Thanks for the great reception! This is definately a fun group, and we enjoyed meeting several LCTers on the "Wine" cruise from Dover to Monte Carlo.
Wendy...yes there were several places that were personal favorites. First stop was St. Malo and we went on the ship excursion to Mont St. Michel. This was great fun as my 79 year old Mom climbed with us and had wanted to visit there since she studied French as a young girl! Lisbon and Barcelona were equally good, and I hired private guides for my parents, husband and self. That was well worth the $ spent, we saw MUCH more than a ship tour and easier for my Dad who does not get around well (2 hip replacements, numerous chemo treatments...was given 6 months to live 16 years ago) We took a sea day instead of Santiago de Compostela, but heard that the trip was nice from people on the ship.

Masaki, No, I did not know about any cruise talk sites before our Hawaii cruise...just booked it through AmEx. As for NCL, it was fine, but as you all know there is a HUGE difference between a luxury cruise and a "masses of asses" cruise.

Donna, We spent a few days in Phoenix/Scottsdale after a business trip to San Diego in late July. We found an area near the White Tank Mountains that we liked....we are quite active between tennis, golf, hiking, skiing. So the location southwest of Phoenix suited us and my sister would be a short 20 minute drive away- she is in central Phoenix. Still have lots more looking to do! What a coincidence you also had a Muffin. My little Yorkie is SO SPOILED. Every time I get to London she adds something to her wardrobe after a trip to Harrods pet shop! I will not bore you about my dog....suffice it to say she is my baby here in the UK since I am by myself alot due to Tom's ridiculous travel schedule. (an example-a trip to China and a trip to US since we got off our cruise 2 weeks ago)

I never thought I would be a cruising addict 3 years ago. My husband and I thought cruising was for "other people"....or those who did not like activity.... and who liked to eat all the time! Now I am hooked and he partially so. We have two RSSC trips planned for 2005 and I booked another for our daughter and myself...you may have seen me asking questions about suitabilty of RSSC Caribbean cruise with 23 year old daughter! She is excited and so am I...we both love the sun and beach!
Cheers and again thanks for the warm welcome! Pam