Day 3 At Sea

1-8 Day 3 At sea

Today started with a 9 a.m. Port talk with the travel guide, Barbara. She discussed the next two ports – Puerto Limon, Costa Rica and Panama. She was very engaging with her presentation and slides. She likes to start with the country's flag because it tells so much about that country. Costa Rica's was really informative with the 3 mountain ranges separating the two seas and with coffee beans around the edge of the seal. Panama's flag was less intricate with two stars (it has been a couple of days since I heard this lecture, and sorry to say, I'll have to look this one up!)

At 10 a.m. We met with the cruise critic group I had signed on with months ago, so now we know who we are, not just an internet name. It was on OK group, but probably won't do a lot with them.

When I get home, you are invited to try some of my new recipes I picked up in the culinary demonstration. It was really fun. I learned how to make coconut vanilla prawns (the secret is using a real vanilla pod) and pork curry with bananas. We were able to sample both, so I know how delicious they are. I already signed up for the upcoming hands-on cooking class (only 12 people) this next week. We will eat what we cook afterwards – hope it's good!

Of course after that, Doug and I were hungry so we had lunch. We really like the Asian selection – it's different every day. And, of course after that, it was nap time again. We are finding just how exhausting the whole pre-trip activities were. It will take us a few days to catch up and feel rejuvenated again.

Tonight was formal night and the captain's champagne welcome reception. He is a young and very good looking captain from the Netherlands – so it is fun to listen to his announcements with that wonderful accent. Dinner was lobster and cherries jubilee. The night's entertainment was really for the older group (believe it or not, we are some of the youngest on board!) - it was Doc Severinsen (the band leader from the Johnny Carson show) and his new group. He has moved to Mexico and hooked up with a group there. Actually, a lot of their music was very good – and Doc can still play the trumpet. It was like watching a jam session. All the members were really “into” the music. We especially enjoyed the Spanish and Mexican pieces they played – all very energetic. Great way to end the day.