Flashback Friday To Alaska In September
Alaska Day 1 - prep and go
It took seven months to arrive, but Ray and I were off on his 60th birthday adventure - Alaska! Let's back up to January 2016. The new year arrived and also a big birthday in August. What did he want to do? Scuba, beach, baseball? After some deliberation he chose an Alaskan cruise. Now, which cruise, what excursions, gone for how long? A big trip takes time to plan with many choices. We solicited advice and came up with a satisfactory choice. Holland America's next to last cruise in September. Two week land and sea combo - cruise from Vancouver to Seward, then Anchorage to Denali for some tundra wilderness, and return by train to Anchorage. This would certainly give us a nice overview of Alaska and a worthy adventure. So, let's get started.
Saturday September 3rd - fly to Vancouver, Canada. Never been there, but had the day to explore. We checked into the Four Seasons - fancy- and then walked to the Cactus Cafe. Awesome cool, modern dining experience. It was a sunny Saturday, but everyone walking by had umbrellas. Guess the weather is as fickle there as in Texas. Full, we strolled along the harbor enjoying glorious scenic views. Our destination was Stanley Park - a 1000 square mile variety of statues, trees, gardens, totems, and history. The trolley ride is worth the money. Splendid day and introduction to Vancouver. We would like to come back and explore more of the city.
However, on to Alaska. Let's cruise. Sunday, September 4th at high noon we join the cattle call to board. It's actually very well organized - Holland America has done this a few times. The Noordam holds 2500 guests and 700 crew. It is a "small" ship. I am impressed. Our stateroom 4040 is big enough for two people and it does have a small verandah with two chairs. Ray sprang for the outer scenic room. What the heck - you only turn sixty once. We got our bearings by finding the Lido deck and the lunch buffet (along with seemingly everyone else on the ship). It was zooey but tasty food.
Time for the 2 pm tour with Showguy Andy. This was informative. After our tour we went back to the bow of the ship for the 5 pm farewell to Vancouver. We waved farewell to not only Canada but sunshine and blue skies.
So, dinner time at the Vista Lounge. Time to indulge in grilled salmon and a superb dessert. The portions are just right, and the quality is stupendous. Now what? We are a tad tired but we find the BB King grup musik show - excellent musicians and plenty of soul singing. It's been a full day. Time for bed. The room is dark, it's darn quiet, and there's no movement.
Sleep well. Each day brings a new adventure
This is just the start. I shall regale you with more adventures as we cruise to Alaska.
Meanwhile, have a super good March weekend - it's blustery here in TX with rain expected. You never know what's in store.
Categories:
alaska,
holland america
0 komentar:
Posting Komentar