Live on the Emerald for Jan 15 to Feb 4

[vickie_bernie]

First, Larry, I did speak to an assistant cruise director; however he said it would not be possible to attend as it is sailaway and they are busy hosting at the main pool.


Aruba and Day 3

We arrived at ARuba in time, boy is it HOT and WINDY! But no complaints, because so many others were complaining about it. One lady actually did not want to get off because of the wind... but that is ok, and I am sure the ship quiet.

We had emailed George's Scooters and planned to walk to his location, he said he was 4 blocks from teh pier, but of course we went the wrong way. We asked a lady at an information booth (wondering if we would be bothered with time share - but no) she phoned him up and he came and picked us up personally and took us to his shop, which was to the left of the ship, and we walked to teh right.

The scooters were $40 per bike - we took off and visited the light house, a beach near there, and then De Palm beach. We then went inland and went to the rock hills. Then headed to the Southern most spot and went to Baby Beach which was deserted but way to strong a surf to swim on this day but beautiful. We encountered tons of goats here adn some deer and lots of lizards... it was fun.

On the way back to the pier a bug hit me in the face and it ended up being a bee! It stung me right on the right eye lid, go figure, have never been stung before and lucky me it happens in Aruba. Didn't encounter too many problems with the sting until after my nap later that afternoon, when i woke up my eye was swollen half shut, so I droped some Benedryl and worked out great -- a little swollen this morning but doing fine. Bernie said laughingly that I should of put on the snorkel mask and rode with that!!!

Now I don't recommend scooters to everyone, it can be scary but if you feel comfortable then go for it. The island is very flat and not too busy once you leave the main town.

We didn't shop (Bernie was happy) but it looked like many did.

Dinner was in the main restaurant and was of course great again. The staff on board really make the trip, and they have the patience of saints, I don't think I could do it.

We tried to see the comedian later that night for his third show but was was too busy, so decided we should go elsewhere and we did. We went to the piano bar and listend to the player and had a drink with Donna and Lawrence from our CC group.

We have just docked in Bonnaire so I am off to get ready for some snorkeling. Beautiful day again, a few clouds but nothing to fret over.

Sorry I am unable to say hi to people on board, unless they are on our Roll Call as I would be running around for the rest of the trip if I did.

Till tomorrow.

[cruiser113]

[quote=Cruisin' Grandma;13023056]That's what I though as well but while we were on the CB this past New Year's we aksed the Maitre'D about Generosso and he said he was waffling about setting up another new ship. Seems he's a little tired of it!!! I'm hoping he will be there since if he is, our favourite waiter, Sergio will be with him.[/quote]


He is staying on the Emerald, we spoke to him after the Chef's Table. Which we attended on Jan 9th. It was the most incredible experience. He is the best!!!

[Princessannie 2]

Hi Vickie and Birnie, I have just been reading your report, and it is brilliant, I am really enjoying it. :)
Poor you being stung by the bee :eek: hope it clears up okay.
My hubby and I are sailing on the Emerald in September and I cant wait !!
We have been on the Grand in 2003 for our honeymoon and that was a fantastic ship. I have seen some pictures of the inside of Emerald and she looks stunning !! Roll on September !!!!
Have a great holiday, and I shall continue to read your report,
Thanks, Princessannie 2.

[ndavis7515]

Vickie
Sorry to hear about the bee sting. We are going to Aruba on our Summit cruise and are thinking about renting a jeep for the 6 of us (2 kids). I will have to ask you about what you think about that when I see you on Friday.

[Colo Cruiser]

Wow stung on the eyelid! I am allergic to bee stings so I would have been in big trouble, probably would have had a face like a basketball. :eek:

[LarryF]

Sorry to hear about the bee sting. At least you are allergic! I can just visualize you wearing your snorkle mask on the scooter! How funny!

We were in Aruba a few years back and it was very windy then as well. We were literally getting sand blasted on the beach!!

Really enjoying your posts!

Larry

[mycruz]

Ouch! hope the sting feels better after snorkeling in beautiful Bonaire today! I awoke this morning thinking about the chocholate croissants at the International Cafe and wished I had some. It became a morning ritual for me while on the Emerald. Glad to see you are having a great time and really enjoying your cruise.

Ahh Bonaire, my favorite island in the Caribbean, wish I was there.

[alliecruiser]

Sounds like you are having a great time. Sorry about the bee sting. OUCH!-Can't wait to meet you all on Friday. Aliosn

[Cruisin' Grandma]

[quote name='cruiser113']He is staying on the Emerald, we spoke to him after the Chef's Table. Which we attended on Jan 9th. It was the most incredible experience. He is the best!!![/quote]

Thanks, I agree he really is the best!!

[magoky]

It sounds like your have a great time, can't wait to meet everyone!Thanks Vickie for getting me on this roll call thing!! Even if I am the youngest, it sure sounds like i will have fun no matter what!lol

[bob&sharon]

Vickie told me she was doing her live thread so I will infrequently add to it. Our CC group is so large you can't go anywhere without meeting someone from it. I concur with all Vickie's previous comments. You really have to work hard to be miserable or find fault.
We were at the pier at noon and in our room by 1230 on embarkation day. First order of business was getting on the list for Chefs Table and we were luckily accepted. The dinner was last night and what a rare treat. So much food...great appies....champagne.....wine pairings....fantastic presentation... who had room for the best dessert on earth but we ate it anyway. Our group of 9 met at 7, did the galley tour followed by private dining room service and we rolled out of there after 10.
Aruba submarine was a worthwhile tour
We just took a taxi ($20) to Soraban Beach in Bonaire
For someone who asked about the Sanctuary, we thought it was worth the $10 just for the cosiest lounge chairs ever. No back ache after 4 hours of reading (and some sleep).
I'll check back later
Bob

[Colo Cruiser]

[quote name='bob&sharon']Vickie told me she was doing her live thread so I will infrequently add to it. Our CC group is so large you can't go anywhere without meeting someone from it. I concur with all Vickie's previous comments. You really have to work hard to be miserable or find fault.
We were at the pier at noon and in our room by 1230 on embarkation day. First order of business was getting on the list for Chefs Table and we were luckily accepted. The dinner was last night and what a rare treat. So much food...great appies....champagne.....wine pairings....fantastic presentation... who had room for the best dessert on earth but we ate it anyway. Our group of 9 met at 7, did the galley tour followed by private dining room service and we rolled out of there after 10.
Aruba submarine was a worthwhile tour
We just took a taxi ($20) to Soraban Beach in Bonaire
For someone who asked about the Sanctuary, we thought it was worth the $10 just for the cosiest lounge chairs ever. No back ache after 4 hours of reading (and some sleep).
I'll check back later
Bob[/quote]


We went to Sorobon in November aboard the Emerald, I loved it. :)

[vickie_bernie]

Hello all -- or Bon Bini as the locals say

We had a great day in Bonnaire -- we got off and hired a taxi for a few hours ($25 for two hours). He took us on a tour of the Salt Ponds, and flamingo sanctuary and the southern part of the island. Then he dropped us off at Windsock Beach for some snorkeling...

It was so secluded we were actually able to change under a tree with no peering eyes, or so I hope! :eek:

The fish and sea life were amazing, never seen better in all the years and places I have snorkel, but then again that is what Bonnaire is known for.
We walked back to the pier and check out a few shops and then had a beer and watched the people go by... my my isn't life difficult. Of course so many of our Roll Call friends walked by and then joined us.

We were back on the ship before sailing at 2 pm and up to the top deck for some sun and relaxation. Just had a bite to eat and just picked up a book from the library to read as I listen to a live quartet playing in the back ground as I type away.

Not sure what we are doing for dinner tonight. There are having a German theme buffet up in the Horizon Court, but need to check out the dinning room menu to see what would be better.

We are planning on watching Hairspray on the MUTS (Movies Under the Stars).

We arrive in Grenada tomorrow around noon, can't wait love Grenada.

Have to say the crowd here is very subdude, but very interesting people to talk to.

Our room steward is out of this world, very very friendly... I swear he is hiding somewhere because every time I walk down the hall with my hands full he is there to open up my door.

Oh I forgot to mention yesterday was Bernie's birthday and of course they had the regular balloons, but the steward moved them inside the room just above the Happy Birthday Banner I had put up... nice touch. We also received a plate full of chocolate covered strawberries from the Hotel Manager for his birthday.

Well I should go and take a nap! Oh and the sting and swelling are gone! Thanks all for the well wishes, hope that is all that happens, but I am a tough cookie.

[AliceS]

Thanks for keeping us (LIVE) on the Emerald. We will be there in February and will try to keep it going.

Good to hear that the bee sting is gone for you. I would have been in the doctor's office for sure. I have a pen, but haven't used it yet.

Happy Birthday!

[CruisenEd]

Thanks for all the info. we are on the April 4 cruise. How many and what nights are the formal dinners. Thanks and look forward to hearing more about the cruise. 76 days to go!

[vickie_bernie]

[quote name='CruisenEd']Thanks for all the info. we are on the April 4 cruise. How many and what nights are the formal dinners. Thanks and look forward to hearing more about the cruise. 76 days to go![/quote]

there are two formal nights, the first sea day and the second to the last day.

[vickie_bernie]

hi everyone,

We are sailing towards Grenada, the island of Spice, they say you can smell the spice as you come into the harbour, we'll see.

Last night we ended up in the dining room and we are glad we did. We sat at a large table with many other people (9 in all) and one of them was Al Kantz the comedian from the night before. We laughed all night long... we commented that we didn't get to see his show the night before as all 3 were packed and we couldn't find a seat. But told him we will see him on our second sailing next week, and he asked us to join for dinner again next week.

After dinner because it was allready so late we went straight up to the Sun Deck to enjoy Movies Under the Stars again, tonights showing was Hairspray. When we got up there many of our new friends from the Roll Call were there and we had some fun before the show started. Again it was very windy but very muggy.

Because we are not arriving in Grenada until 12 we and I think the entire ship slept in, when we went to get breakfast at the buffet it was very busy and this was 9 am.

Today we have an independent tour booked thru Mandoo, I originally signed up for it and then about 50 of our Roll call friends did too, I think we have the entire tour to ourselves.

Bill and Cathy are here from our roll call too... they went to the German Night buffet last night and it was so good and they served German beer, genuine German Beer. They then attended Motor City and that was very good. They hit the casino and are commented that the first few days was good but have been loosing lately, but only down $50, the ship is sad they want more. They are begging them to spend more so they don't need to do any cut backs. :rolleyes:

They snorkeled with Renee yesterday in Bonnaire adn can't say enough good things about her, she even identified all the fish. The underwater camera they sell on board is $20 and is reusable, 27 shots 800 speed, and has a flash and is reusable. You can buy it up by the photo place. That is the tip for the day from Bill & Cathy.

We've just signed up for the On Deck for the Cure which is $15 and is happening on the last sea day.

Vickie

[Shogun]

Hi Vickie,

Odd that you get into Grenada so late, we got there so early I think 7.00am because at our first stops everything was still closed.

I can recall the island before the hurriance damage the churchs where so nice, but there has been a great deal of progress since then, but still a way to go, enjoy yourself on Grenada if you get the chance ask to see the basket making, its a art in its own right and the speed that they work at.

yours Shogun

[ndavis7515]

[quote name='vickie_bernie']hi everyone,

We are sailing towards Grenada, the island of Spice, they say you can smell the spice as you come into the harbour, we'll see.

Last night we ended up in the dining room and we are glad we did. We sat at a large table with many other people (9 in all) and one of them was Al Kantz the comedian from the night before. We laughed all night long... we commented that we didn't get to see his show the night before as all 3 were packed and we couldn't find a seat. But told him we will see him on our second sailing next week, and he asked us to join for dinner again next week.

After dinner because it was allready so late we went straight up to the Sun Deck to enjoy Movies Under the Stars again, tonights showing was Hairspray. When we got up there many of our new friends from the Roll Call were there and we had some fun before the show started. Again it was very windy but very muggy.

Because we are not arriving in Grenada until 12 we and I think the entire ship slept in, when we went to get breakfast at the buffet it was very busy and this was 9 am.

Today we have an independent tour booked thru Mandoo, I originally signed up for it and then about 50 of our Roll call friends did too, I think we have the entire tour to ourselves.

Bill and Cathy are here from our roll call too... they went to the German Night buffet last night and it was so good and they served German beer, genuine German Beer. They then attended Motor City and that was very good. They hit the casino and are commented that the first few days was good but have been loosing lately, but only down $50, the ship is sad they want more. They are begging them to spend more so they don't need to do any cut backs. :rolleyes:

They snorkeled with Renee yesterday in Bonnaire adn can't say enough good things about her, she even identified all the fish. The underwater camera they sell on board is $20 and is reusable, 27 shots 800 speed, and has a flash and is reusable. You can buy it up by the photo place. That is the tip for the day from Bill & Cathy.

We've just signed up for the On Deck for the Cure which is $15 and is happening on the last sea day.

Vickie[/quote]
I loved Mandoo. We took a tour with him in April 2006 while on the Golden and he was so informative and pleasant. We had a great time.

[Colo Cruiser]

Thanks again for the live reports, makes me feel like I am right back onboard. :)

[Perky1]

Vicki.. I am so enjoying your live threads. Thanks you so much. Can't wait till our turn in April. Will be really interested in your excursion in Grenada as we have no clue what to do there. thanks again

[cruzinchris]

Anyone onboard know why the [I]Emerald[/I] bridgecam is out? It's been a black screen for at least 24 hours now. I've been checking it frequently for the past few weeks in preparation for the 2/4 voyage - just 15 days now!

[I]Bon Voyage![/I]
[I]Chris[/I]

[magoky]

[quote name='vickie_bernie']hi everyone,

We are sailing towards Grenada, the island of Spice, they say you can smell the spice as you come into the harbour, we'll see.

Last night we ended up in the dining room and we are glad we did. We sat at a large table with many other people (9 in all) and one of them was Al Kantz the comedian from the night before. We laughed all night long... we commented that we didn't get to see his show the night before as all 3 were packed and we couldn't find a seat. But told him we will see him on our second sailing next week, and he asked us to join for dinner again next week.

After dinner because it was allready so late we went straight up to the Sun Deck to enjoy Movies Under the Stars again, tonights showing was Hairspray. When we got up there many of our new friends from the Roll Call were there and we had some fun before the show started. Again it was very windy but very muggy.

Because we are not arriving in Grenada until 12 we and I think the entire ship slept in, when we went to get breakfast at the buffet it was very busy and this was 9 am.

Today we have an independent tour booked thru Mandoo, I originally signed up for it and then about 50 of our Roll call friends did too, I think we have the entire tour to ourselves.

Bill and Cathy are here from our roll call too... they went to the German Night buffet last night and it was so good and they served German beer, genuine German Beer. They then attended Motor City and that was very good. They hit the casino and are commented that the first few days was good but have been loosing lately, but only down $50, the ship is sad they want more. They are begging them to spend more so they don't need to do any cut backs. :rolleyes:

They snorkeled with Renee yesterday in Bonnaire adn can't say enough good things about her, she even identified all the fish. The underwater camera they sell on board is $20 and is reusable, 27 shots 800 speed, and has a flash and is reusable. You can buy it up by the photo place. That is the tip for the day from Bill & Cathy.

We've just signed up for the On Deck for the Cure which is $15 and is happening on the last sea day.

Vickie[/quote]
what does on Deck for the Cure mean?

[cruzinchris]

[quote name='magoky']what does on Deck for the Cure mean?[/quote]

DH and I participated in this breast cancer walk (3 miles) on the [I]CB [/I]in October. Didn't realize it was still offered. Think we'll do it again on the [I]Emerald[/I] in two weeks.
[I]Chris[/I]

[t&kwelburn]

Hi Vicki, thanks for taking time to post. It seems you are having a great time and we are enjoying reading all about it. We're anxious for our cruise in about 6 weeks.

 

Have you been to Vines yet? Can you tell me about it?

 

Enjoy the rest of your trip!!