Page 13 of Alan and Donna Travel Blog Posts


From pollywog to shellback

Published: January 18th 2006Oceania
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Alan and Donna
January 15th 2006

The ship held an Equator Crossing Ceremony this afternoon on the pool deck. King Neptune and his court presided over the initiation of all pollywogs (those who have not crossed the equator by sea). Lucky for us our Norwegian Staff Captain, Daniel, and Frankie, one of the entertainers, stood in for the rest of us. They were slimed (that means green goo was spread all over their hair and face) and then dunked into the ship’s pool. Once they had paid the penance for the rest of us neophytes, we were declared “shellbacks” and the Country Fair began. The many ship’s departments had set up carnival booths for games of chance. The goal was to earn as many raffle tickets as possible. We won a few but it’s really hard to throw darts, water balloons, etc ... read more



Alan and Donna icon
Alan and Donna
January 15th 2006

Our weather has been cloudy as we approach the equator. It’s warm and humid too. This morning, it was breakfast at my favorite place…our balcony. Dressed in our Radisson bathrobes, we drank our coffee as we sat in deck chairs with our feet propped up on the railing. Large schools of flying fish skittered across the water’s surface providing our entertainment. Ah, rest and relaxation at last! Alan will be spending his time inside today. Yesterday, he was thrilled to find a secluded lounge chair for reading and napping. He thought he was protected from the sun so he left off his sunscreen. When he looked in the mirror yesterday afternoon, the red-lobster reflection surprised him. No sun for him today or probably tomorrow. Radisson keeps passengers busy with lectures, games, contests and other entertainment. This ... read more



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Alan and Donna
January 12th 2006

It’s our second day at sea and we are discovering a routine. Yesterday was a “catch-up” day for me. Sleep and unpacking were my only goals. Oh, and finding my sea-legs, which took most of the day. Alan started his exercise regime and attended an astronomy lecture that he raved about. Last night, the ship had a block party. Passengers were instructed to listen for the 6pm bell, take the wine glasses from their cabins, step out into the hall and meet their neighbors. The stewardesses poured wine and we mixed and mingled with other passengers on our hall. It was a unique way to become acquainted. Today, I followed Alan’s routine. So, we were up exercising at 6am followed by a soak in the hot tub. We have to follow our good intentions while they ... read more



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Alan and Donna
January 10th 2006

A combo played and the champagne flowed as we sailed away from LA. The afternoon was lovely considering it was early January. I didn’t think it would be this picturesque, as the hills of LA receded in the waning afternoon sun and we passed beside the Vincent St. Thomas bridge outlined in blue lights. Too bad we forgot to remember to bring our camera from the cabin. But, we’re here, our luggage made it onboard and our journey has begun.... read more



Almost there

Published: January 14th 2006North America » United States » Arizona » Tucson
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Alan and Donna
January 9th 2006

Two suitcases, two rolling duffle bags, two carry-ons, one computer bag and one backpack, all completely stuffed, sit in our entrance hall waiting for departure. Can you say high maintenance? It’s a good thing that term applies to both of us. Of course, I’m convinced that the huge bottle of mouthwash Alan is taking is the major culprit. He’s sure that clean breath will be his key to a successful cruise. We weren’t sure we would make it this far. I got sick, once again, this weekend. It’s a good thing we belong to the “pack three days ahead club.” A trip to the doctor today armed me with an antibiotic prescription to be used if necessary. But, it was the lost checkbook incident that threatened to unravel the trip and our marriage. After frantically searching ... read more



Getting Ready To Go

Published: January 9th 2006North America » United States » Arizona » Tucson
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Alan and Donna
January 9th 2006

Ok, we're not leaving yet. This is a test page. Ah, but you ask. Where are they going? Since this blog is mostly for our family and friends, you already know. But, just in case we haven't talked your ears off about it enough already, we're leaving on a 45-day cruise on Radisson's Voyager. We'll travel from LA to Hong Kong, posting our thoughts and pictures here. Hope you'll check back often and be sure to post a comment.... read more






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