2017 HAL World Cruise

When I was a little girl and was asked what I wanted to be when I grew up, I
would say a "princess" or a "doctor". I never became a doctor, but on this
cruise the staff has certainly made me feel like royalty.

First I have to THANK my always smiling Room Stewards, Agus and Maris. These
two men work so hard and such long hours, yet they always have time to ask
me about my day and to make sure there is nothing else that I need. Two of
the best I have ever had on a ship.

Second, THANK YOU to the dining room staff, starting with Philip and Asep,
but ESPECIALLY my Dining Room Steward Indi and his able Assistant Etris. The
service has been impeccable, from always knowing my particular preferences,
to knowing what I might, or might not like on a menu. Oh, and by the way,
the food has been great.

And to the entire ship staff, seen, but mostly never seen - THANK YOU -
THANK YOU - THANK YOU - for taking such good care of us and getting us
safely from port to port.

I do not know how the staff does it. I have seen some unbelievably rude
behavior by some of the guests - and some are so demanding. But, somehow the
staff always manages to deal with it, and does it with a smile.

I know there is a special place in heaven for the wonderful men and women
who work on cruise ships!

April 18th, 2017 - Funchal, Madeira, Portugal

Today we sailed into Funchal, the capital city of the sub-tropical island of
Madeira. The port is beautiful with the dramatic steep mountains and lush
green landscape in the background.

Went into town and spent the day walking around, shopping and exploring the
downtown area with its' pretty architecture and cafes along the streets.
There were lots of people out enjoying the sunshine and flowers that are
starting to bloom (they are known for their flowers here).

Made it down to the market where the locals buy fresh fish, fruits and
vegetables, running into people from the ship along the way.

Ended the day with some local "green wine" and shared plates with Allan and
Sandra, toasting to the end of our cruise.

This is the final port of this "World Cruise", so unless the Captain gets
lost, we will not see land again until we reach Florida in seven days.

Time to start packing and think about having to cook my own meals, make my
own bed and do my own laundry!

It has been an adventure -there will be a lot of goodbyes to friends, both
old and new on this cruise - but I am also looking forward to catching up
with family and friends at home and getting my hands dirty in the garden.

HABM

April 16th, 2017 - Moroccan Road Trip

Left early this morning and made a quick photo stop at Meknes, the first Imperial City, founded in the 17^th century.

 

Then it was on to Rabat and the Kasbah. The Chellah ruins and surrounding gardens were fascinating. The real highlight here for many of the visitors, including myself,  was seeing all the nesting storks and their huge nests. The males come first to build the nests, and then the females follow to lay their eggs.

 

Stopped at the Mohammed V Mausoleum and the adjacent Hassan Tower.

 

Made our way back to Casablanca and did a little wandering around in the souks of the Old Medina before re-boarding the ship.

 

Looking forward to sleeping in after the whirlwind five day road trip in Morocco.