Join us as we cross the Atlantic for Europe on a two-week cruise with Celebrity Cruises on the Apex - The Western Europe Transatlantic. From Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to Rotterdam in the Netherlands (last-minute port change from Amsterdam). Embarking on our 16-day voyage from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on 18 April 2023, we set our sights on Bermuda, charting a course across the Atlantic Ocean and through the storied waters of the English Channel. Throughout our journey, we explored seven countries and ten unique destinations, an experience we're eager to share in detail. Join us as we unravel the intricacies of life aboard the Apex during our two-week Transatlantic cruise, providing valuable insights into our Celebrity experience. Having sailed with Celebrity Cruises eight times prior, our transition to the Edge class ship marked a notable shift in our maritime adventures. Reflecting on our previous Alaskan cruise on Celebrity Eclipse , which left a lasting impression, we found that the larger capacity of the Edge class ships, accommodating nearly 3000 passengers, posed a notable adjustment. Grappling with the full occupancy, we gained valuable perspective on the dynamics of a bustling cruise experience. Our first impressions of the Apex were nothing short of captivating. As seasoned cruisers, we couldn't help but admire the ship's modern elegance—a true floating oasis. The art and sculptures adorning the vessel were remarkable, and the overall design exuded a sense of graceful sophistication. The staterooms, the heart of our temporary maritime abode, impressed us with their exquisite design, ample space, and luxurious comfort. We opted for the Sunset Verandah stateroom, a prudent choice for those seeking a tranquil retreat amidst the vast expanse of the ocean. This stateroom features a spacious balcony adorned with two sunbeds and two chairs, offering unobstructed vistas of the panoramic sunset and sunrise from the stern of the ship—a coveted vantage point for indulging in the natural spectacle. Our experience in this stateroom was exceptional; it served as our private oasis, providing a serene space to unwind and immerse ourselves in the awe-inspiring beauty of the open seas. It's evident that while the onboard crew is dedicated and hardworking, the impact of understaffing on Celebrity's ships has been deeply felt, leading to a strain on service levels and the overall well-being of the crew. When a ship operates with inadequate staffing, the ability to deliver expedited service in various areas becomes increasingly challenging, often leading to prolonged wait times and congested dining venues. This can significantly detract from the guest experience, especially in high-traffic areas like restaurants. In such scenarios, dining in specialty restaurants can provide a more conducive environment for savouring your meal and receiving the level of service you expect. These venues typically offer a more intimate and attentive dining experience, mitigating the potential impact of understaffing on the overall enjoyment of your cruise. When it comes to dining experiences on a cruise, discovering a hidden gem can elevate your culinary journey to new heights. That hidden gem was Raw on Five , the exquisite Japanese restaurant aboard the Apex. We knew we had stumbled upon something truly special from the moment we walked through its doors. We were drawn to Raw on Five repeatedly, opting to make it our go-to destination for most of our meals. What set this restaurant apart was the exceptional service we received and the consistently outstanding quality of the food. The culinary creations graced our plates were a testament to the skill and artistry of the talented chefs behind the scenes. But there's more to this hidden gem than just the sumptuous dishes it serves. We discovered that Raw on Five has a secret weapon—a vantage point that offers the most enchanting sunset views. We couldn't end our story about Raw on Five without expressing our heartfelt appreciation to the incredible team. Their dedication and warmth left a lasting impression, and it's safe to say that we miss them dearly. So, if you find yourself aboard the Apex, seeking an unforgettable dining experience, our insider's tip is to make Raw on Five your first choice. From the impeccable service to the astounding food quality and the enchanting sunset views, this Japanese restaurant is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. Trust us, it's an experience you won't want to miss. The Fine Cut Steakhouse , another specialty dining venue renowned for its upscale steak and seafood offerings, became our favourite dining spot during our cruise. Boasting exquisite decor and captivating sunset vistas, this establishment truly delivered a five-star dining experience. The impeccable service, complemented by the exceptional quality of the food and wines, left a lasting impression. Our preference in the Main Dining restaurant was the Tuscan Restaurant , which serves authentic southern Italian cuisine, including homemade pasta. We chose it because of the quality of the meals and seating plans. The decor was elegant, and we were always greeted warmly and enjoyed the atmosphere. Being on the beverage package was disappointing. Each time you asked for something, it seemed unavailable and out of stock, so you were left with a minimal choice. Alternatively, you had the staff running all over the ship to find something equivalent, which was very unfair to the lovely crew. However, without it, we would have also been paying for water, like getting blood from a stone at times. In another turn of events, also due to the staffing shortages, Wayne, my hubby, at one point, walked around Eden multiple times and grabbed all the glasses left on the tables. This mishap turned positive, and we met a wonderful, mature couple who thought he was staff. There was plenty of laughter, and we ordered drinks for them. In the tranquil evenings aboard the cruise ship, the Magic Carpet emerges as a unique floating bar offering unparalleled views of the vast open ocean. It is elevated an impressive 13 stories above sea level. This remarkable platform frequently repositions along the ship's side, offering a truly immersive experience. Weather permitting, passengers can indulge in a drink while perched at the edge of the ship, creating a memorable moment that perfectly encapsulates innovative design and a dash of daring adventure. Throughout the expansive eight days at sea, a rich tapestry of entertainment offerings unfolded, catering to diverse preferences and interests. The ship's schedule brimmed with engaging activities, showcasing preview acts for upcoming performances, elaborate cake displays, and captivating twice-nightly shows. The melodic strains of live music resonated throughout the day, enhancing the onboard ambience. At the same time, interactive sessions such as cocktail demonstrations and wine tastings added a sophisticated flair to the experience. We spent our days enjoying morning coffees in Café Al Bacio, relaxing, having indulgent dining experiences, listening to the talented musicians, and spending time with family. The impressive ly decorated cakes were displayed in the Oceanview Café, where buffet-style dining with multiple stations is available. The menu offers made-to-order breakfast and lunch, with a rotating international menu for dinner. Fear not; the tantalising cakes are there to indulge your senses, adding a sweet and captivating note to your dining adventure. We were fortunate to have only one questionable day at sea, during which Mother Nature provided peace around the ship as many guests navigated the wild oceans. Fortunately, after crossing the Drake Passage six times recently, we are fast becoming accustomed to such thrilling events. As our transatlantic adventure drew to a close, the allure of booking a back-to-back journey to explore the enchanting Norwegian Fjords over the coming week became increasingly irresistible. Click here as we delve into the seamless transition from one captivating voyage to another, unlocking the hidden gems of the Norwegian Fjords aboard our floating sanctuary.

Celebrity Eclipse - 7 Nights Arriving in Canada for the first time was the perfect opportunity to tick off our bucket list item: an Alaskan Cruise, the inside passage. We are very loyal cruisers with Celebrity Cruises. We were excited to see they had an inside passage cruise leaving Vancouver in early July, a few days after our arrival, so it slotted in perfectly. Following is a summary of our unforgettable Inside Passage Alaskan cruise. We were very impressed with the number of port visits and sea days, making it the ideal relaxing cruise with a few adventurous days. Our cruise was a 7-night cruise that departs from Vancouver, sails through the Inside Passage, stops in Sitka, flows through Hubbard Glacier, and stops in Juneau and Ketchikan before sailing through the Inside Passage again on the way back to Vancouver. This is the first time we have booked a stateroom at the back of the ship; we have always stayed starboard mid-ship. We booked a Sunset Veranda Stateroom (#7317) and loved being at the back; you are spoilt with magnificent views, perfect for sail-aways, sunsets and relaxing on the balcony. Day one - Vancouver This is our very first cruise to Alaska! We are so happy to be back cruising after four years, and it feels like home being back on a Celebrity Cruises ship! We were very impressed with the embarkation process in Vancouver; it was seamless. Within 30 minutes of arriving at the port, we were strolling around the cruise ship enjoying a glass of champagne and could even check in to our stateroom; it was 11 a.m. Sushi on five, an a la carte restaurant specialising in Japanese cuisine on Deck 5 was open, and we were seated by the window watching the 2000 guests board the ship, we loved the energy from the crew, welcoming all guests with a song and dance. The vibe was so positive and fun! The food and service at Sushi on Five was exceptional, and we found ourselves dining there every day for lunch. A special thank you to the team Onsa, Dan, Mohamed, Sudar, Ryan and Helena for caring for us during our slow lunches. Our first dinner was at Le Petite Chef and was quite a fun experience. It was a first, and we don't want to spoil the fun, so here are just a couple of pics! Day two It was a day cruising, a sea day! We woke fresh and enjoyed a slow breakfast in the main dining room. We even saw our first whale breaching while ordering our mid-morning coffees at Cafe Bacio from the energetic and friendly crew. The ship started rocking in the morning, so our advice if you suffer from motion sickness is to make your way to Deck 3, mid-ship, and sit. The best advice is to avoid the feeling by laying low, not making your way to the front, as you will feel the rocking more. Once the seas were protected again, it was over in a few hours, and everyone was okay. We started the evening with unique cocktails at World Class Bar; thank you, Adrian, Nemanja and crew. We then dined in the main dining room, we did have a set dining time of 8.30 pm, but we have to thank our Mary, the lovely Maître d' in the dining room, she always took care of us and found us an earlier dining slot. The food was beyond perfection, and the attentive service was impeccable. Day three - Sitka Our Alaskan adventure brings us to our first destination, Sitka, Alaska. A small island with a population of 8500, but with four cruises docked, it was 20,000! Sitka had a Russian influence due to being part of Russia until 1867. We explored the town and settled for lunch to try the local halibut, which was delicious and only $50 for a few bites (below)!! While enjoying our lunch, a young man popped over to say hello; he was sailing on another ship that day in Sitka. Our lovely waiter, Mickey, was from one of our favourite restaurants in Belgrade, Bar Sasa . We were all overwhelmed by coincidence and enjoyed the afternoon reminiscing. Soon after Mickey left, we started chatting to another group of lovely boys on vacation from Seattle with their 84-year-old Dad; he was an absolute legend, as were Dan and Dave. It was an extraordinary afternoon on our first day in Alaska, and to top it off, we had magnificent views as we sailed toward the Hubbard Glaciers. Day four - Hubbard Glacier We cruised through the inside passage and had an incredible view of the Hubbard Glacier. It was the first time we had sailed through waters scattered with ice, and it was a special moment. We had the most fantastic captain; thank you, Captain Leo, who positioned the ship where we could soak up the magnificent glaciers for a few hours. It was mesmerising, and we were fortunate to experience the glacier on a rare clear day to capture the stunning Hubbard glaciers. We finished the day with a lovely slow lunch at Sushi on Five, enjoying these once-in-a-lifetime views and another dinner in the main dining room. Day five - Juneau Today, we arrived in Juneau, the capital of Alaska (30,000 population). We organized a two-hour helicopter flight over the beautiful glaciers and Alaskan terrain. Our Temsco Helicopters pilot, Josiah, was incredible. We landed on two different glaciers and had the opportunity to walk around Herbert's and Mendenhall glaciers. It was a magical morning, an experience we never thought possible. The glaciers' colours were gorgeous, and the spectacular mountain ranges were a sight to see. We were back on board for the sail away and enjoyed delicious food, wine, and service on the fabulous Tuscan grill. A special thank you to Julia, our waitress, who understood our dining pace and was a pleasure to have by our side, serving us during the evening. We also loved reminiscing with Mohamad from Tunisia. The sail-away views were stunning and reminded us how much we love cruising! Day six - Ketchikan We visited Ketchikan, the first town in Alaska that describes itself as the "Salmon Capital of the World". Ketchikan is well known for its fishing, beautiful scenery and rich Native culture. For those who have watched Northern Exposure, it closely aligns. We loved the colourful buildings, history, scenery and beauty; it was a lovely destination to dock in. The stories of random catch-ups continue; we met a couple on our flight from Amsterdam to Vancouver in Ketchikan as we walked by in the street. They were cruising on Holland America, a cruise ship also docked for the day. I had a lovely chat about our life story and met all their friends, including a sweet Greek man who tried to steal me away from hubby! During dinner that evening, Christophe, a friendly face from our 2017 cruise sailing the South Pacific on the Solstice, also served us. The food continued to surprise us, and the duck tonight was mouthwatering. Day seven Our final day was a sea day, during which we enjoyed slow cruising back to Vancouver. At five, we had another slow lunch at our favourite sushi place and an afternoon nap, as you do on a cruise ship. During lunch, we were fortunate to watch the pilot board the ship. Kudos to Wayne to get this incredible footage. When the evening arrived, we were booked into another one of our favourite specialty restaurants, Murano. This restaurant offers world-class French cuisine crafted by a Michelin-starred chef. We were seated by a lovely couple from Florida, and we quickly became friends and enjoyed lots of banter and trading travel stories. Our friendly sommelier, Tanya, was from Thailand, and we had some fun practising our Thai again and trading Thai travel stories. The dishes were delicious as always; it is one of my favourite restaurants for Dover Sole. Our magical cruis e arrived in Vancouver the following day, and booking this cruise was the best decision. You will not be disappointed. Celebrity Cruises continues to exceed expectations and is world-class in its dining options, service, and crew. We love cruising with Celebrity. Surprisingly, boarding a ship for a week was cheaper than paying the exorbitant accommodation prices in Vancouver. You would be hard-pressed to find anything less than $500 per night; if you want five-star, you are looking for $650 per night, including your meals, and you have spent $1000 per day.

The Glass House - Six Visits The Glass House isn't merely a restaurant; it's a testament to the harmonious blend of architecture and nature. Its unique design, featuring expansive glass walls, offers an unobstructed view of the azure waters, allowing diners to bask in the breathtaking beauty of Pattaya's coastline. Whether seated for a leisurely lunch or a romantic dinner, the restaurant transforms dining into an immersive experience—where the vibrancy of nature's palette and the sophistication of minimalist design converge. This architectural marvel ensures that the ambience remains unparalleled regardless of the time of day. On a hot day, the interior, blessed with air conditioning, becomes a calm haven without sacrificing the stunning views that make The Glass House a coveted destination. The Glass House distinguishes itself not just through its architectural ingenuity but also through its culinary offerings. The consistency in the quality of both food and cocktails is commendable, perfectly complementing the magical sunsets that serve as a backdrop to every meal. It's a place where the visual feast outside the glass walls competes only with the gastronomical delights presented on your plate. Perfect for lunch and dinner, the menu showcases a love for finesse and innovation, inviting guests to partake in a journey of flavours as memorable as the panoramic views. The restaurant's ability to live up to the expectations set by its enchanting surroundings, visit after visit, underscores why it has become a beloved gem in Pattaya.

Surf & Turf Beach Club - Six Visits What makes Surf & Turf Beach Club stand out is its unwavering reliability. Open for breakfast; its doors welcome early birds looking to start their day right with various sumptuous morning feasts. The club thoughtfully offers indoor and outdoor seating, accommodating guests regardless of the weather. The air-conditioned comfort is a haven from the tropical heat, making it an ideal spot for leisurely morning or midday meals. However, it's the outdoor seating that truly captivates. Positioned perfectly to embrace Pattaya's picturesque sunsets, the club offers an ambient setting that elevates any dining experience. This blend of comfort, choice, and setting sets Surf & Turf Beach Club apart as a prime destination in Pattaya, not just for dining and drinks but for soaking in the beauty that Thailand has to offer. With each visit to the Surf & Turf Beach Club, I've been impressed by not just the quality of food and service but also the consistency of excellence. Finding a place that continually lives up to expectations is a rarity, making it a reliable choice for locals and tourists alike.

Seaside Finolhu - Ten Nights Nothing prepares you for the Maldives, but this little piece of paradise completely exceeded all expectations. We stayed in an ocean-view villa, and it was spectacular. We loved spending time in the villa pool, gazing over the ocean. The ocean is as straightforward as you think. All the sea life was regularly visited, including dolphins, turtles, stingrays, sharks, octopuses and various colourful fish. Ten days on the island weren’t long enough, and it was a great way to begin our travels to Europe and relax in the sun. The food options were plentiful, and we were very impressed with all the dining options; the main dining was a new-style buffet with everything freshly cooked in front of you. We were big fans of Baa Haa Grill (North African), where you could order clean grilled meats and fish. The view was exceptional again. You can venture to the bar each night for unique entertainment by the gorgeous performers! You also become familiar with all the guests and special friendships formed that will continue after your stay; where would we be without social media? The Finolhu crew was a pleasure to deal with and spend time with. We became close to some fabulous teams and can’t wait to see them again. Becks , Marc, Amr, Dila, DJ Jaffa, Vicki , Shelley , and Jona—this list continues! You all made our trip so much more memorable.

The Pacific Sutera Hotel - One Week We enjoyed seven nights at Sutera and enjoyed it. Expectations exceeded; we didn't expect to have the most fantastic sunset view each night from the hotel bar; it's a must! The rooms were spotless and well-sized; they were not modern but huge and were a great place to relax. There are also lots of dining options and pools for all. I loved the Olympic swimming pool, which was never too busy and great for laps. I travelled with my husband, and it was a family resort with many children, so be aware that the main pool is quite busy. The Italian restaurant also had fantastic quality food. The waterfront in Kota Kinabalu is also lovely and a nice walk from the hotel to experience all the locals and the night market was great too. Book in for the sunset or dinner cruise; it was awesome. The boat was fabulous, and I had never seen a voyage decked out to this standard. It was perfect, and there were lots of tables for two. The food was buffet-style but included lots of delicious local cuisine options.

North Borneo Cruises Discover the majestic charm of Kota Kinabalu from an exceptional vantage point – aboard the North Borneo Cruises. Offering an unforgettable sunset and dinner experience, this cruise stands out as a jewel in Borneo's crown, blending luxury with the captivating beauty of the region. From the moment we stepped aboard, it was evident that the North Borneo Cruise wasn't just any ordinary boat ride; it was a journey into luxury and scenic wonder. The vessel boasted a sophistication that I had yet to encounter on similar voyages. It was designed impeccably, with spacious decks that featured numerous intimate tables for two, perfect for those looking to soak in the sunset. As the evening sky painted with colours, we were treated to a buffet that was nothing short of a gastronomical adventure. The spread included an array of local cuisine, each transporting us deeper into the heart of Malaysian flavours. From succulent meats to rich, aromatic side dishes, the culinary offerings were a testament to the region's diverse food heritage. To complement our meal, we selected a bottle of premium Italian wine, which was surprisingly affordable and added a touch of sophistication to our dining experience. The musical selection was a perfect backdrop to the evening's festivities, with great hits that had us singing along. A special nod went out to the token two Aussies onboard (my husband and I), including Men at Work, making the experience uniquely tailored and memorable. As the cruise drew to a close and the coastline of Kota Kinabalu lit up the night, it was clear that our evening with North Borneo Cruises was not just about the places we sailed past; it was about embracing an ambience that couldn't be found anywhere else.

When celebrating another trip around the sun, there's no place quite as unique and vibrant as George Town, the capital city of Penang, Malaysia. With a mélange of cultures, history, and modern comforts, George Town provided an unmatched backdrop for my special day. George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a testament to Malaysia's multicultural tapestry. Its streets are an open-air museum showcasing the harmony of Malaysian, Chinese, Indian, and British influences. As I wandered these living galleries, the colonial architecture blended seamlessly with the colourful facades of Chinese shophouses and the grandeur of Indian temples and mosques, all narrating the city's historical significance as a trading hub in the Straits of Malacca. The charm of George Town extends well beyond its historic old town. The city encompasses streets lined with heritage and a contrasting modern cityscape featuring skyscrapers stretching towards the heavens and shopping malls pulsating with life. As the sun set on my birthday, I was entranced by the city's ability to support such contrasts effortlessly. No birthday is complete without the indulgence of good food, and in George Town, every meal is a celebration. The aroma of spices and sizzle of works from the hawker stalls filled the air, promising an adventure for the tastebuds with local delights like Char Kway Teow, Penang Laksa, and Nasi Kandar.

Nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia, Kuala Lumpur, the radiant capital of Malaysia, emerges as a stunning backdrop for romance. Its skyline, punctuated by the awe-inspiring Petronas Twin Towers, tells the story of a city where modernity meets tradition in a beautiful tangle. At 451 meters tall, the Petronas Twin Towers, sheathed in glass and steel and adorned with Islamic motifs, are not just an architectural wonder but a symbol of the city's soaring spirit. The towers, connected by a public sky bridge, provide a vantage point to view the city's sprawl and an intimate nook for couples to share memorable moments against the setting sun. The observation deck further up offers panoramic views of Kuala Lumpur, making it the perfect spot to whisper sweet nothings into your partner's ear. Kuala Lumpur's rich tapestry includes its futuristic skyline and the grandeur of British colonial-era landmarks. With its fairytale-like facade, the Kuala Lumpur Railway Station is a testament to the city's storied past and an ideal backdrop for couples seeking a dash of historical charm. The Sultan Abdul Samad Building, another colonial marvel, adds to the setting with its striking clock tower and unique brickwork, echoing tales of a bygone era. Valentine's Day in Kuala Lumpur isn't just about visiting landmarks; it's about immersing yourself in a vibrant cultural scene, enjoying the culinary delights, and exploring lush green spaces that offer a tranquil reprieve from the city's hustle and bustle. Whether you prefer a romantic dinner with the city lights glistening below or a stroll through historical paths, Kuala Lumpur provides the perfect canvas to paint your love story.

Hotel Dva Bisera - Three visits We finally found a fine dining restaurant in Ohrid, Dva Bisera in Lagadin, ticking all the boxes. The spectacular views are located ten minutes from Ohrid in Lagadin on Lake Ohrid. Very warm, friendly, and professional service, even during busy times. It's a hot spot for locals. The menu was packed with options for everyone, from traditional Macedonian cuisines, seafood, meat (every which way), pizza, and pasta. They are also well known for their fish stew (we missed out on trying this), so make your breakfast reservations. During our three visits, we enjoyed fresh salads, soups, local starters, steak, schnitzels (beef is a must), and village meat cooked in a clay pot, which was mouthwatering. The restaurant has recently been refurbished. It has a great indoor/outdoor dining area, and you can also enjoy dining on the lakeside. The dessert menu offers excellent options, including delights from a Macedonian patisserie called ' Chocoholic '. We loved that Dva Bisera was only a short walk from our stay at Villa Bisera. We took advantage of being so close to a fine dining establishment. We enjoyed our lazy lunches with 5-star service and a premium selection of Macedonian wines and spirits.