Iceland and Greenland with Lindblad 7/21 to 8/8 2021

Getting ready for my trip with Lindblad Nat Geo on their new ship. Picked up Chinese tonight and this is a photo of my fortune from the cookie. Boy is it right. I will be sailing on the Endurance, her maiden voyage with passengers. The maiden voyage was originally scheduled for over a year ago but covid got in the way. And my original trip on board was to be a Artic exploration but due to Covid it got cancelled and this trip put in its place. 

Endurance is a fully-stabilized vessel of the highest ice class (PC5 Category A), she will enable adventurous guests to go where few have or can. Endurance’s most striking exterior feature is her distinctive profile, the patented X-Bow®, a game-changing design that guarantees the smoothest, most comfortable ride in all kinds of conditions; and since it eliminates bow impact, a quieter ride, as well. An equally impressive feature may well be her capacity: she carries just 126 guests, a commitment to expedition excellence over scale. Scandinavian-inflected, luxuriously appointed, her inviting interiors would be a destination in themselves. Because she is a Lindblad expedition ship, however, her attention is focused on the world outside—with acres of window glass to keep you connected to the stunning views beyond the pane, and a fleet of expedition tools to get you out exploring.

 Day1

The excitement builds as I head to the airport for my first adventure since the start of the pandemic. WHile I am a bit nervous I am also confident that both I individually and Lindblad have taken every precaution to make this a safe adventure. And I am so very excited to be on this inaugural voyage of the Endurance as we head off to circumnavigate Iceland and visit Greenland.
Plane ride was a rapid 6 hours with arrival easy. I meet two folks from Stillwater who are on my journey. Easy to spot each other with the Lindblad NatGeo tags. Then off to a downtown hotel for a rapid COVID test and an hour or so rest in our room. Bag breakfast. The airport is 45 minutes from downtown Reykjavik so we got to see the sea as we proceeded downtown. Most of Icelands population is in the city or the three suburbs. 
After a little rest and all ok COVID test we gathered for lunch. This set the tone for the trip. Eat, eat and repeat!!!!! A nice cod lunch and off to our buses for a short city tour and then to the ship. 

And what a ship she is! All spanking brand new. We are greeted by the officers and board. In our rooms we find a pretty blue jacket to commemorate the inaugural voyage. Shortly thereafter we don our jackets and go shore side for a short ceremony. Sven Lindblad, son of the founder and CEO speaks about the dream of this world class ice breaking ship. We are introduced to several luminaries. Then comes the traditional champagne breaking on the bow followed by champagne all around. We then board to begin our journey. AND the really good news is Cathy and George in front of my very eyes. I met them on previous voyages and quite enjoy them. This is our third trip together.

Day2 July 23

Sunrise 0406 and sunset 2259.
After traveling all night we arrive at Flatey. But before I speak about Flatey I need to speak to the ship. She is gorgeous. All the public spaces are large and comfortable. I will put a section of pictures in my album just to give you a sample. All the dining spaces have huge windows. Tables are comfortably spaced and good in size.
The Ice Lounge where we have our meetings and lectures, cocktails and hordeuvres is lovely and filled with screens and tech so everyone has the best. The upper deck library and casual dining is full of art, technology and comfort including a fireplace, maps etc. Outside are two igloo’s to sleep or lounge under the stars, two hot tubs, fire pits and on and on. A gym, hot and dry sauna with full glass walls to outside. A spa. Our rooms are quite comfortable. I have a single with a lovely shower and a balcony including a hammock. Life is good.
If you have been on an expedition ship you know the Zodiaks are the heart of how you travel to see what nature has in store. Getting them off the top deck into the water by crane is always a challenge. This ship has a garage inside near the water level for parking that makes entry into the water quick and easy. And the area where we get in and out is wonderful. A nice locker for each of us to store our wet and dirty expedition gear is great is nearby.
So now lets get to the reason for us being here-Iceland. 

Flatey awaits. We do an easy wet landing(means we exit zodiacs into water with out waterproof boots). This island is one of the largest of the thousands of Islands  in Breioafjord and an important trading post in the Middle Ages. A monastery was founded here in 1172 which made Flatey the center of culture and education in Iceland at the time. The monastery was moved to the Snaefellsnes peninsula but the cultural influence of Flatey continued into the middle of the 19th century. The church that still stands was built in 1926 and features a mural by the artist Balthasar, a Spaniard who held Icelandic citizenship. Jesus is depicted in an Icelandic sweater. Jesus and he others were actual farmers on the Island. The scenes are the local area and the people of the Island. The hamlet which developed on the island is mostly still standing with the houses renovated and used for the summer. There are two farmer residents here year round. Behind the church stands a tiny library which once contained the book of Iceland. A replica is kept there now. That’s another story. A Bishops from Denmark came to retrieve the book and take it back to Denmark. The book was written in 1387 and the bishop gave it to  the King upon return to Copenhagen. It was placed in archives of Copenhagen. It was returned to Iceland in 1971 but not to the Island.  If you are a local you can check out a book. It really is a library.

July 24th Sunrise 0323 Sunset 2305

When in Iceland and you say it is a long day you really mean it. Almost 20 hours of daylight to watch the sea go by or walk on your next Island. We arrive at

Grimsey. A northwest Island off the coast of Iceland about 25 miles from the mainland. The Island is basalt (volcanic ash) with a tiny part sandstone. Steep cliffs are the name of the  the game. It lies on the Arctic Circle but has a mild climate and supports enormous bird colonies. Once we make out wet landing wherein my big old boots I hop on a little bus that takes us up the steep road to the top of the Island dropping us at the Arctic Circle. How cool is that!!!

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Next is a hike to the cliffs  which were we found a large population of Atlantic Puffins. What a treat. Iceland is home to more than half of the worlds entire population of puffins. Puffins lay a single egg in holes they did into the ground and both parents take care of the chick. Puffins also alternate the direction of the fish in their beaks-head tail- so they can get more in. Smart little birds.

 Puffins everywhere bringing food to their dens for the young.  And then there are the Arctic terns who dive bomb and peck your heads. They assume you are there to attack them so ……

It was a great morning. Now back to the ship to eat more and enjoy a afternoon of lectures on photography  and meet all the folks ie naturalists, photographers and cultural experts. And we begin our journey taking us to the mainland.

After another delicious dinner we land at the small town of Husavik where we are going to visit a waterfall and geothermal area with clay fumaroles. Fuma what??  They are holes found in volcanic areas where hot gases and vapors escape. They are similar to what is found in Yellowstone including boiling mud. 

Iceland  has 99.96 renewable energy supply. About 89% of the homes are heated with geothermal and most of the hot water in homes comes from geothermal. Iceland is made up of magma and lava and snow. Fun to walk around the fumaroles.

Then onto the bus and off the one of the most Iconic waterfalls in Iceland, Gooafoss.

 

I have been to this area on my first trip to Iceland with Nancy. I am flooded with those memories as I enjoy the walk up to the main falls. I was in with Nancy it was in deep snow and lots of ice. The falls is stunning in any weather but much easier to walk up to it this time of year. It is about 11 and getting dark when we get back to the ship. A treat is up in the Ice Lounge but I head off to bed. A great day.  Back to the ship where we will be heading to Skalanes Nature Reserve where we will land in th early afternoon to explore the diverse wildlife and birds. A whale sighting as we made our way.

July 25th.

A great breakfast started this lovely Sunday morning. Then off to a lecture my National Geographic Photographer Nick CObbing. Nick discussed the one road to being published in National Geographic Magazine. Nick is a good speaker, a charming fellow and a great photographer. Enjoyed it very much.

Then came a announcement that we all were requested to attend a meeting in the Ice Lounge. My stomach turned. This was a first all hand on deck request. I said to Cathy that this could not be good news. And it was not. We were advised that a person on board had shown symptoms of Covid, been tested and in fact had Covid.  They had done close contact tracing and about 10 folks were going to be isolated. They  had contacted Iceland Authorities and would be getting further advice. In the meantime we would not be landing in Sklanes.  The Iceland Authority has advised that anyone in close contact was to be isolated in their room for seven days. Guess who was on the bus to the waterfall with the ill person. Iceland says that was close contact. That is right-me! I should say that the person infected is dong well at this point. If not in isolation others can still participate in zodiac trips, self guided hikes etc. We had decided not to take the chance of exposing others on shore. 

Next step was to wait for further direction  So we steamed into a Fjord and dropped anchor. We would wait there for 24 hours for a nurse to board and do a covid test on the folks with covid. Iceland wanted a test by someone approved by them. Then we wait for results By now the wife of Covid one had symptoms. 

This started my days of having meals set outside my door. And the platform for pics was now my balcony. Here are a few.

July 26

By mid day the results were back. No surprise-Covid. Our instructions were to return to Reykjavik where the two covid folks would be taken to an approved Covid hotel where they would stay for 14 days. Those deemed close contacts would be confined to our rooms for 5 days minimum. Then a local testing company would board to test us. At this point and after much thought the decision was made to cancel the balance of the trip. Now this all seems easy but the back and forth and negotiation with Iceland Authorities was exhaustive just to get this far.  The goal was always to keep the passengers, staff and crew safe. 

July 27

Endurance is back in the outskirts of the city at anchor. The well passengers get tested and are free to head home which most do over the next 24 hours. Then there is us in isolation. We are kept entertained with lectures from the lounge broadcast to our tvs and lots and lots of food. Me, photos from the balcony and in the room. Me thinking that I will never see Greenland. Darn. But remembering that so far I am well. Thank goodness.

Spent an afternoon watching Iceland's newest volcano vent ash. The plan had originally been to take a helicopter the last day over it to do photography. Oh well at least I got to watch is huff and puff. It started in March and has been named Geldingadalir. The scientist believe the magma is coming from a place very deep in the earth and are excited to study it.

So this is my room as taken from the balcony door. Not a lot of room to roam but home sweet home.

July 28-29th 

Gazing out the window. My company is my stuffed polar bear who is also gazing out the window. More great food at the door and .......

We learned that we can be released once we pass a covid test on Friday. I have a reservation on a flight at 4:45 Friday.

On Thursday evening Iceland Health comes aboard and does the most invasive covid test EVER. Both nostrils and throat. Yikes

July 30th

Final  breakfast and lunch. Off to the airport at 1PM. Plane boards on time and off we go. Flying business and only 3 of us up there. Yea. And watching out the window I get a glimpse of a Fjord in Greenland full of icebergs. Closest I will come this trip

This is the e mail I wrote home to family and friends who we first got word of what had happened.

Greetings from the Lindblad National Geographic Ship Endurance. I thought it best to write you to let you know that you may be reading about the ship in the news. Why, you say? Well two days ago we had a passenger test positive for COVID. Before I go any further I am just fine as are 99 percent of us. We all have been tested and the only other case to have developed is the spouse of the first case. And yes, we ALL are vaccinated and we all had negative PCR tests within days of boarding and a quick test the day we landed. All negative. 

We are following the CDC guidelines unless Iceland is more stringent and then Iceland.

Lots of details you do not need to know at this time but happy to share later. Heading backing to Reykjavik where the two positive cases will be sent to a quarantine facility for 14 DAYS. Those of us who are considered in close contact are now in quarantine in our rooms for 7 days. Because I was on a bus with the couple I am in quarantine. I am allowed on my balcony and all meals are delivered. I am comfortable and safe.

My only wish is that those infected get well.

I will let you know if something significant changes otherwise do not expect to hear from me until I get home Aug 8th or sooner if that happens.

Cheers,

Sue

Thoughts from home:  

Lindblad Nat Geo did an incredible job keeping us safe and informed. And they are fully refunding trip and airfare.

I will travel again with them on the Columbia River in Oct and can not wait.

Stuff happens no matter how careful you are but make the best of it.

I never want to be in prison!!!!  The food would not be as good.

You do not need a lot of clothes when confined to your room for a week.

Annual Letter for 2020

 Annual Letter 

Greetings on this first day of 2021. The last sentence of my last years letter wished you good health, peace and happiness. I hope that my wishes came true. Needless to say it has been an extremely difficult year for all of us. When I last wrote I could never have imagined what was coming. In fact I still have to pinch myself to be sure it’s all been real. A pandemic and the ensuing deaths, poverty, hunger, homelessness. The death of George Floyd and the ensuing battle for racial justice. The political chaos.  Each alone brings stress and anxiety but together it is truly almost too much. That said  let me say that I am blessed and grateful for the health  of myself and family and friends. Some have had Covid but have recovered.      

You all know my passion for travel. I did get a little in at the start of the year. Finished a holiday cruise with good friends Nita and Rick thru the Panama Canal. Enjoyed our many stops in beautiful places with lovely people. you read about that in my prior letter.

Next stop in my travel was my place in Arizona.  I went down in January to meet Debbie and Scott, Nancys brother and sister in law. I love them dearly and spending time with them is always a treat. We did some exterior decorating with pottery, benches and wall art. Great fun. And going to such fun places to find the treasures.

Next up friends Beth and Denise came for a visit. We spent some fun time at the house and around town including a concert with Ann Hampton Calloway doing Linda Ronstadt Song Book. Such fun. But the best was yet to come. Off we went for a week in Southern Arizona.

We took the back roads toward Phoenix. Stopping at a few interesting spots including a Tom Mix Memorial. For you young folks go look it up. It was a hoot. 

Next stop Casa Grande Ruins National Monument. Interesting place.  A good lecture by good docent. Learned a lot about local indigenous tribes and the history of this once very rich area.

Stayed in Tucson at a nice place.  Explored the city and surrounding area. Visit with a friend of Denise and Beth at her retirement place where she treated for dinner. Very nice of her. Movies and did the Turquoise Trail in the city proper. Takes you on a historic walk around downtown. I quite enjoyed it including fun lunch in a little cafe. We did not do the museums which will be on the next trip. 

We did visit Saguaro National Park. It is divided into East and West. Did one part one day and the another the next. Gorgeous park with wonderful hiking. The sun is hot even if the temperature is not!

Denise and Beth did tougher trails. I did the wandering trails. Loved ever minute of it. Desert scenery and Saguaro are stunning. 

I might not have this in order but we stopped at a beautifully preserved Mission San Xavier del Back. Fascinating architectural site that even today serves the surrounding community. Preservation continues on this site which started in 1783. 

Another great spot-the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum. Full of interesting plants, animals,  and art. Could have spent several days here. This is a living museum of the Southwest. 

Then headed off to Tubac. Tubac is a small community filled with art galleries and shops. Rich in history It is believed that the Tubac area has been inhabited over 11,000 years. First to come were the Elephant Hunters, who hunted in the dense Arizona forests and along numerous lakes and streams for the huge elephant-like mammoth. The Hohokam lived in the area between 300-1500 A.D., followed by the Akimel O’odham (Pima) and native Tohono O’odham, who greeted the Spanish. The Spanish occupied the area with the Jesuits converting the locals until they were replaced by the Jesuits. Eventually the Pima’s were moved to Mission San Xavier del Bac.  We would visit that mission the next day. We spent a delightful couple of days enjoying Tubac and the Presidio State Historic Park. The B&B we stayed at in town was just great. Hope to visit there again.

So it was off the the mission and then Tumacacori National Historical Park. This Arizona national park preserves the ruins of three Spanish mission communities. These include the well-preserved Mission San José de Tumacácori, which was built in the 1750s to replace the much older Mission San Cayetano de Tumacácori — the first mission in southern Arizona. A very interesting and compact place to visit.

Next up we leave the desert and head to the mountain town of Bisbee. It is an old mining  town where copper, turquoise, gold and silver. It now can be  best described as a funky or even hippie town. I so enjoyed the entire place.

We took a golf cart tour up and down the hillsides getting lots of local color. The small downtown museum was an absolute highlight. Who would have thought a display of minerals would just captivate me. Plus the colorful history of this community. 

Our last day we stopped at the Lavender Pit and Erie Street with its old buildings and cars.

Breakfast at the famous Bisbee Breakfast club before hitting the road back toward home.

But surprise along the way we found Old Tombstone. And we could not pass up the reenactment of the shootout at the OK Coral.

Just old fashioned fun.

After a drive thru lovely countryside with its scenic mountains we started a search in the small Dollar Stores for sanitary wipes. We were at the start of covid and already we had a keen sense that sanitary wipes would be scarce. Success in the middle of no where. 

We all began to realize Covid was spreading rapidly. With that realization Denise and Beths plan to fly to Albuquerque became a driving trip. They were to return to Phoenix after their visit and after a brief visit the plan was we all were going to the airport. I home to MN for a week and they back to NYC. But before then came another small adventure.

Arriving from Mexico was a new friend Cheryl to see friend Bev. As promised I took them for day trip to Sedona and Jerome. But alas, the rapid spread and dire predictions change all our plans. 

Cheryl returned to Mexico after a very  short visit. D&B drove back early from ABQ changing their flight plans to earlier. I decided to close up the house sensing I might not be back and flew home early. 

And here I have stayed ever since. Sleeping in my bed more nights in a row than I have since high school.

The balance of the year has been spent Zooming, golfing and outside visiting.  And lots of work on family ancestry and cleaning out. Still lots to go. Highlight of the summer was Mary Margaret and Kates wedding. A small delightful outside backyard event. Congratulations! Also have enjoyed my backyard wildlife photography. Reminds me how lucky I am. And I will admit watching way way too much political stuff.  The great news is I spent everyday with my best buddy Jessie Cat.

So what are my hopes for the future. Good health for all. Food and security for all. To see and hug family and friends. And for me to return to travel. Six trips were cancelled but two remain. One in August and one in Dec.. Time and a vaccination will tell if that will happen.

Until next year, stay safe. 

2019 Annual Letter

SPAIN’S NORTHERN COAST & BAY OF BISCAY

 

I am doing something a bit different. On this OAT trip our leader Michael Jones kept a diary with highlights of the trip. With his permission I am using his diary, adding some of my notes and adding photos. I hope you enjoy it. 

May 3^rd – PRE-TRIP - MADEIRA

Arrival (mostly) from USA

A very long day indeed!

After what must have seemed like an interminable journey for some, you finally arrived on the beautiful island of Madeira. 

Some of you had caught an extra day on the island and had more time to acclimatise, dealing with any jet-lag more effectively.

Travelling from the airport, you caught the first glimpse of preparations being made for the famous Madeira Flower Festival.  What magnificent floral delights were in store, you wondered…?

Fortunately, the Melia Madeira Mare Hotel managed to have all rooms ready and there was time to settle into your rooms and recover from your journey across the pond.

Michael took most of you around the outside of the hotel and pin-pointed all the important outlets and places that you might need to visit, not least an abundance of restaurants that offered a plethora of possibilities in terms of international cuisine.

Then it was time to prop up those drooping eyelids and join in the fun of the Welcome Dinner at “O Lagar” restaurant.  Apparently, ‘lagar’ means a wine press and you discovered that there was plenty of wine to impress!  Some of us managed a taste of ‘Poncha’, a local moonshine potion with a definite kick.  After a couple of these, some of you were speaking fluent Portuguese!  The real winners of the evening were the espetadas.  Succulent pieces of meat, char-grilled on an open barbecue and dripping in garlic butter, add to these some delicious maize cakes and the evening was pretty well complete.  Except, of course, for the local folklore dancers.  Energetic as they were, the length of your journeys to Madeira, began to take their toll and a good rest was now top of the menu as your hotel beds beckoned.    

On the return journey, our guide, Nina, treated us to some modern-day Fado singing much to the delight of all.

4 May

Feeling well rested and having regained your strength from the exigencies of the previous day’s travel, you hit the breakfast buffet with aplomb.  There was a vast array of choices for all.  Add to that the sight of a falcon being trained by the poolside, this was already turning into an interesting morning…

Nina took us around the city of Funchal, delving into some of its back-streets and historical aspects, giving us a smattering of knowledge that would help us understand Madeira and its people.  During our tour, we looked into a chapel that was being restored by Jim, a very lively chap who was 70 years young, with an abundance of energy for his task and life itself.  He certainly enjoyed his task which was to restore the Dutch paintings.  He definitely made you smile.  Then you visited the market and chatted to some stall-holders who were only too willing to let you sample a vast array of exotic fruits…as long as you bought something!  Michael’s mango is still languishing back in the fridge at Madeira Mare Hotel! (Help!  “Will somebody please eat me!!”)   Whilst at the market, we met a man who showed his prowess in de-scaling black scabbard fish; a job he had been doing for 40 years and had learnt from his father who had picked up the skill from previous generations… 

After some free time in the older quarter of Funchal, amongst painted doors and aroma-filled restaurants, some of us met up with Michael who took us up to Monte by cable car.  Many braved the thrill of a Taboggan ride down the hill.  Propelled by two burley sled-pushers, for want of a better word, each toboggan made its way precariously down the hill in what seemed to be a very directionless manner.  At one point, when the sled he was sharing with Lee was virtually propelled into the air at a cross-roads, Michael grabbed the first thing he could get hold of:  Lee’s knee!!  Sorry Lee!   

The evening was yours and many of you returned with stories of excellent meals and restaurant experiences.

5 May

Today was a scorcher!  The weather was fantastic and the sky so clear: excellent conditions for fantastic photos and extraordinary views across the mountains.  This was a day when you discovered more of the beauty of Madeira and how the island had evolved over the centuries.  You visited Camara de Lobos, Winston Churchill’s favourite spot for painting and you met the local ladies who were preparing the floral costumes and tributes that would be seen later at the Flower Festival Parade.  

Lunch was served at Porto Muniz, a distinctly unusual location that was an ideal setting for all.   

On your return, most of you braved the crowds and watched the Flower Festival parade.  ‘So many people; so many floats; so many flowers!  An abundance of colour and children all singing and dancing and celebrating!  Superb!  

The evening saw some of you sampling Fado singing up close and personal.  For some, it may have seemed far too “up close!  The owner of the restaurant, who sang so passionately with what Michael described as a “lived-in voice” also paid particular attention to some of the pates of the gentlemen in our group! 

Nina, the guide, also sang for you and introduced her fiancé to all.  He was an ex-professional footballer who was now running a real estate business in Madeira.  From what was deduced, it seems that the property business is booming on the island. 

6 May

Another day in Paradise!  Another chance to explore the other side of the island and its customs.  Apart from visiting what turned out to be not the best-kept secret in Madeira, The Whicker Factory, you went higher still, up to about 5,000 feet above sea level and visited a genuine dwelling in Santana.  Your host, was most welcoming, especially with his home made coffee poncho and biscuits!

Lunch offered up a delicious plate of black scabbard fish.  What could top this?  Perhaps a walk along one of the levadas?  This was a real insight into how the island keeps so fertile and watered.  You also came across the healing properties of the lichen and fungus of the Laurel tree.

Back down to the hotel for a final night before joining the Base trip in Lisbon.

7 May

Having been furnished with boarding passes, the check-in formalities at Madeira airport went smoothly.  This was after we arrived at the airport and were momentarily stuck behind a van that had broken down.  Maggie pointed out the irony in that it was an Airport Maintenance van!  Fortunately this did not prove to be portentous. 

On arrival in Lisbon, most of you managed to have early access to your hotel rooms.  This was a day to explore around the hotel and get to know what was available in Lisbon.  Although raining, there were still plenty of possibilities.

8 May

‘An early start and a sampling of the delights that Lisbon had to offer.  Yes, it was raining but the amazing architecture of its most prominent buildings and monuments still impressed.  Tiago, our guide, was humorous and informative.  His passion for his country and its history was really inspiring and it became clear that his attitude compelled you to find out more about this part of the world.  As the rain persisted, coffee and cover, along with Pasteis de Belem became the order of the day as you decided what to explore next.  How about lunch?  Many of you tried out some local food and later went on learning and discovery trails.  Some up the funicular railway to the top, checking out the Church of La Rocha and then walking back to the hotel.

That evening, you sat down to dinner and welcomed new arrivals to the Yellow group with warmth and bonhomie.  Michael gave an outline of things to come and pointed out some guidelines that would help towards the enjoyment for all.   

9 May

Today you explored more of the areas surrounding Lisbon, Sintra and Cascais.  The Palace was immense and imposing, with interesting commentary from Tiago.  Such concentration demanded refreshment.  How about a taste of Ginginha in a chocolate cup?  After some free-time, you piled back into the coach and went off to find lunch at a local restaurant.  The dessert also consisted of some Fado singing from a lady who certainly went in for dramatic make-up!  After the singing, you were keen to find out more about Fado and its origin.  Michael acted as interpreter and it was amazing the lengthy answers that came from just a few words from the Fado singer.  Must have been telepathy! 

The evening continued with your exploring local restaurants and preparations for the next chapter.

10 May

With the weather improving, Michael devised the itinerary so that you could enjoy some time to visit the Commercial Square without rain and then onto the Alfama District; an area that had survived the earthquake of 1755 and that still held the historical references to Moorish times.

Finally, MV Corinthian was yours.  Welcome aboard!

All smiles were ready for the camera at Reception and yet those boarding cards that followed always seem to turn out rather differently….  

The first taste of lunch on board the ship.  A buffet array of variety and sustenance that would surely last at least until dinner…or would it?

What was very plain to see, right from the start was the extremely warm welcome given by all the crew.  They were there with their ready smiles and eager to tap into whatever preferences anyone had.  In no time at all, they would be understanding exactly what you preferred, how to cook it and serve it with consistant goodwill.

Cabins

Time to enjoy the cabins on board the MV Corinthian.  So many little nooks and crannies and hidden storage spaces; ingenious plug devices that charge most every device you could imagine.  An early opportunity to get to know your cabin steward who would prove to be an integral part of your overall enjoyment of the trip…

Safety Drill

Probably one of the only compulsory activities on board the ship and one that the Captain insists upon for everyone’s safety.  The safety officer read his notes accurately and outlined all aspects of emergency procedure.  I wonder whether many of you tried not to fall asleep here?  Then it came to fitting the life jacket.  There were some notable struggles until it was discovered that these life jackets were back to front and the problems were quickly remedied.  All good fun…

Michael gave us a port talk on Porto with a slightly musical ending

So you set sail for Porto, with welcome cocktails and a 7 course dinner to keep you going.

11 May  

The weather was becoming more favourable and the days brighter.  Porto quickly revealed its charm and character to all.  Irene guided us around the best and the most scintillating sites.  Not only, St Francis but also, the Clerigos area which proved to be a great hit.  As the sun blasted down on us, we took refuge in an unusual restaurant called Flor Dos Congredaos.  The setting was indeed unique:  up two flights of stairs with the kitchen a further flight up, on the top floor.  A building that was hundreds of years old but thankfully the chef was not!  Although you might have wondered given the timing.  Michael gave a hand to speed things up and when the food eventually arrived, it went down very well – almost as well as the wine!  When you finally left the restaurant, one of you revealed its closely kept secret:  a sign outside that read “Traditional Slow Cooking”

Next:  the Ferreira Wine Caves:  an opportunity to taste the local port wines and see just how good they were.  Cynthia came along too and was treated to a helter-skelter ride on her “walker” down those very cobbled streets…

This evening you were introduced to Captain Tino, who proved to be a very engaging man, charming and dedicated to the absolute safety of his passengers and crew.

Ali delivered the port talk on Vigo and you sat down to dinner looking forward to what might unfold the next day.

12 May

Combarro proved to be a delightfully sleepy fishing village that eased you into the day gracefully.  

Later Galician minstrels played and danced for us with some great traditional tunes that had us all tapping our toes.

Michael gave a port talk about Santiago de Compostella and yes, he sang at you again!

13 May

After docking in La Corunna, our focus was Santiago de Compostella.  Once again, we had the pleasure of Gloria as a guide and she gave a valuable insight into ‘The Way’ and the religious significance of the pilgrimage.  Finally, you arrived and saw many who had completed their journey.  Some were clearly ecstatic, some plainly relieved.  Others were only too eager to share their experience.

Don Camillo was our lunch venue.  This was an excellent restaurant with great choices for everyone and a very friendly service.

14 May

Ahoy there sailors!

A whole day at sea, taking it easy but also taking it all in.

Michael gave a lecture about Brexit and some important background to the entire issue.  Without stating the obvious, nothing appeared entirely simple but at least some grey areas were cleared up and apparently, Michael did not send everyone to sleep!   Although no solutions were found, hopefully, some significant historical facts were divulged that may have provided a better understanding as to why the Brits are in such turmoil.  The again, perhaps not!

Ali rendered some of her poems and revealed a rare talent for inventing prose at break-neck speed. 

Christoffe gave a very quirky outline of French customs and un petit lecon en francais.

Our chef also gave a cooking demonstration which proved popular.

Karaoke Rules

Many came and a few sang.  The crew stepped up and we had renditions from the housekeeping team, the catering corps and the front office.  Notable performances were made by all especially Sinatra sound-a-likes.  Ali was in her element, Michael was a poor second and  Christoffe, quite sensibly, kept a safe distance.

15 May

Land ho!

At last, we entered the waters of La Garonne.  As the mighty bridge opened up to you, MV Corinthian anchored right in the very heart of Bordeaux.  What a magnificent city!   You were treated to a panoramic tour of the city and an opportunity to walk its streets and soak up its atmosphere.  You met Isabelle at the Musee des Beaux Artes and she let us know exactly what she thought of the Gilet Jaunes as well as President Macron.  It soon became obvious that neither were on her Christmas list.  Many of you enjoyed the market place and sampled some of its produce.  Some stayed ashore and tried the local food

A French Buffet Dinner was served followed by music from Saul in the bar

16 May  

Today you went into the Bordeaux countryside, past the vineyards,  visiting a typical French chateau where you got completely chateaued.  Not really.  The surprise was that you were all entertained by the Marquis and Countess of Roquetaillade, who organised a menu with a distinctly duck theme along with a very interesting and informative commentary on the chateau, its history and its idiosyncrasies.

Christoffe delivered a Port Talk on La Rochelle and the Captain was on track for arrival in La Rochelle the next day

Liars Club

Quite a number of you went to check out The Liars Club.  It was great fun to find out who was stretching the truth and who was actually telling the truth.  Ali was compere for the evening and the rest were all liars – some of the time!

17 May

La Rochelle beckoned and you answered the call.  In the morning Francoise showed us around and her excitement was quite palpable.  She enthused about the history and also about the architecture, even introducing us to a local stone mason who was working on restoring the main Town Hall building.

The evening saw entertainment provided chiefly by yourselves as you took part in the ship’s version of French Fairytales.  Thanks for being such good sports!

18 May

Your first tender experience on the Corinthian as it anchored off the harbour at Douarnenez.  Nothing could have been simpler…Ha!

Locronan proved to be a great find.  A picture-postcard village that was so quaint and welcoming.  You found places to eat and more importantly, try out the Breton crepes.  Many sampled, many had seconds, yum! 

Back to the ship for afternoon Tea; a delicate array of cakes and pastries with fruit scones, jam and cream, 

Michael gave his port talk on Mont St Michel and, of course, sang once more.

After dinner, you were treated to the crew show and a selection of scenes and sketches that revealed a very different dimension to your cabin staff, servers and barmen.  How could you ever be able to see them in the same light again?  

19 May

And so, to the jewel in the crown of your itinerary: Mont St Michel.

As it loomed over the horizon, Mont St Michel’s imposing silhouette invited you all to come closer.  Many braved the hike up the steps and toured round the abbey and some explored the lower parts.  You also got to meet some of your brave boys from back home: a US Air Force team that were in the area training for your 75^th celebrations.  Harvey was recognised as a veteran who fought in the 7^th Infantry during World War II and was presented with a special coin to commemorate his role.

20 May

Very sad to say goodbye to MV Corinthian and such a caring crew.  They had all made such a sterling effort to make everyone feel so welcome and comfortable.  But the story was not yet over.  There was still time to enjoy London

Michael started out by taking a look at the royal family, Prince Charles and then, rather more controversially, the relationship between Charles and Diana and Camilla’s role in the whole ‘affair,’ if you’ll pardon the pun.  

Michael put forward an alternative viewpoint about Charles, offering a more balanced account of what actually occurred, sifting through the mis-directions of the press and identifying some home truths.    

You stopped in Chiswick and were treated to a pub lunch of fish and chips.  A great energy boost for the afternoon that was to come.

Stuart was your blue badge guide for the Panoramic Tour of London and what a sheer delight he was.  Not so much a guide, perhaps more of an artist with his hilarious portrayal of London, Londoners, the royals, British idiosyncrasies, mixed with a welter of historical information that was extremely enlightening and entertaining.

Finally your arrival at the hotel was greeted with rooms that were ready and a chance to rest up after such a long day.  Not only that but you were all on the Executive Floor.

With an evening at leisure, some of you hit the restaurants in Katherine’s Dock, others went to the theatre or net up with friends.  

21 May

In the morning, Michael invited you on a Learning and Discovery tour of London’s East End, revealing many of its much darker aspects:  Bethlehem Royal Hospital, for example, the lunatic asylum that gave rise to the brutally apt word ‘Bedlam’.  The struggle of the poor in this area and the inevitability of their turning to crime; the plight that ensued between those who sought to enforce order and those who considered themselves above the law; secret drinking dens; Henry VIII’s army training ground; Jack the Ripper’s last sighting; Scenes from Harry Potter and Diagon Alley; the workhouses and finally Brick Lane and latter day street art:   a very different side of the city of London as it continues its process of gentrification. 

Ali took some down to Greenwich by river boat, giving the opportunity to check out The Cutty Sark, The Maritime Museum, Naval College, Queen’s House, Market and its fabulous parkland.  Not to mention The Trafalgar Pub…    

Back to Tower Bridge in time for tea and making plans for the rest of the day.  Some hit the theatres, others the local restaurants and many just relaxed a while to soak up the local atmosphere that could be enjoyed around South Bank and the area surrounding The Tower of London.  The excellent weather was still holding: amazing! 

22 May

Today, some of the group went to Windsor Castle with Christoffe, enjoying yet another insight into the privileged lives our royals appear to lead.  Others stayed back in London, exploring local sights such as The Tower, taking river cruises and venturing into more central areas to visit venues like Churchill’s War Rooms:  a real discovery and fascinating revelation of how things were during the most crucial period of World War II.  The London Eye was also popular and many enjoyed our great museums.

Later, at a gathering at the Dickens Inn, which was festooned with a bounty of beautiful flowers, you had your farewell dinner.  

Your Trip Leaders wrapped up the trip and of course, Michael sang at you for the last time!  

And so, to bed, where we retired to finish packing for the homeward journey.

23 May

Sad to say, we have come to the end of this diary of highlights.  Let’s hope that you all have many more memories to add to this mix and cherish for years to come.