We started this cruise, knowing it would be a bit different than our other cruises. Val’s hip was in bad shape, and she was scheduled for hip replacement surgery after the cruise, so we knew she would be limited in how far and how much walking and activity she could do. Because of that we didn’t plan as much as we usually do ahead of time, and instead just planned along the way. That was fine as the South Pacific is a place where you can enjoy just being there soaking the ambiance and beautiful surroundings.
The one thing we didn’t count on was both of us getting sick. Neither of us got too sick and we each only missed one port day, but we did have a cough that persisted and wore us out and made it difficult to get a good night’s sleep at times. But despite Val’s hip and getting sick, we had a wonderful time on this cruise.
To me, being in the South Pacific is like being in paradise. It never gets too hot or cold, if you’re hungry there’s plenty to eat growing on trees in the tropical climate, and the beautiful beaches and crystal-clear water are always close by. Of course, for us the humidity was uncomfortable, but I think you would get used to it if you lived there. Also, I’m writing this as a tourist so I’m sure the inhabitants, although aware they are living in paradise, have their struggles just like everywhere else.
As expected, we didn’t do as many things in the ports as we usually do, but it was very nice just sitting on our balcony enjoying the beauty in front of us. The highlights for me were visiting American Samoa, Samoa, Fiji and Tonga, all places we had never visited before.
Unfortunately, we didn’t get to do any water activities but instead focused on activities where we learned about the culture of the area. Participating in kava ceremonies and visiting some of the villages was very interesting and we got to see and do things we hadn’t done on our first visit to the South Pacific.
We really enjoyed our tours on Samoa and Fiji where it was just us and our guides. Not only did we visit some interesting places, but we also got to spend the day getting to know our guides, Asa and Manassa, and learning about their lives and the local culture. We also really liked the time we spent with the taxi driver on Moorea when Val was searching for a pearl necklace. We also spent many hours just sitting out on our balcony taking in the beautiful views. The enjoyment of a trip doesn’t depend on how much you do, but whether you are having fun and enjoying what you do do, and we did very much enjoy everything we did on this cruise (except for getting sick).
So, what’s next for us, that’s a good question? We do have the 70-day Grand South America Cruise scheduled for the beginning of 2027, but other than that, we have nothing planned and there is a reason for that as I have alluded to before. Val and I are making a very big change in our life and moving to a senior living community in the Los Angeles area, and will be leaving our beloved California Central Coast, where we have lived for the last 44 years, including 37 in our current home. Rather than say anything more here, I’m actually going to write a separate blog entry for this as it is a major change in our lives.
This wraps up our epic journey into the South Pacific, we’ll see you on down the road.
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