Every Summer, South Africans book in droves for the cruises on offer by MSC. I went again this year after ages. I was on my way to the MSC Orchestra cruise ship, docked in Durban, South Africa. I was so excited for my trip! Before boarding we enjoyed pre-drinks at my friends home, where we all parked our cars and then used one uber to the cruise terminal.
I forgot how magnificent the cruise ship was. After embarking and taking a tour of my cabin and balcony, it was time to explore a bit. The pooIdeck is usually where the fun happens. As I relaxed by the pool, I noticed how many different cultures were represented on the ship. I couldn’t wait to set sail.
Each day on the ship was a new adventure. There was delicious food. Me not being a lover of gast food or pizza, enjoyed the fine dining each evening. I must encourage you to dress up for dinner, it changes the entire mood and ambience of the occasion.
The weather was overcast and humid, yet perfect for the cruise. We had to get to below deck during the rain – only to save my hair.
Great evening music show – 80’s and 90’s music. The show itself was quite engaging so it made for a great night.
After theatre was fine dining dinner and then the dance floor – what a fabulous club onboard.
Walking the deck, under the night sky is almost magical – sheer darkness (the depth of which is only fathomable when you out at sea) and a sprinkling of stars that look even more intense because of the night sky.
Visiting the island is great fun, I think people in general are more relaxed and friendly when they on land than on the actual shipJ Be open to making your circle bigger, just embrace people and cultures and for heavens sakes do not be selfish with your seating areas, (there are not enough on the island). Invite people to join you, you will have a better time.
A cruise for me is the perfect way to run away from reality and have a break that you so need.. It is also ridiculously affordable. No matter how many cruises you have been on, some tips bear true:
- If you did not book when they first launched the cruise – wait until 4 or 5 days before it leaves to book – CRAZY SPECIAL OFFERS (if you willing to take the risk of not getting the cabin you want, in-case its over booked)
- If you drink alcohol – BUY THE ALCOHOLIC PACAKAGE – you will thank me and yes you will use up all the vouchers on board.
- When packing – packing one day and one night outfit for each day, PJ’s, toiletries and then your swim wear.
- DO NOT TRY TO SMUGGLE ALCOHOL ON BOARD – YOU WILL GET CAUGHT!
- Carry sunblock and use it liberally.
- Take lots and lots of pictures of your own – the printed packages on board work out a tad expensive if you didn’t budget for it (besides, what do you do with printed pictures anymore)
- Do go to the officers dance – it’s the only time you are allowed to fraternise with themJ
- You are on a cruise – be open to having an adventure, let all your inhibitions go!
- Buy the bottle of Rum and Rasberry as soon as you get to the Island – and enjoy it.
- The hawkers are very determined – if you can support them, if you can’t be kind.
- There are no irons in your cabin, to iron out any creases on your clothes and THATS OK, we South Africans living through loadshedding
Travel, no matter the destination or means – is meant to set your soul free and for you to make memories, let you memories be the happiest you ever had…..until your next trip
TRIPS AND TIPS 