December 5th - Thanks to a GREAT crew!!

 

 

 

 

Wayan & Surya

It seems to happen every time I get on a ship – somehow I get the BEST room attendants. They take care everything – before I even know I need or want it, and doing all of this according to my schedule and not theirs.  At one point during the cruise, I was not feeling well and had left the ‘Do Not Disturb’ sign up all day – they had their supervisor call to make sure I was okay and check if there was anything they could do for me.
 They work long and hard, yet always have a smile and kind word. Wayan and Surya give you the feeling that you are the only guest they have to care for.

Tomo
This young man was our head waiter at dinner every evening providing wonderful service and was a pleasure to get to know. We were at a large table, which in and of itself is a challenge, but believe me when I tell you; it was not always an easy table to please. He always took it in stride and with good humor. It was fun to watch him smile and light up when he was successful with a suggestion. I wish him and his sweet Indah good fortune.

 

 

Jay

He is called ‘The Beaver’; because of his impish “Leave it to Beaver Smile”. He was always there in the background helping Tomo and running back and forth to the kitchen with our orders.

Manny

It is obvious he loves people and what he does. It does not matter if there are five people around, or fifty, he is there making sure you have your drink order (even if it is only water or soda), and the way you like it, with or without a straw, glass or plastic. He pays attention to the details. The young people who work with him should watch and learn from him. Yes, it will increase their compensation, but more importantly, it will also make their job more rewarding and satisfying. It is so much easier to get through the day when you are dealing with happy and grateful people. I wish Manny and his soon to be bride, Grazela a long and happy life together.

 

Raymond

You may not see him, but he is always there watching and making sure that everything is running smoothly and that the guests are receiving the best possible service. I feel honored to have met and spent time with him and his wife, Myrna. When people let you into their private lives, it is a special gift.

Eko - AM Room Service

My morning order of coffee was always delivered hot and on time by many different waiters. One in particular stood out – he always asked how I was doing, what my plans for the day were and if I need anything else. Every evening as I walked by his station, he made a point of greeting me by name and wishing me a good evening after what I am sure was a very long and tiring day.

 I want to thank the entire crew, with a special shout out to those who work in the background and are never seen. You have not just made my cruise pleasant – but safe. Most of you I will never have the chance to meet and personally thank – but believe me – I know how hard you work and I have benefited

 

December 4th - at Sea

I was treated to a surprise birthday party - really a surprise since my
birthday is not until after I get off the ship next week. I could not
believe how "perfect for me" the gifts were. Scrumptious food and a good
time with dear friends.

I am so lucky to have had the opportunity to take this voyage, experience
the sights and sounds of so many new places, learning about new cultures and
meeting the wonderful people who live in these far off lands.

It has been wonderful to share the experience with old friends and with my
new friends. Thank you for always having a smile and a word of
encouragement. I hope that this will not be good bye and that our paths will
cross again - so to each of you - best wishes and safe travels until we meet
again.

December 2nd - Maui

Took the first tender into Lahaina and took a shuttle to the car rental and
was soon on the road.



Drove up though the resort areas on the West coast heading for the rugged
North shore of the island.

The road has numerous blind curves and at times only one lane but provides
some of the best scenery this part of the island has to offer. For most this
drive probably only takes two hours, but somehow it took us 4+ hours with
all the stops we made along the Papanalahoa Point shoreline.

One of the highlights was the stop at Nakalele Point and Blowhole (mile
marker 38). The eruptions from the blowhole can reach up to 100 feet -
really spectacular.

Drove through the Kanakuloa Village and partook of some of Julia's banana
bread - according to the GPS, she has the best banana bread on the planet!

Next we headed South to Ioa Needle State Park and then made a stop at the
Papawai Scenic Lookout. This is a popular spot to look for whales (a little
early in the season yet) and the only place in Hawaii where one can see four
of its' islands.

Made one last beach stop and spent a little time in Lahaina before getting
back on the ship.

Our stop here was way too short, but then, I am never ready to leave Maui.

This is the last port on our journey, now it is time to head across the seas
to the mainland and the flight home. Looking forward to seeing family and
friends - hopefully it will not be too cold in Denver and mother nature will
give me a chance to ease into the winter weather.