Monday, November 11, 2013

November 10 - Maceio, Brazil


This morning we arrived in Maceio, Brazil.  It’s only a little south of Recife but quite different.  Maceio is primarily a beach town.  We didn’t plan a tour but instead opted to take the shuttle bus into town.   As we waited for a bus in the little cruise terminal there were a group of students dancing and welcoming us.  We had a few minutes to wait so I went and asked if I might join them.  They taught me some very rudimentary steps.  I’m clearly not ready for Dancing with the Stars but it was fun to spend a few minutes with them.
Not ready for primetime but I had fun while waiting

We were dropped off at a large shopping center full of stores selling handcrafts, t-shirts, shoes, lace items etc.  It was across the street from the gorgeous beach which was packed because it was Sunday.  I couldn’t resist so I took off my sandals to walk in the sand down to the water.  Wow, was the sand ever hot!  I didn’t linger on it for very long and raced down to where the waves were breaking to cool my feet off.  The water was surprisingly cool given the heat and intensity of the sun here just a little south of the Equator.
The very busy beach
Looking down the beach

After racing back to the street and putting my shoes back on, we went back into the market, bought a few t-shirts and then took the bus back to the ship.  I think for beach lovers Maceio might be a great place to come.  As we drove back to the port we could see that the avenue was lined with some nice looking hotels and lots of restaurants and cafes.  Walking back to the ship we saw this warning sign painted on a building across from the ship.  Our guide yesterday had told us there were problems with insects.  The same must be true here in Maceio.
We think this means beware of mosquitos
Our ship sailed at 2 PM.  We had two tugs with lines on us.  We don’t think we really needed them, but it probably was a way for the Brazilians to get more money. Right after we sailed away we had another of Seabourn’s signature events, Caviar in the pool.  We were having people over shortly after so we stayed out of the water.  People were bobbing about in the pool and being served champagne and caviar.  I would love to know how much champagne is being consumed on this voyage.  I can’t remember any time of day when I haven’t seen people with a glass out and about.

At 3:30 we had 26 of our new friends up to our cabin for wine and champagne.  I had asked for some chips and peanuts and a little caviar as well.  As with the last party we had, Seabourn brought way more than I requested.  We had hot and cold canapés and a cheese tray.  I guess they want to make sure we’re never hungry and they are being very successful.


In the evening we met some of our friends, the Reillys and the Campbells, in the Observation Bar.  After drinks we went and had another nice meal in the dining room.  We stopped into the show for a few minutes but then decided to turn in.  Tomorrow is a sea day with the fancy dress competition at Trivia. 

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