Arrival

Sorry it has taken so long to get in touch.  Seems my life is now governed by satellite connections or lack thereof.  I am finally in good shape with a satellite.

Arrived safe and sound.  Trip across the pond was great.  I did not realize it but I booked premium coach which on Virgin Air means business class.  Very comfortable seat and great service.  Happy mishap !

Arrived in London right as scheduled.  I was met by a Cu nard rep who led me to a motor coach (bus).  This vehicle wisked me off to the Queen Elizabeth.  The trip was a little over an hour.  Once at the dock my baggage was taken to my stateroom and I was processed on board.  Amazing I arrived in London at 9:05am and was on board the ship by 11:45am, not bad at all.

My stateroom is 5074, toward the front of the ship.  Roomy and comfortable is how I would describe it.  Once I drooped my carry on I toured the ship taking pictures galore.  I hope to get them to you soon, but being at sea transmitting is slow and difficult.  I am getting to know the internet exec rather well.

At 5pm on the first night I went to a champagne reception for the world travelers.
The reception was in one of my favorite rooms on the Cunard lines - Commodore Club.  Front ship overlooking the ocean and the world before you.  It was a pleasure meeting so of the guests.  It is amazing how many Europeans book this trip to spend their winters away.  There were about 200 plus at the reception.  There will be many joining us in NYC.  A significant number of folk are on board to make the maiden voyage on Queen Elizabeth across the Atlantic and that is it.  So many love the sea and cruising.  It like a trip to the Jersey shore for many of them.

I have been taking it easy, getting a lot of rest.  Already eating too much.  But I do walk the interior of the ship.  I am getting to know many of the staff and recognized some from other cruises.  There is a quote I ran into that goes something like this: "Life on land is good and I can handle it, but life at sea is better."  I just may make this saying part of my life.

I say Mass at 9am at sea, which is comfortable.  As we travel each day heading west we gain an hour.  Not bad on the sleep.

Tonight is a formal evening, black suit for me.  I am confident the glitter will be all around.  The ship is filled to capacity.  sailing along side of us is the Queen Victoria.  She is going to NYC as well.  As mentioned before all three  Queens  will depart on the 13th to fire works.

I will try to get pictures to you soon.

Take care.  I'll be in touch.

Bi;;