Well, after months of planning, the cruise has come and gone! But - we did have a ball! It started with a mountain of UK roadworks (made worse in the darkness of 2am!), and early fight and, surprisingly, a decent in-flight breakfast. But, as we landed in Malta, we were greeted with ..... rain and dull clouds - really? Still, after getting through the embarkation procedures, we made it onto the ship, had some lunch and then found our cabins and started to unpack. We were here - and could relax! Well - after the compulsory lesson in putting a life jacket on of course!
The first full day was spent sailing - and we found a quite place for three sunbeds to relax on. We read, slept and sewed! The food on board was a real delight - from the informality of the Plaza restaurant which was a self service restaurant, to a sit down formal meal - heck, there was even a "Marco Pierre White" cafe on board - we certainly didn't starve!
Day two was spent in split, Croatia. I really didn't know what to expect in Split and was bowled over by the beauty of the area. However I was taken by these pottery houses - I am sure that there's a quilt idea here!
Day 3 saw a beautiful sail in and out of Venice - we had a guided tour around the Doges palace, walked across the Bridge of Sighs and then had a gondola ride.
Day 4 saw us venture to another country - San Merino - and we had our passports stamped before enjoying some sightseeing and shopping. I even enjoyed a piece of authentic pizza!
Day 5 was in Dubrovnik - I ventured further afield down the Adriatic Coast and visited a Croatian Olive grower to explore how he makes his Olive Oil - and to taste the produce of course! I also treated myself to a "Singapore Sling" cocktail - wow it was strong!!
Day 6 was sailing again (and packing) - we watched Jumanji (and laughed) and finished the evening with The Greatest Showman film. The entertainment on board was of a mixed variety from a 50's "love story"directed by Strictly's Natalie Lowe to songs from the musicals. However the mix of people on board was a good one and we generally had a good laugh with them.
Only one negative - I have come back with a chesty cough and banging head cold - I am dosed up with Mum's lemsip tablets as I write this! I cannot seem to download the pictures from my camera so you are spared more photos! However, I have had a lovely time with good friends - and that. in the end, is the main thing now isn't it?
By the way - remember The Necessary Clutch Wallet - it was invaluable!!
Welcome home, sure your two pooches were thrilled to see you! Always tough coming home from a holiday, its like you've never been away, but you have lovely memories to look back on.
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