Nothing beats a local guide when visiting a new place! Jim had grown up here and he toured us around in expert fashion. Thanks Jim! From dinner at a food truck to dancers at the international market place to scenic vistas on Round Top Drive, we got it all in one afternoon. Fantastic first day… Continue reading Waikiki continued…
Aloha from Waikiki
After an early start from home, we made it to SFO by BART for our flight to Honolulu on United. By the way, if you have not tried it before, purchase the economy plus seats for more legroom and a power outlet it is totally worth it. We locked out as we had the seat… Continue reading Aloha from Waikiki
HAWAII here we come…
Pardon my silence for the past few weeks. I was busy adjusting to my new job at Direct Travel and planning our upcoming trip to Hawaii. Yes, after 22 years, it is time to return to the islands for a much more in-depth immersion. We will be joined by our friends Kurt & Jim for… Continue reading HAWAII here we come…
Bonus Blog – The “slow travel” movement
With time running away and the world speeding up, it is sometimes hard to find a moment to experience things they way the once were. For example, I am a big fan of Europe's high-speed trains which have brought Europe's capitals much closer together, but there is something to be said for the scenic routes… Continue reading Bonus Blog – The “slow travel” movement
Allure of the Seas-final reflections
It's early Sunday morning and we just disembarked the ship. Overall the process was smooth and efficient. Kudos to Royal Caribbean for mastering this process in a positive and expeditious manner. Looking back at the week on board, I see many positives and a few drawbacks to consider when selecting Royal's Oasis class of ships.… Continue reading Allure of the Seas-final reflections
Allure of the Seas- last day
How fast a week goes by - when one is having fun! Our voyage will come to an end in very short order but that does not stop us from enjoying all the ship has to offer. All dressed up, Jerry and I joined 11 other guests for the very exclusive Chef's Table on deck… Continue reading Allure of the Seas- last day
Allure of the Seas – day at sea
After two port filled days, we enjoyed the ship at sea. Getting up late after our AAA Member benefit dinner at Chops Grill, we relaxed and the made our way to the gym. I had tuna tartare and a filet amd Jerry had colossal shrimp with a bone-in ribeye. Both were exceptional. To round out… Continue reading Allure of the Seas – day at sea
Allure of the Seas – San Juan Puerto Rico
After a leisurely morning with a 5 mile brisk walk behind us, the Allure approached San Juan Puerto Rico for our 2nd stop of the voyage. A first port of call for both Jerry and me. Safely docked, we walked off around 1230 for a discovery walk of old town San Juan including a visit… Continue reading Allure of the Seas – San Juan Puerto Rico
Allure of the Seas – St Thomas for the day
We thought we had seen the best show already #mammamia but then the twice postponed Oceanaria show took place. What a thrill! This underwater world with acrobats, divers and comedians took our breath away. I would love to share more images but I adhered to the crew request not to film or take pictures. Crowning… Continue reading Allure of the Seas – St Thomas for the day
Allure of the Seas – day at sea
What a ship...! So much to do and see. We walked 4 miles on deck 5, enjoyed light breakfast at the Solarium Cafe (deck 15 adults only) and then went zip lining. Afte that adrenaline rush, we watched guest on the flowrider. To no one's surprise, this is not an activity I will partake in… Continue reading Allure of the Seas – day at sea
Allure of the Seas – first night
Settled I. Our ocean view balcony, we explored this amazing ship from bow to stern. Following instructions of the crew, we reported to muster station B3 and once the drill was successfully completed, we climbed to deck 16 for the very windy sail away party. As the biggest ship got to go last, we saw… Continue reading Allure of the Seas – first night
Allure of the Seas – we are on board!
We made it in record time - got to the pier at 1040 and walked on board by 1120. Super fast for such a huge ship. As the staterooms were not available till 1, we walked across the ship and had a welcome drink on the dot at noon. Now we are headed to lunch… Continue reading Allure of the Seas – we are on board!
Allure of the Seas pre-boarding day
It's been s busy first week of January I o say the least. I am glad it's Saturday and I made it to o Fort Lauderdale as did my friend Jerry. We each flew on red-eye flights to southern Florida. Jerry came on American Airlines via Charlotte and I flew delta via Atlanta. One bitchy… Continue reading Allure of the Seas pre-boarding day
Christmas road trip part 5 (final)
We are back home - 2758 miles later. What a great trip it was! Thank you to Hertz for a great rental car and, if anyone is in the market for a three-row crossover, give the Kia Sorrento a shot. Greg and I were very impressed with its road feel, amenities and sporty driving feel.… Continue reading Christmas road trip part 5 (final)
Christmas road trip part 4
Pardon the delay in updating you on the Santa Fe part of the trip. We were busy celebrations with family. Greg too his dad Quinn on a scenic drive while Diana picked up Julie from The Albuquerque airport. That left me to spend quality time with my niece and nephew Lydia and Walker whom introduced… Continue reading Christmas road trip part 4