Cassandra14

Odd question I know, but is there anyone qualified on the world cruise on QV to perform minor treatments such as emergency temporary fillings? I read that there is a dental technician in the Spa.

We are enthusiastic but relatively unpracticed social dancers in our 40's, planning our first crossing on QM2. One big attraction of the ship is the ballroom & reputation for "real" dancing! We don't have experience in British ballrooms so appreciate advice from those who have danced their way across the Atlantic on this ship. Here goes: 1) what is the "typical" mix of dance music? We are trying to maximize our gains from the next 9 months of lessions. If we were to try to learn "basics" of quickstep, tango or samba, which will we get to use most often? 2) we are purely social dancers, never trained or competed, so don't use "levels" etc. Our lessons were in Canada so more likely American than International style - I don't really know the differences. Will this be a problem? 3) What should we "brush up" the most? We are polished intermediates in foxtrot, less-polished intermediates in swing/jive, confident beginners in waltz and rhumba and basic beginners in salsa and cha-cha. What will we use most, and what will upset dancers most if we don't get it right?

 

We prefer to sit out when we feel like it and not be forced by our lack of skill!

 

Incidentally, here in Canada we tend to do a sort of "viennese foxtrot" in the rare event that a quickstep is played - am I correct in assuming this would generate ill-will in a British ballroom?

I travelled on QM2 last year on a World Cruise segment and really enjoyed the dancing in the Queen 's Room. It is a lovely ballroom. I am a beginner myself but there were all levels of dancing. You sound to be more practiced than most! I would say that there was quite an even mix of waltz, cha cha, rumba, quickstep and foxtrot with some tango, samba and jive as well and an occasional viennese waltz. I am on Queen Victoria soon and QM2 transatlantic later in the year and looking forward to the dancing on both ships.

You will have a great time.

Well, I've taken the plunge and booked. It's a big step but I think it will be OK. I've requested a large table in the dining room so should be OK there but its been a while since we last cruised P&O (usually go Princess) and will be interested to see how the 2 compare. Not too concerned about the dancing as I know there'll be plenty of other things to do we've only ever visited Madeira, so all new ports of call to explore. thanks for all the advice you gave me, it really helped make my decision easier.

Very pleased to hear that you have booked. I hope you have a lovely time and are encouraged to do it again. I am on Britannia travelling solo on Friday. I am always apprehensive but I know I will have a wonderful time.

Good luck. ..Sandra.

I am in a similar position to you and have now been on a few cruises on my own. Although each time it feels very daunting, I have enjoyed them all as people are very friendly. I try to go to the solo get togethers, especially the first one. I too like to do set dining and sit on a large table. I am about to go on Britannia very soon and am going to try freedom dining but not sure about it. I too like ballroom dancing but as far as I am aware there are only Cunard, Fred Olson and Saga who have dance hosts. I think P &O have dance lessons with a resident dance couple.

I hope it all goes well for you.