When last I wrote I was coming down with a cold. So I was laid low for a couple of days. The real disappointment was missing my tour of Montenegro. From all reports the countryside was beautiful, the people welcoming and the food and wine were delicious. Since it was chilly and drizzling when we entered Venice I also bagged the gondola ride. Ever since I watched a cruise ship sail into Venice I have wanted to experience it and I wasn’t disappointed. We passed the Moses project that is almost completed and , it is hoped, will help protect the city from the Alta Agua, the high tides that flood the city. Then we sailed by the Lido, playground for the Venetians who want to enjoy the sun and sand. We passed by the entrance ... read more

While the rest of the passengers went off to Athens to brave the crowds, I decided to stay on board and enjoy a message. Good decision. I opted for a what is called a “Perfect Day” and not only was it on sale, the masseuse was not in any hurry. Exfoliation, full body massage, a seaweed wrap, scalp neck and shoulder massage and an eye booster treatment. I melted into the table and purred like a kitten. The sun was strong and I went to the pool for a dip before lunch and then a nap, happy hour and dinner. Have I mentioned I love my life? Following Athens we cruise to Navplion a small waterside town on the southern coast of the Peloponnesus. Today’s tour takes me to Corinth and the history of this part ... read more

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The adventure begins. Flight uneventful, transfer to ship goes smoothly and by noon I am on board the Oosterdam and in my stateroom. I put my valuables in the safe and head to the dining room for lunch. I sit next to Lupe from New Mexico who is on her first cruise and enchanted with the everything she sees. It’s good to see the experience with fresh eyes. She will meet her son and daughter-in-law and her grandchild when they fly in from Spain. I choose a light lunch of creamy ham and leek soup and a salad of roasted baby beets and goat cheese on a bed of greens. Even though they are half portions there is too much food for me. I head back to the cabin and sit on the balcony and watch ... read more

I had visited Antigua back in the day. At that time we stayed at an all-inclusive resort and only ventured out for any evening at the Casino, which we dubbed Casino From Hell. But that’s another story. Now I had the opportunity to appreciate what a lovely island Antigua is. As we pulled into dock we counted four other ships arriving. Since we were one of the earliest it was not too crowded. We boarded our van and fought rush hour traffic until we left St. John’s, the island’s main town and capital. Our guide Anita pointed out places of interest and told us of the island’s culture and history. Our stops today related to the time when the island was mainly sugar plantations and ruled by England. There were fourteen forts built to fortify against ... read more