Often, when I would talk to people about travel, I would be able to honestly say that I have been to every continent, (except Australia). I've gone around the world in one sailing and even lived in Italy for a few years, so was able to travel around the Mediterranean Sea quite a lot. I always continued on to say that I was in the Navy for 20 years which explained the opportunities that I've had for travel.
My ships certainly weren't like luxury cruises but it was the shore visits that really counted back then. As I have started looking into cruises, (the luxury kind), I have been trying to imagine the focus on the actual ship-board experience.
My wife and I have enjoyed several all inclusive resort vacations and have decided that this is the only way to go. It seems like more and more all inclusive are being developed nowadays. Apparently many other vacationers have shared our feelings about the freedom and amenities that come with everything being right there when you want it.
The cruise idea though has an extra excitement for me. I really loved being at sea, (when the weather was kind). I honestly joined the Navy to see the world as the old recruiting posters suggested. I did see the world, (on board and off). I enjoyed just about every place I was able to get ashore to.
But I also really loved to be out on deck when the sun came up over the South China Sea with the unbelievable variegation of crimson, vermilion, and all shades between. Or that time in the Indian Ocean when the water was so calm and flat that it felt as if the ship was tied to the pier.
The star canopy was so complete and clear that the stars appeared to hover just within reach. You could actually see where you were going by the light of the stars. There were 'underway' times that you couldn't buy at any price.
On my Navy ships the weather was not always so amenable, nor the views always so beautiful, but when all things lined up properly, being at sea wasn't bad. Now, on a cruise ship, if the vistas at sea don't appeal, simply go to the buffet, bar, or climbing wall.
The cabaret shows, ship activities, and new best friends have a way of making all things right with the world. I understand that the modern cruise ships have stabilization technology that makes the ship ride smooth, even when the weather gets nasty. Rough seas have a certain beauty to. It would be nice to enjoy that without being tempted to give back that wonderful gourmet food.
I would say that our next vacation experience will be a cruise to somewhere warm and inviting. I want to show my wife just how striking the stars can be when there is no ambient light to interfere with the intensity of the truest if interactive star charts.
No comments:
Post a Comment