Welcome to the Odyssey

Just a week ago I was finally stepping aboard the Odyssey. in Panama City, Panama. My sailing friend, Eve, met me at the Cruise Ship Terminal entrance and helped get me through the hordes of offers to help carry my luggage. And, finally, there she was - The Odyssey. It was a beautiful sight.

That 1st afternoon is still a blur after touring 4 decks of "and this is.... And this is where you... And if you need someone, this is..." But it is finally coming together, somewhat. Every time I come out of my cabin (opps, I mean Villa) door, I am facing the wrong way to go to the elevator. There are actually 8 decks on the ship, but the lower decks are engine rooms, crew rooms, doctor facility, laundry, etc. I haven't been exploring down there yet. Dinner that first night was a fantastic buffet with wine, sitting out under the stars looking at the Pacific Ocean and meeting lots of new folks. Everyone, residents & crew, have been so welcoming and so willing to share their recent experiences on the ship. This is a first for everyone and most are OK with rolling with whatever happens - no hot water, some confusion, which restaurant is the buffet tonight, and cabins too cold or too hot. But I've been lucky, I just ask someone.

Day 2 was spent in the Old Town area of Panama City. It reminded me very much of the Old City in Puerto Rico. Lots of small shops, some touristy and others full of true local artisan treasures. The day was hot and it was to early for a cold beer but I did enjoy a cup of Geisha Coffee. The beans are harvested in a very small area in the mountains of Panama and there is only one shop in the Old Town that serves it. Wow, was it delish. Lots of opportunities to buy trinkets but I managed to resist until I saw a beautiful pair of earring that I had to have.

Subsequent days have been filled with lots of unpacking, moving "stuff" from one place to another. attending orientations, eating & drinking, exploring the ship, and especially meeting new people. I do love my cabin. Nice and cozy with a big window to see what's happening. Many folks are "segmenters" who are trying out the concept before making a decision to buy. We had 100 people board the day after I did in Panama and will be circumnavigating South America. Lots of the residents & segmenters are now heading off to the Galapagos or Machu Pichu. Almost forgot - we crossed the Equator at 3:00am one morning - nope I did not get up. But we will all get a certificate from Neptune.

I am finally winding down from the hustle and bustle of the last couple of months. The days at sea are so restful and I am really enjoying the feeling of being on a boat again. Tomorrow we will be in Guayaquil, Ecuador where I will take my first tour. We will spend three days there so that is where I will be for Christmas.

Last night was fun evening. Started with a Panama Hat cocktail party ($1 Mojitos) with everyone who bought a new or had an old Panama hat came to show off their finery. Then off to dinner before the Christmas entertainment. First there was the Reading of The Magi, a story with the meaning of giving something special to a loved one. This 4 person reading was all done by our residents. Very interesting and insightful. That was followed by the singing of Christmas Carols by the Villa Vie Chorus - all residents. One of the singers is a former member of an Opera group in San Diego. She sang the Ava Maria as a solo. Just beautiful.

This morning there was a free toenail painting but only red and green polish, sparkles & decals added if desired. I heard that the Captain & First officer got theirs done and even painted a few. This was all in preparation for tomorrow. Everyone is invited to wear their Christmas PJs to breakfast tomorrow and then move to the upper deck for Reindeer Games. Have no idea what that will be all about, but could be fun.

I wish all of you the Happiest of the Season with your family and Friends. I truly miss you all, but I'm also having a great time in my new Home.