What’s your travel dream? To visit every county in Ireland, every state in the United States, and every province in Canada. Why not think bigger? How about visiting every country in the world? That’s our goal. Chris Henry invited me to be a guest on   The Art 2 Aging . We gave up our Groundhog Day life in Australia and embarked on a journey that has spanned 92 countries and is now in its eighth year. Our story is one long travel adventure, and I explain how it happened along with some great travel tips on the podcast.

For all our travel experiences, tips on accommodation, dining and experiences exploring Croatia, click here . Zagreb - Seven nights Rijeka - Three nights Rovinj - Two months Pula - Two weeks Plitvice Lakes - Two nights Dubrovnik - Two nights

Join us as we cross the Atlantic for Europe on a two-week cruise with Celebrity Cruises on the Apex - The Western Europe Transatlantic. From Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to Rotterdam in the Netherlands (last-minute port change from Amsterdam). Embarking on our 16-day voyage from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on 18 April 2023, we set our sights on Bermuda, charting a course across the Atlantic Ocean and through the storied waters of the English Channel. Throughout our journey, we explored seven countries and ten unique destinations, an experience we're eager to share in detail. Join us as we unravel the intricacies of life aboard the Apex during our two-week Transatlantic cruise, providing valuable insights into our Celebrity experience. Having sailed with Celebrity Cruises eight times prior, our transition to the Edge class ship marked a notable shift in our maritime adventures. Reflecting on our previous Alaskan cruise on Celebrity Eclipse , which left a lasting impression, we found that the larger capacity of the Edge class ships, accommodating nearly 3000 passengers, posed a notable adjustment. Grappling with the full occupancy, we gained valuable perspective on the dynamics of a bustling cruise experience. Our first impressions of the Apex were nothing short of captivating. As seasoned cruisers, we couldn't help but admire the ship's modern elegance—a true floating oasis. The art and sculptures adorning the vessel were remarkable, and the overall design exuded a sense of graceful sophistication. The staterooms, the heart of our temporary maritime abode, impressed us with their exquisite design, ample space, and luxurious comfort. We opted for the Sunset Verandah stateroom, a prudent choice for those seeking a tranquil retreat amid the vast expanse of the ocean. This stateroom features a spacious balcony adorned with two sunbeds and two chairs, offering unobstructed vistas of the panoramic sunset and sunrise from the stern of the ship—a coveted vantage point for indulging in the natural spectacle. Our experience in this stateroom was exceptional. It served as our private oasis, providing a serene space to unwind and immerse ourselves in the awe-inspiring beauty of the open seas. It's evident that while the onboard crew is dedicated and hardworking, the impact of understaffing on Celebrity's ships has been deeply felt, leading to a strain on service levels and the overall well-being of the crew. When a ship operates with inadequate staffing, the ability to deliver expedited service in various areas becomes increasingly challenging, often leading to prolonged wait times and congested dining venues. This can significantly detract from the guest experience, especially in high-traffic areas like restaurants. In such scenarios, dining in specialty restaurants can provide a more conducive environment for savouring your meal and receiving the level of service you expect. These venues typically offer a more intimate and attentive dining experience, mitigating the potential impact of understaffing on the overall enjoyment of your cruise. When dining experiences on a cruise, discovering a hidden gem can elevate your culinary journey to new heights. That hidden gem was Raw on Five , the exquisite Japanese restaurant aboard the Apex. We knew we had stumbled upon something special from walking through its doors. We were repeatedly drawn to Raw on Five, making it our go-to destination for most of our meals. What set this restaurant apart was the exceptional service we received and the consistently outstanding food quality. The culinary creations that graced our plates were a testament to the skill and artistry of the talented chefs behind the scenes. But there's more to this hidden gem than the sumptuous dishes it serves. We discovered that Raw on Five has a secret weapon: a vantage point that offers the most enchanting sunset views. We couldn't end our story about Raw on Five without expressing our heartfelt appreciation to the incredible team. Their dedication and warmth left a lasting impression, and it's safe to say that we miss them dearly. So, if you find yourself aboard the Apex, seeking an unforgettable dining experience, our insider's tip is to make Raw on Five your first choice. From the impeccable service to the astounding food quality and the enchanting sunset views, this Japanese restaurant is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. Trust us, it's an experience you won't want to miss. The Fine Cut Steakhouse , another specialty dining venue renowned for its upscale steak and seafood offerings, became our favourite dining spot during our cruise. Boasting exquisite decor and captivating sunset vistas, this establishment truly delivered a five-star dining experience. The impeccable service, complemented by the exceptional quality of the food and wines, left a lasting impression. Our preference for the Main Dining restaurant was the Tuscan Restaurant , which serves authentic southern Italian cuisine, including homemade pasta. We chose it because of the quality of the meals and seating plans. The decor was elegant, and we were always greeted warmly. We enjoyed the atmosphere. Being on the beverage package was disappointing. Each time you asked for something, it seemed unavailable and out of stock, so you were left with a minimal choice. Alternatively, you had the staff running all over the ship to find something equivalent, which was very unfair to the lovely crew. However, without it, we would have also been paying for water, like getting blood from a stone at times. In another turn of events, also due to the staffing shortages, Wayne, my hubby, at one point, walked around Eden multiple times and grabbed all the glasses left on the tables. This mishap turned positive, and we met a wonderful, mature couple who thought he was staff. There was plenty of laughter, and we ordered drinks for them. The Magic Carpet emerges as a unique floating bar in the tranquil evenings aboard the cruise ship. It is elevated an impressive 13 stories above sea level and offers unparalleled views of the vast open ocean. This remarkable platform frequently repositions along the ship's side, offering a truly immersive experience. Weather permitting, passengers can indulge in a drink while perched at the ship's edge, creating a memorable moment that perfectly encapsulates innovative design and a dash of daring adventure. A rich tapestry of entertainment offerings unfolded throughout the expansive eight days at sea, catering to diverse preferences and interests. The ship's schedule brimmed with engaging activities, showcasing preview acts for upcoming performances, elaborate cake displays, and captivating twice-nightly shows. The melodic strains of live music resonated throughout the day, enhancing the onboard ambience. At the same time, interactive sessions such as cocktail demonstrations and wine tastings added a sophisticated flair to the experience. We spent our days enjoying morning coffees in Café Al Bacio, relaxing, having indulgent dining experiences, listening to the talented musicians, and spending time with family. The impressive ly decorated cakes were displayed in the Oceanview Café, which offers buffet-style dining with multiple stations. The menu provides made-to-order breakfast and lunch, with a rotating international menu for dinner. Fear not; the tantalising cakes will indulge your senses, adding a sweet and captivating note to your dining adventure. We were fortunate to have only one questionable day at sea, during which Mother Nature provided peace around the ship as many guests navigated the wild oceans. Fortunately, after crossing the Drake Passage six times recently, we are fast becoming accustomed to such thrilling events. As our transatlantic adventure drew to a close, the allure of booking a back-to-back journey to explore the enchanting Norwegian Fjords over the coming week became increasingly irresistible. Click here as we delve into the seamless transition from one captivating voyage to another, unlocking the hidden gems of the Norwegian Fjords aboard our floating sanctuary.

Join us as we embark on a new 110-day cruise around South America from Miami to Miami. We joined the beautiful Marina ship with Oceania Cruises on 18 December and disembarked in Miami on 6 April. Over 110 days, we explored three continents, 17 countries, and 51 destinations, including a few bucket list destinations: Amazon, Panama Canal, and Antarctica. We look forward to sharing our four months at sea, but first, we share our first few days at sea and our Oceania experience from Miami to the Caribbean. It was our first time sailing with Oceania Cruises, and from the moment we embarked to the very last day of our 110 days, Oceania were exceptional. The crew was and is an absolute delight. The level of care and service was limitless, the energy and friendly nature of all the staff were infectious, and we quickly became friends and family. We also have left with many new friendships from our sailing, both crew and guests, which we treasure and look forward to finding each other again on our travels. The food is divine, and after four months, we still missed out on some dishes we were hoping to try. (If you recall our last three-month cruise with Hurtigruten, they repeated the same menu for two days in the suite restaurant with only three options, and then this would repeat the following week for three months; this was very disappointing), and it was refreshing to be on a ship with outstanding dining. Marina has four specialty dining restaurants (all-inclusive), and each restaurant prepares a distinctive set of dishes based on its culinary expertise. From classic French fare at Jacques to vibrant Asian cuisine at Red Ginger or Toscana, where Tuscan cuisine evolved from rich family traditions, mothers and grandmothers of Oceania's own Italian culinary staff recipes, and, of course, a favourite steakhouse at Polo Grill, all restaurants are world-class. The Grand Dining Room and a terrace cafe (buffet restaurant) serve continental cuisine. A fantastic selection of worldly cuisines changes daily, approximately on a two-week cycle. You are spoilt for choice. There are two private dining venues, Privee and La Reserve (both at additional cost). Privee is an opulent, intimate dining venue that transforms dinner between Polo Grill and Toscana into a luxurious affair. At La Reserve, you can enjoy a unique dining menu that creates distinctive pairing dinners. You also have Baristas with illy coffee (included in your cruise fare) for your morning coffee fix and afternoon tea in Horizons to treat yourself to tea and scones. Red Ginger - Asian (Specialty Restaurant) Toscana - Italian (Specialty Restaurant) Jacques - French (Specialty Restaurant) Polo Grill - Steakhouse (Specialty Restaurant) The Grand Dining Room - Continental and International cuisine (Lunch - sea days and dinner) Afternoon Tea in Horizons Marina, the ship, was built in 2011 and has a capacity of 1250 passengers and 800 crew. We found the ship spacious; you could always find a quiet, relaxing spot. The staterooms are spacious, too, and it was a treat to have a bathtub in the room. The beds are heavenly and have ample storage; you pop your suitcases under the bed, so there is no clutter. We spent much time in our balcony room and didn't feel claustrophobic. We loved the cruise over Christmas and New Year; it was a lovely way to celebrate and see all the decorations sprinkled around the ship. We were also impressed with Oceania's beautiful Christmas gifts: a gorgeous handmade wooden chopping board and a card.

Embark on a remarkable journey with us as we sail across the high seas from the historic city of Lisbon to the picturesque vineyards of Cape Town. Our voyage aboard the Seven Seas Splendor with Regent Seven Seas Cruises traces an exquisite route that introduces us to a tapestry of cultures, from the aromatic allure of Morocco's Tajines to the joyous spirit of children in some of the world's most remote communities. Our vessel, the Seven Seas Splendor, is a testament to nautical artistry. Her sleek design, from bow to stern, encapsulates luxury and comfort. The ship's ideal capacity made our voyage particularly exceptional. It balanced spaciousness with intimacy, hosting 746 guests with attentive service from 548 crew members. Every detail on Regent Seven Seas Cruises is finely curated to enhance the travel experience. The Splendor is perfectly designed to ensure guests never feel crowded, allowing each individual to savour their journey as though on their private vessel. With three specialty restaurants offering exquisite dining options and a selection of bars featuring live music, the ship offers many choices catered to every taste. Our all-inclusive experience onboard the Splendor was transformative. The convenience of an all-inclusive lifestyle where one needs not worry about the little things, like taking out a key card, adds luxury to the cruise that we quickly grew to adore. A highlight of our cruise experience was the extraordinary treatment we received when our laundry was returned—not merely clean but presented in beautiful boxes enveloped in tissue paper—a touch of elegance that did not go unnoticed. Above all, the crew of the Seven Seas Splendor amplified our journey to new heights. Skilled and passionate, each member showcased why they are the best in their field, turning exceptional service into art. This cruise from Lisbon to Cape Town is not just a journey across the ocean; it's an exploration of varied landscapes, cultures, and the human spirit. As we sailed from the bustling bazaars of Morocco to the tranquil wineries in Cape Town, what stood out were the universal warmth and smiles of the people we met—memories that will remain with us long after our splendid voyage.

Sailing into Cape Town on the divine Regent Seven Seas Splendor was a surreal experience. This destination has been on our travel wishlist for nearly two decades. As we arrived, the much-anticipated cityscape, spoken of so highly by others, was nothing short of enchanting. We were greeted by Cape Town's iconic landmarks—Table Mountain, Devil's Peak, and Lion's Head—which majestically overlook the city and its breathtaking coastline, marking our long-awaited arrival in South Africa. Cape Town lies atop a granite foundation, home to 6 million people, and is noteworthy for Afrikaans, the youngest language globally, established in 1925. The society predominantly follows Christian beliefs. Our guide shared some striking statistics about the unemployment rate, standing at 35% overall, with a staggering 75% among those aged 19-25 and 50% for those under 50. Furthermore, 80% of the population are 'Black African', and only 13% of the land is owned by Black Africans. Our exploration began with a visit to Table Mountain. We were picked up from the quayside and taken to the lower cable car station, where we ascended to the mountain's flat summit. Although a sheet of mist obscured our view, it lent an enchantingly eerie atmosphere as we roamed the peak. Table Mountain's highest point is 1,085m. It is part of an ancient glacial valley and the world's oldest mountain range, at 500-600 million years old. Thus, it offers a unique vantage point over the city. Subsequently, we embarked on a scenic drive along the Atlantic Coast through the trendy beach neighbourhoods of Camps Bay and Sea Point. A stop at a local beach allowed us to marvel at the ocean's mighty waves crashing near the shore. Our city tour then took us past the hillside Bo-Kaap neighbourhood, distinguished by its vibrant homes and cobblestone streets, once known as the Malay Quarter and boasting the title of the oldest surviving neighbourhood. The Bo-Kaap's history traces back to the 1760s when Dutch colonists rented out "huurhuisjes" (rental houses) to enslaved people brought from Malaysia, Indonesia, and Africa. The decision to paint their houses bright colours once they could own them marked their freedom from slavery's shackles. Passing the life-size Nelson Mandela statue at Cape Town's city hall was poignant. Unveiled in 2018, it stands where Mandela delivered his 1990 speech shortly after his release from 27 years of imprisonment for his efforts to dismantle apartheid. Our guide shared a nostalgic story, pointing out that the ocean used to reach farther into the city over 50 years ago, evidenced by his mother's tales of swimming in areas now occupied by streets. This initial taste of Cape Town left us eager for the coming weeks, especially our impending visit to the renowned wine region of Stellenbosch. We looked forward to immersing ourselves further in the wonders of this dynamic city.

Trattoria Pizzeria Toscana - Six Visits We enjoyed dining at Trattoria Pizzeria Toscana, a gem that's become a staple for anyone craving authentic Italian fare. From the moment hubby and I stepped into this quaint restaurant, located at 98/4 North Pattaya Beach Road, we were enveloped by an atmosphere that blends rustic Italian charm with the relaxed beach vibe of Pattaya. The menu was a delightful journey through Italy, offering everything from perfectly charred pizzas to the most succulent meats and perfectly al dente pasta. Moreover, their selection of Thai dishes hinted at a harmonious blend of cultures, catering to many tastes. What truly set Trattoria Pizzeria Toscana apart for us was not just the quality of the food but also the warmth with which it was served. The service here is something worth writing home about—attentive, personalised, and always with a smile. It's the service that turns a meal into a dining experience. And for dessert? A slice of their heavenly tiramisu was the cherry on top of a delightful dining experience. All our dining experiences over the years at Trattoria Pizzeria Toscana have been memorable. It is a must-visit for anyone looking for an authentic Italian experience with a touch of Thai hospitality.

Flamingoes, sand dunes, desert, and moonscapes—welcome to Namibia, country no. 89 on our journey! Arriving in Walvis Bay, or Whale Bay, if translated to Afrikaans, felt like stepping into a new hemisphere; the contrast between our previous West African destinations and here was stark and breathtaking. Today, we embarked on a half-day tour called "Treasures of the Namib Desert" on the Splendor with Regent Seven Seas . Our lovely guide, Arthur, greeted us with his off-road vehicle, ready to lead us through the beautiful, desolate Namib Desert. Our first unexpected surprise was witnessing a flamboyance of beautiful greater and lesser flamingoes. A sea of pink, these majestic birds were feeding just after we left the port. It is home to the largest seal population on Africa's west coast, with 250,000 seals culled annually due to the dense numbers, as there are no natural predators to manage the overpopulation. A large seal can consume up to 25 kg of fish daily, impacting the food chain and posing challenges to the fishing industry. To manage the breeding, they try to identify the frisky older males on the beaches. The culled seals are utilised in various ways: their Omega-rich oils and leather are used for products like belts and bags, while the meat is processed into a smoky sausage. Soon after our Flamingo viewing, we exited Walvis Bay and drove past the impressive dunes toward Namib Naukluft Park. We stopped at a viewpoint to marvel at the 350-million-year-old Moonscape. The vastness and nothingness left us all in awe. After capturing the impressive natural views, we continued past Goanikontes, where Arthur narrated fascinating insights about the lichen plants. Next, we found ourselves bumping and bouncing down the riverbed. This river has only had the pleasure of free-flowing water three times in recorded history: in 1927, 2010, and, more recently, in 2020. Our journey took us over the Dolerite ridge, where we laid eyes on the well-protected 350-year-old Welwitschia plant, which grows just 1 cm every 10 years. Returning to Goanikontes, we enjoyed a refreshing stop at a local campground called Goanikontes Oasis, where live scorpions were on display. Revitalised with drinks and snacks, we set out on a mission to collect a Namibian flag as a souvenir for our fellow passengers. Thanks to Arthur's connections, we managed a quick tour through the beautiful town of Swakopmund. Formerly a German colonial town, Swakopmund's streets boast impressive old colonial buildings. We were all gifted a flag as a perfect memento. Our final experience was a drive along the Skeleton Coast on the dune belt road. The road's name comes from the whale and seal bones littering the beaches and shipwrecks. To our left, the desert stood with its stunning golden sand dunes, while the deep blue Atlantic Ocean stretched to our right. We journeyed along a packed salt road that wove a narrow path between these contrasting landscapes. This 500 km coastal road is often referred to as "the end of the earth!" Afrikaans language tips: Baie dankie – The pronunciation is similar to saying "buy a donkey", which translates to "thank you very much". Lekker – Pronounced "lacquer" but has nothing to do with furniture polish. It actually means "good" and is a common phrase used to express enjoyment or approval. Fun Facts: Walvis Bay means "Whale Bay" in Afrikaans. Sailors found Walvis Bay a good place to catch whales in the 1700s. The Namib River has only flowed freely thrice in recorded history (1927, 2010, and 2020). Namibia's population: 4.2 million (excluding illegals). 2nd largest port is Walvis Bay on Africa's west coast. 2nd highest road deaths in Africa No.1 crime is corruption If you are caught poaching wildlife, you are sent straight to prison Other notable facts include Bushman's salt and pepper, significant oil discoveries in Lüderitz, marble and granite, green hydrogen, and it even snows in southern Namibia. This half-day tour was an unforgettable adventure through some of Namibia's most captivating landscapes and natural wonders!

St. Maarten | St Lucia We arrived in the Caribbean two days after leaving Miami on our 110-day cruise , sailing southbound to South America in preparation for our circumnavigation aboard the beautiful Marina with Oceania Cruises. Let's talk about the Caribbean islands we visited, where we got our little taste of paradise. St. Maarten and Saint Lucia. Day four - Philipsburg, St. Maarten Welcome to the turquoise waters of the Caribbean. After two days sailing from Miami, we arrived at our first destination, Philipsburg, and made our way to the Amazon for Christmas and New Year. Seven years ago, we first visited St. Maarten, an island the Netherlands and France share. We spent our time on the French half on our first visit, so we enjoyed the Dutch half this time. After the Spanish abandoned their fort in 1648, a few Dutch and French soldiers hid on the island and decided to share it; soon after, both countries signed a formal agreement to split the island. After a quick water taxi to the centre, we were hunting for decent wifi, so we bar-hopped until we found a great connection. We also had a small shopping list of essentials, so we took this time to prepare ourselves for the next few months at sea. The island vibe was in full swing, swarming with cruise passengers from the four ships docked and the sweltering heat. The beach was filling up fast, and everyone enjoyed the hot weather! We decided we preferred the French side as it offered more quality dining establishments, was further from the port, and was more peaceful. Day five - Castries, St. Lucia This morning, we arrived in the tropical gem Saint Lucia, a small Caribbean island 27 miles long and 24 miles wide, located north of Barbados. We were docked in Castries, where we could wander off the ship to explore the nearby town and enjoy the local vibe. We visited St Lucia in 2015 and fondly recalled finding a local cafe overlooking the square, so we searched to find it. Afterwards, we strolled the streets, saying hello to all the vibrant and friendly locals and discovering St Lucia was home to a few Nobel prize winners. We discovered a familiar balcony cafe, although we soon realised it was different. We were previously docked on another part of the island; we later determined the restaurant we were looking for was another island entirely. We settled in all the same and enjoyed one of the most delicious coffees; we had to stay for two. We loved feeling part of the local life and watching everyone go about their day, the best way to immerse yourself into a new destination. After we were caffeinated, we took to the streets and enjoyed visiting the local market; everyone was super friendly and exuded the island's chilled-out vibe. Once we had reached our limit with the heat, we snuck back to the ship for lunch and then were spoilt with a golden hour sail-away, capturing the tropical gem of an island in the sunset. Thank you, St Lucia, for welcoming us back. Join us for our next chapter, 'Brazil', as we embrace and explore the Amazon over Christmas and New Year with Oceania Cruises on our 110-day voyage around South America.

The Northwest Passage - In the Wake of the Great Explorers - Alaska, Canada, Greenland Week five on our 13-week bucket list Pole to Pole cruise on the luxury hybrid expedition ship MS Roald Amundsen with Hurtigruten Expeditions . Day 29 - Beechey Island, Nunavut, Canada Today was magical! We had a nature landing on Beechey Island, an uninhabited island of Arctic wilderness. The weather was on our side, no polar bears were around, and the polar plunge was happening! We were so excited that we were geared up first thing and on our Zodiacs as soon as our group was called. Beechey Island is best known for containing the graves of three Franklin expedition members, first discovered in 1850. It was about 1 degree, so we were layered up to explore the island for one hour, got some steps up, took in the magnificent views and captured some lovely pics. We saw a geocache site with some time capsules, lust off a stone beach full of pebbles like polished gemstones and the most spectacular coastline views with sparkling turquoise waters. Next was the "Polar Plunge", where we could swim in the ocean! Wayne wouldn't miss out; he was out of his layers in a heartbeat to have a refreshing (and cold) swim. He was fearless, with just a little swearing to get him through! Another item ticked off the bucket list. After lunch, the ship continued until we arrived at a wildlife hotspot - where we saw our first belugas, hundreds of seals, and more birds and spotted about six polar bears! It was an incredible day of wildlife! The Captain stationed us in Radstock Bay on Devon Island for a few hours, which was a sensory overload. Pods of seals surrounded the ship, and the beautiful white belugas were a constant shimmer against the coastline. About six polar bears followed. One was swimming, hunting for food, and a mama bear was taking her little ones up the mountain. Fun fact: To remain healthy, polar bears must eat one seal every five days It was a beautiful afternoon of wildlife moments; we were all in awe! We were blessed to enjoy ourselves from our balcony, and we're grateful for our binoculars, as the naked eye wasn't quite good enough, nor the camera (iPhone) to capture the pics. All passengers with great lenses on their cameras will have arrested magical snaps this afternoon. We had dinner in Aune this evening, as the roast lamb always gets us! It was another delicious meal with ever-attentive service from our King Richard and Armani. A special thank you to Nenad (our Serbian friend), who runs a very efficient and energetic team. We always feel very spoilt by the warm welcome from the entire team. As the evening progressed, we sailed past a couple of vivid blue icebergs, followed by another sunset and the surprise delivery of the Polar Plunge certificate. This week, we have been spoiled with sunsets! Day 30 - Croker Bay & Dundas Harbour, Devon Island, Nunavut, Canada This morning, the sun was beaming across the scattered sea ice as we opened our curtains; with a snow-covered island as a backdrop, we were sailing past Devon Island, which is 75% permanently covered in ice. We were attempting to land at Dundas Harbour, but the sea had other ideas. The captain continued to Croker Bay for a bonus glacier viewing as it was a pocket of calmness for the morning. This was our most northern point yet in the Arctic Circle. Morning coffee was on the balcony with the most mesmerising views of the glaciers as we navigated through the sea ice, a beautiful morning enjoying the best of nature. Soon, it was time for lunch after a few hours of blogging and publishing our four-week adventures . We landed a window table for our arrival into Dundas Harbour, an abandoned old settlement. You couldn't beat this morning, but the Captain topped it! He was busy navigating us through all the sea ice to find a cosy spot to park for the afternoon nature landings. The ship busily thrust all the sea ice from its path to clear our entry to the landing spot. Watching and being amidst all this ice and beautiful terrain. was thrilling The Zodiacs were released, and the expedition crew were off to scout the island for polar bears; they arrived back with good news, and the excursions were approved! They saw a couple of bears on neighbouring islands but stationed a few crew on the watch-out points with their rifles should the need arise to scare them away. Our group was second last today, so we had a few hours to wait until we were called. Once geared up with quite a few layers, even though the sun was still sharing its warmth over the ship, it was still very fresh, about 1 degree, and the wind was creeping in. Just as we were about to make our way to Deck 3 to embark on our nature landing, the sad news came over the PA that all future excursions were cancelled. The wind was getting more robust, and the boats struggled to pick up from the island due to the sea ice filling the landing spots. We were disappointed but understood safety comes first. Back in the room, we removed all our layers. We compensated with a few mojitos before dinner, chatting with our new shipboard friends to hear stories of their landing and enjoying the beautiful views as we made our way to Baffin Bay. As we were heading to dinner, we were all advised, 'One hand for you, one hand for the ship' as the ocean started showing us who was boss and was around for the evening. We all got through the evening with a gentle sway and were rocked to sleep. Day 30 - At Sea, Eclipse Sound & Baffin Bay - In honour of our Queen This morning, we woke, and the ship was very calm and steady, but the sea was still having a bad day upon opening the curtains! The strong winds were still fighting with the sea, which we suspect might make our visit to Pond Inlet difficult today. We were right; we arrived at lunchtime, and unfortunately, there was no anchor side and Zodiacs for a trip to explore. We quickly picked up a new ice pilot for our Greenland segment, returned our guest visitor Roger, a local from Nunavut and continued on our way. We navigated our way to Baffin Bay with misty views of surrounding mountain tops with a dusting of snow. Further along, we had sneak peeks of glaciers as we sailed out of the Northwest Passage for Greenland. During lunch, we all received an important announcement for our British passengers to confirm the sad news of the Queen's passing. This impacted all passengers of The Commonwealth, and we are Australians. In honour of our Queen, we celebrated her life and thanked her for dedicating her life to us all over a glass of Bollinger (by royal appointment). She will be missed, and it was a monumental moment. We spent the afternoon and evening with fellow passengers reminiscing about the Queen and sharing our gratitude for her reign, one of the longest-running monarchs in history. It gave us all a way of measuring the passage of time. It was a defining moment. This evening was spent in Lindstrom with our incredible team to keep us smiling, and we had some fun moments taking candid pics before we retired for the evening. Day 32 - At Sea, Baffin Bay, Canada We are on our way to Greenland! Today was spent crossing Baffin Bay as we navigated our way to approach our new destination. The waters remained friendly all day. As we sailed, scattered icebergs floated around us in the near distance, for everyone's viewing pleasure. We enjoyed lunch with our new ship friends, Robin and Lynn, and loved listening to their life stories. They are the travelling Arctic Dentist and nurse. They grasped every opportunity as they became young adults, and the doors that opened for them have taken them to fascinating places. The conversation was inspiring; now, they are visiting places they had once lived and visited over 30 years ago. The afternoon was spent recording a few video messages to our dear friends worldwide; we love checking in and sharing our experiences with everyone; the world is to be enjoyed by all. Dinner was another delicious affair, and we were again spoiled with a succulent piece of Bbeeftenderloin prepared expertly by the chef and served with lots of smiles and laughter from the great team in Aune. We lost another hour this evening, so an early night for our impending arrival in Greenland; we can't wait! Day 33 - Ilulissat, Greenland, Denmark Where do I start? Today is the highlight of the Northwest Passage segment (still seven days to go). Yes, we have seen the Aurora; yes, we have had to do a u-turn in the middle of the night due to our path being blocked by an enormous ice pack; yes, we have seen polar bears and snuck in a polar plunge, to name a few, but arriving into Greenland and being up close and personal with an ice fjord tops the charts. Mother Nature, you are the best gift of all. Let's first celebrate our 55th country; Greenland is an island of the kingdom of Denmark, so Denmark is our 55th country. Ilulissat is the Kalaallisut word for "Icebergs". Ilulissat is home to almost as many sled dogs as people. It has a population of 4700 and is Greenland's third-largest city and most popular tourist destination. Let's quickly summarise the day: as we cruise into Ilulissat , we are surrounded by enormous icebergs we have not seen yet; we are welcomed by two massive whales breaching as we approach the shoreline, or better yet, the ice line. The village is wrapped in an ice fjord; we jump on the first tender boat to make our way to the fjord (a short 30-minute walk from town); we are treated to a dog sled practice as we walk through the fields where the dogs are homed. Thank you, Arctic Living Ilulissat , for this enlightening experience on sled dogs. We were fortunate to see the dog sled practice and the level of excitement with all the beautiful dogs. We love how you put the dogs first, your high level of nourishment and care, your preservation of the Greenlandic dog sled culture, and your passion and love for this tradition. The fjords then rendered us speechless as we reached the top of the hill. We hiked through the breathtaking and colourful natural flora to the actual fjord to experience this magical moment for the first time. It was very picturesque, and we took many pictures to capture this incredible landscape and moment. Ilulissat Icefjord is 66 km wide and 555 km long and is a UNESCO natural world heritage site. The fjord is a collection of icebergs that have calved from the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier, the fastest and most active glacier in the world, one by one, with a speed of 40 metres per day. We followed this with a visit to the Icefjord Centre . It was incredible architecture with minimal impact and nicely blended with its surroundings, using only steel and wood to construct over two years. It only opened 11 months ago. It was imposing and a great way to learn about the life stages of ice, from a drop of rain to snowflakes, calving, drifting and melting! A friendly chap who worked there joined us for coffee and shared his stories about Ilulissat and the dramatic change they are experiencing due to climate change; recently, the permafrost has been reducing, and the houses are beginning to shift and become damaged; among the changes in the ice. Thirty years ago, it was much closer to go and touch; now, the drive has become much longer. In the Ilulissat Icefjord, global warming is evident. The Greenlanders are thankful for the growing interest in an issue they live with and adapt to constantly. The area is a site of extensive research undertaken for centuries and, as a result, is said to facilitate insight into climate change. We enjoyed listening to and hearing about the village and how tourism is doubling and becoming stronger each year from around the globe; it was a beautiful, charming community with excellent infrastructure, nestled among a seascape of ice. We captured a fantastic video of the dog sled practice and wanted to share it with the owners. Fortunately, being a small community, the lady from the ice fjord centre shared our contact details. Her name was Anso, and we later shared the video with her. They loved it, and Anso told us how much the dogs love the training; we could see how excited they were, too! What an experience. We finished the day exploring the beautiful town, its bright-coloured homes, and its scenic views. The ship was joyous this evening as the crew and passengers digested the sensory overload we were all grateful to experience, thanks to Hurtigruten. Fun fact: Greenland is 80% covered in ice. It got its name from Erik The Red, an Icelandic murderer exiled to the island. He called it "Greenland," hoping the name would attract settlers. However, according to scientists, Greenland was actually quite green more than 2.5 million years ago. Day 34 - Sisimiut, Greenland, Denmark The ship received a wake-up call from the waters of Baffin Bay this morning around 2:30 a.m.; it was time to show us who was boss again. The pre-evening announcement should have been 'One hand for your partner, and one for the bed!' We had a sneak peek, and the waves showed off at about four meters. The ship is impressive in handling the wild sea; apart from a few bumps and creaks, she is very stable. A special thank you to Captain Terje for keeping us safe and comfortable during these few and far-between times. We lightly slept to the morning, and upon opening the blinds, you could easily mistake the whitecaps for sea ice; this continued until lunch. Our arrival in Sisimiut was delayed about one hour due to weather conditions, but as we neared our new destination, we were protected, and the sea had a breather and let us dock at the pier. Everyone was off exploring the lovely village in a heartbeat and standing on solid ground for a few hours to recalibrate the body. We opted for the walk-off self-guided tour and set out on foot to take in the colourful homes and beautiful nature views around town. Other excursions included hikes to a volcano and up the mountains or a panoramic bus tour. Sisimiut means "the residents at the foxholes". The second largest city in Greenland and the largest Arctic city in North America, with a population of 5600, is also the fastest growing city in Greenland. It has been inhabited for the last 4,500 years. The population of modern Greenlanders is a mix of th e Inuit and Danish peoples, who first settled in the area in the 1720s. We first arrived at a lovely souvenir shop, which was also home to a litter of puppies; they had them on display for us to all say hello and have a cuddle. The lovely shop owner's daughter was sharing the dog mama's story with us, and we couldn't wait to stop in on the way back to make a purchase and support this lovely family. The whole ship was just as excited to find a souvenir shop, too; she flourished with business all day, making us smile. We continued walking around until we stumbled on a brassiere restaurant that looked cosy. It was part of Hotel Sisimiut. We stopped for a coffee and snack. It was so lovely we stayed for a while and just enjoyed the magical views. Chatting with the Thailand team and returning our basic Thai phrases after living in Koh Samui three years ago was enjoyable. We must note that both Greenland destinations had impressive coffee! It was time to head back to the ship, so I made a detour to uncover new sites. I came across a beautiful lake in the heart of town, stopped back at the lovely Greenland Memories Souvenir Shop, and made a cuddly purchase for the cabin. We welcomed 'Sami the Seal' to our family while supporting the children of Nepal in need with a portion of our purchase via Plan International. Sami feels at home already, and the crew enjoys his company, too. Golden hour was upon us, so we enjoyed taking some snaps of the bright and colourful homes on our way back. We were cautious of the fast-paced traffic, not sure if they get extra points for tourists or were trialling to become race car drivers, so do keep this in mind. Fun fact: Why are Greenland homes bright and colourful? In the 18th century, Greenland received timber kits from Scandinavia to build wooden houses. Only five colours were available, and each one had a special meaning. Nowadays, many of the colours are decorative. Red: churches, schools, teachers' or ministers' houses, and trade Yellow: hospitals, doctors, and health care personnel Green: power works, auto mechanics, teleoperations Blue: fish factories Black: Police stations This evening was roast lamb and Pavlova, always delicious, and we went to bed early before the moody sea was upon us again for the evening as we prepared for a sea day back towards Canada. Greenland, you were a treasure. Day 35 - At Sea, Labrador Sea, Greenland We woke to the morning update over the intercom at 9.15 am, welcoming the day. We were grateful to have slept through the night and felt refreshed, especially after hearing the waves averaged 5 metres throughout the night. The sea was much kinder this morning, and we expect the same for our arrival in Canada. Today's onboard activity was the bridge visit, which we are very excited about. As we have another two months on the ship, we thought we would give everyone extra space to enjoy it, as we will have another opportunity when it is quieter. Today was a distinct change in weather; the sun was shining, so we took advantage and enjoyed a glass of champagne in the sun on the pool deck, chatting and sharing laughter with our fellow Pole-to-Poleguests before dinner. Following dinner, tonight was a treat: Filet Mignon and Lemon Tart; we attended the Polar Molars session hosted by Robin, our Arctic Dentist friend, to hear his stories about practising in the 80s in the Arctic. We finished week five with the most magical sunset, taking us into week six . Join us as we travel South to the East Coast of Canada and the United States.