Norwegian Epic: Barcelona to Rome/Day Three/ Solo Travel

The third day was the most exciting, because we arrived in Naples, or Napoli. I took the elevator to the top deck early in the morning, and watched the sun rise. It was glorious! I met two men who were traveling together. We had a fun conversation and lots of laughs. They were a couple. One was from Australia, the other was from Los Angeles. We compared notes on Norwegian Air. I had an excellent experience with them, and the price was superb.  They are one of the only airlines that fly non stop from LAX to Barcelona.

I got off of the ship early and walked to the ticket counter for the Hydrofoil. I met a nice couple from England who were waiting for the same boat. We chatted for a while, and sat  together. They had been staying in Napoli, and had rented a car. She thought I was "very brave" to be traveling on my own.  I thought they were daring to be driving in Italy. We had an enjoyable time together; they felt like old friends to me.

The island of Capri was magical. I really fell in love with that place. I took so many photos. Most of the ones you see on the past few blog posts are from Capri. It is so charming and spiritual. Everything there looks like art. I walked through the narrow streets, and took some of the steep staircases that are tucked in among the homes.  It was fun to peek into the gardens.

I stopped at a market and bought some loquats. I was interested in experiencing a grocery store that the locals use in Italy. Everyone was so helpful. I felt right at home.

I came back early, and had lunch on the ship. Next time, I will stay all day, and explore Anacapri. I'd like to have lunch in one of the restaurants. I did walk down to the beach, and put my feet in the water. There was a sweet little long haired dachshund there with a young man. The little dog seemed like he had been abused, but he liked me. I had one as a child named Noodles. There were a few other people relaxing on the sand, as well. It was peaceful and quiet. I stopped at a cafe and had a ham and cheese sandwich. The owner served it to me with pride. "Ham and cheese," he announced. "Classic!" he added. I thanked him warmly. The view of the sea was spectacular. The water just sparkles.

I was a little nervous about getting back to port in plenty of time. I had read horror stories of people arriving back from tours too late, due to traffic. You don't want to miss the ship.  I overcompensated, but enjoyed lunch on the ship when I returned. I like to eat my meals there, since I have already paid for them. I also went back to the spa. I wanted to get full use of my membership, since I had spent money on that, too.

I decided not to go to the Solo Lounge that evening, and just went down to Taste for dinner. I chatted with my waitress, and the couple seated next to me. The fruit tart that I had for dessert was excellent. The lady to my right had tiramisu, and she raved about it.

I had made reservations to see Priscilla, Queen of the Desert that night. The show started at 7:00 p.m. Once again, I was so impressed with the talent and technical level of that production. The leads were especially good. It was a very enjoyable evening. NCL really shines in the entertainment department. It's their specialty.

I went home and packed my bag. The cruise line provides porters who will pick your luggage up at your door and have it near the bus for you when you disembark. I knew that this would be a relief. Lugging my bags around on my arrival  had been a mistake.  I wished that I had brought my Burley Travoy luggage cart/bike trailer, or had invested in a carry on with rollers.

Once again, I couldn't sleep, due to jet lag. I had gotten used to it, though. I said some prayers of thanks. The trip had been a huge success. I had done and seen everything that I had planned. It was exciting and rewarding to reflect on the memories and experiences.  What a wonderful journey!

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