Page 142 - WINE DINE AND TRAVEL SUMMER 2019 PORTUGAL

pagne in hand--was to head to the library and
grab some books to read on the balcony or at a
pool. But several years ago—even before Covid
hit in 2020—we were sadly surprised to see
that there were no more libraries onboard
some ships—or, if some books were set out on
a shelf cart, they were in German!
So we were greatly surprised--after board-
ing the Queen Victoria--to see that the ship
not only had an elegant library—but it covered
a massive two floors of books on every subject!
Alas, there was no welcoming champagne
as we boarded—but our gracious and efficient
stateroom attendant quickly pointed out a
complimentary half-bottle with two glasses
chilling in the fridge. And I was thrilled to see
that the bathroom had a set of my favorite
Penhaligon's products!
Another difference that I noticed from re-
cent cruises—which have been down-playing
formal nights--is that this cruise had three
dress-up “Gala Nights” with themed attire:
Black and White, Red and Gold, and the Roar-
ing '20s. When Carl and I first started cruis-
ing, he would pack a tux; this time, he wore a
coat and tie. With a more formal ship atmos-
phere onboard, about one third of the men
donned tuxedos.
On many previous cruises, Carl and I would
book numerous shore excursions as we didn't
want to miss a thing! The past few years we
have spent more time venturing out on our
own or relaxing onboard the ship—especially
enjoying spa treatments (massages and fa-
cials—even haircuts for Carl).
We splurged ($80 each) one sea day for a
private, 3-hour delicious wine-pairing “Lunch
& Learn Menu” hosted by the chief sommelier,
with other passengers filling tables in the Ve-
randah Restaurant. Although the ship has sev-

142 WINE DINE & TRAVEL MAGAZINE WINTER/SPRING 2024