The traveling type.

Thank You Randy

Thank You Francisco and Cristo

The boat would swing around into the narrow port of San Juan, Puerto Rico. A kaleidoscope of colors awaited us in Old San Juan. Even Grumbacher would find it difficult to produce the likeness of colors found here.  The city has deep roots in Spanish navel history as walled forts protect the city. The sites here are spectacular reminder of the Spanish empire that had spread across the Caribbean Sea many years ago.  Even today, a walk through its streets transcends modern living. The warm air has helped preserve this port though the years and its people seem content and proud.  It’s an idyllic place to conclude a cruise. Just a week ago, I was the skeptic, more reluctant than any to venture onto a cruise ship.  I had been proven wrong. My preconceived notion of what the journey may be like came from watching cheesy episodes of The Love Boat back in the 70’s.  I half expected Judy McCoy to welcome us on board while being mesmerized by Charo’s dance during the evenings.   While there was a small element of that, I was amazed by the grandeur of the ship.  The Serenade of the Seas did in fact “serenade” us with comfort, laughs, excellent food and impeccable service. My family would mutiny against the ship-organized excursions. While having no discourse on what we may have missed, I won’t feel disappointed.  Instead, the excursions became distinctly our own, away from the crowd and born out of our own imagination.  Our final steps down the plank of the Serenade were a sad goodbye to the relaxation we had come to known at sea. We would fondly remember Randy, the Steward, Francisco and Cristo, our waiters. Peter would never forget the endless cone of frozen yogurt he was free to consume and Kate would look back fondly on virtually everything she experienced. I had been worried that my camera would be tucked away for the week growing cobwebs, but I was mistaken. Rather, I had lived on a moving hotel that brought me from one photo opportunity to another while never having to worry about providing a meal for my family.  The only problem with traveling is that it makes you wish to see more.  An amazing world awaits with miracles tucked around every corner ready to be uncovered. I feel fortunate for what I have seen and look forward to what adventure lay ahead.