A Study in Water

  

Tiki Time

 Who doesn’t love taking a moment to enjoy a refreshing fruity drink? Something sweet and colorful always seems to brighten the day—alcohol optional, of course. I couldn’t resist snapping a photo of this vibrant neon sign during our last cruise on the Mariner of the Seas. It was glowing proudly inside the Tiki Club, setting the perfect tropical mood. I absolutely love the playful colors—it captures the carefree, vacation energy perfectly.

Neon Blue and Red

When I go on a cruise, I spend hours exploring the stairwells and hallways, searching for art. These two neon pieces adorn the stairwell of Jewel of the Seas.

Some say the art on cruise ships isn’t ‘real’ art. I don’t care if they’re reproductions or considered low value—I find them fascinating. I lose myself in their beauty, and it’s one of my favorite things about cruising. I always look forward to discovering what each new ship has to offer.

A little information regarding the pieces and the artist that created them.  

 

Jewel of the Seas

Back in April of 2024 we took a cruise from San Juan, PR to Fort Lauderdale, FL.  

Our stops included: 

Sint Maarten

Saint Thomas

Saint Kitts

Jewel was one of the smaller ships we had been on and though we were assured that it was full; it seemed less crowded than some of the bigger ships in the Royal fleet.  The service was exemplary even compared to some of the other ships we have traveled on; I think this was due to it's more intimate setting.   Overall, I loved this ship and would love to travel on her again.    

The bow of Jewel of the Seas at Sea

Jewel of the Seas at Port

     Jewel of the Seas from a distance on Saint Thomas, USVI

Cruising the Gulf

A view of the Gulf of Mexico cruising on Royal Caribbean.   The peace and solace of being at sea is a great meditative tool.   For those who have not yet done it or who may have some trepidation.   I definitely recommend a short cruise to see how you like it.   It is a wonderful way to see the world and have fun doing it.  Plus, you get to try different things and foods you may have never thought you would.  

The song in the video is, Star Across The Sky
by SPICY CHOCOLATE and Sly & Robbie.  I heard it first on a cruise back in 2019.  

Sunset from the Gulf of Mexico

 

Two views of the sky from the Gulf while on a short cruise back in august.   The view of the same sunset looking at the opposite ends of the sky one east one west.  

When the events of the world grow too heavy to bear

and fear grows deep inside.

Seek out kinds words to hear,

words to comfort and guide. 

Calm Seas

I had thought I would retire this blog. In light of recent events, I feel it may be time to step it out of retirement and return to something more quaint.  Perhaps even hopeful.