It’s Suzanne writing this post from 36.020 feet flying to a new adventure. Here are some notes from my last one.

#ThisIsSilversea

SilverSea is known for its beautiful ships, its exemplary service, fabulous food, it’s all inclusive cruise fares, it’s amazing itineraries and enrichment lectures. But did you know that it should also be know for how life affirming and life changing it can be? Read my takeaways!

The top ten things I learned on my recent SilverSea Nova cruise

I learned how to make an espresso martini in our mixology class at the Salt Bar.
I learned how to make a gimlet- which I found out was a woman’s drink of choice in the 1950’s
I learned how to make Portuguese empanadas
And I learned how to make coffee crusted skirt steak sandwiches in the cooking classes in fhe SALT kitchen.
I learned that it really ain’t over until that fat lady sings. I started cruising two years ago and 13 cruises later I am a different person, with a different perspective and a different career. Here’s to new beginnings. Solo travel isn’t nearly as scary as people think. I should know. All my cruises have been solo. If you are scared to do one - don’t be. You will amaze yourself.
I learned that women truly are a force of nature. I met a woman in her 70’s that loves to Ballroom dance until all hours of the morning, an 84 year old woman whose goal in life is to try something new every year, a woman in her late 70’s whose much younger boyfriend couldn’t come with her because he is still working (I need lessons from her!). That woman who have been well loved in their lives and lose their partner will seek out love and companionship because it is familiar. I saw a woman move past her grief with a new person and also danced fhe night away. I saw a woman who took her first cruise without husband and child - because she could. And on and on.
I learned that laughter is not only the best medicine but something that attracts those around you. When you laugh, you smile and when you smile you can light up a room
I relearned the basics of bridge. There is a lot of room for improvement.
I learned that you can literally be on the opposite sides of the political spectrum but have a respectful, intelligent, heart felt passionate conversation, learn something and walk away more aware of the other sides point of view. And hug it out. Thank you Cory and Wendy!
I learned that making new friends, at this stage of life, is one of the great joys of life. It keeps you engaged and growing as a person. It broadens your horizons.
And lastly. I learned the true meaning of the phrase “that’s nice!” (To be said with a deep southern accent). It’s an inside NOVA joke. Sorry folks. It’s something we all shared. Merilyn Crain.

10 Life-Changing Lessons from My Silversea Silver Nova Cruise