtles in Grand Cayman<br />The Piano Bar<br />The Diamond Gathering & Luncheon<br />Two Cozumel Port Days</span></div><div style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><u>Sunshine Parkway Bridge Times</u><br />Out bound: 6:30 pm. In bound: 3:50 am</span></div><div style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrdFL94j07zG2WbLLtrQGGVF34aejE1Xgv8AhKfZx6TlTGejXFj5TzUhrAqEOhiGIlhbBe4FJAh6LvXNaSin5hldiVnxW0rdUNub9YD8HdsOaXEP6OhiMG0uP3RzVJ8FdCmD4--eHEBRwVg27uuVXPv0rvkh2de2fUyOjPpxOUEvLjlLRr5JkOzVxI/s3618/chef%20menu.heic" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3618" data-original-width="1949" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrdFL94j07zG2WbLLtrQGGVF34aejE1Xgv8AhKfZx6TlTGejXFj5TzUhrAqEOhiGIlhbBe4FJAh6LvXNaSin5hldiVnxW0rdUNub9YD8HdsOaXEP6OhiMG0uP3RzVJ8FdCmD4--eHEBRwVg27uuVXPv0rvkh2de2fUyOjPpxOUEvLjlLRr5JkOzVxI/w344-h640/chef%20menu.heic" width="344" /></a></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div>Snoozemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08287635714818403539noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-666314469198049300.post-77691869546819933562022-05-14T18:39:00.052-05:002022-05-23T15:36:00.248-05:00Carnival Breeze Cruise Review - May 14 & 19, 2022<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd_Qgtid6DAAIw1Y8Cx8rW5DTo0urD9OoZeMoFFg9nRlhX30XPq-oBaN5i1OzC2RvoZqQLCHrP-Ao0PHAjcDjJcDy0X9PomCojs0grv0giCWAKN4jP0AskOOjjV6Ilx5o4XSFPrWxgXw5nzAj4Xf8Pb63jL1djAiE6B9TifpF05mJ8c-D_IcpJwpWV/s480/BreezeSign.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="480" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd_Qgtid6DAAIw1Y8Cx8rW5DTo0urD9OoZeMoFFg9nRlhX30XPq-oBaN5i1OzC2RvoZqQLCHrP-Ao0PHAjcDjJcDy0X9PomCojs0grv0giCWAKN4jP0AskOOjjV6Ilx5o4XSFPrWxgXw5nzAj4Xf8Pb63jL1djAiE6B9TifpF05mJ8c-D_IcpJwpWV/w640-h480/BreezeSign.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p><b><u>Just the Facts:</u></b><br />Ship: Carnival Breeze<br />Sailing: May 14-22, 2022<br />Captain: Isidoro Renda Cruise Director: Cookie<br />Ports: Galveston- Cozumel, Mexico (2) - Costa Maya, Mexico - Galveston<br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">I am sailing another B2B on my favorite Carnival Ship. This is my 16th &17th cruises on the Carnival Breeze, my 99th and 100th Carnival cruises, and my 180th &181st cruises overall. I am sailing as a solo. <br /></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Day One -- Saturday -- May 14th, 2022 -- Port of Galveston Embarkation <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg9Bg05z8jHdsYyWMfkSWLjaHDnA2--QWeHqTxbsO0VVw2mb5nAhmao_K-EplGUmKKwHkLQiLQ6E5VJFt5vANJV7ZgAQ_-v3p-BXPSUHv4Vtpy0WiFHcbDrj8WOXwWzxK6tyQ8fyTisnY8bqrfzcC_Mp8t6rwRPdi0VUu05-k5VP0o4-OQLZylqvpt/s3546/grill.HEIC" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3546" data-original-width="3013" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg9Bg05z8jHdsYyWMfkSWLjaHDnA2--QWeHqTxbsO0VVw2mb5nAhmao_K-EplGUmKKwHkLQiLQ6E5VJFt5vANJV7ZgAQ_-v3p-BXPSUHv4Vtpy0WiFHcbDrj8WOXwWzxK6tyQ8fyTisnY8bqrfzcC_Mp8t6rwRPdi0VUu05-k5VP0o4-OQLZylqvpt/s320/grill.HEIC" width="272" /></a></div></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The day began early on Twisted Oak Ranch. I was up early and finished packing and hit the road south at about 4:45 am as Carnival moved up arrival times an hour for all guests…so my time was moved from 10:00 am to 9:00 am. One-stop at Love’s in Hearne, TX then straight through to EZ Cruise Parking arriving about 9:05 am. Glad I made reservations as they were full as the Vista was also on turnaround day today. I parked and walked over to Terminal Two and it was still very busy with debarkation guests. I love the look of the newly painted livery on the Breeze, I'll post a photo once we are in a port. I made my way to the entry and surprisingly they were boarding at that earlier hour. I was through Security and Check-in and seated at about 9:45 in the waiting area with only a short wait for a 10:15 am boarding. I rolled my bags with me as I always do and dropped them at my cabin by 10:25 am. Relatively easy process. Sweet. I then went to have a very nice early Mongolian Wok Stir-fry lunch by 10:30am. Sweet again. (photo right) Muster drill was next that took all of 10 minutes at Muster Station B-4 in the Blush Dining Room. I then sat out on deck 11 until cabins were officially opened…then set up my cabin. I did have a nice nap after they stopped with the muster announcements from 4:00-to 6:00. I had cabin time then went up to the Lido Marketplace for dinner. I had the Breaded Shrimp and a salad… a very nice dinner. Early evenings are nice on deck, I enjoyed the sunset and the view of the Carnival Vista following us. I went to the Casino and played my $25 free play, didn't do that well but came back with $5 in real chips...I'll try again next cruise. I went to the Alchemy Bar about 8:30 and met old and new friends and enjoyed seeing the <b>Alchemy team</b>. Anca and Ivana are two of my very favorites and met Alexandra from Serbia. Ivana prepared a very nice cocktail for me with Absinthe. It was very good. The new to me Breeze Rock Band performed tonight and was very good. It will be hard to duplicate the previous one but we’ll see. I retired to the cabin after their first set and my first cocktail. Some work to do before sleep. It was a long but very sweet embarkation day on the Carnival Breeze</span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">.</span><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Day Two -- Sunday -- May 15th, 2022 -- Fun Day at Sea </b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJLtCUrc8xDrjFtfgfBO3gP4rzFpRXsT8OahNNSAfGLj3N7WriASIiVt9CsBYVNKEpzn2PH4Clc8L6bQscRl8Xa5PJKH98AktT1EF07MaBQq8rLKSZ8MC4nbfyJkIjGRnQgBc7yJ8JlPW9Yzw7vXlYbEatvI1WDrJ8D_3yi79z8n_KyZXmPaH5CxVP/s3149/BreezeBand.HEIC" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2530" data-original-width="3149" height="321" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJLtCUrc8xDrjFtfgfBO3gP4rzFpRXsT8OahNNSAfGLj3N7WriASIiVt9CsBYVNKEpzn2PH4Clc8L6bQscRl8Xa5PJKH98AktT1EF07MaBQq8rLKSZ8MC4nbfyJkIjGRnQgBc7yJ8JlPW9Yzw7vXlYbEatvI1WDrJ8D_3yi79z8n_KyZXmPaH5CxVP/w400-h321/BreezeBand.HEIC" width="400" /></a></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well. I was up early. I don’t have a balcony this cruise so I keep the TV on the forward ship camera so I know when the sun rises…the music is nice too. The internet is really slow this morning, I hope it improves. I’m on my only two meals a day plan so no breakfast this morning. I did some work online and updated this blog. At 11:00 am I went to the <b>Diamond Party</b> in the Limelight Lounge. I saw several good friends there including some kin, Joe & Ola McDonald, it’s always good to catch up with them, I think Joe is on board for 3+ months this stretch. The two Bloody Mary’s held me until lunchtime. About noon I went to Cucina de Capitano and had a small Caesar Salad, Bread, and two nice Pasta Bowls. I like the Tomato Basil Sauce with Penne and the Bolognese with Linguini. It was very good. I enjoyed a nice walkabout on the outer decks in the perfect weather then retired to the cabin for a nice long nap. No MDR for me on this elegant night, I went to the Lido Marketplace for some Prime Rib from the Carving Station. Then I enjoyed the aft deck to watch the wake and the nice sunset. Interesting people-watching too. I then went to Alchemy Bar to see the new Breeze Rock Band in Ocean Plaza (photo). I was able to get a seat with a friend. I had the same absinthe cocktail that Ivana prepared the previous night. It was a fun evening, the band play 80s Music including one of my favorite Torch Songs: </span><i style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">At Last</span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">, the classic Etta James tune. I saw so many friends including my Bosque County neighbor, a Tarrant County friend I have known for 40 years, Cruise Director Cookie, and several others. Since I was fresh from a nice afternoon nap I stayed through 2+ sets of the Band and another cocktail, but I wanted to go to the outer deck to see the eclipse of the full moon. The eclipse was pretty spectacular at sea, probably looked good from Bosque County too. I then retired to the cabin, it was a FUN and interesting day on the Carnival Breeze. </span> <br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Day Three -- Monday -- May 16th, 2022 -- Costa Maya Mexico</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXAH795A4KrKfnG4mo_t2y3vxkJjodzgV3M0S5xI9gzF7kDtT34FyLJh_YZZIrEG-WOZ42hgAMzmuDN1B5XU4hk00dsok2zsXpBlGDEELG2r0d3fIQRdLe-VpJRRzfMtV2fNvQcr8RLh0A6NFsGiovaQ2FUjnoq7qTJAWDNgJru0qVZhAuhfUmZs-0/s2948/alchemy1.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2124" data-original-width="2948" height="289" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXAH795A4KrKfnG4mo_t2y3vxkJjodzgV3M0S5xI9gzF7kDtT34FyLJh_YZZIrEG-WOZ42hgAMzmuDN1B5XU4hk00dsok2zsXpBlGDEELG2r0d3fIQRdLe-VpJRRzfMtV2fNvQcr8RLh0A6NFsGiovaQ2FUjnoq7qTJAWDNgJru0qVZhAuhfUmZs-0/w400-h289/alchemy1.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. I went to the Lido Marketplace and the Omelet Station as it’s just above my aft cabin location and easy at an early hour. I had a nice Western Omelet with a side of bacon, potatoes, and mixed fruits. It wasn’t special, but adequate. We don’t arrive at port until 1:00 pm so I returned to the cabin for some internet time as the WiFi is much improved. Inspired by the torch music last night I played my personal music on the travel JBL while working. I went up on deck to watch our arrival at the port, the Carnival Ecstasy was docked as well and also had a late arrival. It’s already in the mid 90° degree range so I’m not planning on getting off today. I had a nice stir-fry from the Mongolian Wok before it closed at 2:00 pm then went to the cabin for a movie, then a very nice nap, I have been getting some rest so far this cruise, the interior cabin helps. I went up on deck 10 aft for our late sail away, it was after sunset by the time we sailed so an evening sail away was different. I had discovered an interesting cocktail recipe when confirming the spelling of absinthe on google for this blog, so I saved it to my phone and took it to the <b>Alchemy Bar</b> tonight. It had two of my favorite ingredients: Absinthe and Elderflower, so I was anxious to try it. The beautiful Alchemist Anca recognized the potential, especially for me, and did a great job. Just basic ingredients: Absinthe, Elderflower, Pineapple juice, Lemon & Lime. Sweeter than most Absinthe drinks and the pineapple neutralized that anise taste in the Absinthe. It was great, but as with all Absinthe drinks best in moderation. Perfect for an alternative or to alternate. The Breeze Band was off tonight but the soloist Scott Lucille on the Ocean Plaza stage was good. After visiting with friends I retired to the cabin and ordered a Room Service BLT sandwich. They have made a change now using Turkey Bacon, but they are still one of the best food items on the ship. I had not had one in a while so I enjoined them. I watched a late TCM movie before sleep. It was a nice relaxing day on the Carnival Breeze.<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Day Four -- Tuesday -- May 17th, 2022 -- Cozumel Mexico</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiivQPx7UhJfHt9aXqNrFteBFZXWOLI0pRkYYfyXD_BTwvJ9O58MjbCpJktxdeztsPYGZLnoDTXlyLKKSvCcE9vyYi6PkyD7udFaC9keL-VuwUG0xX27B-VpNcGYF5oH34flhpBekirRJrXxXSGFDUY4ZQ4A3MAlC19oWi8vvb_NplwK1LXbcxIVcUk/s4032/Coz%20Sign.HEIC" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiivQPx7UhJfHt9aXqNrFteBFZXWOLI0pRkYYfyXD_BTwvJ9O58MjbCpJktxdeztsPYGZLnoDTXlyLKKSvCcE9vyYi6PkyD7udFaC9keL-VuwUG0xX27B-VpNcGYF5oH34flhpBekirRJrXxXSGFDUY4ZQ4A3MAlC19oWi8vvb_NplwK1LXbcxIVcUk/w400-h300/Coz%20Sign.HEIC" width="400" /></a></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. I was up at about 6:30 am and updated this blog while waiting to arrive at Puerto Costa Maya in Cozumel. About 8:30 I began my journey to </span><b style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Del Mar Latino</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> the beach club located about a half-mile (total) walk south from the ship. I like the ease of getting there with no taxi involved. I started with diet Coca-Cola then changed to Mojitos after my early lunch or breakfast for me. The Guacamole with Pico de Gallo is good as are the quesadillas. I did take a nice swim in the water as well as several times in the pool, it was refreshing in the 90°+ weather. The Coconut Shrimp was excellent and I had coconut ice creme as well. The mojitos were plentiful and good. The place cleared by 2:30 pm so I had it to myself for an hour. Sweet. I had my share of Mojitos and even took a roadie for my walk back to Puerto Maya Pier. Had my photo taken at the Cozumel sign across from the Park Royal Resort. Terry & I stayed there 40 years ago on our first trip together to Cozumel… which was well before cruise ships called there…so different now. I wanted to go to Cozumel because of the 1980s movie </span><i style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Against All Odds</span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> and we stayed about two weeks, we loved the island, it was a more intimate and remote place then. I was back on the ship by 4:00 pm. and cleaned up and recall sailaway, but I put my head on the pillow and was soon asleep. I woke in time to get dinner from the Marketplace Buffet, I had a little sample of several items (I think I was asleep and didn’t know what I wanted): Penne Pasta Bolognese, BBQ Pork SpareRibs, Cinnamon Pumpkin Cheese Pie, Crusted Chicken, Coleslaw, Baked Potato, and a small salad. I took watermelon and cookies back to the cabin. I updated this blog and communicated with the Ranch to check our moving status before listening to music and retiring. It was a fun and nostalgic port day in Cozumel.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Day Five -- Wednesday -- May 18th, 2022 -- Fun Day at Sea</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmIsnSW6QOYJPQqljCZmXmUpiWcrH0W99K_BY97M9Dh2-C5UmlDs0b271cHvEOTNlkIK1J6ZQyw2hD4Xz1oICC9I8vezbhitif9NF0EUdJNExMZrL7PRTkO6JsSIX-aR40XpwJPSR-EviHEzk5RSMg0Xv4F219JDSLgVbxx2xJznEaLZrvoTsOcyDg/s3021/diamond:plat.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2745" data-original-width="3021" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmIsnSW6QOYJPQqljCZmXmUpiWcrH0W99K_BY97M9Dh2-C5UmlDs0b271cHvEOTNlkIK1J6ZQyw2hD4Xz1oICC9I8vezbhitif9NF0EUdJNExMZrL7PRTkO6JsSIX-aR40XpwJPSR-EviHEzk5RSMg0Xv4F219JDSLgVbxx2xJznEaLZrvoTsOcyDg/s320/diamond:plat.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well and it’s a beautiful clear day. The good news for today is that vaccinated B2B cruisers no longer have to have an antigen rapid before their second cruise. They did a good job with it on this ship in the past, but no test on this final sea day is better. I had a big proper breakfast this morning, I went to the Sea Day Brunch. I ordered: Bloody Mary, Hot Milk, Tomato Juice, Steak & Eggs, Hash Browns, Bacon, and French Toast. All very good. I went to Pixels to get my gift, another drink koozie, and a pin. A lot of guests are out and about enjoying their last day onboard the ship. At 11:30 they had the <b>Platinum and Diamond Party</b> in the Ovation Theater, there were a lot of guests, but not that many Diamonds. I was actually on stage with the other McDonalds: Joe & Ola (photo right). Between the three of us, there are 4000 days sailed. The vast majority by the two of them. I enjoyed a good Bloody Mary (not from the pre-made on the tray) and a Pilsner Urquell. I have grown from quantity to quality on my complimentary drinks. Afterward, I just enjoyed the ship and visited with friends. About 3:00 pm I had my first Guy’s Burgers of the cruise. Always a popular place even at an unusual time. It was then Cabin time for a wee nap. I went up to the Lido Marketplace at about 7:30 for a light dinner with a small Carrot Cake and Watermelon for sweets. I sat on the aft deck through sundown and after dark just enjoying the aft view and sea. We are already well within the large Oil Rigs off the Texas coast. I retired early to the cabin, but while most guests are packing I have another four days. It was a restful sea day at sea on the Carnival Breeze.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b> Day One of 2nd Cruise — Thursday -- May 19th, 2022 -- Port of Galveston</b> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiWe2aqZzOSbJrTwzabkO_FlTpm59SRhAY3DiNzvK5mIMci2U4ZLDrtsWO2ubblLY2b28I77fqJsn1yZgvLA0rZzVhMM2wY9eRNLKg5Rr66y5I2nKd1T79Upx-pbMjgk8pAmBSY5v_ijrKeJZykU4sM5RZuDnxJPe5UyhntjaRx5SUxucUXIo6YINr/s658/Coz%20Sign%20Ray%20copy.HEIC" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="506" data-original-width="658" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiWe2aqZzOSbJrTwzabkO_FlTpm59SRhAY3DiNzvK5mIMci2U4ZLDrtsWO2ubblLY2b28I77fqJsn1yZgvLA0rZzVhMM2wY9eRNLKg5Rr66y5I2nKd1T79Upx-pbMjgk8pAmBSY5v_ijrKeJZykU4sM5RZuDnxJPe5UyhntjaRx5SUxucUXIo6YINr/s320/Coz%20Sign%20Ray%20copy.HEIC" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Center of Tuesdays Cozumel photo</i><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>This is the beginning of the 2nd leg of B2B. They are expecting over 3700+ for this 4-day cruise, a full ship at double capacity. Smooth seas overnight and I was up by 6:00 am as we were sailing into Galveston. I have the same cabin so no moving this morning. I went very early to the MDR for breakfast: Eggs Benedict, Avocado Toast, Bacon, Hash-brown Potatoes, Tomato Juice & hot Milk. The B2B instructions said to be in Sapphire MDR at 7:45, obviously too early, just finishing breakfast, but I did go down there about 8:45 still too early but I knew friends would be there and I’d have WiFi. I checked in with the Ranch, visited, had the new photo taken, received new S&S cards, then finally went through customs at about 10:15 am. They did the Champagne and Photo so things are getting normalized. We had the ship for 45 minutes as they didn’t board guests until 11:00 am. I went to the Mongolian Grill by 11:00 am for a fantastic Stir-fry bowl. Next was the Muster/safety drill in the Blush MDR on deck 3…quick and easy. Embarkation day check-list is complete. I went up on deck 11 to watch sail away, it is a hot 92° day, but a breeze on the Starboard side. The new Royal Caribbean Terminal is coming along nicely…the exterior seems to be near complete. I went to the <b>Alchemy Bar</b> for a few cocktails and saw friends from past cruises. Always fun at Alchemy. I went to the Sapphire Dining Room for dinner tonight. I ordered the Mixed Green Salad, Roasted Tomato Soup, Nonna’s Dish, and the Braised Beef Brisket with a Fruit plate for dessert. It was average at the best, The Nonna’s Dish was the Cucina del Capitano item, it sounded wonderful on the menu, but it was nothing like what was served at Cucina. It was the worst item served, it wasn’t as good as the Penne Pasta they always serve at the Lido Marketplace. I retired to the cabin by 9:00 pm for a movie and rest. It was a very nice embarkation day on the Carnival Breeze.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Day Two of 2nd Cruise — Friday -- May 20th, 2022 -- Fun Day at Sea </b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGxOx8gh-hluqMt2vdkWtbiYWawa8RgoW1iHFwL0V4S5KepcifHaNBOkP_7Raa5YXFcFoUcYpsb0AKlO5s44rBzRNQgbSGDtloU9_bd-xAHBe3WbCdO99y3MM32I1mxTwH8RP8YsJ0glt5to315_cmfRktzzT24TNjPWj7CDtJ8CAKDyUBM_K8-FKb/s4032/BlueIguana.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGxOx8gh-hluqMt2vdkWtbiYWawa8RgoW1iHFwL0V4S5KepcifHaNBOkP_7Raa5YXFcFoUcYpsb0AKlO5s44rBzRNQgbSGDtloU9_bd-xAHBe3WbCdO99y3MM32I1mxTwH8RP8YsJ0glt5to315_cmfRktzzT24TNjPWj7CDtJ8CAKDyUBM_K8-FKb/s320/BlueIguana.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Rolling seas overnight, much more movement than any day last cruise, and I slept very well. I was up early as usual and updated this blog and use the WiFi before it gets busy and slowed down. I went to the Blue Iguana before it closed at 10:00 for my favorite breakfast on Carnival: Huevos Rancheros with two fresh fried eggs, Pico de Gallo, Salsa, Arepas, and Watermelon (photo). It was very good and my first time eating there on this cruise. I sat on deck 11 enjoying the weather and activity on the pool deck until the DJ started…I guess I’m getting old as the music was too loud for me…of course, I was directly in front of the speakers being on deck 11 and the Seaview Theater system. I went on a walkabout this afternoon and also picked up my $25 Free-play at the casino. I saved it until I was on deck 4 and the non-smoking casino…I had much better luck today…I came away with $75 in real chips so I’m up $80 for the two cruises. I’ll carry it on to the next cruise as I did last year when I started on the Breeze. I also visited Cherry on Top and bought some assorted candy. I watched two movies and then watched the OU Softball team's first game in the NCAA Championship. During this time I decide to order Room Service and enjoyed a Turkey Sandwich and a Turkey BLT. They were excellent. A walkabout before sundown as usual But I let time getaway and didn’t go by Alchemy or eat so I ended up ordering a Ruben Sandwich from room service since I enjoyed the other two so much, the same girl delivered it too…I guess I seemed a bit of a hermit to her this afternoon and evening. The Ruben was as good as the earlier sandwiches. It was a very restful sea day on the Carnival Breeze.</span></div><p style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Day Three of 2nd Cruise — Saturday -- May 21st, 2022 -- Cozumel, Mexico </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkKMQzs-W-3-qyTKLsI8NAQtV2rGchF9_kOHWvFUzHUs9C7wiO7DA9Whwh3JQc0VL_Np69vp__lg7Vl19_L0b4W5KBR3WboibYuRQ3iZwKiTsrIm8HoiwJ96jViWI2iolfF52SEPPSx9F0DBseBr-62ZQ4K2TL-GoBQg0b6h210chP1oTdltEbU6Zg/s4032/CozFestival.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkKMQzs-W-3-qyTKLsI8NAQtV2rGchF9_kOHWvFUzHUs9C7wiO7DA9Whwh3JQc0VL_Np69vp__lg7Vl19_L0b4W5KBR3WboibYuRQ3iZwKiTsrIm8HoiwJ96jViWI2iolfF52SEPPSx9F0DBseBr-62ZQ4K2TL-GoBQg0b6h210chP1oTdltEbU6Zg/w400-h300/CozFestival.jpeg" width="400" /></a></b></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Rolling seas with a few bumps as we transitioned from the Gulf of Mexico into the Caribbean Sea overnight but I slept very well. I woke about 6:00ish as usual and about 9:00ish we were arriving in Cozumel…the Ecstasy docked just before us at Puerto Maya pier. The weather looks like rain today. About 9:45 am I had breakfast in the Lido Marketplace while the early guests were leaving the ship. About 10:15 am I left the ship and met with friends at the pier and we shared a taxi into San Miguel. We visited at Woody’s Bar and Grill until noon and then I was off to do my thing. The first stop was the Zensi Spa for a Pedicure then Antonio's Barber Shop for a haircut. When I got back to Woody’s I enjoyed my Guacamole, Pico de Gallo, Chips, and several Bohemia Clara Cerveza. I was able to follow the OU Sooners softball playoff game online and since the Mardi Gras Festival was moved from February to this weekend I watched the Youth parade (photo) in the afternoon. Wish I could see the big parade tonight, but that will have to be another time. I took a taxi back (160 pesos) to Puerto Maya pier and the ship at about 4:00 pm. After a clean-up, I went early to the Alchemy Bar and visited with friends. I brought some black licorice that Anca used in preparing my Absinthe cocktail, it was very good. I went to the Lido Marketplace for another of a ‘little of this and a little of that’ dinner. I did take cookies back to the cabin for late-night munchies. Very few guests out and about this evening, probably a combination of Cozumel activities and the high seas ever since we departed. Another movie and cookies before sleep. It was a great port day in Cozumel.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Day Four of 2nd Cruise — Sunday -- May 22nd, 2022 -- Fun Day at Sea <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZMrVob0Z36r9QgJH8ekafOc1qI1-kgXzEqV3hgeSELRuJuyAKMB3rRGQAQy4_Qh9exgtJxWtFZlXN6TWHsQgtT3cM-0_mHcxVw8h2ozkpxIQ9UG9uj8GqY0kLAYvW3Fpd10VStsdg8CjhJOsytRG8xy9GLHqQEQHbz7KAiUvvAI93Oq4U22kfD0GN/s366/Breeze-Coz.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="206" data-original-width="366" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZMrVob0Z36r9QgJH8ekafOc1qI1-kgXzEqV3hgeSELRuJuyAKMB3rRGQAQy4_Qh9exgtJxWtFZlXN6TWHsQgtT3cM-0_mHcxVw8h2ozkpxIQ9UG9uj8GqY0kLAYvW3Fpd10VStsdg8CjhJOsytRG8xy9GLHqQEQHbz7KAiUvvAI93Oq4U22kfD0GN/w400-h225/Breeze-Coz.jpg" width="400" /></a></div></b></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Rolling seas with a few bumps as we transitioned from the Caribbean Sea back into the Gulf of Mexico and experienced a thunderstorm overnight…but I slept well. I was awake early as usual so updated this blog and reviewed the late college softball scores. OU will play today for Regional Championship. About 10:00 am I went to the </span><b style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Sea Day Brunch</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> in the Blush Dining Room I had a great share table with two nice couples, one of which are big Sooner softball fans. Breakfast was great, I ordered: Hot Milk, Tomato Juice, Steak & Eggs, Hash Browns, Bacon, Ham, and French Toast. Service by I Made and Ary was excellent. It’s very cloudy weather so most guests are indoors this morning. Difficult to stream the softball game in the deteriorating weather but I was able to follow it play-by-play on Game Tracker. Oklahoma 20 TX A&M 0 so OU is in the Super Regional (Sweet 16) tournament. I went to the Alchemy Bar and it was packed early in the day…the Red Frog had more guests than an embark Happy Hour…basically, all indoor venues are busy. Kudos to the Entertainment Director for starting entertainment as early as he could. I have always thought that they should have sea day entertainment, Trivia Games just doesn’t cover it. The numerous Soloists or even a Comedian doing a matinée would be wonderful…IMHO. I was lucky to get a Guy’s Burger as it was closing and I helped myself to a plate of cookies to take back to the cabin. I’m doing movie night again and resting up for the work I will be starting tomorrow afternoon packing up for the move to Florida. My meeting time for debarkation in the morning is 7:15 am. I updated this blog and as promised a photo of the new livery on the Breeze taken by my friend in Cozumel on Saturday...looks good. It was a rainy and cloudy final day on the Carnival Breeze.</span> <br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><strong style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Debarkation — Monday -- May 23rd, 2022 -- Port of Galveston</span></strong></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Smooth seas overnight. I woke early and had plenty of time to update this blog and finish packing. I went up to the Lido Marketplace early and had a nice omelet, bacon, ham, and grapefruit…it was very good. Nice final breakfast onboard the ship. I then finalized my packing and went to the Diamond meet area at 7:15 am. We began to debark by 8:00 am and I was among the first off the ship. I did the easy walk to the EZ Cruise parking lot. I was off the island by 8:30 am and at the Ranch at 12:30 pm. That included a stop at Love’s in Hearne for Fuel ($4.25 gal) and Bush’s Chicken in Clifton. A good debarkation and travel morning for sure. <br /></span></p><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> <br /></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><u><b>Personal HIGHLIGHTS of the Cruises</b></u><br />Both Cozumel Port Days <br />Alchemy Bar and the lovely & talented Alchenists<br />Mongolian Wok</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Room Service Food<br />Diamond Party<br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> <br /></span><p></p></div>Snoozemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08287635714818403539noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-666314469198049300.post-69169381665829731352022-04-23T16:58:00.033-05:002022-04-29T22:14:08.257-05:00Carnival Vista Cruise Review - April 23, 2022<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjquHcM2FXlWPoqsbSkZkT6FDcVQ0OPzIcDJ7UGZeLptgkPsVNKSfxoSW6YrHZzRboplgDXZyJ0iA_dtQsPAdat_TcN3gTr3JEZhUpJaKu9sVhmeX6o17C7E_T5zwfC1TmTYRMnVmX0mN4stcZ1n7JX1qHjb7PuVgkwjoXEYpT51BX3zmHD00OIQLJa/s3398/IMG_6024.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2031" data-original-width="3398" height="382" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjquHcM2FXlWPoqsbSkZkT6FDcVQ0OPzIcDJ7UGZeLptgkPsVNKSfxoSW6YrHZzRboplgDXZyJ0iA_dtQsPAdat_TcN3gTr3JEZhUpJaKu9sVhmeX6o17C7E_T5zwfC1TmTYRMnVmX0mN4stcZ1n7JX1qHjb7PuVgkwjoXEYpT51BX3zmHD00OIQLJa/w640-h382/IMG_6024.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div> <span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>Carnival Vista Cruise Review<p></p><div style="text-align: left;"><b><u>Just the Facts:</u></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Ship: Carnival Vista, first of Vista Class ships - 133,500 gross tons - 3900 passenger capacity</div><div style="text-align: left;">Sailing: April 23rd to April 30th, 2022</div><div style="text-align: left;">Captain: Rosario Arena - Cruise Director: Kyndall Fire</div><div style="text-align: left;">Ports: Galveston - Mahogany Bay, Roatan Island, Honduras - Belize, Central America - Cozumel, Mexico - Galveston</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />This is my 5th time to cruise on the Carnival Vista, my 98th Carnival cruise, and my 179th cruise overall. I am sailing as a solo guest.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><b>Day One -- Saturday -- April 23rd, 2022 -- Port of Galveston Embarkation</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin8EGbLlcI3IsI7QUU1X3Q490dvBbRctj4hJAWWDea5iR7hlExeG3R7kNyrkX0mfDY9YiHLSLuSMXpYv2aMMuhhSVe-NRgNpMH5VFfQIYNUgBBUveeJKGazs6YBMixbfh97qM1YOmURUptOHDmMO7FfRhcWrQoQjgdkSFp9bWFW5uuawlLGGzgQMCj/s4032/IMG_6071.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin8EGbLlcI3IsI7QUU1X3Q490dvBbRctj4hJAWWDea5iR7hlExeG3R7kNyrkX0mfDY9YiHLSLuSMXpYv2aMMuhhSVe-NRgNpMH5VFfQIYNUgBBUveeJKGazs6YBMixbfh97qM1YOmURUptOHDmMO7FfRhcWrQoQjgdkSFp9bWFW5uuawlLGGzgQMCj/w400-h300/IMG_6071.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>The day began at Twisted Oak Ranch. I was up early but have a later boarding time so left the Ranch at about 6:45 am for the drive to Galveston. I have to say I am spoiled by driving and sailing from Florida. Not only is Galveston a long drive, but It was also especially difficult today with traffic backed up due to an equipment convoy and I-45 completely shutdown around Dickinson, TX. I didn’t arrive at EZ Cruise Parking until noon. It was busy at EZ with two ships and late arrivals so I walked to the cruise terminal…it is very easy to do. It went fairly well at the terminal check-in, the VeriFly app helped and I was dropping off my roll-on duffle at the cabin at about 12:45 PM. The cabin was not ready so I went up to JiJi’s for two bowls of wonderful Mongolian stir-fry with both Chicken & Beef with my favorite Vegetables. It was really good as were the Won-Tons and Asian Spring Salad. All the cabins opened to guests at 1:30 pm so I returned and set up my cabin for the week. I then went to my Muster Station, located in the Casino for a very easy safety briefing although one crew member from the Casino Dept. was the rudest crew member I have ever encountered, she needs some help with guests relations. I went by the Red Frog Pub, but no embarkation Happy Hour…disappointing. I did go to the Lido Marketplace for a piece of Peanut Butter S’mores Cake, it was interestingly good. Sail away was delayed, I suspect it was because so many guests had trouble getting on the island due to the I-45 road closures. Since Muster Drill announcements had ceased by 4:30 pm it was a good time for a nap as I have no plans this evening other than a visit to the Alchemy Bar. My interior cabin on deck 11 is great for napping…so good that I didn’t wake until 1:15 am. Well, I needed the rest and amazingly I fell back asleep until 7:15 am. I had 14+ hours of peaceful rest. I had just a few days earlier driven 18 hours from Florida to Texas and also jumped into some projects on the Ranch so this cruise will be R&R for me. It was an interesting then restful embarkation day.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Day Two -- Sunday -- April 24th, 2022 -- Fun Day at Sea <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtYzvLmIi0aDPTxyYl4m5-13ew3D_lwgo4NKEE5j4Q-t5OexhKlzh1X_BVw9DejxF8iFY_tza1mIVSv-SSXEqnqkaBJ5nXmKY1OTZIctUH93P8dKBsuCLCSMg0uuIIwG-SHBEgnOoIGq4q1S63nCDMrR5XikS-c4J8OdCNjvkiIIFqK45HLzglGSjk/s4032/IMG_6076.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtYzvLmIi0aDPTxyYl4m5-13ew3D_lwgo4NKEE5j4Q-t5OexhKlzh1X_BVw9DejxF8iFY_tza1mIVSv-SSXEqnqkaBJ5nXmKY1OTZIctUH93P8dKBsuCLCSMg0uuIIwG-SHBEgnOoIGq4q1S63nCDMrR5XikS-c4J8OdCNjvkiIIFqK45HLzglGSjk/w400-h300/IMG_6076.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Rolling seas overnight contributed to my restful sleep. I was ready to eat when I woke so went to the Sea Day Brunch at about 8:30 am. I ordered Steak & Eggs, French Toast, Danish, Hash Browns, Bacon, Hot Milk, and a Bloody Mary. It was very good. I did a walkabout the ship picking up my Diamond gifts at Pixels then to the Casino to get my $25 free play. This is a special Casino cruise so it was already busy, I placed my bet on Red at Roulette and got Black...oh well it was free play. On the elevator, a Diamond mentioned something to me about the Diamond Luncheon and I assumed he meant tomorrow as we have two sea days before our first port. I did call Guest Services and made a query, she put me on hold and then said the Diamond Luncheon started 15 minutes ago. I asked why I didn't get my invitation and she said I had a do not disturb sign on my cabin. Well, I was asleep, but I did not put out any signs...and the Vista has mailboxes outside the cabin doors. It could have been placed in the mailbox, under the door, or delivered today. I'm not pleased...unlike the Casino guests who have several perks (and back-doored into Diamond), I'm a full fare paying loyal guest who has missed out on my primary perk. Not sure why I didn't get it but I will be asking for an explanation. I spent some time on deck 10 aft and had my dinner from the Lido Marketplace out there as well. I really enjoy watching the sunset from a cruise ship. Perhaps my favorite thing about sailing. I did something I rarely do, I watched a movie at the Seaside Theater. I’m on deck 11 so it’s convenient to watch from there. Tonight it was </span><i style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">American Hero</span></i><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">, a movie about Kurt Warner the football player. I retired to the cabin to update this blog and read about the Oklahoma Sooners Spring football scrimmage, impressed with the 76,360 attendance, I think there is something special with this team. It was a good first sea day on the Carnival Vista.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Day Three -- Monday -- April 25th, 2022 -- Fun Day at Sea</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwxP7NEmOA-oS5bMXItyAtxRCkswvT0Lsl24CKUbH7MzgXwMuMgXVK346NS8Vnh4IssJGnF_vGw0OiXSxdUugptOfsfQxnHaI3Dpvn4e8IQVX_cZideccAh-5Ws_7fVKJHmuXeayHyuZzK5rsAyBIPf0dX2u9fhJhCzrlESAL-LFzqSnm9bjWvv1JQ/s4032/IMG_6080.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwxP7NEmOA-oS5bMXItyAtxRCkswvT0Lsl24CKUbH7MzgXwMuMgXVK346NS8Vnh4IssJGnF_vGw0OiXSxdUugptOfsfQxnHaI3Dpvn4e8IQVX_cZideccAh-5Ws_7fVKJHmuXeayHyuZzK5rsAyBIPf0dX2u9fhJhCzrlESAL-LFzqSnm9bjWvv1JQ/w400-h300/IMG_6080.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Rolling seas overnight as we enter the Caribbean Sea from the Gulf of Mexico. Beautiful weather so guests are staking out their locations on the outer decks. About 10:00 am I went down to the Blue Iguana for breakfast. I had Arepas, Huevos Rancheros with two fried eggs, Watermelon, and various salsas. It was good and it was busy, with more guests eating at Blue Iguana on Texas-based cruises than on Florida-based cruises. I did visit Guest Services about my Diamond invitation snafu. I just don’t want it happening to my clients or other Diamond guests…if you don’t make contact at least leave the invitation in the mailbox, don’t take it back to Housekeeping or Guest Services. I relaxed on deck or in the cabin most of the day. I did have a Guy’s Burger and fries at about 2:00 pm and enjoyed the sea air on the Lido deck. I made my first trip to the Alchemy Bar this evening, I knew the two Alchemists Caterina and Dajana from previous Vista and Mardi Gras cruises. I enjoyed two cocktails and visited with guests until time for dinner. Tonight I’m eating in </span><b style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Cucina de Capitano</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> on deck 11. I ordered my favorite Cucina items: Arancini, Nona’s Meatballs, a Salad, the wonderful Grande Braciola Di Maiale (Tomahawk Pork Chop) entree, with spaghetti and Gnocchi sides. It was excellent and the Chop was Grande. After dinner, I walked outside on deck 11 and retired to the cabin. I did watch a TCM movie before sleeping. It was another very restful day on the Carnival Vista.<br /></span> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Day Four -- Tuesday -- April 26th, 2022 -- Roatan Island Honduras - Mahogany Bay <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPkySgY5-nNSPIUFOMs74f7oXjIrn3BoxxZmKjQWK_bj_MGfLJiDIPKeSGzaeAK4-AVBTOemprtEkjmh2WAsfUpQa7u95cmdIqz64IP-qxgYWqn3BmJwGcPEj0aZAtdkmDvdvhyoMFLUs8vbSq1xq0-s_SkGII3AKgYKsKiHSjAZq8hXB0iuZT8CO8/s4032/IMG_6084.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2175" data-original-width="4032" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPkySgY5-nNSPIUFOMs74f7oXjIrn3BoxxZmKjQWK_bj_MGfLJiDIPKeSGzaeAK4-AVBTOemprtEkjmh2WAsfUpQa7u95cmdIqz64IP-qxgYWqn3BmJwGcPEj0aZAtdkmDvdvhyoMFLUs8vbSq1xq0-s_SkGII3AKgYKsKiHSjAZq8hXB0iuZT8CO8/w400-h216/IMG_6084.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div></b>Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well. This interior cruise cabin is great for sleeping…it stays very cool throughout the night…in fact cold, no fans are needed here. I slept late so wanted a light breakfast, I had Bacon and assorted fruit in the Lido. I stayed on the outer deck until the Mongolian Grill opened at noon. I had an excellent Mongolian Stir-fry lunch. Healthier too. I spent the afternoon on deck 15 at the Serenity Deck. It’s a large space forward that has a lot of clam-shell Loungers, two Hot tubs, a Bar, and more, only the Mardi Gras has a larger Serenity. We sail away at 6:00 but no need to rush back aboard as Guy’s Burgers is open until 10:00 pm. I like that option. I went to the Alchemy Bar for Cocktails and Dajana prepared another nice absinthe cocktail, A young man sat next to me and asked for a cocktail from a menu he had, it turned out to be an absinthe drink, Phoenix Down. Others began ordering it and also Quick Fixes from the menu...very unusual, but quite interesting. I had a very late dinner in the MDR, the Your Time is open until 9:30 pm and I was there about 8:45, not busy at all. I'm no longer keen on the MDR, but it was what I call Linguine night and it is a menu I like. I ordered the Iceberg lettuce Salad, the Baked Meatballs and Linguine combined, and the Tenderloin entree with Bitter & Blanc for dessert. It was very good tonight, especially the Tenderloin and dessert. I retire soon afterward. It was an enjoyable evening on the Carnival Vista.<span class="ILfuVd"><span class="hgKElc"></span></span> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Day Five -- Wednesday -- April 27th, 2022 -- Belize, CA</b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx3rqUVSWgQGJtGAtzbpX2mH2sq_WvHP8gl0SHuztlSFSxE8j5c_2EEHjosH-3bCf9Ev9P7alQsvFptI0McWpUianSy4haOeHQrGrPVpNM_OHUxqm6SPVXRRpSi6EQGre9cx1mEHZVttwDeZe0UzxE7TP11469lK6qE8pOpjtvvQssM3-r-I8wKMBz/s3824/IMG_6119.HEIC" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2407" data-original-width="3824" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx3rqUVSWgQGJtGAtzbpX2mH2sq_WvHP8gl0SHuztlSFSxE8j5c_2EEHjosH-3bCf9Ev9P7alQsvFptI0McWpUianSy4haOeHQrGrPVpNM_OHUxqm6SPVXRRpSi6EQGre9cx1mEHZVttwDeZe0UzxE7TP11469lK6qE8pOpjtvvQssM3-r-I8wKMBz/w400-h251/IMG_6119.HEIC" width="400" /></a></div>Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well. It’s an overcast morning in Belize, but guests are going ashore on the water taxi. I went to breakfast at Blue Iguana and had my usual Huevos, Eggs, Arepas, & Watermelon, yes a line again this morning, a popular choice. I stayed out on deck the rest of the morning, my plan was to go ashore and have lunch on Bird Island as I did on my previous visit, but it began raining so not doing it. I ended up having a nice BLT sandwich and french fries from the Deli in the Marketplace. I alternated between outside on deck 11 and cabin time during the afternoon rains. I went to the Alchemy Bar at about 6:45 pm and then to watch the Jazz Set by the </span><b style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Vista Rock Band</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> in the Ocean Plaza at 7:15…they were good. I then had dinner again in the Horizons Main Dining Room. Tonight I ordered the Spaghetti Carbonara, two Shrimp Cocktails, Four Season Salad, Filet Mignon entree, and Key Lime Mousse for dessert. It was very good with very good service, the same team I had the previous night. I then had time for the late feature production show: </span><b style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Amore Cubano</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> in the Limelight Lounge (see photo). I had a great seat and enjoyed the colorful Latin show. A short walkabout the ship before retiring. It was a restful rainy day on the Carnival Vista.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Day Six -- Thursday -- April 28th, 2022 -- Cozumel Island, Mexico <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ-F3Vy5-5-dRMfg1OwcMxW6FsEtbDFs5zg2dr7V87vqOx57ikD_zDMmQ4RuqgU-OOwoWVRFkOsGGnfNDkonItNRk1j3mdZhQwREpFHCChGHG_TCPiU_irAtQ-hGizancF6DAsolc4T_hbLWL9qYNs7PMQUbvKUR5g4wBBrddQzjP5xm200J4rL3Aw/s4032/IMG_6134.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ-F3Vy5-5-dRMfg1OwcMxW6FsEtbDFs5zg2dr7V87vqOx57ikD_zDMmQ4RuqgU-OOwoWVRFkOsGGnfNDkonItNRk1j3mdZhQwREpFHCChGHG_TCPiU_irAtQ-hGizancF6DAsolc4T_hbLWL9qYNs7PMQUbvKUR5g4wBBrddQzjP5xm200J4rL3Aw/w400-h300/IMG_6134.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div></b>Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well. The Vista arrived earlier than our 8:00 am schedule and were disembarking by 8:05 am. I went to the Marketplace for breakfast but took it to Blue Iguana to get proper salsa. I did book an all-inclusive day at Del Mar Latino so left the ship just before 9:00 am and walked the 15+ minutes to the resort. It was a really fantastic day. I arrive about 9:20 and found a nice lounger near the pool and bar. They had plenty of staff to take orders…I started with diet Coke, but soon changed to mojitos. The Pool was nice as was the steps into the Caribbean Sea. I had some Guacamole, Chips, Pico de gallo, and Cheese Quesodillos. I changed to a table mid-day as the sun changed. Very good WiFi so I was able to do some work. I did try their signature item: Coconut Shrimp, it was very good. I also had the Coconut ice-creme as a final dish. All the food is in small quantities, but I guess you can order more…the drinks were in 12 oz cups so adequate…the service was great. I did the walk back to Puerto Maya and I could see that the lines were very long as with a 3:30 pm back on board time, everyone came late. I waited at 3-Amigos timing my arrival back so no lines…so close to 4:00 pm. After an evening snack I decided to have Cabin / Movie time the rest of the evening. It was a FUN day in Cozumel.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Day Seven -- Friday -- April 29th, 2022 -- Fun Day at Sea</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz2IS_MHm7B8DsUbYIzPYMKNEN1Y79BGlikSdQMyxPN_OU9cjEufx-Dzkiefjzzsxbu_Br64DweOgmS5C-m4C5GRjPJC_J5TBpLPT_G4ew1l84r0dYizUo4YM7N2rTo8QPWsi9Yxjt9j1jVHVVp3hoTiIC5y0XpIcAMdGIlN-tESKBE5vWzQ-aK3xD/s4032/IMG_6137.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz2IS_MHm7B8DsUbYIzPYMKNEN1Y79BGlikSdQMyxPN_OU9cjEufx-Dzkiefjzzsxbu_Br64DweOgmS5C-m4C5GRjPJC_J5TBpLPT_G4ew1l84r0dYizUo4YM7N2rTo8QPWsi9Yxjt9j1jVHVVp3hoTiIC5y0XpIcAMdGIlN-tESKBE5vWzQ-aK3xD/w400-h300/IMG_6137.HEIC" width="400" /></a></div>Smooth sailing again overnight and I slept well. I had breakfast at the Blue Iguana: Huevos with fresh fried eggs, Arepas, Salsa, & Watermelon. I spent the morning on deck 11 with a nice view of the Gulf. Very nice weather today too. I went for lunch at Cucina de Capitano: Bread, Cesar Salad, Linguini Bowl with Meat Sauce, and a Penne Pasta Bowl with Tomato Sauce. It was all great. I enjoyed it very much. I then did an afternoon walkabout on the outer decks, the weather is perfect so a lot of guests were in the pools and hot tubs, but did not seem overly crowded. I went up to the Serenity Deck, it’s large enough, but no pool. The Bar is nice, larger than on the Mardi Gras. Only one elevator to deck 15 forward so a bit hard to get to that deck. Cabin time the rest of the day. At about 3:30 pm the Captain announced that due to mechanical issues we are sailing at a reduced speed and will not arrive in Galveston until 11:00 am tomorrow…it happens on occasion. I went to the Platinum/Diamond party at 5:00 pm. It was the old-style party with plenty of bar servers and the Beer/Tito’s station. I sat as close as I could get to the Titos and Lemonade. Kyndall, the CD, did a great job of keeping things rolling and there was entertainment. I wish they would announce the top 5 cruisers as some CDs do, I wasn’t high but curious as to where I stood among the 160 total Diamonds. I did a walkabout the ship, stopped by Alchemy, it was busy, then went to the Marketplace for dinner. I had a Salad and a bowl of Breaded Shrimp, it was nice. I retired early even though we can sleep late tomorrow. It was a nice final day on the Carnival Vista.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div>Snoozemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08287635714818403539noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-666314469198049300.post-55171545323222533682022-04-04T14:21:00.026-05:002022-04-09T19:25:07.058-05:00Carnival Paradise Cruise Review - April 4, 2022<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifvAp7CauexDfDg_RZe0yAuG3GeA8WKmfUTWjKjGslWrCeB0ovIvGkrMjaqqkSL5kf_gXGfbT0EGFb81PWMhtpmgr-Kkr5jxhjLmF0LhrU_qWOngxv2hxaYzimLpfHgMwUEmf5vhVSoG7m3wKbSsVBGNPGishb3eO4ZUtCGuKb4p25ASUDY5s_J-Ls/s4032/IMG_6028.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifvAp7CauexDfDg_RZe0yAuG3GeA8WKmfUTWjKjGslWrCeB0ovIvGkrMjaqqkSL5kf_gXGfbT0EGFb81PWMhtpmgr-Kkr5jxhjLmF0LhrU_qWOngxv2hxaYzimLpfHgMwUEmf5vhVSoG7m3wKbSsVBGNPGishb3eO4ZUtCGuKb4p25ASUDY5s_J-Ls/w640-h480/IMG_6028.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMpNT8RApFK3M_mbbGgd1VBKYqGzgiMlHaDaNGLXzYHGCVR22vGMb6JSqAGAeWqo_Mc0mRqSdzgP0iKRKBXRP34cefyl1BTdkmT28Wz3_4aJ8Pc74kWmzD2oG3CUCqF29KVMk0-liC3dfDHvadt3X68XkGD8UsKWR-PH9T5xZ81mtsgi8VUY3Jqjvl/s1320/636299266794298357-Paradise2.webp" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Carnival Paradise Cruise Review</b><br /></div><p style="text-align: left;"><u>Just the Facts:</u><br />Ship: Carnival Paradise, Last of Fantasy Class, Launched Nov. 1998 @ 70,000 tons. <br />Sailing: April 4-9, 2022 - 5 day cruise - Sailing out of Port of Tampa, Florida<br />Captain: Cruise Director: Leilani Ross<br />Ports: Tampa, FL - Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands - Isla de Cozumel, Mexico - Tampa, FL<br /></p><div style="text-align: justify;">I am sailing as a solo guest. This is my 3rd cruise on the Carnival Paradise, my 97th Carnival cruise, and my 178th total cruise overall.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><b>Day One -- Monday -- April 4th, 2022 -- Port of Tampa — Embarkation </b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIgnELxi-J11u6QksCievEX_cSrkhBzZIxTb3MgfXoIOr1X3rxUxrZIw6cCgtF_R_5jffxFrZ1TkmISyyo40NbbVDKeKofWIc2YCq_TJ7sEUpxiu1EKjXo--Rj0Y7ibJ4x51ZeXBgVRVILrPtNi0PPeejgJ-QE0R50jOoKk5Wv5trX7WZ0bP4Y00yE/s4032/IMG_6006.heic" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2064" data-original-width="4032" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIgnELxi-J11u6QksCievEX_cSrkhBzZIxTb3MgfXoIOr1X3rxUxrZIw6cCgtF_R_5jffxFrZ1TkmISyyo40NbbVDKeKofWIc2YCq_TJ7sEUpxiu1EKjXo--Rj0Y7ibJ4x51ZeXBgVRVILrPtNi0PPeejgJ-QE0R50jOoKk5Wv5trX7WZ0bP4Y00yE/w400-h205/IMG_6006.heic" width="400" /></a></div>This is another very easy embarkation day sailing from my new homeport of Tampa. I left the Villa in Meadow Oaks at 9:20 am and I was sitting in the terminal by 10:30 am. About a 50-minute drive, I parked directly across the street, rolled my one single bag to the ship, used VeriFly at check-in, and sitting in the terminal waiting for boarding by 11:00 am. Easy Peasy. I dropped my bag at the cabin and went up to the Lido Marketplace for lunch. I had a Reuben sandwich and a very nice salad from the self-serve Salad Bar <span style="font-size: x-small;">(see photo)</span>. IMHO the Salad Bar was better than on the Mardi Gras. I returned to the cabin, an Upper/Lower on deck six. It’s big for one person with a lot of storage and I’m very glad I did not upgrade the cabin. I was greeted with a message on the mirror and a large towel animal alligator eating a small duck…interesting. I went to my Muster Station and checked in then did a tour of the ship. A walkabout doesn’t take as long on a Fantasy Class ship. I ended up at the Lobby Bar and enjoyed a Pilsner Urquell beer. Not sure the number of guests onboard as yet, but so much more comfortable than the recent over-full Mardi Gras cruises. Soon we sailed under the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. I have sailed under it more times (5) than I have driven over it (2). At 6:00 pm I went to the MDR for dinner. I was assigned a 10-top table and there were 9 at dinner, but there are few dining choices on this ship. Tonight I ordered both hot soups, the Roasted Tomato & Poblano Pepper, two Shrimp Cocktails, The fried Shrimp entree, and Tiramisu for dessert. I did a walkabout the ship picking up my Diamond gifts at Pixels and my bottled water from the Lobby Bar. I then retired to the cabin to watch a movie and follow the NCAA basketball finals. I needed rest from working on my garage conversion project the past few days. It was an easy embark day on the Carnival Paradise.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Day Two -- Tuesday -- April 5th, 2022 -- Day at Sea</b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbyK2RsuxZB2cFDPJJ72qGqpjZIiMY8Lm5a9yjQpjI3Ea_CioTwnQk4sVuY2DX-4Za2NImmqEgFRjjgR_-P14HtUGPGU55QTeZIUaME3dAfDNhfj-Bm-qdPyiLPlLd3Qaq2Q_1fRHLliymO6iZC2IQxuCpI_dlh7f61o0EmcV4Nzg2UiOyeYDqsK1b/s960/278168507_10160207136968417_3451698660854603878_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbyK2RsuxZB2cFDPJJ72qGqpjZIiMY8Lm5a9yjQpjI3Ea_CioTwnQk4sVuY2DX-4Za2NImmqEgFRjjgR_-P14HtUGPGU55QTeZIUaME3dAfDNhfj-Bm-qdPyiLPlLd3Qaq2Q_1fRHLliymO6iZC2IQxuCpI_dlh7f61o0EmcV4Nzg2UiOyeYDqsK1b/w400-h300/278168507_10160207136968417_3451698660854603878_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Smooth seas overnight and I slept well in my interior cabin. I updated this blog and did some online business before going up to the lido deck for an omelet. It was very good as was the bacon and watermelon. The outdoor grill area is one large space with Guy’s Burgers on one end and the Blue Iguana on the other…Omelet Station in between. Very convenient as I had salsa for my omelet. A quick visit to Guest Services for some small $ change and no line at all, I like the fewer number of guests on this sailing for the ease of movement, especially the elevators. I went to the casino for my $25 free play and was given $25 in cash…Sweet! and thank you Carnival. The Diamond event was held at 10:00 am in the Rotterdam Bar and reminded me of earlier years as there were only a dozen Diamonds and a few guests. The staff mingled and the bar service was very good. I had my fair share of Bloody Marys, bottled water, and some Pepsi’s for the cabin. The Hotel Director, Martin Fowler, as host, welcomed all and was informative. The Paradise was the last Carnival ship back in service since the shutdown and this is only their fifth cruise. They are also limiting guests to approximately 1200 or about 60% capacity. I enjoyed the little Diamond gathering very much. After a short walkabout it was back to the cabin for a very restful nap…almost a new record at 4+ hours…super! Tonight is elegant night, but I did Guy’s Burgers before they closed at 6:00 pm. Then a small dessert and watermelon on the aft deck. It’s a beautiful evening and a good time to be out and about as most guests are at dinner. I enjoyed a nice cocktail at the Rotterdam Bar then went to the </span><b><i style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">’80’s Pop to the Max</span></i></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b> </b>show in the theater. I had forgotten how large the theater and stage are on this ship. The set was just six stools on the stage and two feature singers and four others singing to a soundtrack. Hopefully, they will present the full show with a set and dancers soon. Entertaining, but not memorable. A nice walkabout the ship before retiring...There was Music in several locations as well as Comedy. It was a fun and restful sea day on the Carnival Paradise.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Day Three -- Wednesday -- April 6th, 2022 -- Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSpceCxkN1ppWQRX5HMCVibkAL4EB6TIV5EZTSmQPOqFHp3nyRLYV9FQXcx4x0GTxk2tOXvRIGYaozmI9XKGR46eSPIAq_Uujr_Aynlug6IYw68m99sWDV-RT4Qur-MWG7UcalYOqroXmMDh-qI8choEc8hTHQZGc_lYEDuuj75Enh7fQii56VD_7M/s4032/IMG_6033.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSpceCxkN1ppWQRX5HMCVibkAL4EB6TIV5EZTSmQPOqFHp3nyRLYV9FQXcx4x0GTxk2tOXvRIGYaozmI9XKGR46eSPIAq_Uujr_Aynlug6IYw68m99sWDV-RT4Qur-MWG7UcalYOqroXmMDh-qI8choEc8hTHQZGc_lYEDuuj75Enh7fQii56VD_7M/w400-h300/IMG_6033.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div></b>Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well. I was up very early, but not planning on going ashore today. We were already anchored off of Grand Cayman by dawn and they began tendering by 7:30 am. The Carnival Vista and Sunrise are anchored as well. A smart guest would have an early excursion booked in order to get an early tender space although with fewer guests it should be fairly easy today. A beautiful day today so guests will be happy. I again had a very nice omelet with salsa and watermelon from <b>Blue Iguana</b>. About 10:30 am I took a tender to shore just to walk for exercise, I walked an hour + then returned to the ship. Grand Cayman did not fare well from the decision to close to cruise ships. for so long. The majority of shops and storefronts are closed. Thankfully they still have the Seven-mile beach, the String Rays, and Turtle Farm as a basis for Tourism to recover. I had Pumpkin Soup and a Salad for a light lunch. I enjoyed sitting out on deck taking in the view (see photo) with some fresh fruit for dessert. Cabin time for some business work online then a short nap. I did a walkabout during sundown hours then listened to still drum music in the Lobby. I went to the Windjammer for dinner, I had two small Sirloin Strip Steaks and a unique Beet Root Salad with pearl onions. I am enjoying the ship very much as it’s refreshing not having 5600+ guests as I’ve been experiencing on my recent Mardi Gras cruises. It was an enjoyable day on the Carnival Paradise.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Day Four -- Thursday -- April 7th, 2022 -- Cozumel, Mexico</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm5IqPRNeZrpf4ReUSQmYT5oYDEp154IiP58qt9y6kf-C6WnTqV6wTmI7Aywej32Buw_P0RLlc-rma3Mr_iROO-J9Nvhdi_NSAk6zVrLX7UIWB5220fbi80ib_aTh4rM32Byyw_BUjTLALuUmZQWcu2yEoc7dsHKsOXsBre3Be_u2tm_NUGmONief_/s3024/IMG_6039.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="2918" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm5IqPRNeZrpf4ReUSQmYT5oYDEp154IiP58qt9y6kf-C6WnTqV6wTmI7Aywej32Buw_P0RLlc-rma3Mr_iROO-J9Nvhdi_NSAk6zVrLX7UIWB5220fbi80ib_aTh4rM32Byyw_BUjTLALuUmZQWcu2yEoc7dsHKsOXsBre3Be_u2tm_NUGmONief_/s320/IMG_6039.jpeg" width="309" /></a></div>Rolling seas overnight and I slept fair. We have a late arrival into Cozumel so no rushing this morning…I went up to the Blue Iguana for a Huevos Rancheros with fried eggs, Arepas, Salsa, & Watermelon. The Arepas were the best I have had…a slight crispness on the outside…very nice. I called home once we were docked just after 10:00 am. DW has the Garage remodel under control, they finished the floors this morning. The internet is so helpful when on a cruise...I paid the flooring contractor and also arranged for immediate pickup of the old washer/dryer. I use the Carnival value WiFi when onboard - $51 for this 5-day cruise. We are docked with the Vista and Dream, two Texas ships, and they were sailing full, the taxi line was the longest I have ever seen at Puerto Maya. I used my experience to share a taxi from outside the port and was dropped downtown by 11:30 am ships time or 12:30 local time. Strait to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/WoodysCozumel" target="_blank">Woody's Bar & Grill</a> my usual Cozumel hangout. I used the fastest internet on the island to get a lot of Travel work completed. I enjoyed a few Bohemia beers and Guacamole & Pico de Gallo as well. (photo above) Texas friends from the Dream stopped by so I had a large frozen margarita with them too…good times. I was back on the ship at 5:30 pm. Tonight I had dinner on lido and they had Sirloin at the carving station so I had a nice cut then had it grilled at the Deli. I had a selection of desserts and ate them out on deck as we had a late sail away. The weather cooled and it was very enjoyable sitting outside this evening. I watched a movie then retired. It was a FUN and productive port day in Cozumel.<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Day Five -- Friday -- April 8th, 2022 —Fun Day at Sea <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSb-FqsOKPay6_ymZyiRfrey58I6cV8FZl4EEyELrJY5L-uje9eXxShiliw_NjxVmDEgcY4VsP_p16mX1fy4nuf9O9hdNzesXRKYpepSOIrXliUAKLO4SIYbd_1TNDrHGP7QQWglQaWY8rWoUPmPKE8jPqKxyY5dlZuv1cPN8R3i6ngy30P1cSkkf/s3552/Towel%20Animals.%204:7:22.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2625" data-original-width="3552" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSb-FqsOKPay6_ymZyiRfrey58I6cV8FZl4EEyELrJY5L-uje9eXxShiliw_NjxVmDEgcY4VsP_p16mX1fy4nuf9O9hdNzesXRKYpepSOIrXliUAKLO4SIYbd_1TNDrHGP7QQWglQaWY8rWoUPmPKE8jPqKxyY5dlZuv1cPN8R3i6ngy30P1cSkkf/s320/Towel%20Animals.%204:7:22.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div></b>Rolling seas overnight and I slept better. I went to the <b>Seaday Brunch </b>in the Elation Dining Room and had a very nice brunch. at a window table. I ordered the Steak & Eggs, Bacon, Hash Browns, French Toast, Hot Milk, Tomato Juice, and a Bloody Mary. I did a walkabout picking up a photo at Pixels and sampling some Key Lime Pie in the Marketplace. The weather is great and guests are enjoying the outer decks today. <br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Rolling seas overnight and I slept better. I went to the Seaday Brunch in the Elation Dining Room and had a very nice brunch. at a window table. I ordered the Steak & Eggs, Bacon, Hash Browns, French Toast, Hot Milk, Tomato Juice, and a Bloody Mary. I did a walkabout picking up a photo at Pixels and sampling some Key Lime Pie in the Marketplace. The weather is great and guests are enjoying the outer decks today. I watched two movies on TCM this afternoon, one of the few good TV channels available on Carnival ships. The ship was really rocking and rolling this afternoon it made walking on deck interesting. I attended the <b>Platinum/Diamond Gathering</b> in the Queen Mary Lounge, I sat at the Bar and certainly had my share of Cosmopolitans. I was the high cruiser (most sea days of all guests), the first time I had the most on a cruise out of Florida. I had a light dinner and retired early as I will be up early for debark.<br /><br /><b>Debarkation — Saturday -- April 9th, 2022 -- Port of Tampa</b><br />Rolling seas overnight, but slept well. I was packing about 6:05 am. Debark meet was scheduled for 7:15 am but I went down about 7:05 and was able to roll right out to the gangway. Walked to the parking garage and hit the road and at the Villa in Pasco County by 8:10 am in time to walk the dog. Amazingly easy debark.<br /><br /><b>Personal HIGHLIGHTS of the Cruise</b><br />The ratio of Guests to Crew<br />The Diamond Gathering<br />Cozumel Port Day<br /> </span></div>Snoozemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08287635714818403539noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-666314469198049300.post-37212293923224406412022-03-19T05:19:00.055-05:002022-03-26T12:49:40.864-05:00Mardi Gras Cruise Review - March 19, 2022<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOVkAJXnpblx7rd-6tn4ovoL-b9SsraXz-D1Kx-IfCjyWeMz5Fo8NVEyYuU-BtPUX3NSkmcWMuLIZHJjJNVTiNxVNW6QbPJkDpK7h25kz41mMDaVhNJu0Kdd3gURc3qU9euxK5xV-IT6ws32S428f-56yejHEmD1mlszZrj0J-qk29Eh4JkLZ8EvhR/s1200/carnival-ships8.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="677" data-original-width="1200" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOVkAJXnpblx7rd-6tn4ovoL-b9SsraXz-D1Kx-IfCjyWeMz5Fo8NVEyYuU-BtPUX3NSkmcWMuLIZHJjJNVTiNxVNW6QbPJkDpK7h25kz41mMDaVhNJu0Kdd3gURc3qU9euxK5xV-IT6ws32S428f-56yejHEmD1mlszZrj0J-qk29Eh4JkLZ8EvhR/w640-h362/carnival-ships8.jpg" width="640" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b> Mardi Gras Cruise Review - March 19, 2022 </b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u><span style="font-size: small;">Just The Facts: </span></u></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;">Ship: Mardi Gras…Largest & flagship of the Carnival fleet. 182,000 gross tons. 5282+ capacity. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;">Ship Captain: Allessandro Iemmi - Hotel Director: </span><span style="font-size: small;">Pierre Camilleri - Cruise Director: Lee the CD <br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;">Ports: Port Canaveral - Cozumel, Mexico - Costa Maya, Mexico - Mahogany Bay, Isla Roatan, Honduras</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;">This is my seventh cruise on Carnival’s new flagship, Mardi Gras, my 96th Carnival cruise, and my 177th cruise overall. I am sailing with the DW (Dear Wife) and have friends and colleagues sailing this cruise.<br /> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Day One -- Saturday -- March 19th, 2022 -- Port Canaveral Embarkation</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxMNFmA-y7l9C_lxZRy5AHZ5zpAN3PPrKHWSLEufh3MTIokSLS7oKfnLd5lfv49DOZuIH98rIpdzHNW7tVw8iURIWiAiqlSIFxfS6bH3Foh-vCYUZF7PPrtbw8U5BY3HjxABie1pYK2PQxIz2q8eEoiRZO1ZK3aauGRRpFo96Buv4H9BKpNzpRLFvR/s3478/IMG_5908.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2863" data-original-width="3478" height="329" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxMNFmA-y7l9C_lxZRy5AHZ5zpAN3PPrKHWSLEufh3MTIokSLS7oKfnLd5lfv49DOZuIH98rIpdzHNW7tVw8iURIWiAiqlSIFxfS6bH3Foh-vCYUZF7PPrtbw8U5BY3HjxABie1pYK2PQxIz2q8eEoiRZO1ZK3aauGRRpFo96Buv4H9BKpNzpRLFvR/w400-h329/IMG_5908.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div></span>We left the Florida Villa about 7:45 am for our drive to Port Canaveral and our 10:00-10:30 am check-in time. Some traffic in Orlando but we arrived at <a href="https://parkncruiseportcanaveral.com/" target="_blank">Park-N-Cruise</a> by 10:30 am. They were very busy, but we ran into friends and were able to visit while waiting to be shuttled. We arrived at the pier about 11:15 and went through security and check-in fairly quickly. Having the VeriFLY app helps as well as knowing where to go. We were on board and in our cabin by 11:45 am. Thankfully our cabin was ready for us so we were able to unpack our roll-on bags and set up our cabin. We have a nice balcony on deck 14 aft. Yes, you can hear the Bolt, I did not consider that in choosing a location. We checked in to our Muster Station on deck 7, then went up to Lido Deck for lunch. I had my favorite Big Chicken selections and DW enjoyed a nice salad. Then some rest and nap time in the cabin. Cabin steward Kris brought Ice and I scheduled our cabin cleaning times (~11 am daily). About 4:00 pm the Carnival Elation sailed past and we had our formal Muster announcements before our sail away soon afterward. We went to Summer Landing for drinks and met friends for BBQ dinner. I ordered the Filet Mignon, St. Louis style Pork Ribs, the pickled vegetables, Slaw, and Onion Fries. The steak was fantastic, the ribs were just so-so. DW had Macaroni & Cheese and Slaw, she didn’t care for it so she had a Vegetable Lasagne from the Lido Marketplace later. We collected our $50 free-play in the casino and turned it into $50 real chips with $25 free play left. Sweet. We watched the Center Stage Band (photo above) and ran into family members and visited, we will get together with them later. Small world. We sat outside on deck 16 and enjoyed dessert…we had plans but decided to retire early. We do need the rest from a very busy work week at the Villa. It was a very good day with surprises on the Mardi Gras.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Day Two -- Sunday -- March 6th, 2022 -- Fun Day at Sea</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiHxoowBa8R3C6YirV8E4puZcf-jll5ov5N5YLZu_zUwWLJ_7Oev9ViKIYJZOkGghyz7EtaU5ETMEDTJtmiY7GOmChM_lcvmKmC6u2pIJGzBhlj1wvQHiVi-Lf0P3iwY1NvS9fAfEaE5wsZ1T8T5rQlNsGFuCIYH3B_DFN2Q54zPddgXgJCht48kc3/s4032/IMG_5931.HEIC" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiHxoowBa8R3C6YirV8E4puZcf-jll5ov5N5YLZu_zUwWLJ_7Oev9ViKIYJZOkGghyz7EtaU5ETMEDTJtmiY7GOmChM_lcvmKmC6u2pIJGzBhlj1wvQHiVi-Lf0P3iwY1NvS9fAfEaE5wsZ1T8T5rQlNsGFuCIYH3B_DFN2Q54zPddgXgJCht48kc3/w320-h240/IMG_5931.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Very smooth seas overnight and I slept very well. Woke early, did some business, but fell back to sleep until a BOLT test run woke me again about 8:00 am. We met the family for the </span><b style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Sea Day Brunch</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> in the Palm restaurant at about 10:00 am. Very busy this morning, but the girls were more interested in visiting than food so we had a long casual brunch. I ordered the Steak & Eggs, Bacon, Hash Browns, Apple Danish, Tomato Juice, French Toast, and Leche Caliente. It was a very good breakfast. I returned to the cabin and the DW went shopping...I had a nice two-hour nap too. At 3:00 pm I saw another first for me…Cubans in a yellow rubber raft heading towards Florida. It’s a perfect day for an attempt. We were as close to the Cuban coast as allowed and we passed them fairly close on starboard as I was standing out on the balcony. Amazing, I wish them luck…Freedom is precious. We went down to the Alchemy Bar about 4:00 pm for cocktails, it was great seeing the Bartenders again. Daniel prepared two nice cocktails for us an absinth for me. I’m not longer an MDR person, but my friend Kelli arranged a nice table for the four of us with our favorite waiter for 5:00 pm. Early for me but it has become difficult to get good service and seating on a elegant night with 5000+ guests on board. Tonight I ordered the Sicilian Meatball Soup, Spaghetti Carbonara (as a starter), two Broiled Lobster Tails, and Mixed Fruit for dessert. DW ordered the Root Vegetables in a Pie Crust and Chocolate Melting Cake. It was a very good dinner and excellent service. We returned to the cabin and watched the sunset from our balcony and relaxed after dinner. I did a walkabout the ship picking up some water and candy for the cabin then we met Friends & Family in the Brass Magnolia. <b>Instrumental Grooves with Washboard Joe</b> has become one of my all-time favorite musical groups at sea. The Brazilian group is so talented and play a variety of music with a unique Jazz sound. Very enjoyable and we got an encore from them tonight. First time I’ve seen them do that and I caught most of their performances on the previous cruise when my cabin was below the Brass Magnolia. Everyone in the room and our group enjoyed them. It was a wonderful ending to a great sea day on the Mardi Gras. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /><b>Day Three -- Monday — March 21st, 2022 — Cozumel, Mexico</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxrCpL98ohaVe0huLNGLRZtVxskuR2rkaISTeYXxrUmWYQauCjzuipJDC_W25L8HbCeYJvJg7gzSv7VmVq-PxzD53hhRfzxLg_aMfzuNFPN3xlfyxrjnnX1xsK6mijWgNbvBFmYSO9jVjuyNzi8m3GcSklcUpvQ7-xPKOeGp4JROXwytNGFL1LY0KP/s800/Downtown-souvenire-shops.jpg.webp" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="534" data-original-width="800" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxrCpL98ohaVe0huLNGLRZtVxskuR2rkaISTeYXxrUmWYQauCjzuipJDC_W25L8HbCeYJvJg7gzSv7VmVq-PxzD53hhRfzxLg_aMfzuNFPN3xlfyxrjnnX1xsK6mijWgNbvBFmYSO9jVjuyNzi8m3GcSklcUpvQ7-xPKOeGp4JROXwytNGFL1LY0KP/w400-h268/Downtown-souvenire-shops.jpg.webp" width="400" /></a></div>Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. I was up early and watched us sail in the Straits of Cozumel. We had room Service delivery this morning so no rush to leave the cabin. We were docked before our scheduled 10:00 am arrival and no other Carnival ships at Puerto Maya…I did miss the Carnival Breeze. It’s a beautiful day in Cozumel so many guests will love a beach day. We met the surprise Family in the Havana outer lounge area about 11:45 to debark the ship. We shared a taxi into San Miguel and proceeded to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/WoodysCozumel/" target="_blank">Woody’s Bar and Grill</a> my Cozumel hangout. Live Music! It was busy as we were arriving later than normal and it was lunchtime. We had a nice table and DW and I started with a proper Mexican Coca-cola as usual. I saw other friends and we soon ordered our Guacamole, Pico de Gallo, & Chips. Very good guacamole today…and becoming harder to find in the USA. I had a lot of business to do today including several cruise bookings for the owner and signing documents for Texas real estate transactions. The others spent time shopping…buying some very unique items. I did have time to get my haircut at Antonio’s Barber Shop. After a visit to the Pharmacia, we took the taxi back to Puerto Maya arriving well before our 6:30 back on board time. After some brief cabin time, we met our travel friends for dinner at <b>La Cucina del Capitano</b>. Tonight I ordered my favorites: the Arancini, Nonna’s Meatballs, a Pasta Pomodoro (as a starter), and the Chicken Parmesan entree. It was excellent as was the service. The only place with tablecloths on the ship too. After dinner and a busy day, we retired to the cabin and I was soon asleep. It was a very productive day in Cozumel and on the Mardi Gras.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Day Four -- Tuesday -- March 22nd, 2022 -- Costa Maya, Mexico</b> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiwbjgZxV9H0Hquv7kkA2zqso1R2B9-821xjWDkMdyAGLUoJ2EdDC7rzTSl8qf862AFPbeCkUXITP01OfAxKb-9uvLWzUKfUHrkYKxqQi-oA743YLX50T7v_2tRodEFL0sD8FzTSaxemRkxb4bC9zgo1OuMFJYVX2BfJsldZknQoRPrMgWifKLEOZB/s1438/MardiGras-CostaMaya.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1225" data-original-width="1438" height="341" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiwbjgZxV9H0Hquv7kkA2zqso1R2B9-821xjWDkMdyAGLUoJ2EdDC7rzTSl8qf862AFPbeCkUXITP01OfAxKb-9uvLWzUKfUHrkYKxqQi-oA743YLX50T7v_2tRodEFL0sD8FzTSaxemRkxb4bC9zgo1OuMFJYVX2BfJsldZknQoRPrMgWifKLEOZB/w400-h341/MardiGras-CostaMaya.jpg" width="400" /></a></div></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Some rolling seas overnight and I slept well. We were docked by 9:00 am and it's a beautiful sunny day in Roatan. We had a very lazy morning in the cabin enjoying a fruit basket and the wonderful view from our balcony. Some follow-up business to do before leaving the cabin for a walkabout. We had brunch on Lido aft, Big Chicken for me, and a small Salad for the DW. We spent the afternoon on our balcony, we are docked blocking the sun and had a perfect breeze all afternoon. I was able to arrange some work on the ranch and DW read as we both enjoyed the view and weather. DW brought a Blue Iguana Salad down to eat and also some cookies to go with my Coca-cola, perfect day for a balcony. I took a walkabout before sailing away as I wanted to get photos of the Carnival Pride’s aft balconies as she is docked next to us today. I was easily able to see the balcony we will have for two cruises in Europe and the Transatlantic cruise in October (photo above). The DW wanted to stay in this evening so I went to the </span><b style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Pig & Anchor</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> for BBQ. I ordered the 1/2 Chicken special of the day, St. Louis style Pork Ribs, the pickled vegetables, Potato Fries, and Onion Fries. The chicken was only fair, the ribs were much better tonight and I had the Apple Cobbler for dessert. I watched the last 3 innings of the OU vs. Kentucky Softball game in Summer Landing, I enjoyed watching the OU girls last season when they won the National Championship. They are off to a good start as this win puts their record at 26-0. Afterward, I went to the </span><b style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Alchemy Bar</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> for another nice cocktail from Daniel, then to the 11:00 pm <b>Late Night Comedy Showcase </b>in the Theater with Jorge Solano, and Billy D. Washington. It was a very good show. Barely time for a final Sazerac from the Brass Magnolia before they closed. It was another FUN day on the Mardi Gras.</span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b> </b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b>Day Five -- Wednesday -- March 23rd, 2022 -- Mahogany Bay, Isla Roatan, Honduras <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKRVu2GkhdNXelgFIbdvbDUODTlG8j4Fhi7Rg-9GX26T83-QAFJdT_b592Dqk2pVTZKbVN4VLJg3PP4rrZ647YSR2lQl4He7Kanc_o2mxiQZCxk3mhHvVQhC9kaz-TOyTUh8rq7M73w4Bz_mwbt-gyEi9Ae-ymF5Lya5QgIHOlyYusHOLJiBpW9KhX/s4032/IMG_5963.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKRVu2GkhdNXelgFIbdvbDUODTlG8j4Fhi7Rg-9GX26T83-QAFJdT_b592Dqk2pVTZKbVN4VLJg3PP4rrZ647YSR2lQl4He7Kanc_o2mxiQZCxk3mhHvVQhC9kaz-TOyTUh8rq7M73w4Bz_mwbt-gyEi9Ae-ymF5Lya5QgIHOlyYusHOLJiBpW9KhX/w400-h300/IMG_5963.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div></b></span><span style="color: #0e101a;">Heavy rolling seas overnight, it was a nice ride. I woke about 8:00 am and we were already docked at Mahogany Bay. Our balcony view is of the Bay and shipwreck side. The weather is beautiful but it will be hot today. We had room service breakfast this morning and no excursions planned outside the port so taking our time. We left the ship just to get in some walking and did the nature trail and walked as far as guests can go within the port property. We stopped at Fat Tuesdays for water, burrito, and a few Salva Vida beers. We walked the shops and craft areas before returning to the ship for cabin and nap time. A very nice nap. We went to the <b>Fortune Teller Bar</b> for cocktails this evening, DW had the Third Eye and I had a Bog Juice. We then met friends for dinner @ 6:30 pm at <b>ChiBang</b>. Tonight I ordered all my favorites: Egg Drop Soup, Green Salad, Kung Pow Chicken entree (very spicy), Beef & Broccoli entree, Hakka Noodles, Grilled Broccoli and the Tres Leches dessert. DW orderd a Salad and a Cheese Quesidilla. It was very good. After dinner, we met the surprise family at Brass Magnolia then went to the feature shows at the Center Stage: <b>The Residency</b>, Classic Magic, and <b>Lovin’ Vegas</b>. We had very good seats and it was a great evening of entertainment including Big Band Music, Singers, Dancers, Aerialist, Light Show, and more. An amazing Las Vegas-style show about Las Vegas. These are the shows not to be missed on the Mardi Gras. It was my third time to see it, but won’t be my last. It was a FUN day in Mahogony Bay and on the Mardi Gras.</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0e101a;"><b>Day Six -- Thursday -- March 24th, 2022 -- Fun Day at Sea</b></span><span style="color: #0e101a;"> </span><span style="color: #0e101a;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzfK_Xka9Q2vEC-R1_CmIUh5RAHt92IKsVaBsXosrtqSeM6qMqYGrUsBFvL1A_HqkRZefxhNE4V6CaqsLf0CZuPtrx5yUtfhfUIOZX2gOEq2OrhmSA3MDMKh9b7mpE4vpzqZSNagLtxpJ3akXa8ehHAqdtA_pWJFNJoNli5xnruROGPnT1G0RLvzFQ/s3587/IMG_5935%202.heic" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3587" data-original-width="2931" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzfK_Xka9Q2vEC-R1_CmIUh5RAHt92IKsVaBsXosrtqSeM6qMqYGrUsBFvL1A_HqkRZefxhNE4V6CaqsLf0CZuPtrx5yUtfhfUIOZX2gOEq2OrhmSA3MDMKh9b7mpE4vpzqZSNagLtxpJ3akXa8ehHAqdtA_pWJFNJoNli5xnruROGPnT1G0RLvzFQ/s320/IMG_5935%202.heic" width="261" /></a></div></span><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Rolling seas overnight that became smoother by dawn. I slept well although waking too early @ 6:00 am. I had some travel business to update on recent bookings that I completed before Room Service was delivered @ 8:30 am. It's a beautiful day so guests will enjoy the pool and outer decks. Today is the day I cash in my Casino Chips. I've been using my Diamond benefit $25 free-play that I carried from cruise to cruise to play on the Roulette Wheel the past several cruises. I have been lucky and converted them into $365 in real chips…cashed out this morning…not bad and to myself much more fun than playing Slots. The Diamond Luncheon was at noon in the Flamingo Dining Room, we sat with our good friends and had a very enjoyable lunch. I ordered the Peaches & Greens Salad (the new item-thinly sliced peaches as a base), the NY Strip Steak, & Tres Leches dessert. DW ordered the same salad and the vegetarian Pappardelle Pasta, which was very good, I sampled it. We had a favorite server, Servio Jr., and generous cocktail servers…we were the last guests to leave so yes…we enjoyed the luncheon. Cabin time after lunch. I updated this blog and DW went up to get an Ice Creme. The weather and shaded balcony are ideal for cabin/balcony time this afternoon, but the best was…a Nap. Nice. We met the surprise family in the Brass Magnolia for cocktails at about 7:00 pm. It was DW’s baby sistear's birthday. The entertainers were </span><b style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The Backyard Band</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">, it seems our Washboard guys have an illness in the group, miss them. We had a nice dinner at </span><b style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">La Cucina del Capitano,</span></b><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> I ordered a lot: a Minestrone Soup, the Arancini, Nonna’s Meatballs, a Pasta Pomodoro (as a starter), and the Veal Marsala entree. It was a great meal. A short walkabout the ship before retiring for the evening. It was a lazy enjoyable day on the Mardi Gras. <br /></span></div><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0e101a;"><b>Day Seven -- Friday -- March 25th, 2022 -- Fun Day at Sea </b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0e101a;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3mFGEesjkBnDnh8pxGePNuGV2QSAHOCksQk5wVZ3VbqRPNdhZd5u1We6wXecr1kjSeKTGLKzRmlW5WoI1GyQDPp68cN0On_J4KXyAsMwJswjChxb4znZB5XhMAnt45hXB4LNiUf4EjcGK2zVSUnpEuGoeGOwda1nL75El2okQtGwvOj4ocf6pLmg-/s1600/CarDec-45680-1588618242.webp" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="899" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3mFGEesjkBnDnh8pxGePNuGV2QSAHOCksQk5wVZ3VbqRPNdhZd5u1We6wXecr1kjSeKTGLKzRmlW5WoI1GyQDPp68cN0On_J4KXyAsMwJswjChxb4znZB5XhMAnt45hXB4LNiUf4EjcGK2zVSUnpEuGoeGOwda1nL75El2okQtGwvOj4ocf6pLmg-/w400-h225/CarDec-45680-1588618242.webp" width="400" /></a></b></span></div><span style="color: #0e101a;">Rolling seas overnight, slept fair, did the up in the night, then slept late routine. I didn’t get around until 10:30 am even after a very restful previous day so a fruit basket breakfast. We did a walkabout, I purchased a Gift Card from Cherry on Top and we saw friends and family. We had lunch at ChiBang. I had both a nice Steak & Chicken Mongolian style stir-fry with nice Vegetables & Noodles and a Mexican Burrito bowl. DW had a Burrito Bowl. I like how they serve both Tortilla Chip and Fried Wonton with Pico de Gallo and an Asian hot sauce. Two worlds combining for the starters. Nice table and servers, we were very pleased with lunch. The weather has cooled only 74° at mid-day, but nice if sunning on deck as many guests are doing today. 5700 guests are enjoying the Mardi Gras this cruise, but it does not seem as crowded as the Sailabration cruise because there are 1300 children this week and enough activities for them that keep them from areas I frequent. Sailabration cruise was a premium price sailing with primarily all adults. I hadn’t had a Guy’s burger this cruise so had one this afternoon, it was cooked perfectly and very good. The Platinum & Diamond party was this afternoon @ 4:00, I didn’t attend but I took advantage of the free drink on my S&S card at the Fortune Teller Bar. We met the surprise family for cocktails and joined them for dinner at their table in the <b>Palm Restaurant</b> (photo above). DW and I ordered the Cobb Salad, I had the Pork Chop entree and DW the Enchiladas. Baked Alaska and the farewell song by the waiters ended the dining experience. We did a short walkabout and I had a final beer at the Pig and Anchor before retiring. It was a FUN final day on the Mardi Gras.<br /></span><p></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0e101a;"><b>Debarkation -- Saturday -- March 26th, 2022 -- Port Canaveral, Florida</b> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0e101a;">Smoother seas overnight as we sailed along the coast of Florida and I slept fair. I was up by 5:40 am and we were already alongside the pier so I started my packing process. DW packed previous night. The Diamond guests, only 180 on board this cruise, meet was at 7:30 am at the Punchliner Comedy space, but they were already debarking at 7:20 when we got to deck 6. We were out and on the parking shuttle strait away. I love <a href="http://www.parkncruiseportcanaveral.com" target="_blank">Park-N-Cruise</a>. On the road at 8:00 am. We stopped at Farmers Daughter in Brooksville about 10:00 am for brunch, then onto Spring Hill to pick-up the dog and GD (grand-daughter). Home at the Villa in Meadow Oaks about noon.<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0e101a;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0e101a;"><b>HIGHLIGHTS</b><br />Sailing with the DW <br />Sailing with Surprise Family and Friends<br /><b>Instrumental Grooves with Washboard Joe</b> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0e101a;"><i><b>Lovin' Vegas</b> </i>Show at Center Stage<br />The Themed Bars: Alchemy, Fortune Teller, & the Brass Magnolia<br />Good Fast Food: Big Chicken, Guy’s Burgers<br /> </span></div>Snoozemanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08287635714818403539noreply@blogger.com0