The first two parts of our journey included the five days in Philadelphia and Miami, followed by 16 days on the Reflection. The third part, two weeks in Italy, ended today as we boarded the new Majestic Princess for the next 28 days. We returned the rent car, and said our farewells to the Wrights. We shall miss them, now we need to talk to each other. As we waited for our noon boarding by sitting on a park bench near the entrance of the port, we watched the parade of locals and tourists.
Boss’ Italian Cousin
Fortunately the S&M aficionado from last night did not reappear. I shuddered to think of her appearance in the brilliant sunlight of day. Perhaps she understands exposure to direct sunlight could cause a vampiric reaction, which would make even Barnabas Collins wince in agony.
Boarding the ship required little time. Though we needed to catch two port shuttle buses, passing through security went quickly, and with preferred boarding we went to the first open agent. We walked into our cabin in less than an hour.
Since pricing is always a consideration when selecting a cruise, we have never sailed on a new ship, not even a relatively new ship as they tend to command a premium. We ignored cost this time, as we focused on the itinerary. The Majestic is a new ship, built in Italy, completed about a month ago. She sailed a series of short trips, ensuring her fitness for her relocation to Asia, where she will spend at least the next two years. Princess designed her for the Chinese market with most signage in English and Mandarin.
1466
Unlike most ships, her interior boasts a contemporary style with bright lighting, lacking the standard wood paneling. Our cabin is one of the few of any cruise ship, which faces forward overlooking the bow, two decks above the bridge. With binoculars in hand, we assumed our first watch, with no whales or pirates sited. Our cabin steward is a young Chinese girl named Gia, we suspect it may be her first voyage.
The theme for this journey, the Silk Road, connects China with Italy. Many of the events will address the history of this famous route. Here are some local Italian kids.
Day one you meet the early diner table mates assigned. They included a retired couple from Fort Worth, a woman from Alexandria, Virginia who is currently working in South America and a west coast CPA who just happens to be vegan. I have not yet introduced my zyconic diet, but it is armed and waiting deployment.
Around the World in Less Than Eighty Day 