Embarkation---What a fantastic cruise we had. We arrived in Southampton on July 9th and stayed overnight at the Holiday Inn. The hotel was what we expected but we were very happy to know that we were so close to the ships. There were 2 other ships in port on Saturday morning and the hotel had many excited potential passengers. This made for some great conversations before we left. We had the hotel call for a taxi and within five minutes we were on our way. The funny part of this was that the driver dropped us off right next to the conveyer belt to take our luggage. The driver actually put our bags on the belt and left. I was caught off guard with my tip money for a porter in hand that I tipped the conveyer belt worker for just standing there. Excitement does wierd things to you.

Entering the ship--- We went straight to our cabin after about a 45 minute wait and knew we were home for a few weeks. Although we were pretty familiar with the layout of th ship, we got up and went exploring ending up at the Horizon Court for our first of many meals. Horizon court is okay with the only complaint being that I wish that the people who worked in there would smile and talk to us a bit more.

Beginning the cruise--- The first day on the ship and I am excited and want everyone to feel good as well. We went to the muster drill and got ready to go to our early seating dinner. When we got to the table for 6, we met our new table mates Liz and Maxine who informed us that the other 2 from our table did not want this table and went to get another. The next day, we were talking to some cruise critic members, Gary and Sharron who did not like their tablemates. They contacted the Matri D and switched to our table which was fantastic. They are also a great couple and if they are reading this, please remember the salt and pepper fiasco. Read more