What does one do when you are on a cruise, have arrived at a new port, and there is torrential rain? I decided it would be the same as a day at sea and used it to enjoy the amenities on board. As it turns out all but one excursion was canceled because of the weather.
One of the great things aboard a large, modern ship is that there are always multiple activities to participate in and loads of comfortable places to go hang out. Of course you can also do your laundry.
I opted for laundry, working out in the gym, and reading a book in the library which is filled with comfortable chairs, quiet, and coffee and tea. There are also meals to eat, a piano bar with an excellent pianist / singer, teatime, trivia contests, a spa, bingo (enjoyed by my friend Sue and something I dislike), an art studio, and more. Plus, I always get into conversations with fellow travelers, most of whom have interesting stories to tell.
The port I didn’t go into Katakolon, Greece. It is the “gateway” to one of ancient Greece’s most notable historical landmarks, ancient Olympia. Archeologists believe that the very first Olympiad took place there in 776BC. These days it is where the Olympic flame is lit and begins its journey to the hosting city. However, Sue, who has been there, tells me there isn’t much to see. In the pouring rain that sounded completely unappealing.
The other highlights of Katakolon are its dockside taverns and souvenir shops. Also, very missable.
As the saying goes, when you get lemons make lemonade. I had a delightful, restful day.
Just as the ship pulled away from the dock the sun made an appearance. Oh well. I just hope the sun is out tomorrow for a place I really want to visit, Messina, Sicily.