Background
We mostly cruise with Viking, Tauck, and with others, but three years ago we saw this itinerary and we couldn't wait - and then we waited three years. We are also introverts, so there are things Oceania offers that are simply not relevant to us - the bar scene, the entertainment, the casino, the sea day activities. We spend a little more for a larger room where we can happily hang out and read our books. We need a balcony. We try to select a room close to the internet servers.
Trip to Port
Spacious and serene, lovely colors, immaculately maintained. Everything worked. When we reported a slight rattle, it was fixed in the next hour. Beautiful, spacious balcony. This lovely cabin was our sanctuary.
Abu Dhabi has so much to offer. We particularly enjoyed the Heritage Souks, with artisans who demonstrated techniques for weaving, beating copper, making weapons, making men's and women's cloaks, and boat-making. Abu Dhabi has wonderful modern malls and grocery stores, excellent restaurants and hotels, and reasonable taxi prices. They have a new Louvre and some truly fabulous architecture.