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| A small rescue boat anchored to the side of the ship. |
“Sightings on the Ship in Australia”
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| Not sure what this display is about… footballs of some sort? |
With the election behind us, we can now return our focus to life aboard ship. That’s not to imply that our focus has diverted from having a great time. But it has been on the minds of most Americans and others worldwide for some time, and often the topic of conversation among our fellow passengers, both Americans, and Australians.
I’m looking forward to being able to read the posts and see photos of family, friends and readers on Facebook without the toxic vitriol espoused by those expressing their personal views of either candidate.
At times over this past year, I’d considered giving up on FB, but its also been a great means of seeing family and friends photos and staying in touch across the miles of sea between us.
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| Clothing for sale in one of the ship’s shops. |
Hopefully, now and in the future, opinions will be focused on our own efforts to make the US and the world a better place with love, understanding and compassion in the forefront. Amid that, supporting our new President’s efforts will surely unite our country whether we agree with his plans and ideas at this time. Time will tell.
Speaking of our readers, yesterday we received this letter from a long time loyal reader Tom met long ago on another cruise. Of course, I asked her permission to post her letter to which she happily agreed. I’ve also included my response.
Please see below:
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| Men’s clothing. |
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| Logo wear. |
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| Perfume and cologne shop. |
We don’t like big cities but you may. We no longer care if the weather is ideal. We’re looking for the experience. We don’t care to live in apartments. You may find this works for you.
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| Tourist trinkets. |
Then, Elaine responded again:
“Sure, go ahead and post my email Jess and Tom. Thank you for your responses. They actually do help a lot. We want to do Antarctica too, and the Northwest passage. We must see the pyramids in Egypt. wo years probably won’t be enough, but as long as finances hold and we don’t get tired of travelling (not likely for us) we probably keep going.
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| Bargain tables with handbags. |
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| Scuba, beach and snorkeling products. |
Photo from one year ago today, November 10, 2015:
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| One year ago, we visited the dentist in Fiji when Tom developed an abscessed tooth. The bill for the dentist visit was surprising at FJD 6, USD $2.76, AU 3.60. The two antibiotic prescriptions were “free’ when we walked across the parking lot in the local hospital’s pharmacy. For the full story and photos, please click here. |
I am in utter awe of you guys, who have the confidence to sell up all and fulfill long held dreams of travel. I am unsure if I want to travel, and with the wonders of our technological age I see many thing that I never imagined through wonderful television documentaries and on the Internet. I agree with Elaine, that a regular truthful blog with stories from the horse's mouth, often gives far more of a real picture and flavour of the culture and country than the usual common views of well visited locations.
Good luck on your planning and travels Elaine. The world is an amazing place!
Liz, we are so appreciative of your kinds and flattering comments. Elaine will be pleased to see your thoughtful wishes for she and her husband. The world truly is an amazing place.
In today's world the readily available media showing us the world is often satisfying enough for some who'd prefer the avoid the hustle and bustle and demands of travel. But, for some of us nomad types, first hand is all that will do.
Love to you both,
Jess & Tom