We just got back from our first ever cruise! It was really fun. We went on the Carnival Elation from San Diego to Catalina Island and Ensenada, Mexico. Kathy (my sister) and her husband Bill, and Ron (my brother) and his girlfriend Mary went with us. It was great having them there to do stuff with, and to show us the ropes. We ate lots and lots and lots of wonderful food!!! I probably gained 5 pounds! But we also walked and walked and walked. Catalina Island was beautiful, and the weather was cool and cloudy (my favorite kind of weather)! It was fun walking around the city of Avalon, and seeing some unique architecture. Ensenada was warm and sunny, and we walked forever!! It was bigger than I expected, otherwise it was like most other tourist towns in Mexico. The ship was fun. There were crazy noisy places to party, eat, and have fun. But my favorite places were where I could get away from the crowds and have peace and quiet. Like on the top deck in the early morning or late night. We liked looking out at the ocean and stars and full moon. Our room was really nice and comfy and cozy. We had two portholes to look out, and to give us natural light in the room. I didn't really get seasick, but the rolling made me feel a little woozy sometimes. I liked when we were in a port, and the ship stayed still! The shows were okay, the activities were fun, but the food was amazing (especially the "Warm Chocolate Melting Cake" - I had to have it every night for dessert!) The waiters were the best, so funny and helpful. All in all we had a great time!! I might have to consider doing a cruise again some day. Enjoy the pictures.
The ship's officers being introduced.
Before going to the elegant dinner.
Bill and Kathy at dinner.
Mary and Ron at dinner.
Gary and me at dinner.
One of the cute towel animals we got each night.
The elephant! So adorable.
Mary was freezing on the shuttle boat to Catalina Island.
Leaving the ship for Catalina. What a beautiful day.
A view of the ship as we were going to Catalina on a shuttle boat.
A cute old fashioned phone booth in a little shopping area on Catalina. Gary almost couldn't get out, it was so small.
A view of the Carnival Elation from Catalina Island.
A view of one of the many shuttle boats.
Entering Ensenada.
This is the biggest flag I have ever seen! It must be the size of a football field. The pole is enormous!!
Watching the ship pull out of Ensenada at night. Such a beautiful view of the city lights. And so peaceful, except for the sound of the sea lions barking on shore!
This is one of the trophies we won for a trivia game. It's a geniune 14 carat plastic ship on a stick!!
Can you tell how excited Gary is that we won?
Our awesome and amazing waiters, Craig from Jamaica, and Roz from Romania. They were the best!!
