Mediterranean Explorer -- Noordam (20 June -1 July 2014)

[Copper10-8]

I wouldn't give much credence to the current thread. Noordam is a beautiful ship with a very proud crew. The HAL product is comfortable (mmm those beds...) and of good quality. We did have some staff changes during our cruise, and some bumps (tendering to Toulon, which was beyond HAL's control). I will have some mild quibbles here and there, but then, that's to be expected.

 

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Hey, you're starting to sound like a HAL cheerleader, Shrimpie.............;)

[shrimp56]

Hey, you're starting to sound like a HAL cheerleader, Shrimpie.............;)

YEP with the proviso that I will tell it like it is. I'm not so much a cheerleader as someone who keeps things in proportion.

[shrimp56]

Ooopps . . . Backing up a Day

I must have been so excited about my earrings that I forgot our sea day between La Goulette and Livorno. Although that could mean that it was one of those lovely, indolent sea days. Almost, but not quite. There were two cooking demos, one in the morning the other in the afternoon. Both were great.

 

The morning group was small enough that we were able to stand around the cooking area while one of the chefs from the Philippines showed us how to make a decadent buttery cheesey, sugary twisted breakfast pastry called an Ensaymada.

 

 

 

 

We each got a chance to twist some ourselves. Mine is in the middle foreground. There were plenty pre-made for us so I hauled a couple back to my husband, who demolished them greedily.

 

For the afternoon session Chef Chris, joined the Culinary Host, Shannon to team up for a demo of Pork Piccata and Creme Brulée. We were given samples of the later. Our Italian friends were there for this demo.

 

 

 

Finally the Lido Lamps decorated for Italian night.