Exploring amazing cruise destinations around the world
Waking up before the alarm, I stepped onto the balcony, the pre-sunrise glow inviting me to reflect on my journey. Arriving in Mazatlan, I opted for a more intimate tour with just nine fellow travelers. Our guide, David Maciel, led us to stunning sites, including the Cathedral with its unique Jewish symbols. The sheer thrill of watching cliff divers and zip liners added to the adventure, promising a day filled with unforgettable memories.
The ride to Playa Chicka Locca brought back vivid memories of my trip to India, with scenes of bustling streets and herds of motorcycles reminiscent of Kolkata. Our driver, Angelo, guided us through the less touristy areas, where the local ambiance contrasted sharply with the resort’s planned activities. Waiting on Boca beach, we could smell the fresh produce from the boat’s grocery run, adding a unique flavor to our experience. The fragrant onions and lively atmosphere made it all the more special.
The breakfast options at Grand Pacific may not inspire a photo frenzy, but it’s the ambiance and personal preference that truly shape the dining experience. While the Main Dining Room offers a standard fare, my heart leans more towards the cozy feel of O’Sheehans. As we set sail from Mazatlan, tomorrow's plan may involve the buffet instead, adding a touch of spontaneity to our culinary journey.
I just secured a spot on a 7-day Greek Isles trip aboard the Norwegian Gem for October 2027, set to earn 4 Latitude Rewards points daily. This exciting journey adds to my growing point total, which will reach 151 after this trip. I'm already looking ahead to the possibility of the NYC to Seattle repo trip in 2028, envisioning our first Dinner with the Officers during that adventure...
Instead of the southbound Quebec City to Philadelphia trip from September 16 to 26, we're moving to a northbound adventure from September 26 to October 7. This change comes with the hope of catching peak fall colors—something we narrowly missed in 2023. With a major life event looming for our youngest daughter just before our original departure, this new schedule offers us the flexibility we need. Plus, I’m excited about revisiting the aft balcony experience on the Jewel-class ship.
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...
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.
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...