One of the amazing perks of being a writer is that you get to experience things you never normally would for the sake of journalism. One such adventure happened recently, with a leisurely afternoon aboard the Cunard’s Queen Mary 2. I decided to use it as an excuse to Instagram the Hell out of some pictures, and bring along a super-posh British guy I was dating so he could make sure my ettiquette was up to par. As it turned out, I didn’t need any supplementary materials because he soaked up all the information I could possibly need.
Our guide, Jackie Chase was really gracious, and gave us a brief history lesson about the golden age of ocean travel. Basically, ocean travel used to be the preferred means of travel before everyone got so busy that waiting in line for a latte was too time consuming. She gave us an awesome tour of the ship including:
An extravagant meal in the Brittanica Restaurant. I had an appetizer of seasoned buttery asparagus, a perfectly cooked steak, and creme brulee (my all-time favorite dessert- as you can see I dug in before I even thought of snapping a pic). They also kept the wine flowing, which is the perfect way to win over any writer.
A sneak peek at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts performance of Canterbury Tales. Anyone who knows me knows that my writing can be over the top and downright baudy (English word = 10 points). I had no idea the Canterbury Tales were so sexual! The RADA troup performs, leads seminars and classes, and travels around the trip randomly performing for strangers. It was great to sneak a peek at it, and the theatre was gorgeous.
A short screening of the Madame Butterfly opera in 3D in the Illusions Theatre. This was one of my favorites because the roof of the Illusions Theatre is peppered with fake stars and features reclining seats. I was also surprised to find out they play a wide range of films, from classics to newly released movies.I was blown away by the opulence of the whole thing.
Overall, the Queen Mary 2 blew me away. I am not sure what I was expecting, but what I got was an unforgettable experience of luxury, a brief history lesson, and a little taste of how the other half chooses to travel.
The Queens Room Banquet Hall
View from the upper deck of the Britannica Restaurant
One of the bars (where I felt right at home).
Art Deco design outside the Illusions Theatre
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Looks like so much fun!