Blog 693, Days 1 and 2 of 29

Friday 14th January (Day 2)

Yesterday (Day 1/29)

I have never been quite so well organised…all but my overnight bags were packed and loaded into the car the previous night. Yesterday morning, the “overnight” carry-on case was packed and loaded, the house tidied up and I was ready for departure from home on the dot of 1pm, with nothing vital left behind, and no panic attacks at Warwick Services! Today, I am on board, still with no last minute hitches. Boarding procedures did feel long winded and complicated, but, they weren’t really.

The drive from Buxton, yesterday, was in glorious Mid-january clear cool weather. And as previously, we stopped for a late lunch at Warwick Services, and also for coffee around an hour from Southampton – a “comfort stop!” We arrived at the chosen hotel shortly after 7.35 from where a splendid view of R.M.S. Queen Mary 2 could be enjoyed.

Already the itinerary is altered…that’s my first claim on my travel insurance! Madeira is cancelled, as is St. Lucia. I’m sorry about St. Lucia, but Madeira, not so much. I have been there several times, including spending a few nice days there having flown, rather than travelled by ship.

We shall be sailing soon, and the blogs should become increasingly exotic!

Many thanks for reading, David, 17.01hrs, on board Queen Mary 2