Our cruise experiences and adventures
The Sunday morning 5:30ish alarm is already shut off, a rare moment of peace as events on the calendar begin to lighten up. This quiet time offers a chance to reflect and recharge, revealing how busy schedules can sometimes overshadow the simple pleasures of life. It's a reminder that...
They shall know you by your beads... a vibrant symbol of identity and culture that carries stories of tradition. In every bead lies a connection to the past, a testament to craftsmanship, and a celebration of individuality. The colors and patterns tell tales that transcend time, inviting you to explore the rich history behind each piece.
With our Facebook group swelling to 355 members, nearly 1 in 10 passengers will be part of this incredible cruise adventure! I can hardly wait to see the ship through the eyes of fellow travelers. In the four months since my last update, I've rebranded my travel agency to Sea Freedom Vacations and am gearing up for a group trip to Alaska aboard NCL Jewel next June. The excitement is palpable, and I'm prepping for the challenges ahead as we embark on this journey.
The vibrant fall colors of New England and Eastern Canada are a sight to behold, and our upcoming cruise promises to showcase this breathtaking annual display. With two insightful books as our guide, we’re ready to explore the charm of coastal ports like Newport, Rhode Island. Our adventure starts with the Rose Island Lighthouse and Harbor Tour, where we’ll delve into the history of this iconic landmark...
As we ponder our retirement, the idea of living on a cruise ship is becoming more appealing. With Roxan potentially working as a shipboard nurse, we’re exploring itineraries that could make this dream a reality. Our chosen path will take us from Istanbul to Venice, then to Rome, with stops in captivating locations like Greece and the Azores. This journey isn’t just about travel; it’s a test of whether cruise life is truly for us.
This October, we're embarking on a 7-day cruise through the US Northeast and Canada, a perfect leaf-peeping tour. We're excited to experience our first Aft Balcony room on the NCL Escape, room 13312. But that's not all—next June, we're treating ourselves to a luxurious forward-facing Penthouse Suite on the Norwegian Jewel, where we'll enjoy stunning views and all the perks of being a Haven passenger, just without access to the Haven area itself.
Surina Taljaard, the General Manager’s secretary, was a beacon of support during our trip on Norwegian Encore. She coordinated surprises and helped set up Internet access for live blogging, all while maintaining a calm professionalism. Her genuine appreciation for guests truly made our experience special. Julius Cantel Villavelez, our Room Steward, quickly became a familiar face, always ready with extra towels or a firmer pillow, embodying the essence of hospitality.
We woke up late Monday morning, but news that Roxan’s dad had taken a dramatic turn for the worse set us scrambling to debark the ship. As we rushed to arrange flights home, I struggled with ship WiFi and poor cell service, all while Roxan packed our bags. The timeline was tight; we had to meet customs by noon, and our laundry was still in question. Just when panic started to set in, Francisco knocked on the door with our clean laundry!
Ironically, I ended up indulging in a 'Resort Day' at the same hotel I initially planned to visit for a day pass. For $95 each, we enjoyed a bus ride, access to pools, a beach, and a delightful lunch buffet. It was my first time swimming in the ocean, a refreshing experience after years of only dipping my toes in. Relaxing under a palm front gazebo, with stunning views and the thrill of parasailers overhead, made for a perfect day.
Tendering in Cabo San Lucas was a unique experience for me, especially since the Encore had to anchor in the bay due to its size. Unlike traditional ships that use lifeboats, Encore employs a folding platform to facilitate shore access. After a quick trip ashore, we enjoyed a delightful lunch at The Sand Bar, where the vibrant decorations for Dia de Muertos brought the local culture to life. The massages we booked were simply out of this world, surpassing anything we’ve had in years.
With Roxan's dad back home, we finally found a moment of peace during our sailing trip. I recall the excitement of pushing off from the dock in Los Angeles, feeling the thrill of adventure ahead. We laughed at shows featuring a comedian and a magic act, where I surprisingly ended up on stage. The theater's technology caught my attention as I soaked in every detail, from the speaker stacks to the lights, all while knowing our journey would soon take a somber turn.
Sitting atop the ship in the Vibe, I finally feel the warmth of the sun. It’s our first time soaking up the views on the deck, away from the crowds. Earlier, I enjoyed a delightful coffee with my coworker Elizabeth, discussing everything from family to the growth of Convesio. This trip, originally planned for our 30th anniversary, has become a wonderful 31st celebration, filled with great memories and the anticipation of meeting Tom and Jen in Miami.