Day 87 & 88 Sea Day Some thoughts on the cruise

Even though we still have just over 2 weeks to go, I thought it would be an idea to put some thoughts on the blog, ( more for us to remember if we have the good fortune to do another WC one day).

We both agree that an inside cabin is absolutely fine. We sleep extremely well, in fact the best I have for years, due to the darkness we think. We are Deck 10, forward of the lifts which we would request again.

With regards to the clothes situation, we got it right with the amount we brought. Apart from having more formal nights for which I didn't cater for really, we have worn all the clothes. Unless you want to wash every other day, (not for me), we go it right and we bought some clothes along the way.

Apart from India, Egypt, Paris and London we would do all the rest on our own.

Even though we have had issues with Princess which have disappointed us, its not about the ship for us but the ports of call and meeting new people have been THE best experience. At this stage we feel we would sail with Princess again.

Next time we WILL stick to our walking routine very day....this has now ceased!!!! I can't blame the laundry anymore....no $25 laundry bag since Southampton.

I will post more thoughts as we near the end of the trip.

 

Day 86 Aloha from Honolulu

Beautiful weather greeted us in Honolulu. This was our shopping port and it was a brilliant day. We had planned to do the shopping thing then some beach time but somehow we ran out of time as we checked out many many shops. We walked along the highway to get to the shopping centre, palm trees on one side and buildings on the other. We had to ask a couple of times for directions and each time we were told that it was not walking distance, and we had to catch a taxi or bus. Its obvious that not many people walk anywhere here or American for that matter. It took us 25 minutes and was a lovely leisurely walk. I found Macy's again and enjoyed browsing again. George found the busiest store in USA, the Apple store. We had some delicious Chinese food for lunch and then headed back to the ship to drop off our new suitcase!

Our second trip out was just visiting the Aloha Tower and some absolutely gorgeous little shops in by the bay, and we found Hooters. So we had to have a drink in there. It should be uncomfortable and squirmish but the girls all seem perfectly happy and intelligent so all is good. For those of who don't know about Hooters, you have to keep abreast of things. See pics of George with a smile on his face.

Now we have 5 days at sea, and then Tahiti. Hopefully have some beach time there as not too many shops there I wouldn't imagine.

Day 84 and 85 On the high seas update!!!

Originally we had planned to have dinner with Jo and Brian in the Sterling Steakhouse but as it was an Al fresco event it was all booked out. Not to worry as we had a lovely dinner just on the top deck and still watched the Elton John concert. The Head Chef, Manlio, passed by and he has always remembered George from his chef antic and kindly posed for a photo and even took his hat off (a rarity).

As we have a fantastic bunch of people at our dinner table, we decided to have a hat party. So everyone wore funny hats, some even made theirs, and we created quite a scene as we entered the dining hall. I am not sure how or why but suddenly we all started singing old songs, hilarious. Unfortunately some people within close proximity were not amused and even asked Watchara (our waiter) to shut us up!! Charming! After dinner we went to watch a juggler, yes I know sounds exciting but he was actually entertaining.

Days 82, 83 and 84 and one for the future (85)

I have lumped all the days together (basically so I don't bore anyone) as one day is the same as the next whilst at sea. However that's not to say that we are bored, well not really. The weather has been cooler and windy which is a nice change for us but it does cause all indoor venues to be very busy. We tend to pass the days eating, talking, reading, eating, walking and eating, (you get the picture). We played dominoes with Roy and Marg, something I haven't played for 40 odd years and George says Barry come back, as Marg and I won a few games. The patisserie does THE best vanilla bean café latte, my new favourite drink now. We attended a lecture on Honolulu and it does seem a great place with lots to do and see. We have a few things in mind but I won't say what in case it doesn't happen.

Last night was formal night (again!!) and we did the champagne waterfall thing, we may even BUY the photo as its not too bad. We have had a lot of formals during this cruise, I think it will be 17 by the end, so for next year WC, be prepared. Some people have worn a different outfit for each one, can't imagine why they would want to do that.

George is going to watch a movie on the big screen now and I am going to read outside. I have managed to read 7 books so far, less than I thought I would.

Day 81 Los Angeles

After a reasonable night sleep in our temporary room, we watched our Mother Ship sail into the port of San Pedro. The first hurdle was having a queue for over 1 hour for the waste of time face to face immigration debacle. This was followed by another 2 queues just to actually step foot outside of the terminal. I realise they are very security conscious in America but when we only have about 6 hours in L.A. it does annoy everyone.

We arrived at Universal Studio around 11.a.m.,(the drive there was very enjoyable and it felt surreal to see signs like Hollywood Bowl, Capitol Records and the real HOLLYWOOD sign in the distance), and our first impression was WOW. It cost us $72 each for the entrance fee but this covered everything. As we were limited for time we queued,(again) for the Studio Tour. It was certainly worth the wait, it was fantastic! We drove down Wisteria Lane, (Desperate Housewives), saw the set for War of the Worlds,(with a real 747) and then the trolley train took us into the King Kong meets the Dinosaurs experience. We wore our 3 D glasses, and it was the most amazing and hilarious experience. Very well done.

George ordered a beer at one of the stalls and he was asked for I.D., you may have noticed that he has shaved off his beard and he has been told by many people that he looks younger, but he was most flattered at this person asking for I.D. He was let down gently as he was told that everyone has to produce this as its their policy!!

Outside the actual park there is a street full of restaurants and shops. We had a delicious chinese meal at the Panda Inn, huge serving for only $10. We forgot how big the servings are in America.

Arriving back at the dock, we had 2 more security checks! We were going to have an early night but luckily we were talked into seeing the show as the vocalist was really good. He is from Scotland and really entertaining. Lots of new faces onboard, 362 to be precise.

Well its our final sector which brings feelings of mixed emotions. A bit sad that our holiday is coming to an end but huge excitement to see our family again. We have never been away from home for this length of time and I must admit that we are now feeling it. Nevertheless, we still have 23 days to go and we intend to keep enjoying ourselves.

Day 81 continued