Maldives

A thousand tiny islands spread over 26 tropical atolls near the equator, in the heart of the Indian Ocean, the Maldives offer some of the world's most exotic island getaways. Off we went to enjoy one of the resorts on it's own island. We took our ship's tender to shore and then boarded a fast covered boat with 3 outboard engines of 225 hp each. Half an hour later we were at the resort. The beach was white powdered sand and the water was very warm. There were little fish everywhere and even a few stingrays. We enjoyed the pool area and Mike had a $7.00 Corona. Boated back to the ship after several hours, having had a wonderful resort experience.

Sundowner

Sunday evening the Captain announced a surprise Sundowner cocktail party on the bow of the ship. The weather was perfect and the Indian Ocean was like a lake. Music played as we enjoyed our drinks and watched the big orange ball drop into the sea........Magical!!!!!

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur is Malaysia's largest city. It is known for the Petronas Twin towers, even though they are no longer the world's tallest buildings. Traffic is congested, as in most large cities. Temples and mosques are scattered throughout. Each neighborhood having their own. The "blue mosque" can hold over 25, 000 people at one time for prayers.
The ride from the port was about an hour and a half, so we got to see a lot of sights along the way into "KL".

Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok is Thailand's main port. Our drive into the city from Laem Chabang port took almost 2 hours. The ship had a world cruise event at the Shangri La Hotel located on the Chao Phraya River. Our room overlooked the river, which was bustling with boat activity. After an international buffet lunch, and a tour of the Royal Barges and Canals, it was time for a quick shower and we were off for another boat ride at sunset on the river. Regent hosted this full World Cruise event, complete with fireworks. The fireworks were the best we have ever seen. Another wonderful buffet dinner and it was time for bed. Sunday, March 21 ( Happy Birthday, Pat) we enjoyed the hotel and were back at the ship in time for lunch. We are looking forward to two days at sea.

HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY

A memorable evening with great friends!!!!!

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam

We have seen almost all of the historical parts of Saigon, so we decided to go into the central city on our own. We took the ship's shuttle from the dock to the Rex Hotel. About a 45 minute ride through traffic and little streets. Shops were open and people were out and about selling everything from vegetables to cigarettes. We walked around and went into lots of little stores. The weather was quite hot and humid, so back on the bus to the ship.

Hong Gai, Vietnam

Our visit to Hong Gai, the port for Ha Long Bay, was mystical. The weather was warm, yet misty. Our ship's tour was Ha Long Bay by Junk. We boarded a bus that took us to the junk jetty and there were lots and lots of boats waiting. As we set out to view the bay, our guide began explaining the limestone formations that make Ha Long Bay so beautiful. After about an hour the junk pulled up to some steps, where the hearty and strong disembarked to climb up to a cave. Over 100 steps up and then another 100 down. I opted to stay aboard and shop the wares that were presented on board the junk. Buying "junk" on a junk. The caves were lit with colored lights so the walls were easier to view. Everyone made it back to the junk, but said it was quite a climb and walk. We returned to the jetty dock having thoroughly enjoyed our tour.