I recently returned from my first cruise--a Transatlantic Crossing on the Queen Mary 2. It was a fantastic experience that I recommend for anyone. Background: I traveled solo; I am a 52 year-old man.

FELLOW PASSENGERS: The majority were 50s (late 40s), with about 10% 20s and 30s and another 10% 70s and 80s; very few children. About 40% each American (and Canadian) and British, with a sizeable contingent of Germans; some Asian, Russian, Scandinavian, etc. Very mixed group.

ENTERTAINMENT AND ACTIVITIES: A lot to do; during the day: planetarium shows, Oxford lectures, dance and cooking demonstrations, dancing and acting and bridge lessons, and other things (bingo, a book club meeting); at night: show presentations (music and dance), movies (also during the day), music in many of the lounges; plays by the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts (RADA) during the day too). Also fitness and nutrition lectures conducted by spa personnel; exercise classes, massages, sports activities. My favorite healthy activity--early morning walks around the promenade deck. The great library on board did not get as much use as I had planned; I barely made a dent in the book I took out (or those I brought with me). Too much to do! Read more