Lessons Learned on a 14 Day Transatlantic Cruise

Cruising Notes

While on the cruise ship we had no internet connectivity - a choice I made to lessen distractions and increase our chances of getting some well needed rest. Thus no blog posts, but I did take some mental and written notes on what I was learning on my first cruise experience.

The cruise remind me in some ways of the Camino. In addition to the fact that we had a defined start and end point, we were traveling in the same direction towards new territory each day even if the ‘terre’ is deep ocean water.

And one meets people from many nations, hears many languages spoken, including English with many accents from New Jersey to Jersey.

I learned that octogenarians are out there having a great time!  It encourages me to know that I can do that too!

And then there is the Camino like leisurely eating and coffee times. And an occasional glass of Vino Tinto. We enjoyed many new culinary treats. So far, if the scale in the fitness center is correct, I have gained no weight, partly I suspect, because I have been walking around the boat and in the few town's we have visited. Most days resulted in over 10,000 steps for me - my target at home. Not quite Camino distances, but more than on many vacations by car, plane or train.

Frankly, I was concerned that all this free time would be challenging - make that awful - but it was truly relaxing. I caught up on my sleep, felt very grateful for the rest time, reading time, and internet-free time. I think we napped every day.

Not signing up for the internet access package tested my ability to do something other than stare at a screen as I am doing right now. I have taken a few pictures, and read Kindle books, but low total screen time.  We did access WiFi in towns briefly which allowed me to keep up with family and my friend Michael who was walking the Camino while we were on the sea.

The overall lesson learned is that I can apply my ability to get to know people anyplace, even on a huge cruise ship.  Ann and I both enjoyed it and plan to do it again.

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The Other Jew of the Day is Moses Cohen Henriques a well known Sephardic Jew who operated from Jamaica and captured Spanish treasure ships.  Who would have guessed ...