Sedona

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Day Six Grand Canyon Trip

 

This morning we drove up to the Sedona Airport for breakfast and a panoramic look at the whole valley. It’s one of the few places where you get the full Sedona skyline without breaking a sweat. Sunset is the most popular hour, but we’ve heard it becomes a packed spectacle. Morning, though—that’s the sweet spot. 

From our hotel it’s only about 2½ miles to the airport, but the road climbs 500 feet in a single mile—so, yes, it’s a haul. We drove up and parked in the upper lot by the Mesa Grill so we could soak in the views first, then wander in for breakfast. 

We walked across the road to an overlook with classic 360‑degree postcard views—the kind that make people stop mid‑stride and let out an “ahhh.” After Jay takes a million photos—because that’s what everyone does now, just keep shooting and sort it out later—we head for the Airport Mesa Grill for coffee and breakfast. We grabbed a table on the patio and watched little planes drift in and out of the airport. It feels like you’re sitting on a balcony above the world — red rocks in every direction, the soft buzz of takeoffs just beyond the railing. Pure Sedona, and yes, we were fully in vacation mode.

 

Sedona Airport holds a special place in Jay’s memory. In his 20’s as a firefighter in El Cajon he worked his days off at Gillespie airfield as a pilot/flight instructor and occasionally flew passengers for hire. On one flight, the passenger became aggressive, pointed a gun at Jay and insisted on a change in destination. The passenger forced Jay to land at Needles airport near the Colorado river. Jay exited the plane and the passenger took off with the plane in an easterly direction. Jay knew there was a federal Flight Service Station at the opposite end of the field. He ran the mile and burst into the office, out of breath, startling the officials and described his experience and the operators put out an APB to all airports and law enforcement agencies within 1,000 miles and a deputy sheriff in Sedona captured the plane and pilot when he landed there. 

After we got back to the hotel, we wandered over to lounge by the pool. Since our place is on the smaller side, we’re allowed to use the pool next door at the upscale Los Abrigados Hilton — just a two‑minute stroll from our room. Plenty of people go there for the whole luxury‑spa‑day experience, but for us, a simple dip was the perfect cool‑down. Turns out the pool is salt water — supposedly healthier, though it’s never been my favorite. No matter what anyone claims, salt water always stings my eyes. 

After washing off the salt water, we wandered over to Oak Creek Brewery & Grill for their infamous happy hour. The place was loud and loose, full of people. This spot is known for its Seven Dwarf shots, everything from Doc (fruit punch) to Grumpy (Gold schlager with a graham‑cracker rim) to Happy (chocolate and caramel vodka).  The folks here looked like they’d already sampled a dwarf or two.

I stayed loyal to my six‑dollar wine, though I’d absolutely try the Happy shot if it were after dinner. 

When the sun finally slid behind the red rocks, we made our way to El Rincón, a Mexican restaurant that has a quiet serene courtyard. It was a nice way to end our day and our trip. Thank you for coming along. 

Tomorrow, we head home to our cat, who will pretend she didn’t even notice we were gone.

 

Sedona AZ

Dear Blog

 

Day Five Grand Canyon Trip

 

 

This morning we decided to stick with two easy walks right in Sedona. There are countless hiking options in the area, but we didn’t feel like moving the car, fighting for parking, or tackling anything strenuous — especially with temperatures heading into the high‑80s before noon.

 

Our first walk was the Los Abrigados walking route. It’s a gentle, scenic, creek side stroll that winds through landscaped paths, small bridges, and shaded areas along Oak Creek. It connects the resort area to Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village and offers pretty red‑rock glimpses without feeling like a wilderness hike. It’s about a half‑mile and very peaceful.

 

The second walk was the Sedona Outlook Trail. This one is also about a half‑mile — a short, gently sloping path that leads to a wide, open overlook with sweeping views of Sedona’s major rock formations. It’s the kind of spot where people pause to take photos, breathe in the air, and just soak in the panorama. A friend suggested the Pink Jeep Tour so we strolled over to check it out but the moment we saw a jeep pulling out stuffed with eight people on bench seats, we opted out, anticipating 94 degree heat played heavily in that decision.

 

In the afternoon we did some winetasting.  We walked to the Art of Wine. It is said to be a trendy and lively place, but we wound up being the only ones there. The Sommelier instantly felt like an old friend sharing her travel stories with us. We ended up staying two hours.

 

In Sedona you’re never short on dinner options, but we decided to try our luck at Hideaway House. Since it was Father’s Day, we headed over early. The restaurant sits on a hillside with big open‑air patios that look straight out toward the red rocks — not a dramatic cliff‑top view, but something more intimate, cozy, and close to the canyon walls. We managed to snag a patio table around 5pm, just as the warm canyon glow started settling in. Sunset hits around 6:30, so the timing was perfect for those soft golden views Sedona does so well.

 

The menu at Hideaway House leans into comfort‑forward Italian with a home‑style twist — fresh‑made breads, hearty pastas, vibrant salads, and creative specialty pizzas, all served with those relaxed Sedona views. But honestly, we realized we didn’t need the whole menu. We decided to share the Garlic Cheese Bread Blossom, the meatballs, and a glass of red wine — and that was perfect. The bread blossom comes out as a warm, fresh‑baked loaf packed with garlic, melted mozzarella, and parmesan, served with their house‑made marinara for dipping. The meatballs were juicy, tender, and cheesy, exactly the kind of comfort food that fits the setting. That’s it.

 

Tomorrow it’s supposed to hit 97 degrees so the odds of doing a lot of walking are slim. We’ll probably hit the pool instead.

Grand Canyon

Dear Blog

 

Day Four Grand Canyon Trip

 

This morning we left Williams and headed for Sedona, a place we’ve heard about for years but never seen for ourselves. We’d hoped to take the scenic AZ 89A drive through Oak Creek Canyon, often called one of the Southwest’s most beautiful routes, but with construction and rockfall repairs the two‑lane highway was closed so we had to go back toward Flagstaff and then down I‑17 to Sedona.

 

Jay was disappointed; he’s flown over the canyon many times and remembers how stunning it looks from above. I looked forward to it too although I’ll admit, part of me felt that familiar flutter of nerves. I’ve been on enough narrow mountain roads in Greece and Africa to know that “scenic” can also mean “white‑knuckle.” Gorgeous, yes—but when you’re the passenger staring straight down a canyon wall, hoping no one comes around a blind curve too fast, it’s hard to fully relax and enjoy the view.

 

We decided to stop at a winery before checking into our hotel in Sedona, since check‑in times these days are rarely early, especially during peak tourist season when rooms take longer to turn over. DA Ranch Winery, just about twenty minutes outside Sedona, made for an easy and perfectly relaxing first stop. The “DA” stands for Delta Alpha, a nod to the original cattle bred on the ranch back in the 1800s. Today, the property operates as an estate winery, meaning every grape is grown right on their own land and they handle the entire winemaking and bottling process themselves. They proudly highlight how this approach gives their wines a consistent Verde Valley character—ripe fruit, warm‑climate aromatics, and bold, expressive reds.

 

DA Ranch felt laid‑back. Wide green lawns stretch beneath towering cottonwoods, and the vineyards roll gently toward the red rock hills. The historic ranch buildings and quiet pond give the place a warm, rustic charm. And of course, the wandering goats add a playful touch. This reminded us of our favorite winery ever... Goats Do Roam in Paarl, South Africa where we sat outside on the patio and sampled wine and cheese while watching the goats roam, climb, or nap around us.

 

The moment we arrived, the whole place was alive — a fishing derby on one side, live music drifting through the air, a food truck parked nearby, and wine tasting everywhere you turned. They were also running an Arizona‑style event called the Cottontail Cotton Candy Experience. We watched the cotton candy being spun like magic and tried wild flavors like whiskey‑inspired and Earl Grey. Forget that cotton candy is basically pure sugar with artificial dyes and zero nutritional value. It doesn’t matter — the fun was the point.

 

Once the sugar rush hit, we made our way to our hotel in Sedona. At our hotel El Portal we reserved the Garden room. El Portal is an adobe boutique hotel in Sedona that feels more like a private, arts‑and‑crafts–style residence than a traditional hotel. It’s known for its warm Southwestern architecture and courtyard gardens. Of course, the best part is 2-minute walk to Tlaquepaque (Tiock-a pock-ee) an artsy little shopping village packed with Mexican charm, fountains, courtyards, upscale boutiques, restaurants, jewelry and boho clothes; all the unique gifts you don’t need, until you see them and suddenly you can’t leave without.

It’s Saturday night and the place is jam-packed and 93 degrees. Too hot for a full meal but not too hot for Oak Creek Brewery’s famous fries and trio of sauces, horseradish, chipotle ranch and ketchup. I mean, what else do you need?

Tomorrow we will explore some of the local trails.

Grand Canyon

 

Dear Blog

 

Day Three Grand Canyon Trip

 

The train station sits right across the street from our hotel, the Grand Canyon Hotel, so we packed our daypacks and simply strolled over with our tickets in hand. After checking in, we were encouraged to watch the “gunfight at the OK Corral.” It was a little hokey, but honestly kind of fun — and once the “bad guy” dramatically hit the dirt, it was time to board.

 

Our train pulled out at 9:30 a.m. for the hour‑and‑45‑minute ride to the South Rim. We splurged on the pricer tickets after doing some research; people kept saying the upgrade was worth it for the parlor car’s big windows, comfortable seating, its own bar, and access to the private outdoor platform. Reviewers also mentioned that because it’s adults‑only, the atmosphere is quieter and more relaxed — and I believe it. Watching the crowds of families lining up for the Pullman and Coach cars made me grateful for our choice.

 

Once we reached the South Rim, we had about three and a half hours to explore. We decided to wander along the Rim Trail toward Mather Point, which offers those big WOW, postcard‑perfect panoramic views. The trail is mostly paved, mostly flat, and hugs the canyon’s edge for miles. There’s a shuttle that continues past Mather Point to additional viewpoints, but we wanted to stretch our legs, breathe the air, and take in the scenery at our own pace. With the temperature hovering around 85 degrees, we weren’t looking for anything strenuous, just an easy, relaxing stroll. Yes, there were plenty of tourists snapping pictures—honestly, too many pictures in my opinion. Photos are great, but it’s also nice to put the phone down and simply take in the view.

 

On the walk back, we stopped at El Tovar, the rim‑side historic lodge with big windows, classic Southwestern charm, and its famously excellent Bloody Mary’s. The drink is iconic because it brings together everything that makes El Tovar special: a well‑made, no‑nonsense Bloody Mary, a legendary national‑park lodge, and a world‑class canyon view just steps away. It’s not just a cocktail — it’s part of the Grand Canyon experience. Travelers have been coming to El Tovar for more than a century, and ordering a Bloody Mary has become a tradition, the same way a mint julep belongs at Churchill Downs or a Mai tai belongs at the Royal Hawaiian. People recommend it because it feels like something you’re simply meant to do at the canyon. They didn’t exactly have to twist our arms.

 

 

 

The afternoon flew by, and before we knew it, it was time to board the train for our ride back to Williams. We already knew a “train robbery” was coming—we’d seen plenty of YouTube videos ahead of time—so we were ready for the show. It doesn’t matter what class you’re in; those “robbers” make their rounds and ask for money. It’s all part of the performance, of course, and people happily handed over a few dollars. It’s pretty clear that’s how the actors earn their tips, and honestly, they deserve it for putting on such an entertaining show.

 

Once we were back in Williams, it was time to grab a taco. We headed straight to El Corral, a long‑standing Mexican restaurant right on historic Route 66. It’s well known among both tourists and locals for its tacos, enchiladas, and big combo plates. The portions are generous, the prices are reasonable, and it’s easily one of the most consistently recommended spots in town. We both decided to try the tamarind margarita. Tamarind is a sweet‑tart fruit, and the drink usually comes with a rim dipped in chile‑lime seasoning like Tajín for a little kick. It still has the classic margarita base—tequila, lime, and orange liqueur—but the tamarind adds a sweet‑tart, slightly earthy flavor that’s surprisingly refreshing. It turned out to be a great choice.

 

So, How was the Grand Canyon? “GRAND!”

 

How was the train? “Whew, Whew!”

 

How were the Tacos? “Olay, Olay!”

Grand Canyon Day 2

Dear Blog

 

Day Two Grand Canyon Trip

 

In the morning, we head out to Williams — about 35 miles on I‑40. It’s an easy, scenic drive with ponderosa pines and big open skies. I-40  skips the real Route 66 and Bellemont, where Easy Rider fans stop for a photo op of the Pine Breeze Inn — the spot where Wyatt and Billy get hit with the “NO VACANCY” sign.

Jay and I aren’t huge Easy Rider movie buffs so, like the movie, we just keep rolling on our own terms.

 

Williams, Arizona may be best known as the gateway to the Grand Canyon, but it also boasts a wonderfully preserved stretch of Route 66 — six blocks lined with diners, saloons, motor lodges, quirky shops, small museums with pure 1950s charm. After checking into the Grand Canyon Hotel for our two‑night stay, we headed out for a relaxed stroll. No ghost hunts this time; just soaking in the Americana and the shops that give this town its own unmistakable character. And yes, they’re stocked with all the classics: kitschy Route 66 souvenirs, southwest crafts, western gear, and vintage odds and ends people tossed decades ago but now absolutely need for their collections.

 

We’re not big souvenir people, maybe we’ll grab a T‑shirt now and then. One, it proves to our friends we actually went somewhere and two, sometimes we just need something clean to wear before laundry day becomes real. Still, wandering through the shops is fun. Call it browsing, but really, it’s a mini sensory adventure: textures, colors, and all the novelty goods that proudly show off a town’s personality.

 

Some of these little shops are packed full of oddball, quirky stuff that make Williams… well, Williams. You’ll even find bison jerky proudly bragging that it’s “sweeter and a bit firmer” than Link’s beef jerky, as if that difference is about to convince you to buy a whole bag. Then you drift into the gem shops, where “special” stones—fluorite, calcite, —light up under a black light if you happen to own a black light.. And of course, there are the plaster mountain‑lion, elk, and black‑bear footprints—perfect for giving your porch a reminder that we’re not the only ones using the porch. And if you have a sweet tooth, Williams sweets are their own adventure: jalapeño or sassafras taffy and prickly‑pear everything jelly, syrup, candy, lemonade and truffles. Prickly pear comes from a cactus fruit and is said to taste like watermelon.

 

And tucked among all that, you’ll find the railroad memorabilia—spikes, replica tickets, bits of metal art. This makes me think of my older brother, who used to pay me and my brother Mike a nickel for every stray piece of metal we found while walking the train tracks in south Sacramento. We’d come back with pockets full of random treasures that had rattled loose from passing trains. He was both a railroad engineer and an artist, so those scraps didn’t stay scraps for long, they became metal wall art. I still remember one piece making its way into an art gallery in Oak Park, in Sacramento glowing under the lights like it had always been meant for a wall instead of a rail yard.

 

Jay loved Pete’s Gas Station Museum. The place began as an old Texaco station, and stepping inside sent him straight back to the days when he always had grease on his hands and an old Ford sitting in the driveway. He and his buddies spent whole afternoons swapping engines, wrestling with transmissions, and learning everything by trial and error — because that’s just what kids did then. Cars meant freedom, pride, and growing up. Walking into Pete’s, surrounded by classic mid‑century cars, vintage pumps, old oil cans, and the same tools he once used, stirred up some of his favorite memories.

 

That evening we had several recommended restaurants, but we ended up choosing Rod’s Steak House, the one I’d read about in the AAA magazine. They’ve been serving since 1946, which felt like a reasonable enough credential to go on. Their motto, “pull up a chair and dig in,” matched the place: straightforward, no frills. A solid spot for a Rib Eye, and their specialty cocktail, the Cactus Fires—a jalapeño‑infused pineapple margarita— The sweet–heat contrast makes it a star.

 

After dark, Williams takes on its neon look. Red, blue, and green signs switch on along Route 66, casting steady light across the street. There’s a faint buzzing from the old tubes, not loud, just constant. It gives the town a kind of low-level background hum that fits the place.

 

Tomorrow is the big event: the train ride from Williams to the Grand Canyon. Yippee‑I‑A indeed.

 

Grand Canyon

Dear Blog

 

Day One - Our Grand Canyon Trip

 

After hitting 125 countries, we finally decided to check out one of the world’s wonders that’s been sitting ridiculously close to home this whole time — the Grand Canyon. We’ve flown over it countless times, but this is our first time actually stopping to admire it like responsible adults. And before you ask: no, we are not riding mules. People call it a “once‑in‑a‑lifetime experience,” but at our age, we prefer experiences that don’t involve handing our lives over to a moody, long‑eared animal. Yes, I know mules are basically geniuses compared to horses, but if Jay didn’t enjoy riding a horse in Africa — on flat ground — I’m pretty sure a vertical drop on a mule isn’t going to be his thing. So we’re taking the train. Smooth. Scenic.

 

The trip kicked off with a Reno–Phoenix flight and a quick connection to Flagstaff. We picked up a rental car and were at our downtown hotel in about ten minutes — right on old Route 66. That whole stretch still feels frozen in time, with glowing neon motel signs, classic diners, and a dusty Old West vibe that refuses to fade.

And get this: Route 66 turns 100 this year. I had no idea until I actually opened our AAA magazine instead of tossing it. The cover was all about the centennial — 100 years of Route 66 “Get Your Kicks on the Mother Road.”

 

Flagstaff feels like a town with two personalities. On one hand, it’s surrounded by stunning scenery — the Grand Canyon and Sedona are practically neighbors — and at 7,000 feet, the elevation shapes everything. Summers stay mild, winters are long and snowy, and the thin air plus intense sun take some getting used to.

But the other side of Flagstaff is less romantic. The cost of living is high, and everyday expenses stack up fast. Its proximity to world‑famous landscapes brings a steady stream of tourists, especially hikers and climbers. And as someone who battled allergies in both Sacramento and San Diego, I can confirm Flagstaff’s tree pollen is no joke. Good thing I packed the Allerest.

 

After settling into our hotel, we committed to the two things to do in Flagstaff we’d already been thinking about back home: walking the historic Route 66 corridor downtown and weaving that walk into a search for Flagstaff’s haunted past. This city is considered one of the most haunted in America, shaped by frontier violence, railroad disasters, and tragedies that left their mark on buildings still standing. Jay and I are drawn to places with that eerie edge. Years ago, we took a Jack the Ripper tour in London and loved the mix of history and darkness. Flagstaff isn’t as brutal as Whitechapel on London East end, but its stories come from real frontier-era heartbreak. Instead of foggy gas‑lit alleys, you get old brick hotels, shadowy back lanes off Route 66, and creaking 1900s architecture. Different setting, but same thrill of walking through history when the sun goes down.

 

Our walk’s standout moments were the hauntings at the Hotel Monte Vista. In Room 220, guests report cold hands grabbing their ankles and the smell of raw meat — tied to a man who once hung meat from the chandelier. Room 305 has a rocking chair that moves on its own every day. And many guests hear the Phantom Bellboy cheerfully announcing “room service” to an empty hallway. At the Weatherford Hotel, we learned about the newlyweds murdered on their wedding night. People staying in that room still hear screams, footsteps, and heavy furniture dragging.

 

After all that, we needed a drink, so we circled back to the Monte Vista lounge — another hotspot for ghost stories. The Phantom Bartender is known for whispering greetings and knocking glasses over. We didn’t witness anything, but the bartender told us her firsthand accounts of being haunted.

 

Well enough excitement for one day sweet dreams to all and to all a good night. Tomorrow we drive to Williams.

 

 

 

 

Homeward

Dear Blog

 

Bahamas Day 12 April 29^th At Sea

 

This is our final day at sea—and the last night of the cruises. Usually, in our experience, the ship marks the occasion with a big farewell celebration in the Theatre. The captain, the officers, and many of the staff take the stage to bid the guests farewell. This is where the crew members who usually work behind the scenes—cabin attendants, bartenders, cooks—finally get their moment in the spotlight. But MSC doesn’t do that.

 

MSC throws a few themed party nights — the White Hot Party, Italian Night which basically is a meal where they serve all the Italian comfort foods and 80’s night. Of course, the Gala night is a night to meet the captain and his officers. On our Gala night we never actually saw the Captain. In fact, we have only heard him a couple of times giving weather updates and nautical reports. I’m pretty sure no one understood — or cared — because of the heavy accent and the technical jargon, it felt like he was mostly reminding everyone that he knows what he’s doing.

 

On our last cruise on the NCL Bliss, we went to their captain’s party, but we never saw the captain, either.  I did, however, shake hands with the Food and Beverage Manager because I felt people were avoiding him, one, because he is hard to understand and two, I thought some may have experienced after effects of eating his Fish Curry.  That was the party I remember Jay and I being cornered with the Cruise Next Manager. The guy was easy to talk to, but then again, charming strangers is literally his full‑time job. The man could sell ice to a polar bear.

 

Tonight MSC theme night is “Celebrate the 80’s”. We didn’t go because somehow a party starting at 10:00 p.m. doesn’t work with our age or mindset, and tomorrow is a big travel day. Honestly, the only thing I truly remember about the 80’s is that it was a very long time ago. I’m not sure what we’re celebrating at this point. It was the decade of hair teased to the size of a basketball, shoulder pads that could double as flotation devices, everyone trying to moonwalk, and Cyndi Lauper reminding us that “girls just want to have fun” — as if that was some ground-breaking revelation.

 

It’s been a good cruise. Our first time on MSC, and after eight other cruise lines, I can confirm: this one has its own… personality. Every ship has its highs and lows. Some things go great; some things go completely off the rails. Like, how does an Italian ship go eleven nights without serving lasagna? How does a Caesar salad arrive looking like it survived a dressing monsoon? And who decided last night’s breadstick dipped in frosting and sprinkles qualified as dessert? And then there’s the Yacht Club — the fancy ‘you’re‑paying‑for‑the-privilege’ area — with zero umbrellas on the pool deck. Meanwhile, we’ve been gifted two bottles of vodka and three bottles of champagne in the room… which, combined, probably cost more than one umbrella. It’s the Bahamas. It’s sunny. It’s hot. This isn’t complicated.

 

But does any of that actually ruin a cruise? Nah, If it did, you’d be miserable everywhere — ocean or not. Nothing’s perfect. A vacation is supposed to be a break from real life — and this one was.

 

But I really would’ve liked some lasagna.

 

I write these stories because they help me stay connected to our experience — they make me pay attention to what’s happening around me, to the people, and to my own reactions and feelings.

 

Thank you for tuning in, reading along, and sharing your comments.

Home stretch

Greetings Blog

 

Bahamas Day 11 April 28^th Ocean Cay

 

 

We’re back at Ocean Cay today, and believe it or not, this island used to be a giant industrial sand mine. It wasn’t natural at all — it was built in the 1960s so companies could dig up aragonite, a special sand used for cement, farming, and glass. When cheaper materials like limestone and synthetic calcium carbonate became available, the mining stopped. The island was abandoned and left covered in rusty machines, oil drums, and debris. It looked nothing like a topical island.

 

MSC took over this island and completely transformed it. They hauled away hundreds of tons of old machinery and debris, rebuilt every beach, planted thousands of trees, and turned the whole place into a protected marine reserve. Today it looks like paradise — but it definitely didn’t start that way.

 

I suspect most of our fellow passengers don’t know this or don’t care about any of that. They just want to sink into the sand with a drink in hand, living their best “give me a beer and a beach chair” life. But then there are the curious ones — the people who love a good story. And even the folks who didn’t care at first usually perk up when they hear this:” MSC removed more than 500 tons of industrial waste to restore this island. “Suddenly, Ocean Cay isn’t just beautiful. It’s a comeback story. And we all love those — the reminder that you can mess up, lose everything, hit bottom, and still rise again.

 

We spent the day on the private Yacht Club–only beach, with access to the Ocean House restaurant, a private bar, and even butler service right to our loungers in the sand. Lying there on the soft beach, admiring the turquoise water and soaking up the sun, it genuinely felt like heaven on earth.

 

The ship stays at Ocean Cay almost until midnight, giving guests plenty of time to watch the sunset and take in the nighttime laser show that lights up the sky behind the lighthouse. But since it was Jay’s birthday — Happy 85 — we decided to head back to the ship for a champagne toast, dinner, and a relaxed celebration.

 

Honestly, a cruise is one of the easiest ways to celebrate someone’s birthday. No fuss, no planning, no stress — just show up and enjoy. And the sunset views from the ship were every bit as beautiful, the perfect ending to a perfect day.

 

We didn’t really tell anyone it was his birthday, mostly because the night before we watched the staff surround a guest’s table singing Happy Birthday like it was the grand finale of the cruise. Jay, like some of you, wants absolutely nothing to do with that kind of spotlight. But of course, the crew knew — they always do — and tonight at dessert they appeared with a birthday cake anyway. Then eight staff members gathered around, singing completely out of key, and we just sat there stunned, laughing. Everyone around us applauded, and honestly… it was such a tender gesture for someone celebrating his 85th.

 

And thank you for all the birthday messages — those are the ones he truly loves, and they made this birthday feel something beautifully special.

Tomorrow is a sea day and our last cruise day.

Nassau

Dear Blog

 

Bahamas Day 10 April 27^th Nassau

 

Yes, we’re back in Nassau. Today we decided to head to a beach club called Margaritaville. We chose this one because it’s an easy walk from the ship, which means we can come and go as we please without dealing with an organized bus excursion, taxis, traffic, or any fussy arrangements. It’s simple, flexible, and exactly the kind of day we wanted.

 

Beach clubs are everywhere these days, and they’re popular for a reason. They bundle everything — food, drinks, music, loungers, shade, and service — into one easy, polished experience. No hauling towels, no hunting for a spot in the sand, no figuring out logistics. It’s simply “beach time.” Sure, beach clubs cost money, but so does going to a public beach once you start renting loungers, umbrellas, and everything else. And on public beaches, you’re also at the mercy of the hawkers — the moment you lie down and start drifting toward a nap, they appear. “You buy from me? You buy from me?” They’re constantly trying to sell you hats, sunglasses, T‑shirts, beaded necklaces, fruit, drinks, or offering to braid your hair or give you a quick beach massage. It’s part of the charm… until it isn’t.

At Margaritaville, there were several day‑pass options, but we went with the cheapest one because the pricier packages included lunch and unlimited drinks — and honestly, do we really need more food or alcohol at this point? So, we chose the budget option which got us a lounger, an umbrella, and a margarita. But because we paid for the beach option, we couldn’t use the pool and go floating down their lazy river.

 

A lazy river is basically a gentle, winding waterway pool that carries you along on a soft current while you float in an inner tube. It’s calm and unhurried — like drifting down a warm, shallow stream in paradise without having to paddle, plan, or think about anything at all. The first time I saw a lazy river was in Puerto Plata, right at the port entrance in the middle of all the chaos — tourists shopping, tourists drinking, tourists wandering around with no idea where they were going — there they were. People floating in a man‑made pool that looked like a gently moving stream. Some were wedged awkwardly into their inner tubes, others drifting by with a beer in hand and sunglasses on.

 

My first thought was, do they have any idea how ridiculous they look? But as I watched them glide past, I couldn’t ignore the serene, totally carefree expressions on their faces. They looked like they had slipped out of the real world for a moment, and honestly, I’ve never forgotten that look.

Jay and I are theater fans, but magic shows aren’t our style. Tonight’s show is Evolution of Magic, performed by Adam Milner. Magicians do sleight‑of‑hand; illusionists rely on technology and “perfected” tricks — basically the difference between quick fingers and expensive equipment. Either way, I’m not a fan of being tricked, fooled, bamboozled, hoodwinked, or otherwise suckered — so we’ll be skipping the show.

 

The most famous magician is David Copperfield, known for making things like jet planes disappear. He has performed at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas for 25 years, and his last show will be two days from now on April 30th of this year. The most famous illusionist is Houdini, whose whole career was escaping from boxes, tanks, chains, and anything else people could lock him inside. He died of a ruptured appendix on Halloween in 1926, but some people still like to pretend he’s alive at 150 years of age— which honestly would be his greatest trick. On some MSC ships they feature a “A House of Houdini” show that is music, singing, acrobatics and sleight of hand in tribute to the great Houdini. Now that’s a show I would like to see.

 

When we got back on the ship we went up to the Yacht Club pool deck. Jay napped and I watched the seagulls. It reminded me of a line from the 1971 movie, Harold and Maude when Maude and Harold are watching the seagulls. Maude says to Harold “Dreyfuss once wrote from Devils Island that he could see the most glorious birds. Many years later he realized they had only been seagulls. For me they will always be glorious birds.” There is something to be said finding beauty in the ordinary.

 

Tomorrow we will be at Ocean Cay again and it’s Jay’s 85 birthday!

 

 

Space Center

Dear Blog

 

Bahamas Day 9 April 26^th Port Canaveral

 

Today we headed out to tour the Kennedy Space Center. I wasn’t entirely sure how excited I’d be. I’m not really a space buff, but even I know that Kennedy Space Center is NASA’s main launch site, not Texas or California. I knew Jay would be in his element and really enjoy the tour. Before joining the Fire Department, he worked at General Dynamics in San Diego on the Atlas booster. The Atlas booster is a powerful rocket stage originally built in the late 1950s, (Yeah, Jay had to explain that to me) He still remembers the day Scott Carpenter and John Glenn stopped by to see the preparations. In 1962 the Atlas booster launched John Glenn into orbit on the Friendship 7 mission.

 

When I was growing up in the sixties, everyone knew the astronauts’ names just as easily as we knew the ball players or movie stars. Armstrong, Glenn, Lovell, Shepard—they were true household names. We’d gather around the old black‑and‑white TV to watch the liftoffs, and it felt like the whole country paused for those moments. These days, people just don’t follow the space program the way they once did.

 

Life moves faster now, and our attention is splintered across countless distractions—from nonstop digital entertainment to the constant churn of news—making it harder for something like space exploration to command the same collective excitement it once did. Recent lunar missions like Artemis II have certainly boosted public interest, but they still don’t seem to match the excitement of the Apollo era.

 

I guess my most personal connection to the space heroes came from my brother Jay, who somehow ended up picking up John Glenn from the old Sacramento airport. The funny part is that he was only working a summer job at the California State Fair in the Art and Marketing Department. He was supposed to be designing posters and hauling display boards—not chauffeuring one of the nation’s most famous astronauts. But the day when Glenn arrived, every official or important person seemed to have vanished into thin air. Someone looked around, saw my brother standing there in his suit, and said, “You—go get Glenn.” And off he went. We even have a picture of him in a convertible, casually driving one of America’s most iconic astronauts around as if it were just another Tuesday.

 

I remember the big moments in space—like watching Neil Armstrong take that first step for mankind. I saw that monumental moment while I was cleaning a hotel room during my chambermaid days in Tahoe City. Just minutes later, I took a “giant step” of my own on a staircase, slipped with my mop bucket, and ended up in the Truckee emergency room to make sure nothing was broken.

 

Visiting the space center stirred up a whole pile of old memories—way more than I ever expected. And to my surprise, I absolutely loved the tour. After all, this is the place where real rockets blasted off, real astronauts trained, and real missions rewrite everything we thought we knew about the universe.

 

It was a good day, even though every exhibit was packed with tourists and it felt like all we did was wait — and I really hate waiting. I didn’t expect to enjoy it as much as I did. But John F. Kennedy said it best in 1962: “We choose to go to the moon in this decade and do other things… not because they are easy, but because they are hard.”

 

The space center reminded me how far people can go when they dream big. Then, being back on the cruise ship reminded me how important it is to slow down, enjoy where you are, and appreciate the simple moments. Somehow the two experiences fit together perfectly — one lifting my eyes to the sky, the other bringing me gently back to earth.

 

We’re on a back‑to‑back cruise, which means a whole wave of new passengers just boarded for their first four‑day trip. God help us. At least our loud neighbors from the last leg are gone.

 

Ocean Cay

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Bahamas Day 8 April 25^th Ocean Cay

 

Today we’re visiting Ocean Cay, a small man‑made island in the Bahamas that has been transformed into MSC Cruises’ private marine reserve. It’s known for its powdery white‑sand beaches and stunning turquoise water. The island offers more than 75 acres of beaches and natural spaces, with calm, shallow areas perfect for swimming. There’s a long list of activities to enjoy—snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, and guided nature walks. You’ll also find beach bars, dining options, and scenic walking trails to explore. This place is beautiful and truly was the best day of our cruise so far.

 

For years, cruises stopped at crowded ports and busy city centers, which often meant long lines and a day that didn’t feel very relaxing. Private islands changed that. They offer open beaches, a controlled environment, and a truly worry‑free day ashore. Cruise lines invest in them because they can manage the entire experience, avoid dock fees, and keep more guests spending onboard instead of losing it to local shops or outside tours. Even though these islands cost a lot to build, they end up being far more profitable. And the truth is, guests enjoy them too—they’re quieter, less crowded, more private, and built for comfort and relaxation.

 

Private islands take away some of that cultural interaction you get from visiting local towns and meeting people. But let’s be real—at a lot of ports, like Costa Maya, you’re not getting much authentic culture anyway. Even if you step off the ship, the whole area is built for tourists. Its shops, bars, and photo ops, not a true look at local life. So, while private islands cut out cultural experiences, many ports weren’t offering much of that to begin with.

 

Cruises are more of a vacation than a true travel experience. You’re usually not in one place long enough to dive into a new culture or spend real time with local people. It’s fun, relaxing, and easy—but it’s not the same as exploring a country on your own and really getting to know it. That said, cruises are still incredibly valuable because they give you a quick glimpse of a place—its scenery, its vibe, its highlights. Sometimes that little taste is exactly what inspires people to come back later for a longer, deeper visit as we have done in the past.

 

One of my favorite examples of the difference between travel and vacation comes from the movie City Slickers. Billy Crystal signs up for what he thinks will be a fun, relaxing cowboy getaway—only to discover it’s actually real ranch work. There’s that unforgettable moment where he’s being dragged across the dirt by a runaway cow, clinging to the rope and yelling, “I AM ON VACATION!”

It’s the perfect metaphor. We all love the idea of being adventurous, worldly travelers, but the truth is many of us just want a break—a simple vacation, not a life‑changing cattle drive.

 

A similar idea shows up in My Life in Ruins. The main character is a tour guide in Greece who is deeply passionate about Greek history. She wants her passengers to experience the richness of the culture, the stories, the meaning behind the Acropolis. But her tourists have different expectations. They’re in Greece, yes, but they’re looking for the simple joys of being away from home—an ice cream, a stupid fun souvenir, a moment to relax rather than another detailed lecture.

It’s a gentle reminder that not everyone seeks deep cultural immersion. Sometimes people just want a kitschy cheesy souvenir, a sweet treat, or a T‑shirt to take home—because, after all, they’re on vacation.

 

Together, these two films highlight an important truth: we love the idea of being bold travelers, but often what we really need is a break. Travel asks something of us. Vacation gives something back. On this trip Jay and I are on vacation.

 

Tomorrow we will take a tour of Cape Canaveral Kennedy Space Center.

 

At Sea

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Bahamas Day 7 April 24^th at Sea

 

It’s another Sea Day — yippie! Since I’m basically a seasoned MSC veteran now, here’s a fun fact: you’ll never find Deck 17 on this ship. MSC skips Deck 17 because it’s considered unlucky in Italian culture. In Roman numerals, 17 is XVII, which can be rearranged to VIXI — meaning “I have lived,” or more dramatically, “that’s the end of me.” Not exactly cruise‑vacation energy. So MSC avoids 17 entirely, just like many U.S. buildings skip the 13th floor. Superstition exists all around the world. I guess.

 

To get from our cabin on Deck 18 down to Deck 16 to our favorite cocktail hideaway, the Top Sail Lounge, we usually take the stairs. But once you crack the code, the elevators are just as effortless. You just tap your wristband against the panel like you’re unlocking a secret level, pick your deck, and let the ship do the rest. These elevators are smart—almost too smart. Step inside and there’s nothing to press, so you feel a bit lost, but they already know who you are, where you are going and whether you’re even allowed to be there. And if you’re not meant to go there… well, you might find yourself mysteriously redirected to Deck 17 instead. (that was a joke) Of course they don’t always work the way they are supposed to but impressive just the same.

 

Today is overcast and that’s ok cause we had quite a bit of sun yesterday. I decided it was time to test my luck and head down to Deck 7. That’s where the casino is, the lucky seven deck. Since it was a sea day, the place was wide open and buzzing. When a ship is in port or too close to land, the casino must stay closed, which is why sea days are prime time for anyone to strike a little luck.

 

Seven has always had that “lucky” reputation. It shows up everywhere: the Seven Wonders of the World, seven colors in the rainbow, seven continents, seven seas—seven dwarfs. But today, it wasn’t lucky seven for me. It was more like unlucky seventeen, and I walked away empty‑handed. Still, as the seasoned players like to say, “I had fun.” Though, let’s be honest—winning is always a lot more fun than losing.

In the afternoon the staff hosted an exclusive tea party for Yacht Club guests in the Top Sail Lounge. It wasn’t as fancy as the one we had on the Queen Mary last year, but it was beautifully presented by our wait staff in white gloves — a hilarious contrast to the memory of them absolutely letting loose on the dance floor the night before.

The offerings were exactly what you’d expect: scones, mini cakes, cucumber sandwiches with the crusts naturally trimmed off, and those tiny dainty puff‑ball things you pop in your mouth and immediately wonder, What exactly did I just eat? Everything was cute, petite, and very much in the category of things we would never bother making at home. I briefly wished they’d roll out their famous pizza, but I know probably wouldn’t be fittin. Like Mammy (Gone with the Wind) would say, “Just not fittin, just not fittin”. And yes, there was tea. Lots of different kinds although most people opted for champagne or wine because, well, it was 4:00 O’clock. The little petite goodies were surprisingly filling, so no dinner is required tonight.

The evening’s entertainment in the theater was called The Journey. It was a musical voyage by train through places like France, Spain, and Italy — all told through music, acrobatics, and song and dance. The whole thing was surprisingly unique, using technology, set design, and lighting to create seamless visual transitions that actually made it feel like you were traveling from country to country. It was impressive.

 

Tomorrow we will be at Ocean Cay, MSCs private Island.

 

Costa Maya

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Bahamas Day 6 April 23^rd Costa Maya

 

Costa Maya is the second‑largest cruise port in Mexico, right behind Cozumel. It’s jokingly called “Costa Maybe” because high winds sometimes cause ships to cancel port stops at the last minute, gifting everyone an extra sea day whether they wanted one or not.

 

Most people like us book cruises for the onboard fun: the food, the shows, but for plenty of travelers, the destinations matter just as much. So, when a port gets canceled, emotions can rise faster than the tide.

 

That’s what happened aboard Norwegian Cruise Line’s Spirit in 2019. We weren’t on that cruise but heard all about it. That sailing went down in cruise‑history as the legendary “mutiny cruise.” After multiple ports were canceled, thanks to weather and operational stuff, passengers collectively hit their breaking point. It was reported that hundreds gathered in the atrium chanting, “Refund! Refund! Refund!” I am not sure how it turned out.

 

Today we were torn between three options: splurge on a private luxury beach club, wander around the port, or just enjoy another relaxing day on the ship. The port is beautiful but very touristy with shops everywhere, tequila and chocolate tastings, two huge free pools, tons of restaurants, even a bird aviary. It’s fun, but it fills up fast. And since we already spent plenty of time browsing those same shops last year, we weren’t exactly eager for a repeat.

 

The beach club sounded fabulous… until we remembered that spring is peak sargassum season. And sargassum is basically seaweed—not great to look at, not great to smell, and definitely not something you want to swim in. That made the decision pretty easy, ship day it is.

 

I did a lot of research on this MSC Seashore ship before we sailed, but nothing really prepares you for how big it actually is. It’s huge, about 5,600 passengers, more than 2,200 cabins, ten restaurants, and twenty bars. It’s easily the biggest ship we’ve ever been on.

 

The best way to describe the ship would be to say it is a modern, stylish resort at sea. It’s built for people who love ocean views, outdoor areas, and, since it’s an Italian ship, it has a bit of European flair. Everything feels new, shiny, and bold. One of the flashiest features is the crystal staircase in the atrium. It’s basically a sparkly staircase with clear steps filled with crystals. When you walk on it, the light hits the crystals and makes the whole thing glitter like a giant piece of jewelry.

 

I can report food so far has been ok. We’re not foodies by any stretch, but we’ve enjoyed the filet mignon, and pasta. Nor are we big seafood eaters—aside from our favorite, crab, lobster and salmon—so I can’t really comment on the branzino with lemon butter sauce, seafood linguine, or some of the more adventurous options like beef carpaccio, octopus salad, or tuna tartare. They look interesting, we’re just not the type to branch out that far.

 

People we met poolside warned us that the specialty restaurants were hit or miss. We tried Hola Tacos the other night and, for us, that one was a miss. Another miss would be the Sushi Bar — not because it’s bad, but because we’re just not big sushi people. Plus, the whole conveyor‑belt setup gives me flashbacks to that I Love Lucy episode where she’s frantically stuffing chocolates in her mouth and hat just to keep up. I don’t need that kind of performance pressure at dinner.

 

There is also a specialty seafood restaurant Ocean Cay that boasts they have the freshest seafood on board. Our Yacht Club restaurant already serves plenty of seafood, so paying extra feels unnecessary. Also, if Ocean Cay is ‘the freshest’, I’m trying not to think too hard about what that implies about the Yacht Club’s seafood. And last is the Teppanyaki restaurant that always puts on a great show, knife juggling, food flying but, in our experience, the food rarely lives up to the entertainment. Besides, some lady is always hogging the soy sauce at the other end of the table. But hands down the best hit is the pizza! MSC an Italian ship really does the best pizza at sea. That makes sense cause if anybody knows how to make Pizza it’s the Italians.

 

After a few slices of pizza, we made our way to the White‑Hot Party on the pool deck — hands down the best party we’ve ever been to on a cruise. The DJ was blasting every crowd‑pleaser you can think of while the staff — concierges, butlers, cabin attendants, waiters, bartenders — all lined up and danced for a full hour. It was wildly fun watching them step out of their usual prim‑and‑proper roles and absolutely own the dance floor.

 

Tomorrow is a sea day, and the forecast says rain, which is fine, because today we soaked up enough sun to last us a while. At this point we’re tan, fed, and relaxed, emphasis on fed.

 

 

Cozumel

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Bahamas Day 5 Cozumel Wednesday April 22^nd

 

Today we arrived in Cozumel, Mexico. We have visited here many times over the years, and although the island has changed, it still holds its own unique charm. The water is an unreal shade of turquoise, the breeze is warm and gentle, and stepping into the sea water temperature is said to be like a perfectly heated bath. Of course, that beauty draws a crowd. With cruise ships bringing an estimated 20,000 to 30,000 passengers into port each day, the streets can turn chaotic—people rushing to tequila tastings, hunting for souvenirs, or eyeing “authentic” cigars that are anything but. Still, Cozumel stays a fantastic destination if you love scuba diving, snorkeling, water sports, or getting a close look at Mayan culture.

 

Today we were planning to stay on the ship since 90% of the passengers head ashore, the ship turns wonderfully peaceful. Then reality hit: we still needed our 10,000 steps… and Jay needed socks. So, we hopped off, figuring it was easier to walk on land than to take endless laps around the decks. I know what you’re thinking, “You came all the way to Mexico to buy socks …you guys really know how to have a good time”.

 

But ask yourself: have you ever been to a Mega Soriana in Cozumel? Most people haven’t — and honestly, it should count as an excursion. Mega is like Walmart, but better: cleaner, wide aisles, no one hustling you like in the tourist shops, and stocked with everything from beach towels to fresh tortillas… and yes, socks. If I ever write another travel book, I’ll absolutely include a trip to Mega. That’s real cultural immersion. Sure, they don’t have a ‘Swim with the Dolphins’ package, but wandering about in a local supermarket tells you more about a town than any choreographed outing ever will. We even checked out all by ourselves — just as easy as self‑checkout at Walmart. Well… except for the moment Jay didn’t put the socks in the bag, and the machine refused to let us pay. So, we had to call over the man to help us but hey, that happens at Walmart too.

 

We thought about spending the day in Playa del Carmen, but realized we’d be too rushed. It’s a 45‑minute ferry ride from Cozumel, and as much as we love Playa — it’s one of our favorite places in Mexico — today just wasn’t the day to squeeze it in. On our first visit to Playa del Carmen, it had this wonderfully laid‑back, local feel. Over the years it’s evolved, as great places often do, and it’s now a vibrant, in‑demand destination. These days you’ll find luxury shopping, stylish bars, and more high‑end restaurants and the abundance of tourists.

 

I still have such great memories from our last trip. We met two guys from Pennsylvania, and somehow the four of us ended up in this tiny restaurant that basically felt like someone’s living room, maybe five tables total. “The food was incredible — you can never go wrong with “Tacos al pastor.”.

 

One of the guys had what I thought was a cool job: he worked in project development for Crayola. His whole world revolved around creating and naming crayon colors. He told us Crayola has made more than 200 colors over the years, with about 175 still in rotation. And apparently the most popular box they sell is the one with 152 crayons with crazy wild names like Jazz berry, Radical Red, and Canary.  Just to show how much things change, when I was ten, I had the starter box of ten crayons, and the names were literally just Blue, Red, Yellow. That was it. Anyway, from where I’m stretched out on the sundeck overlooking Cozumel, the water is pure Cerulean Blue—a shade that, incidentally, is the name of a crayon, probably invented by the guy we met.

 

After our big shopping adventure, we spent the afternoon by the pool — and in the pool — chatting with other passengers. The weather was warm, the kind of warm where you suddenly appreciate every cloud that drifts in front of the sun. We grabbed lunch at the Grill by the pool, but the selections were… interesting. Not burgers, dogs and fries but pasta, chicken, and pork chops that are not exactly lounger‑friendly. That’s the kind of lunch you eat sitting upright at a table with a napkin tucked in, not half‑reclined by the pool trying not to drop a pork chop on your swimsuit.

 

Tonight’s show was the comedian Azeem with a set called, “I Am Just Serious”. We decided to skip it. In our experience, cruise‑ship comedy is… not great. They’re always trying to play on both sides, terrified of offending anyone, and the result is a string of tired, lukewarm jokes that land with a thud. Half the time I feel bad for the comedian because nobody’s laughing, and the other half I feel bad for myself because I am sitting through it. So yes — “I Am Just Serious” and we didn’t go.

 

Tomorrow we are in Costa de Maya.

Sea Day

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Tuesday April 21st Our First Sea Day

 

We’re now on day three of our cruise and between dinner, cocktail hour, and the evening shows, we’ve a met, a few fellow passengers. After taking more than a couple dozen cruises over the years, I’ve started to notice a pattern—there are certain “types” who always seem to appear, no matter the ship, the itinerary, or the ocean.

 

There are the social butterflies—the ones who look forward to chatting with strangers and somehow know everyone by day two. Then, there are the shy, quiet types who just want to be left alone with a book, expertly avoiding crowds and keeping to themselves. You’ve also got the party people: first at the bar, last to leave, always with a drink in hand. And of course, the foodies—those who plan their entire day around meals and have strong opinions about bread.  And let’s not forget the passengers whose outfits suggest they got dressed in the dark — plus the boldly confident ones who clearly believe the world deserves a generous, front‑row view of their low necklines. They make you smile, shake your head, and enjoy the spectacle. Honestly, a cruise just wouldn’t feel the same without them.”

 

Oh, a quick note about our neighbors. They are definitely party people. We ended up next door to what might be the most enthusiastic {loud} couple on the ship. They love their deck, they love having their friends over, and they love a good, hearty laugh. I am sure they are fun people… but I am just as sure they probably will not be our new best friends.

 

Today, like most sea days, there’s a whole buffet of things to do besides going to the buffet. And honestly, that’s why I love sea days. You’ve got the freedom to do whatever strikes you in the moment… or to do absolutely nothing at all, which is sometimes the real luxury. Today we did our predicted list of things, reading a book, having a Bloody Mary at 9 O’clock in the morning and being lazy.

 

We poked our heads into the 11a.m. cocktail party on the pool deck, where there were a handful of our fellow passengers lurking about — mainly because the weather is, in a word, crummy. Not cold, not dramatic… just that special brand of overcast, gray, vaguely‑moist yuck that drives people indoors to drink.

 

Tonight is Gala Night, which is basically the ship’s polite way of saying, “Hey folks, maybe try looking like you own a pair of real pants”. It’s not formal‑formal, but definitely a strong nudge toward smart casual — which, in plain English, means don’t be ridiculous. Put on long pants and leave the flip‑flops in your cabin. Of course, people will still do whatever they want. That’s just the era we live in. Jay and I will do our best to be smart and blend in.

 

Because it’s Gala Night, the restaurant rolled out the fancy stuff — filet mignon and lobster. I’m not a huge lobster eater, but I went for it anyway because, let’s be honest, lobster screams ‘special occasion,’ and we’re on a cruise.  It was pretty good. It’s amazing what a pound of melted butter can do. Naturally, we followed it up with crepe suzette.

 

After dinner we headed to the show, Rock Royalty — which basically means they hit us with all the classics: ‘Hit Me With Your Best Shot,’ ‘We Are the Champions,’ ‘We Will Rock You’. The audience was all in, with plenty of people standing, singing, and fully living their rock‑star moment as Jay nodded off.

 

Tomorrow we will be in Cozumel, hopefully find some sun.

From the MSC Seashore

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Bahamas Day 3 Nassau

 

Today we arrived in Nassau, Bahamas. Nassau is one of the 700 islands that make up the Bahamas, and as the capital, it’s home to nearly 70% of the country’s population. It’s undeniably beautiful, with turquoise water and colorful buildings, but it also attracts a lot of tourists. As soon as the ships dock, crowds spill onto the main street, eager to browse the duty‑free shops, diamond boutiques, and luxury stores in hopes of scoring a deal. Good luck with that.

 

We’ve been to Nassau a few times before during quick cruise stopovers, but years ago we spent two full weeks in Freeport—a wonderfully laid‑back, sun‑drenched island where the biggest daily decision was “beach now or beach later.” It was blissfully stress‑free… right up until the morning we woke to find our bedroom floor has a couple inches of water thanks to a burst water pipe. The landlords moved us, of course, but let’s just say the new place had a lot less “island charm” but at least it was dry.

 

On past visits to Nassau, we always remembered the white‑gloved traffic policemen standing proudly in their little wooden booths, blowing whistles like they were conducting a symphony and directing cars with impressively crisp hand signals. But on today’s walkabout, that whole charming tradition seems to have disappeared, replaced by modern traffic lights doing the job with far less flair. Things always seem to change, don’t they.

 

We skipped the organized tours today and decided to explore at our own pace. Today’s walkabout we deliberately stepped out of the tourist bubble, venturing into the real Nassau, the part behind the curtain. There the streets were old, crumbling worn down and clearly in need of help. We know from our travels every destination has two sides, the one polished for the visitor with the diamonds and Gucci bags and the one shaped by the people who actually live there. The truth of a place probably is the one found in the cracks.  Speaking of cracks, the city center is walkable, until you wander past it. Then you are walking on rubble and on narrow roads. We had to hold our breath for passing buses and politely step over and around napping dogs.

 

On an earlier trip here, we went to the Atlantis resort which is much more than a hotel and casino. It is a massive, over‑the‑top tropical playground, complete with pink towers, lagoons, and a sprawling water park.  It was on that trip we went snorkeling in the warm, clear waters and took a boat ride past the homes of Oprah Winfrey and Nicolas Cage. Unsurprisingly, neither of them popped out to wave.

We’re not big souvenir shoppers, so we didn’t return to the ship with diamonds or fancy straw bags. But we did snag a slice of rum cake from a free sample tray—hard to resist, especially since the Bahamas are famous for it. Our other must‑do stop was a beachfront café, where we sipped a Bahama Mama and soaked in the ocean view. The drink mixes rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, and grenadine, and it was named after Dottie Lee Anderson, a Bahamian calypso dancer who rose to popularity in the 1930s.

 

Back on the ship, for dinner we headed to the specialty Mexican restaurant, HOLA! Tacos & Cantina. Specialty is code for you pay extra for it. It was a bright, casual spot that had a reputation of serving ‘delish’ Mexican and Latin American street‑food favorites—tacos, nachos, quesadillas, churros, and of course, margaritas.  We didn’t think the meal was all that ‘delish’, although impressed by the selection of hot sauces which were definitely needed to spice things up.

 

After finishing our guacamole and carne asada tacos, we headed to the theatre to see “Encore”. This show featured Broadway style hits from big musicals like Westside Story, Phantom of the Opera, Cats and more. And don’t worry, I made sure to choose a seat far, far away from the Diva singing in my ear last night. I don’t know what she would have done if they sang “Do you hear the people Sing”, a voluntary anthem from Les Miserable that is a rallying cry for the people who feel oppressed and want to rise up together.

 

After the show we grabbed a nightcap at the Yacht Club bar and listened to a few great piano tunes. Returning to our cabin there was an invitation inviting us to a special officer’s cocktail party tomorrow morning at 11AM. Seriously, who throws a cocktail party at 11AM? Makes you wonder who’s steering the ship and how many Bloody Mary’s they have had. But hey, we like Bloody Mary’s so maybe we will go.

Jain and Jay Cruising

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Bahamas Day 2 Sunday April 19^th Cruise Day

Port Canaveral holds the title of the busiest cruise port in the world—yes, the entire world. It’s wild to think that the globe’s top cruise hub sits right beside one of the largest rocket launch sites and space centers on Earth, all surrounded by some of Florida’s most impressive wildlife.

Our hotel overlooks the Banana River Lagoon, a perfect spot for watching pelicans, ospreys, seagulls, and all kinds of coastal birds. If we’re lucky, we might even spot a manatee. These gentle “sea cows” can stretch up to 10 feet long and weigh around 1,000 pounds. They’re known for being calm, slow-moving, and curious creatures, even though they’re technically herbivores—not carnivores I would prefer any encounter to be from dry land rather than while out swimming.

This morning we felt the sonic boom from Jeff Bezo’s, the Amazon guy, launching his reusable rocket booster to help lower the cost of accessing space. I can’t help wondering when that same innovation might get my packages to the front porch a little faster.

Our boarding time is not until 2:00 but we hop on the early shuttle to the MSC Seashore. It’s not that far from our hotel but seems like we were dodging traffic, deciphering a street maze. This is our first MSC cruise, and we’re excited. We went all‑in and booked the Yacht Club, which is basically a ship hiding inside another ship—complete with its own bar, restaurant, hot tubs, and sun decks. It’s like cruising VIP style.

As Yacht Club guests we get escorted on board first. Checking in was an interesting experience, the crew seemed like they had a plan, but as a guest I was not convinced. We were given a glass of champagne that helped smooth the process. Once at our cabin we unpacked then headed off to lunch, or “launch,” which might be the better word because we are fully prepared to blast straight into vacation mode.

After we wander around the ship. I was already familiar with the ship, because like with all our trips, I spend a lot of time researching the ship and our destinations. Planning ahead is part of the fun of traveling—it’s part of the vacation itself. There’s something enjoyable about having something to look forward to and the trip becomes the reward for all that preparation.

We’re absolutely thrilled to be staying in the Yacht Club cabins — especially because Yacht Club guests get their own private elevators. We can zip down to Deck 4 or up to Deck 20 without ever having to squeeze in with the crowds from the rest of the ship. It feels like real luxury. At least on this trip, we won’t be crammed into an overloaded elevator with fifteen people, including adults eating hot dogs with relish dripping onto the floor. (Yes… that really happened on our last cruise.)

The ship is supposed to sail away from the port at 4 p.m. so, we join fellow Yacht Club guests on the private pool deck in the Top Sail Lounge for a relaxed sail‑away celebration but we’re not moving.   There is supposed to be music drifting in the background while we take in the scenery: stretches of beach, glimpses of wildlife, NASA landmarks, and crowds waving from the shore, but nothing was happening. It seems the ship has a problem with refueling, but who doesn’t these days. After two long hours we slowly glide away from the port… and like everybody else we forget the sail away party, its dinnertime.

After dinner we attended the Divas show, a tribute style revue of famous legendary female performers. It was high energy show and would have been really good if the lady behind me wasn’t singing along with every tune... but then again who doesn’t want to be a diva these days.

Tomorrow we will be in Nassau.

Jain and Jay Travel Storie

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Saturday April 18^th  On Our Way

 

After spending the night at the Peppermill Casino—our usual choice when we have an early 6:00 a.m. flight—we headed out for our trip to Orlando and then on to Port Canaveral for our 11‑day Bahamas cruise. The itinerary wasn’t bad at all: a short hop to Salt Lake City and then straight on to Orlando. As many of you know, airport time is the worst, so the fewer stops the better. Even going through TSA wasn’t bad — of course it was only 5 a.m. and at that hour the agents still seem to have a bit more patience and kindness to spare.

 

Having flown more than 850,000 miles, you’d think I’d be completely comfortable with flying. I’m not. I don’t worry about a pilot who might be going through a personal crisis, or a sudden mechanical failure like a fuel‑pump issue or a turbine malfunction, or even the plane going down in a fireball because of a thunderstorm no one saw coming. No—the thing that unsettles me most these days is the other passengers.

 

First, we have the aisle blocker. This is the person who steps onto the plane, walks three feet, and then just… stops. Suddenly the middle of the aisle becomes the perfect place to reorganize their entire life. They’re pulling out jackets, laptops, and snacks. Meanwhile, the rest of us are stacked behind them like dominos. Then comes the seat confusion specialist. Why does boarding a plane make grown adults forget how numbers and the alphabet work? You hear: “Sir, that’s my seat.” “No, it’s not.” Then he stares at his ticket like it’s written in ancient hieroglyphics. “Oh… my mistake.” Yep. Yep, it is. Next is the overhead bin engineer. This person tries to fit a suitcase into the bin that clearly violates the laws of physics. They push. They shove. The flight attendant gently says, “Sir, it’s not going to fit.” And he responds with the confidence of a man who has never been wrong: “No, no, I’ve got it.” Then there’s the loud phone call person. They’re boarding the plane while simultaneously closing a business deal, breaking up with someone, or ordering something on Amazon that they don’t need. Everyone within a five-row radius now knows their entire life story. And finally, the slow walker. They stroll down the aisle like they’re on a museum tour, admiring the overhead lights, smiling, living their best life—while creating a traffic jam that delays everyone behind them. This is why I order a Bloody Mary the moment I’m allowed. Do I want a Bloody Mary at 6 a.m.? Not really. Do I need one? Without question.

 

It felt like a small miracle when we arrived in Orlando and saw our driver waiting for us in the arrivals hall, holding a sign with our name on it. The ride to Port Canaveral took about 45 minutes, and our taxi driver turned out to be the quiet type. In our experience, drivers are usually either chatty or completely silent so they can focus on the road while flying through a 50 mph zone at 80 miles an hour.

 

We pulled up to the Radisson Hotel in Port Canaveral, close to where our cruise will set sail. We always arrive a day early. Seasoned travelers know it’s wise to get as close to your departure point as possible. And by “seasoned,” I mean well‑aged and have had a few travel mishaps over the years that have definitely added some spice as well as grey hair.

 

Traveling from the West Coast to the East Coast is supposed to be easier thanks to the time change, but after waking up at 4 a.m. to catch an early flight, it doesn’t really matter. At this point, all we want is to settle in, sip a glass of wine, find some dinner, and call it an early night. Tomorrow, the real adventure begins—cruise day.