Pictured left to right outside the new store are: Paul Hardwick, Fred. Olsen Travel Agents Director of Retail; Emma Bailey, Fred. Olsen Travel Agents; Tutti Taylor, Fred. Olsen Travel Agents; Councillor Candy Vaughan, Mayor of Eastbourne; Trevor Ridler, Fred. Olsen Travel Agents Business Development Manager; and Shirley Waters, Fred. Olsen Travel Agents..
Having worked in the travel industry for most of my life, I have been lucky enough to experience the most incredible opportunities, including my recent venture onboard Norwegian Cruise Lines' stunning ship, Norwegian Epic. I flew into Barcelona where Norwegian Cruise Lines provided a PCR Test at the terminal before boarding the ship. I only waited 20 minutes for my result, and once receiving the all-clear I boarded the ship.
I was greeted with wonderful smiley faces from the cabin crew as I was welcomed on board, before being shown to my Balcony stateroom; which was on deck 12. The stateroom was spacious and had a gorgeous interior. During my stay, I enjoyed the inclusions of a drinks package, 250 minutes of free Wi-Fi and a speciality dining package with many restaurants to choose from - there is no better way to enjoy a wide selection of unique dining experiences!
Once onboard, I headed for the sun deck to enjoy the afternoon sun. There were plenty of sunbeds around the pool area, it was lovely and not too busy. I had to wear a facemask when walking around the ship or attending the bar for a drink but could sit freely around the pool, with the freedom of not wearing my mask. A live band played to welcome us all aboard. It was a wonderful feeling; the sea breeze and the sun at sea. For families or adults, there were water rides, a climbing wall, an outdoor cinema and children play zone. With many restaurants to choose from, all tables were set at a distance and there was plenty of hand sanitiser on board, especially when entering all the restaurants. Overall I felt very safe and at ease on board Norwegian Epic.
Dinner on board was incredible, after my fantastic evening meal I went to watch a wonderful show with top performers in the Escape Theatre where experienced high-class theatre acts are performed, including musicals, comedy acts and live music.
On Deck 5 there is a special desk that is designated for shore excursions. I booked a fantastic excursion to Sardinia which included a tour, and a visit to an archaeological site. I loved this trip and would highly recommend it!
On my final day at sea, I had to complete a Spanish locator form for heading back to Barcelona and a locator form for returning to the UK, which was easily completed onboard. Plus, Norwegian Cruise Lines provided my antigen lateral flow test, which I had to do before my return to London. Once back in the UK, a PCR test was required on day two, when returning to London. This was very simple to sort out and of no worry at all.
Looking back at my cruise it was such a wonderful experience, and I am so happy to be cruising again. It's not to be missed!
