Note: This post was originally published on January 5th, 2018.
Day 2: Sunday December 24th
Christmas Eve was spent on board the massive Brilliance of the Seas ship, cruising the Atlantic. I awoke quite early, around 8, but to my dismay had missed the sunrise. I later realized that the Cruise Ship conveniently published the forecast, as well as the time of sunrise and sunset, in the daily newsletter, entitled the Cruise Compass. I wish I saved all five Cruise Compass’ but I only have one, which I can post in my blog piece on Cozumel (Day 4). Anyhow, even though I had missed the sunrise, the schedule was chock-full of activities. I’ve realized one thing: there is no way to be bored on a cruise ship. The place is buzzing with activity, and there is literally something going on at any corner at all times of the day. The morning was spent exploring the ship quarters, hanging out, relaxing and enjoying the unlimited buffet at the Windjammer Cafe. (This was the restaurant that had been closed the first day, but which quickly became my favorite place to dine!)
The WindJammer Cafe:
The WindJammer cafe was where we ate most breakfasts, lunches and snacks throughout the day. It was the perfect buffet-style cafe, situated on the 11th floor of the ship, with simply stunning views of the ship throughout. Many times during the day, I would just enjoy myself and marvel at the ocean’s vastness and beauty. This is a picture of the windjammer (before we had departed, so all you can see is the port view):
The Rose Lounge:
Among the notable locations on the ship, I would say the rose lounge was one of my favorites! It was a beautiful rose-themed lounge that was surprisingly frequently deserted. The cruise ship I was on was smaller than most, square-footage-wise, but it was supremely decorated! I suppose most people were busy trying their hand on the casino machines or at the pool deck (which was the site of all of the action!) while I was exploring the hidden treasures on board! Here is a picture of the rose lounge:
The Pool Deck:
The pool deck was most certainly “where the party was at” Every morning, there would be clothing stalls and a small mini shopping area, as well as a dance class (similar to Zumba). Then, there would be music and activities throughout the day. Around 10:00 at night, there were always movies playing on the deck, too. That evening, Polar Express was playing, and I (thankfully) caught a bit of it!
It was always energetic. On Christmas Eve, we made our way to the pool deck after lunch, and found the Men’s International Belly Flop Competition! It was super fun and lively with everyone cheering and hollering! The winner was a young, super athletic athletic guy in his early twenties who landed in the pool with a backflip, and made the “largest splash”. The crowd went wild upon his entry.
The Solarium Bar & Pool Area was a splendid hang out area which we also frequented throughout the day. My brother completed a few swim laps in the evening before the theater show that night, and so did I.
The Spa:
The spa was another place I frequented on the second and third “sea days”. The entrance to the spa had a large decorated peacock themed mural, which I just loved. It was beautiful! Upon entering the spa, I could smell a strong aroma of lavender essential oils which had diffused throughout the waiting area. I was able to walk through the spa on the third day, when my mom and I attended a skin-care seminar, and noticed several massage rooms, as well as rooms for acupuncture, facials and massages. There were many spa packages available for purchase, as well. I had a skin consultation on the third day, when the resident facialist on board designed a skin-care regimen for me, which was interesting. Another day, my dad also attended a consultation to learn about various techniques rooted in chinese medicine to remedy his knee pain.
The Colony Club:
The colony club was the venue for various activities scheduled throughout the day. Among the different events I attended at the club, there was trivia, karaoke night, and a murder mystery puzzle. It was a cozy gathering place.
Well, that’s all for now! Before I leave you for the day, here is an amazing snapshot of the tropical palm trees of cozumel (one of many options for my new desktop and phone background screensaver!) I can never get enough of Cozumel Beauty.
Thank You Readers!
Cheers,
Supriya
