Almost time for Lynn and I to hit the road. Where are we going you ask? Well how about Portugal, Spain, the Bailiwick of Guernsey and Dover, Kent UK and London. That is the short version.
We start by flying to Lisbon and spending a couple nights. We will have time to explore and find some of the more unique bits of Lisbon. Years back we visited Lisbon for a short port stop while on a cruise. We always thought it would be a great place to visit again.
Since I have just finished up a couple surgeries and Lynn is awaiting another hip replacement I don’t think we will be as active as we normally are, so a lot of coffee shop stops might be in order for a pastel de nata. Pastel de nata is a wonderful custard tart.
The MS Fram - https://www.travelhx.com/en-us/ships/fram/
In Lisbon we will board the MS Fram, a ship which is a member of the HX Expedition fleet. We were on MS Fram last year sailing from Reykjavik to Longyearbyen. This time we have been upgraded to a mini suite.
The MS Fram has a capacity of 250 passengers, no stage shows but great lectures which provide great learning experiences. We have obtained the HX status of Platinum and will have many rewards. I do think we might take advantage of comp laundry and a spa treatment.
We have always found the food offerings on both Hurtigruten and HX to be a cut above the dining on big cruise ship, including their upscale/up-charge dining venues.
The crew members have always been exceptional. In talking to many of them I have learned they are treated very well and simply love their jobs. Interestingly there is no tipping on HX, yet I always contribute to their crew fund.
I must say our cruising style is definitely a preference for the smaller expedition ships.
Here is our sailing itinerary:
Day 1 - May 1st - Legendary Lisbon - Set out from this enchanting city. MS Fram awaits you in the harbor. After being welcomed aboard, settle into your cabin and begin your adventure at sea.
Day 2 - May 2nd - Charming Porto (Leixoes) - Explore the UNESCO-listed historic center of Porto. Settle into life on board as we approach our first stop: Leixões, Portugal. From here, you can see the lighthouse of Leça, the Boa Nova Chapel, and the beautiful beach of Praia Azul.
Day 3 - May 3rd - Galician Highlights - See Galicia's heritage in Ferrol. Ferrol is one of Spain’s best-preserved 18th century port cities. While you’re here, criss-cross Barrio de la Magdalena's grid of streets and explore the city’s maritime museums.
El Camino Inglés, one of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage routes, starts in Ferrol.
Day 4 - May 4th - At Sea - Relax at sea and prepare for the adventures ahead.
Day 5 - May 5th - Enjoy crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and natural beauty. Just 30 miles off the tip of Cornwall are the Isles of Scilly. This enchanting archipelago is home to some exquisite small islands with crystal clear waters, pristine beaches, and stunning natural beauty. We’ll anchor the ship here and head ashore aboard local boats.
Days 6-7 - May 6th & 7th - Discover a hidden gem on the edge of Europe. Lying between France and mainland Britain, the Channel Islands are a captivating archipelago with intriguing history and a landscape of unspoiled beaches, coastal castles, and lush countryside.
Day 8 - May 8th - Say farewell by the renowned White Cliffs of Dover.
We will spend a couple nights in Dover, enjoying Poundland and Blakes of Dover.
Then train to London for a couple more nights before heading home.
This will be a one camera and lens trip, and I should be able to keep up with the blog. Our goal is to do this trip with only carry on.
So buckle up and tag along. Our hope is you are inspired to explore be that near or far.
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