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 band 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.
Looked like a fun start to a once in a lifetime adventure!
ReplyDeleteBetty
Yep. I shall share our adventures. All good
DeleteHi Joanne - sounds an ideal combo of a trip - I had to look up where the places were .. but that's good for me! I'd like to do both I think ... cheers Hilary
ReplyDeleteI think any travel is a positive. As we get into the trip you will enjoy rugged Akaska- a contrast to your coast
ReplyDeleteFabulous! Smarticus and I "almost" took an Alaskan cruise for our 35th or 40th anniversary... can't remember which... but the "cattle call" mentality convinced us to opt out. Maybe some day.
ReplyDeleteIn the meantime, I'm psyched to see your pics and hear your tales. I reeeeeally hope you got to see the aurora borealis.
Have a super weekend.
We reeeally wish we'd seen it too. Alas. Suffer thru cattle call. It is worth it
DeleteSure sounds like a great start indeed. Passing out in a dark room after a long day was probably welcoming too.
ReplyDeleteThen again I can sleep anywhere anytime
DeleteGlad you got to see some of Vancouver. Does that cruise stop in Victoria? That would be the highlight for me....I love that place! lol
ReplyDeleteWe were lucky to visit Victoria on our own in 2015. Loved it. I Could move there and be happy.
DeleteOff to a great start! What a fun way to celebrate a major milestone.
ReplyDeleteIt was worth the $$. And even better than anticipated
DeleteNever been to Alaska and never been on a cruise. I know several people who have taken Alaskan cruises and it sounds like a wonderful experience. Glad you were able to do this.
ReplyDeleteArlee Bird
Tossing It Out
thanks. It was the best way to see Alaska, that's for sure
DeleteWOW thst eemed likle some trip Joanne. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteYvonne.
but wait, there's more....
Delete