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QM2 - INDULGENCE PERSONIFIED

indulge (verb): to take unrestrained pleasure in -- Merriam-Webster

Our summer transatlantic crossing aboard Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 was a week-long study of indulgence. And we’re proud to say that we passed.

According to Cunard, Queen Mary 2 is the most magnificent ocean liner ever built. And we don’t doubt it. There is such a sense of the “Golden Age” of cruising everywhere you turn. From the luxurious staterooms (including a charming throwback to the class concept with Brittania, Princess, and Queens accommodations) to the elegant appointments and amenities throughout the ship, you will truly feel like a Queen (or King).

Grandeur is on display throughout the ship. From the opulent public areas to the sophisticated dining options to the varied and plentiful daytime activities to the extravagant evening balls and swanky lounges, Queen Mary 2 is definitely royal.

Once we boarded the ship in Brooklyn, we knew we weren’t going to see land until we reached Southampton, England seven days later. Now we’re sure you are asking yourself what on earth did we do with six days at sea. And would you believe us if we told you that upon our arrival, we still had not accomplished everything QM2 had to offer. But we did manage to squeeze in: several juicy novels; informative lectures on the Golden Age of cruising by cruise expert John Maxtone-Graham; varied rituals at the Canyon Ranch Spa; celestial navigations in Illuminations, the only planetarium at sea; several visits to the Fitness Centre; a few rousing games of Paddle Tennis on the sports deck; first-run movies in the theatre and in our cabin; varied music performances throughout the ship; wine tastings; Royal Academy of Performing Arts workshops; a little email time and work in the Computer Centre; shopping for souvenirs, clothing, jewelry and books at the Mayfair shops onboard; afternoon tea; pints in the pub; meeting new friends for coffee; and sumptuous evening cocktails and meals.

Whew…..we’re exhausted. Time for a vacation.