We are sailing

From the hustle and bustle of touristy Rome, it was quite a contrast to venture into the elegant world of cruising on Cunard. The Queen Victoria is to be my home for the next 21 nights. It's a bit like walking onto a film set for Ye olde England. White gloves, butlers, maids, wait staff, cabin stewards all smiling and enthusiastic to ensure you have the best possible experience on their floating version Downton Abbey.  On the first week we have explored the Meditterrean from Rome to Barcelona via Livorno and  Monaco, returning to Rome via Corsica.

Despite the relative calm of the ship, it can be hectic just reading about all the activities offered on board, let alone deciding which ones to attend. That is when you have enough time, and more importantly energy, after a day exploring the cities we've visited. Discos, classical concerts, pub quizzes, dance lessons, cooking expos, no less than 15 bars and lounges, two pools, beauty spa, gymnasium, shuffle board, theatre productions, bingo afternoons, ballet, hilarious comedic juggler, lounging by the pool, darts, high tea, 

Clothing - tonight I have seen several men in Scottish kilts, Japanese ladies in full Kimonos, stunning taffeta ball gowns and even the occasional disco tart outfit. Everyone has their own opinions as to the definition of "formal!" While most nights are deemed 'informal', there are those nights that provide the fun opportunity to frock up and put on the dazzling bling. I have definitely not enough sequin and sparkles in my limited wardrobe!

Locating the different bars, restaurants, shops, venues, pools and even your own room can be a challenge. It's a big ship that I am slowly getting to know but getting lost - occasionally, is not  that bad. You might even find something you were looking for 3 days earlier! Unfortunately for me my suite is situated right in the middle of a very long corridor of same same doors on each side. Fortunately being in the middle it means that directly above my door is the Exit sign. Hopefully this doesn't mean that people will be evacuating via my room but it does make it so much easier to find!

 

It's somewhere down this corridor - that is if I have the right floor!!!

As for the food on board, I'll get to that in the next blog. Time to publish now while I have the opportunity. Ciao