Even after years on NCL vessels, the rowdy comedy musical captivates audiences like never before! With a pre-show invitation for passengers to join the fun, our friend Scott became an unwitting star of the night. The mix of laughter and music was infectious, especially from the back of the theater where the sound was superb, creating a perfect blend of voices and instruments. I couldn't help but think about how...
We happened across a glass blowing gallery doing a demonstration today and decided to watch. The intricate artistry captivated us, showcasing the skill and creativity involved in transforming molten glass into stunning pieces. Afterward, we indulged in some local shopping, picking up surprises for the girls, including real maple syrup and our first refrigerator magnet of the trip.
As I boarded the ship, the crew's impatience was palpable, especially given the recent tensions between cruise visitors and Bar Harbor residents. It was a stark reminder of the local sentiment towards us—welcomed until we became a nuisance. However, the anticipation of whale sightings overshadowed any negativity. Our Cruise Director, Julie, proclaimed this was the best day of the season for sightings, and soon we lost count of the breaches we witnessed.
This day started with unexpected lethargy, leading to a long sleep that pushed our plans aside. Just before our 3pm Maine Lighthouses tour, we realized I would miss the cruise's Meet & Mingle event scheduled for 6 tonight. While it's disappointing to sacrifice this experience, embracing responsibility has its ups and downs. Perhaps we'll catch a comedy act later to lighten the mood.
The history that is literally still buried on Rose Island is substantial. Just the stuff that has been uncovered is well worth the trip. You can find out more and follow along as new discoveries are likely to be posted in the next few weeks, showcasing the rich past hidden beneath the surface.
The Corner Cafe offers a delightful escape just a half-mile from the port, where you can truly mingle with locals. The staff, embodying a bit of New York's brashness, quickly warm up and create a lively atmosphere. My refresher, a zesty mix of OJ, grapefruit juice, and lemonade, was a perfect start, while Roxan's unexpected coffee mudslide added a fun twist to our experience. For entrees, I savored a Vermont Omelette with sweet caramelized apples that...
Ariel Ripas, our lead waiter, instantly brought back memories from last year's cruise on Encore. The service was impeccable as always, with our meal well-paced and attentive. When my dinner fork vanished mid-salad, a new one appeared almost magically before I even needed it for the Porterhouse. The shrimp cocktail was a highlight, beautifully presented with large, firm shrimp and ample cocktail sauce. Our conversation flowed as I almost forgot to review the Porterhouse, which was cooked perfectly...
As I sit looking out over the wake on this clear, pleasant evening, I can’t help but feel grateful for the unexpected connections we’ve made. Meeting Scott and Sandra, who will join us on our small group tour in Halifax, has been a delightful surprise. Dinner at Cagney’s was superb as always, and the unexpected surprise from Avelino and Akim truly made the evening memorable. We’ve not dined with others often while sailing, and I think we may do more of that soon.
We were hoping we'd see a few people from Encore a year ago. Oh, my goodness, it was one of the most special memories, Avelino! The laughter and joy we shared still echo in my heart. Those moments created bonds that felt timeless and truly remarkable, reminding us of the importance of connections in our lives.
After a grueling 12+ hour drive, the Jacuzzi room was a delightful surprise I had completely forgotten about. A nice soak this morning was just what I needed, and I didn't even bother with the jets. While I thought we had stayed here before, it turns out this was our first visit. I feel confident recommending it to others, though I wouldn't suggest it for groups due to the neighborhood's quality...
Driving to New York City for our cruise turned out to be a smarter choice than flying. While air travel might seem quicker, it comes with a myriad of hassles that can easily add up. From navigating small regional flights to dealing with tight connections and the potential for delays, the stress of air travel can outweigh the benefits. Plus, the cost comparison reveals that driving is not only more economical, but it also allows for a more enjoyable journey—one where I can control the pace and avoid the anxiety of security lines.
The bed is firm, yet soft, providing a rare comfort that truly helps after a long journey. However, stepping off the elevator greeted us with a strange odor, possibly raw sewage, and an open maintenance panel that raised safety concerns for our kids. The motion detector lights in the foyer proved to be more of a nuisance than a convenience, waking us up during midnight bathroom trips. We’re off to breakfast soon, but the experience has been a mixed bag so far.
Stuck in traffic due to an accident, we’re surrounded by the sounds of sirens and the sight of smoke rising from the wreck ahead. With a tablet running gMaps and RadarScope, I’m monitoring our route while Roxan assists fellow travelers on the FB cruise forum. Thankfully, we weren’t involved in the crash, but it’s a stark reminder of how quickly things can change on the road. Plans for dinner in Indianapolis have evaporated...
Yup, seems about the right amount of packing. Whether you're heading for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, knowing how to pack efficiently can make a huge difference. It's not just about fitting everything in; it's about making sure you have what you need without overloading your luggage. Let's explore some tips to streamline your packing process.
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...
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.