Hello folks, just little ole’ me. Couldn’t post as was (a) too busy with activities or (b) John was using the tablet. Anyway, where was I? Yes, being a landlubber….
I’m glad to say I have found my sea legs and am doing very well. Could even play table tennis despite the swaying of the ship. Bit tricky walking when the meds wear off at night but John and I are getting our cha cha cha going quite nicely which helps me walk and I am managing OK. Demonstrations available on request.
You know, I’m one of the few brown-skinned passengers apart from the crew as far as I can tell and probably the only one of Indian heritage. I’m looked at and John figures it is to be expected as I am a bit different to the average person on board. Also, I have been complimented on the way I dress, my table tennis ability and my not so consistent standard at other games like Shuffle Board (Indoor and Outdoor) and Quoits.
(John here – re the above comment – I think Val is looked at because of her good looks and for being beautifully turned out!!)
I have, with the help of the Entertainments Manager, Liam, organised a gathering of people with Parkinson’s and mobility issues. Four people turned out and they were pleased to have come. We’ll meet again when it is a sea day and we’ll advertise the event on The Daily Times which is issued by the cruise ship. I am hoping to present to whoever is responsible for Fred Olsen, our wish list which will make future cruise experiences a good one. I hope the suggestions that we make will be taken seriously. I am certain that it will not only help the passengers but help the cruise company to sell their services to the people with mobility issues. More on this the next time I post.
I am enjoying the cruise. My table tennis has certainly improved. I go to the gym when possible and am even dancing in the evenings after dinner and the 10.00pm quiz. I’ve managed to have my Asian breakfast delivered at 7.00am every day to tie in with my taking the first tablets for the day. It was going well until for three days running I had the same dish. I got it amended to different ones on each occasion, less meat and lactose free. After two good days, I had all meat this morning. Have passed on the info to the Executive Chef, Olivier, who assures me that I will have a different dish every morning.
It is a small ship which, I think, makes for friendly fellow passengers. The two couples at our table are very nice but we don’t seem to socialise with them outside of dinner. Instead, in the evenings, we hang out with Carol, Tony, Paul and another couple (husband English and the wife Dutch) One night we had dinner with Tony and Carol at the on-board Asian restaurant (the food was tasty on the whole) .
Do you know it has been over five weeks since we started on the cruise? The days have gone so quickly. Despite being seasick, falling in the bathroom and having to go to a hospital just to ensure I haven’t fractured anything didn’t bother us much. We are really enjoying the whole experience including discovering new places and seeing new sights.
I must post this as it is taking days to finish it! More soon, I hope.
Mr Benn's Blog 
Glad to hear there was no damage done Val. I agree with John! I think your fellow passengers look on you with amazement not only for your looks, but because you are indefatigable! (I have been on holiday with you before!!!). Not that I have been on a great number of cruises (2) but I would think a smaller boat is far more friendly. Glad you are enjoying the company (and for the most part, the food)! L xxx
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Hello Val. I think it is a great idea getting together for feedback from fellow passengers with Parkinson’s and mobility issues. Well done! It would be interesting to know the outcome from the meetings you have and later how Fred Olsen reacts.
Yes, it is sometimes hard being the only brown-skinned person around. I am still not quite used to it even after twelve years in Sweden. Arne, too says it’s because of my looks and my style but I know there is another reason, not necessarily malicious. Val, we just have to carry on being ambassadors for brown-skinned people, which is how I look at it. You are certainly keeping the side up!
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Great to hear your voice Val!
You sound as active as ever – and it does seem to be a wonderful trip.
What a brilliant idea to bring the needs and views of Parkinson’s passengers to the attention of Fred Olsen – typical of your energy and effectiveness!
And John is right – you may stand out from the crowd but you are eye-catching for your beauty and style – as well as for your brown skin among all those boringly pale people!
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