C'est La Vie - Such is Life

Hello Everyone,

I can't believe that this is my last full cruise of the month of may and third to last cruise of my contract. I'm closer and closer to coming home and I can't wait to finally see my family and be back (the Cheers song just came into my head) "where people know my name"…lol. With that dork moment…haha…lets go onto this past cruise from Southampton, UK to Barcelona, Spain.

Thursday, May 19th we were in Southampton, UK where we were embarking guests for the 7 day cruise ahead. Today was suppose to the day where I get to see my Mom and Nene for the first time in 9 months but unfortunately…due to plane problems..my mom and nene weren't able to make it to cruise with me. I was really upset and trying to get as much information as I could…but today was the first time that I got REALLY frustrated with the fact that I had no way of getting ahold of my family or only having a limited time frame where I could. In a situation like this…you really need a phone or some other form of communication and it just made me feel helpless….which is something that I hate. So this day really sucked to be quite honest….except I am happy to report that my Mom and Nene are okay and back in Ohio. Just wasn't meant for them to come see me….which now I just have to move on and look forward to seeing them soon.

Friday, May 20th we were at sea traveling to our first port of the cruise. Today was a lazy day and doing duties….I was still bummed about the fact that I couldn't be with my Mom and Nene. Had a lot of time to think and boy, did I have a lot of happening…the fact that the world cruise is over and all the places that I've visited….my contract coming to an end…and the whole not seeing my Mom and Nene…just a lot of stuff happening. 

Saturday, May 21st we were in La Coruna, Spain and Jodie, Lesley, Greg and I got off early to just enjoy the day. We walked by the harbor and found some great cafes which had some free wifi….which is always a plus. It was nice to be able to catch up on things and with people that I haven't talk to in a long time. Today marked the day that I had been on the ship for 9 months…can you believe that? Its been quite a long time that I've been gone and I can't believe that its almost over….what a journey. While I was sitting in the cafe, I just took a moment to really take everything in with the fact of being in another country and how the people live and interact with each other. Its just cool too see a group of older people meet in this cafe and have their weekly time together, while I'm just visiting for the day. It was just a cool way of watching how life in other countries are. I don't know if that makes any sense to you or not but…it does to me and I cherish these kind of moments throughout my contract….they are really fun. Later on in the day, Lesley, Jodie and myself walked over to this mall that we had seen by the port. I had a great time Skyping with my Mom. Let me tell you…that is one thing that has saved me throughout this contract…Skype. To be able to schedule a time to talk with my mom and also video chat….has made this long time apart a little bit easier. I just can't wait for the moment where I can run and give my Mom a huge hug…SO SOON!!! 

Sunday, May 22nd we were in Vigo, Spain for half a day and I had a great time by myself walking around the city. When I got off the ship, I was QUITE hungry so I headed around the city trying to find something to eat. Nothing really popped out at me so I kept having to walk around this actually really pretty place…which wasn't a bad thing. I was just enjoying my time off the ship…trying to experience this brand new port that we hadn't been to before. Eventually, I gave up my search to have some great Spanish food and I just made my way to Burger King….don't judge me…haha. Had a good meal and then I decided to go and sit by the harbor and sit in the sun and again, take in my surroundings. Sat there for quite a long time just taking everything in….I have had a lot on my mind lately…just trying to make sense out of this crazy year that I have been through….its very overwhelming to think about. After a nice time by the harbor, I headed back to the ship where we set sail and were heading to our next port of call. We have had a great cruise thus far…performing every night again…it feels great…I've missed that.

Monday, May 23rd we were in Lisbon, Portugal again and of course, I was on IPM and couldn't get off. Had the normal boing IPM day of duties and just laying around the room. Today, I got out of the room and went up on the top deck where I read a book a little bit and enjoyed being in the sun…it was a great time. I can't believe that I only have 2 more IPM days left of my contract….everything is coming to an end…its strange.

Tuesday, May 24th we were at sea and this would be our second to last sea day for the remainder of my contract which I'm TOTALLY fine about…haha. Sea days are really quite boring and I hate the fact that I spend the days wishing time away…thats an awful way of living but thats all I can do on sea days…WHOOSH…so boring. 

Wednesday, May 25th we were in Alicante, Spain and Lesley and I had a great day off and going to the beach. We got off early in the morning to catch the shuttle bus and try to figure out the closets beach to us. We got off the bus quite close to the port and walked by the shore just checking out Alicante for the first time. We were both very hungry so we made sure that we got something to eat before we went to the beach. Had a great meal and had a great show happening right next to us the entire meal. We had the guys selling fake sun glasses on the boardwalk and anytime that the police would come they would all scatter like rats…and then they would appear again to display their stuff…was hilarious. Then we had this guy that we thought was on the phone with someone sit next to us…to discover that he was just talking to himself the entire time…hmmm, Alicante…you have some strange people. After lunch, we headed to the beach to lay out and people watched. We played a few games and played some "What do you think their conversation is about" with some people on the beach. Then we had a college exchange group of girls from South Carolina come sit behind us and Lesley found that to be quite interesting. Trying to listen to their conversation and we discussed how in groups there is always the smart, beautiful, friend to everyone girl….the dumb one that all the guys always talk to because of some reason…the party girl that doesn't care what people think about her or what she says….always the tag along girl, that will switch personalities to whomever she is nearest and the quite one…the one that fits in and people like her…but she is always mute…nothing contributing from her. It was just hilarious talking about this stuff with Lesley…what a great girl she is and I'm really not looking forward to saying goodbye to her in two weeks. She is an incredible friend that I have on the ship….she always has my back and I have hers. She is the first person that I have met in a while that is SO outgoing and is game to do anything…very adventurous but the best trait that she has…she is a great listener. She will give you her opinion but she listens and is there for you whenever….I really think she is the best.

Thursday, May 26th is the end of the cruise in Barcelona, Spain. I can't believe how FAST this cruise has gone. Being so use to 14, 16, 21 day cruises…a 7 day cruise just FLEW. We had the normal embarkation duties that we normally have on these days…and I had the opportunity to go out into Barcelona for the last time before I come back in two weeks to fly back home. I like the city of Barcelona…defiantly a favorite of mine. I love walking the Ramblas and getting the feel of the city…its great. I took a nice, slow walk up the Ramblas before I had to head back to the ship and sail off to our next port…embarking on our second to last cruise of my contract…I can't believe that its coming to an end. 

Our next cruises itinerary is: Marseille, France on May 27th / Monte Carlo, Monaco for the Formula One Grand Prix on May 28th and 29th / St. Tropez, France on May 30th / Portofino, Italy on May 31st / Portoferraio, Italy on June 1st and ending this cruise in Civitavecchia, Italy on June 2nd to start the LAST cruise of my contract….I can't believe how fast this is going.

Until Next Time, 

Jason

The World Cruise comes to an end....

Hello Everyone,

I can't believe that I'm about to type about the last cruise of the world cruise. We started the world cruise 4 months ago….traveled all around the world and now are finally back to where I started…how strange is that. Well, lets not waste any time…

Sunday, May 3rd we are in Athens, Greece with an embarkation day for the last segment of the world cruise. It was a long, emotional day for me…for many different reasons. In this terminal (which was the first place that we worked embarkation day back in August) it is a bit confusing and you have to stand outside and direct people to the ship (which I wanted to be like….you see that big huge white thing that you can't miss…thats the ship…but I couldn't..haha). In the terminal last year, I remember that there were these dogs that walked around…couldn't remember their names but remembered them from a year ago. As I stood there, emotional with a lot of stuff that has been happening lately, the dog came over to me and laid right at my feet and looked up at me….he had to know that I was upset. Made me feel good and at the same time…missed my dog a lot. After that moment, I was feeling a little better and I continued on with my day…working the full day of embarkation….and it has BEGUN!!!!

Monday, May 4th we were at sea on our way to Taormina, Sicily, Italy (going back to one of my favorite places…ITALIA!!!!) Today, I was thinking about the fact that I'm so close to be done with the sea days….I can't believe it. Again, it was a boring day at sea…the normal duties and watching the water go by…haha. After spending so long at sea with so many sea days…you get sick of seeing water go by…haha. 

Tuesday, May 5th we are in Taormina, Sicily, Italy (HAPPY 24TH BIRTHDAY TO ME!!!!!!) and I had a wonderful day. Went out into the city of Taormina with Jodie, Greg and Jodie's parents who are traveling with us for 7 days. It was nice to see them again…hadn't seen them since Christmas time. I love the city of Taormina and its everything that I remembered it to be. Walking down the main street of Taormina…the smells, the friendly faces, the beautiful flowers blooming…I just loved being back in Italy…made me really happy. The feeling walking around just felt very homey…even though I know I'm thousands of miles from home….haha. We walked around a little bit and did some shopping that we needed to do, got an Italia shirt that I've wanted for a year….FINALLY. Afterwards, we had a WONDERFUL lunch on the cliffside…had a beautiful view of the sea and Mt. Edna…what a wonderful day. Later, we made it back to the ship and had a wonderful birthday celebration. The cast got me some really great things for my birthday and I'm so blest to have such wonderful friends here on the ship. We played some games that night in the crew lounge to celebrate my birthday and Jodie's. What a GREAT birthday!!!

Wednesday, May 6th we were in Sorrento, Italy (which is one of my favorite ports in Italy) and celebrated Jodie's 21st birthday. Unfortunately, I was on IPM this day and I couldn't get off with Jodie to celebrate the day…which was sad but fine…got some a lone time which was great. Had the normal IPM duties and enjoyed the spring sun….it was great sitting outside and looking at the beautiful Italian coastline…this area of the world is very beautiful…I'm going to miss it. Once the cast came back on board, we had a celebration in Jodie's parents suite and had a great time just talking and being together. Tonight we had to perform Euro 2011 (our favorite show…not…haha) but had a great time.  I really can't believe that we are back in this part of the world, just really strange to wrap my mind around.

Thursday, May 7th we were in Civitavecchia, Italy where for the first time…we could actually enjoy the city instead of doing an embarkation day. This day…I got to go into Rome, which is somewhere I've ALWAYS wanted to go to….I'm so excited that I got to go. We (Lesley, Jen and myself) took the fast train into the city, which took 45 mins. It was a beautiful view the entire way in…the Italian country side is absolutely gorgeous. Once we arrived to Rome, I couldn't believe that just in a mile walk…I would be at the Vatican. It was hard for me to wrap my mind around the fact that I had a seen the Vatican so many times on the TV and always wanted to go there and see it for myself. Standing in St. Peter's Square was just remarkable and I just stood there for a minute to take it all in…just nuts that I was actually there. Eventually, we made our way into St. Peter's and was just astounded by the massive building that we were in. Around this time, it was the beautification of John Paul II, the late pope. It was cool that his tomb was brought into the church..so it was awesome that I got to see that and be apart of that history. We followed a group of people that were going down into the crypts (we didn't know where they were going at first…but just followed them anyway) and it was so cool to be in this area where all the Popes of the past were buried…it was really cool. After spending our time in the Basilica, we stopped in the gift shop that was run by Nuns…which was funny to see all these Nuns selling things and taking money and being saleswoman…just made me laugh for a little while. Afterwards, I used my awesome map and directional skills (something that I learned from my dad) and we made our way to the Coliseum. Walking from the Vatican to the Coliseum was a good distance but I loved the walk…to just see Rome for what it was….a beautiful city. Walking down the main street to the Coliseum…it was just strange to actually see this awesome landmark that everyone knows…but there it was, actually in front of me. We got in line and stood for a while to get into the Coliseum and see the inside. I will say, I thought that it was going to be a little bigger than it actually was but I really don't know what I was expecting but it was still awesome. Afterwards, we wanted to walk to see the Fontana di Trevi (The Trevi Fountain) and so we made our way over there. Actually being there as well was just awesome…I've seen this area on the movies so many times but there I was…sitting on its edge. Lesley and I threw a coin over our shoulder…which we are told that you are suppose to do there…it was cool. Afterwards, we went down the street and had a wonderful Italian meal….gosh, I love Italian food. Afterwards, we had to hurry back to the Vatican, where we had to get back on the fast train for the 45 min ride back to Civitavecchia. Since it was such a LONG day…all 3 of us fell asleep on the ride back, which made the train ride that much quicker…haha. WHAT A WONDERFUL, WONDERFUL DAY IN ROME!!! Another dream come true…

Friday, May 8th we are BACK in Monte Carlo, Monaco…another one of my favorite ports. Lesley and I got off to get lunch at our favorite restaurant called Stars and Bars…they have really great food. When we walked down the marina, we noticed all the signs and displays for the Formula One Grand Prix…which is just strange that we are going to be seeing so soon.  I can remember talking about the Grand Prix a year ago…when we were in Monte Carlo…thinking that it was so far away and here I am…about to experience the Grand Prix. Lesley and I had a wonderful lunch and enjoyed the free wifi that is at the restaurant…another reason why its a favorite of ours. Jodie and Greg came and sat with us later on, after she spent the time with her family and we had a great time just talking and enjoying being back in our favorite place, Monte Carlo.

Saturday, May 9th we were in Barcelona, Spain and again we finally got to enjoy the city instead of doing an embarkation day. I got off in the morning and just enjoyed walking around the Las Ramblas and being in Barcelona. I had to go back and do a duty this day in the middle of the day, which was a bummer but c'est la vie (such is life).  When I came back, I couldn't get over how tired I was…so I took a nap for a while…I guess I was tired. Later that evening, I didn't want to stay on the ship…we were having an overnight in Barcelona…get out there and enjoy it. I went off with our cruise director Fernando, his cousin, our HR manager Rachel and Iris. We had a lovely meal in a Tapas bar where I am proud to say that I had mussels, crab, octopus and shrimp. Now if you know me…I'm not a seafood person but to tell you the truth…I actually enjoyed the mussels. Now am I going to go home and substitute Taco Bell for mussels….HA…but if its at a cocktail party that I'm at…I'll have one or two…haha. Afterwards, we got some GREAT ice cream and just walked down the Ramblas. While walking, Fernando came over to me and said, "Jason, watch whats going to happen in front of us…someone is about to get robbed". I was like, "uhhhh okay"…and wouldn't you know…there was this girl in front of us getting robbed. The guy that robbed her, used a newspaper to put her pocketbook in and just walked away…I couldn't believe that I witnessed it. Fernando went and told the girls and off they ran…the opposite direction than the guy that Fernando told them he went…stupid girls. It was just strange to witness it and I made sure that I moved my wallet from my back pocket, to the pocket in my shirt…haha….made me look like I had a tumor on my chest…but at least I knew where my wallet was. What a great day in Barcelona….

Sunday, May 10th we were in Barcelona, Spain for a half day. I got off the ship again and met up with Lesley and her best friend, Ross. It was great to finally meet him after hearing so much about him…I felt that I knew him already. We had a good lunch and then made our way down the Ramblas to this fountain area that they found the day before. We sat there for a long time and just enjoyed each others company and just talked. It was a great time…it was a beautiful and warm day and so I enjoyed the sun as well. After a while, we decided to go get some ice cream, so I took them to the place that I went to the night before…it was that good. Unfortunately, I had to leave early to get back to the ship to do a duty…so I said my goodbyes to Lesley and Ross and caught the bus back to the ship. Once on board, I had to do the duty of Bingo…yes thats right…Bingo and to be quite honest, I enjoyed it…guess I found found my new calling…haha. We left Barcelona not too far after and were headed to Malaga.

Monday, May 11th we were at sea on our way to Malaga, Spain. I enjoyed the day…for some reason again, I was so tired and needed the rest. We had our normal duties and socializing events that we have on sea days. I can't believe that we are almost done with the world cruise…its so strange. 

Tuesday, May 12th we were back in Malaga, Spain…another city that I have been to before. Jodie and I got off and enjoyed the day together. We first went to McDonalds and had lunch / used the wifi. Afterwards, we went to Jodie's favorite place to shop…Zara.  I can't go into that store now without buying something for myself, so I made sure that I didn't….it was hard. When we got there…I wasn't feeling very well and I had to use the restroom so I was trying to find it. I was searching and searching and couldn't find it….not good. Eventually I went to the counter and asked where the restroom was….in English….not successful. I have to give so much credit to Baldwin-Wallace for making us take a foreign language and I'm glad that I took Spanish because if I didn't know how to say, "bathroom" in spanish…it would have been a BAD day…haha….Mom, you know what I'm talking about…HAHAHA. After that lovely experience, Jodie and I made our way to a shopping center where she needed to get some blank DVDs….which was another wonderful feet to complete….LORD!!! At the same time, we found the thing that I was searching for to give Jodie for her birthday, so that made me happy that I finally could give her my gift. We eventually caught up with Greg later on in the day, after he went off and played Football (soccer for us Americans). I was on the search as well this day to buy another suitcase for myself to get home….I can't believe that we are so close to go home. I felt like a typical European this day…I was walking around the city with a suitcase…if you remember my blogs about my first time in Europe…I saw everyone with suitcases…ALL THE TIME…haha. Eventually, it was time to get back on the ship and sail off to Lisbon, Portugal. It was a good day here in Malaga….

Wednesday, May 13th…guess what…we are at sea AGAIN…..EHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!! I really am getting so sick of these sea days….I just hate them…haha. Normal duties and normal BORED-ness on this day…nothing much to report…haha.

Thursday, May 14th we were in Lisbon, Portugal and unfortunately I had to stay on the ship because I was on IPM again. Yes, another day on the ship and can't get off and enjoy the city…ehhh. Had the normal duties on this IPM day and I enjoyed the time to lay in bed and watch the movies. The only thing that I really enjoy about IPM days is the fact that every 7 port days….I don't have to spend my paycheck…haha. Had the show of Jazz this night and enjoyed performing this show for the last time in the world cruise…can't believe that its coming to the end…wow.

Friday, May 15th…another sea day….when will they END!!! Haha….Later this night, we stayed outside and I couldn't believe how long the sun was up for….until 10:15PM!!! Lesley, Jodie, Greg and I all sat out there…talking about the weather of our countries and how long the sun stays out in the difference seasons. Could you tell that we were bored??? Haha

Saturday, May 16th we were in Bilbao, Spain…which was a new port that we haven't been to before. It was a beautiful place and I enjoyed my time this day. It was a strange day though since we had our last performance for the world cruise (Aquarius) at 4:00pm…strange. Lesley and I got off earlier though, to get something to eat; only problem was that the shuttle bus took 20 mins into the city and we didn't have the much time left, so instead of getting off the shuttle…we drove into the city and then got right on the next bus to go back to the shio….it was a lovely bus ride…haha. We had a great show for the last performance of the world cruise and all of our favorite guests that have supported us the entire world cruise came and saw the show and were quite emotional at the end…made us all feel good and felt rewarded for our job. After the show, Lesley and I got off and enjoyed the free wifi in the terminal….it was a great time.

Sunday, May 17th we were at sea again….wow, I'm really getting sick of these sea days. We were on our way towards England though….we are almost done with the world cruise…I can't believe it….ahhh!!!!  

Monday, May 18th we were in Guernsey, UK and had a really nice day. Jodie, Greg, Lesley and myself got off the ship and they were all in seven heaven. They heard people speaking with their accent and that was really strange…just more of them for me to try and understand…haha. We had a GREAT lunch in a pub there…it was incredible…one of the best lunches I've had in a WHILE!!! Afterwards, we walked down the road and did a little shopping…or at least the girls did…haha. Walking a little more down the street…Greg spots a hair salon and decides to get his hair cut. While Greg was getting his haircut, the girls decided to go tanning….whoosh. As the girls were tanning…I sat there and read a magazine…haha…I have never nor will I EVER fake tan…haha. Afterwards, we walked back to get Greg at the hair salon…he didn't like his haircut but we all thought that it looked really nice. As we were heading back to the tender to get back to the ship…the guys were in heaven because there was a little market that had ALL of their favorite snacks…it was literally watching kids in a candy store…haha. As we were going back to the ship via tender (yes, I just put via), it was just strange to realize that the world cruise was coming to an end. As it was the last night, it was really sad to say goodbye to those people that we became close to throughout the entire world cruise, one in particular….Andrew. Lesley and I had become very close with him and we both really appreciated his friendship (and still do).  He is one of the most generous people and he really does get the joy of making other people happy…which is just incredible. It was really sad to say goodbye to the others as well…its just strange that you have circled the globe with these people and seen them every single day for 4 months straight….just proved to me that its going to be even harder to say goodbye to the cast in 3 weeks time….as much as I'm looking forward to going home…I'm really not looking forward to having to say goodbye to these people that I've done SO much with…whoosh.

Our next cruises itinerary is: Southampton, UK on May 19th / At Sea on May 20th / La Coruna, Spain on May 21st / Vigo, Spain on May 22nd / Lisbon, Portugal on May 23rd / At Sea on May 24th / Alicante, Spain on May 25th and ending the cruise in Barcelona, Spain on May 26th.

Well, the time is coming to the end….I can't believe that its actually coming to the end of my contract…I don't know how to feel….hmmmm.

Until Next Time,

Jason

Bowling in Dubai to Snorkeling in the Red Sea....

Hello everyone,

I can't believe how close it is coming to the end this contract….I have been having the time of my life and I'm glad that I'm getting to share this experience through this blog with you….I'm glad that I started it and I'm glad that YOU read it!!!

Lets not waste anymore time...

Monday, April 18th we had our Embarkation day of our next cruise in Dubai but luckily I had the morning and early afternoon off. I headed into the city via shuttle bus to be surrounded by this fake and futuristic city. Its so hard to explain because this place doesn't look real…just really strange. Made it to the Dubai Mall (one of the largest in the world) which is next to the largest structure on Earth and wow…what a massive thing that is. From a distance…it really doesn't look that big but once you get next to it….WOW…just incredible. The Dubai Mall was equally jaw dropping…4 levels of this MASSIVE, MASSIVE mall where you could have ANYTHING that you wanted…just incredible. Looking at the directory…I felt like I was reading a novel…chapter one, restaurants…chapter two, mens stores…etc. I made my way up to the food court, which was massive and you would never guess what was there….TACO BELL!!! Yes, I was in heaven for that meal…even though it didn't taste like HOME Taco Bell…it was Taco Bell nonetheless…haha. Afterwards, I had the mission to post some of the pictures for the past 2 months up on Facebook so I really took advantage of the free wifi. Eventually, I had to make it back to work embarkation for the day…only an hour AND we only have 272 guests on the ship…out of the 540 that it can hold. Can we say, ghostship…haha. Afterwards, Lesley, Jodie, Greg, Jen, myself and our new cruise director David headed back to the mall. We had a great meal at TGI Fridays and enjoyed the 'dancing fountains' that were giving a show outside. This city was just incredible….just very weird and futuristic. Afterwards, we all split up and got a few things that we needed to get and then were going to meet up later. Once we got back together, we had decided to go bowling….yes thats right….bowling in Dubai…haha. We finally got a taxi and told him to take us to the Bowling Alley and we had SUCH a great time. The first round…didn't go so well for me…I haven't played in a long time…a little embarrassing cause there were these kids next to us that were incredible and then you look at what I was doing….putting my head down in shame…haha. Don't you find that is always the case in bowling…always these young whipper snappers that can bowl circles around you…cause back in my day…woah, sorry…old moment..haha.  The second round however, I must have TOTALLY switched inside because I bowled the best game….EVER. I have NEVER played that well before ….whoosh, it was a lot of fun though. Afterwards, our taxi guy took us to the famous hotel that is in the shape of a sail and we took a few pictures….it was a really great end to the night in Dubai.

Tuesday, April 19th we were at Dubai again only for the half day so there wasn't really enough time to go out in the city. I woke up not feeling very well so I decided to stay on the ship and get as much rest as I could. The rest of the day was a sea day and we had the normal duties that we normally have….it was a relaxing day.

Wednesday, April 20th we were in Muscat, Oman and I woke up with NO VOICE and we have a show this evening….oh great….not the best time to lose my voice. I went off the ship with everyone because I thought some fresh air would do me well instead of the stupid air on the ship AND because it was the last day at a port before the crossing to Egypt and I wasn't about to stay on the ship for an extra day…haha. Went into the town and there wasn't much to do there except go into the bazaars and shop. It was cool because there was a entire building with little side streets with shops EVERYWHERE….it was nuts. It was INCREDIBLY hot this day…not humid but just dry heat…it sucked. After walking around for a while we couldn't decide on what to do so we walked through the shops again and we got a few things that sparked our interest before. Eventually it was time for me to get back to the ship for a duty that I had which was alright…I was quite bored in the city. Later in the evening, we pushed off the port and began our 5 sea day journey to Egypt. By the way, the show that evening went quite well….which I don't understand. I literally could not speak in the morning and I didn't think that I could do the show…so I made sure that I didn't speak all day long. I have to send a HUGE thank you out to my voice professors at school for teaching me the correct way to sing and what to do when you're ill…I'm lucky I had such great professors. 

Thursday, April 21st to Monday, April 25th we spent our time at sea in the Indian Ocean and eventually making our way to the Red sea traveling to Safaga, Egypt. During our sea days…we were in the Samoan pirate danger zone so all the windows on the ship had to be shut…the lights were all turned off at night and it was just strange and spooky. We felt that we were in a prison because we weren't a loud to go outside on the decks that we normally could use. We all had to go up on the highest decks during the day and at night…you had to take a flashlight with you because it was PITCH BLACK. I went out on one of the decks during the night one time and it scared the crap out of me…imagine night time at sea…with NO light around…a little freaky. I CAN'T BELIEVE THIS IS OUR LAST HUGE CROSSING THAT WE HAVE FOR THE REST OF THE TIME ON THE SHIP….HOOORAH!!!!

Tuesday, April 26th we were FINALLY in Safaga, Egypt where I was on a all-day excursion to see the Temples in Luxor…which was awesome. The day started very early and boy, did the weather confuse the crap out of me. I thought that it was going to be warm…I mean we are in EGYPT…but no, it was quite cool and windy…whoosh, too cold. We had a 2.5 hour drive through the Sahara Desert which was cool because not many people can say that they have driven through the Sahara. Eventually it got a little boring because looking at sand for 2 hours…not much happens or interests the mind…haha. We eventually got to the first Temple (which I can't remember the name of) and it was so cool. The entire day it was really hard for me to believe that it was made SO long ago…it just didn't seem real. It was cool to see all the different things carved into the wall and the stories that our guide told us…it was really interesting. He told us why all the faces of everything Egyptian were gone and it was because the Christians came along years after (when they have gained control of the land and temples) and didn't like that people had prayed to other Gods…so they thought that they would deface all the statues/paintings/carvings that had faces…so you could never see what they looked like…which I found interesting. When we went to the top of this building, we were shown a carving that was in the ceiling that showed the astrological signs (Libra, Taurus, etc.) and that it was a creation from Egyptians that the Greek / Romans took credit for it…stole from the Egyptians…which I thought was VERY interesting. Eventually, it was time to head back to the bus to go to Luxor (another hour away) to get a wonderful buffet lunch at the Sheraton. Our next stop was an even older Temple, which was so cool and was showcased in one of the James Bonds (which I thought was really cool).  Walking around this place it was so remarkable to think that they made everything by hand…and had to build everything with sand and mud…just something that you can't explain unless you see it. Our third and last Temple was the oldest of them all (4500 BC) and I just couldn't understand how well preserved everything was. I said to one of the guests that it was hard to believe that it was as old as it was because it looked brand new. Our tour guide said it is because it doesn't rain here…there is NO humidity, so there is no corrosion of the building / stautes…which is incredible. Afterwards, we had the long 3.5 hour trip back to the ship, driving the the Sahara again in the pitch black. Something that made me laugh at the beginning but later kinda made me nervous was the signs about camels. In Ohio, we have the deer caution signs which is normal because they might run out in front of your car in a treed area but seeing a camel caution sign just made me laugh. Would scare the CRAP out of you if you were driving down the street and almost hit a CAMEL..might hurt you AND the camel…I just kept having that visual in my head…haha. During our drive in the PITCH black desert…it was so cool to be able to sit in the bus and look at ALL the stars…it was just great. Had a LONG but very eventful day…

Wednesday, April 27th we again were in Safaga, Egypt but I was on IPM so I had to stay on the ship. I was actually okay about it because I was still exhausted from my excursion the day before….I needed to catch up on my rest…whoosh, needed that relaxing day.

Thursday, April 28th we were in Aqaba, Jordan where David, Cody, Lesley and I went out on the town. We headed out on into the town to be greeted by something that made me stand there with my mouth open. THERE WAS A BAR/RESTAURANT called 'FRIENDS'….it was a bar that was the themed by the long running TV sitcom, 'Friends' and if you know me…you know how excited I was…haha. I was so bummed because it was closed at the time we were there but you better believe that I took a picture of it…haha. We finally decided where we wanted to go and got a taxi to a beach/snorkel area near to the city. We had a great lunch in a hotel and the decided that we wanted to go snorkeling in the Red Sea…how many times can you say you've done that. It was such a cool experience but WOW…I was freezing my butt off. The sea was SO cold out in the area where the coral was, but I was trying to enjoy looking at the coral and fish and everything but whoosh…freezing…haha. Afterwards, we went back to the hotel and laid out in the sun for a while…to warm up. After staying there for a while, it was time to head back to the ship and head off to our next port. 

Friday, April 29th we had a half day in Sharm-El-Sheikh, Egypt where all of us got off and enjoyed the day together. Taking the shuttle bus into the city, you can defiantly tell that this city was made only due to tourist. It was so English / Americanized…it was ridiculous but I will say, the people that worked there in the shops were EXTREMELY rude. I understand that their tourism is down by A LOT right now because of all the unrest in the area but you would think that they would want to have your business…not piss you off. They would yell at us and tell us to get out of their shop if we didn't buy anything…not a fun time. After a while, we all found everything that we were looking for and Jodie, Jen and myself were hungry..so we went to TGI Fridays….see I told you it was Americanized…haha. While having lunch, we got to watch the Royal Wedding on the TV and I just sat there and had to take everything in…having lunch at an American restaurant in Egypt while watching a Royal English wedding…..wait….what? After lunch, it was time to catch the shuttle bus back to the ship but not after going by an area in the city where the ex-Egyptian president was located…which was really strange to see. Of course I didn't see him but there was SO many police outside the building and the bus driver told us who it was…it was just strange. Once getting back on the ship, we were told that we were going to wait another hour to leave the port because the wind was so strong…the ship wasn't able to leave. During this time, we all got together and David (our new cruise director) taught us a yoga class, which during the class the ship was trying to leave but got pushed by the wind and hit the port…it was that strong. Now, we were suppose to leave at around 3:30 and we didn't get out of the port until 8:00 that night…must have been strong wind…whoosh, what a crazy day.

Saturday, April 30th we traveled through the Suez Canal heading our way back to the Med. I can't believe that we have made it back to the area that I started about 8 months ago…wow. In a way, it has been a short amount of time because I have seen so many things in a year but at the same time…it has been a long time away from the states and I'm looking forward to getting home and being with family and friends again. There wasn't anything special about the Suez Canal…not a cool as the Panama Canal but always fun to say that I've done it. 

Sunday, May 1st (I can't believe that we are in May now…wow) we were in Alexandria, Egypt…heading out on a crew excursion to the Great Pyramids and Sphinx. The ride out there was quite long so I made sure that I caught a nap on the bus ride…I was TIRED. When we arrived, I couldn't believe that I was seeing one of the "7 wonders of the world". The height of these pyramids are a lot higher than I thought and I can't imagine what it was like to build them. When I was there…I kept singing to myself, "Go down, Moses…way down to Egypt land. Tell old, Pharaoh…to let my people go" (thats a little joke for those people that have ever sang in a choir…haha). Later, we went to see the Sphinx and to tell you the truth…I thought that it was going to be a lot bigger than it actually was. Don't get me wrong…it was AWESOME to see it but at the same time, I thought…"really, thats it?" Afterwards, we had a 3 hour drive back to the ship so again…I got to sleep a little on the trip back and also sit there, trying to take in the fact that this was the last place I would visit until I can say…."I've circled the globe".

Saturday, May 2nd we were heading our way to the last port of this voyage, Athens Greece where I could say, "I've circled the globe". Its a lot of overwhelming feelings coming to this moment in the contract because I know that its coming to the end but at the same time…I can't believe of all the different culture, beliefs, cities, people…that I have seen around the world. How in every place that I visited…everyone is so different but at the same time, everyone is just the same. Something that I have seen (that makes me tear up just thinking about it), is how in everywhere I've gone…doesn't matter if it was the San Blas Islands of Panama to the busy town of Hong Kong….from the eery streets of Vietnam to having one night in Bangkok….from the crazy Tuk Tuk ride with Babu in India to bowling in Dubai…one thing has stuck out to me more than anything….the sense of FAMILY. Now the word 'family' can be justified in many different ways…from your real family…or those people that don't have a family but consider their closet friends, THEIR family. Just looking at everywhere I've been…it didn't matter if it was the richest area or the poorest area…you could tell people were happy because they had their family. That's something that I feel that we take advantage of…that we don't look and go, "wow…I'm so blest to have these people in my life that love and support me" but instead take advantage of the fact that they are there and don't really appreciate them, until they're gone. I feel sometimes we get so wrapped up in our beliefs or politics or stuff that really doesn't matter and that breaks up the unity, the bond that we should have as a collective group. Its the constant reassurance that we have the BEST people around us…the loving energy that makes us wake up and go out into the world and think, "I can do anything….because I am loved". Remember, we only have this one life….YOU take advantage of it….live in the PRESENT, enjoy the NOW…don't be tied to a future or past. So today, why don't you call your parents, your kids, your FAMILY and just say I love you and thank you for always being there…..you never know when that opportunity might be taking away from you.

Our next cruises itinerary is: Athens, Greece on May 3rd / At Sea on May 4th / Taormina, Sicily, Italy on May 5th (HAPPY BIRTHDAY ME!!!) / Sorrento, Italy on May 6th (Happy Birthday Jodie) / Civitavecchia (ROME), Italy on May 7th / Monte Carlo, Monaco on May 8th / Barcelona, Spain on May 9th and 10th / At Sea on May 11th / Malaga, Spain on May 12th / At Sea on May 13th / Lisbon, Portugal on May 14th / At Sea on May 15th / Bilbao, Spain on May 16th / At Sea on May 17th / St. Peter's, Guernsey, England on May 18th / Southampton, England on May 19th. 

I hope that everyone has had a wonderful start to their month of May and Happy Mother's Day to all the mother's out there…especially mine :-)

Until Next Time,

Jason