Well, I completed my first lecture series for Royal Caribbean Cruise Line. Not only was it my first time on a cruise, but my first time lecturing to non-New Orleanians. Both experiences were eye opening and a learning experience. I got to experience “cruise culture” and talk with people from all over the country (and world, actually) about their opinions and what they found interesting (good or bad) about New Orleans. Many of them had done a vacation package and had actually spent the 3 days prior to boarding going on tours around the city. It gave me a whole new perspective! They had a lot of insights and asked a lot of questions and it was fabulous talking with so many people who had passion for my beloved city.
All in all – great experience. Some of my favorite cruise moments (aside from visiting the ports) were running a few miles on the jogging track and then suddenly deciding to go to a nice sushi restaurant afterward in my sweats, and after that spontaneously shooting hoops on the basketball court (it’s been awhile, but I held my own). Also, realizing that I had never been in the pool or hot tub and the last night of the cruise (in extremely chilly temperatures) deciding that this was a must. The deck was empty and the hot tub was lukewarm but it was fun to sit on a quiet deck in the middle of the Gulf and just look at my breath and laugh… In retrospect, hitting the bar for a glass (or two) of red wine first would have been smart.
Overall, such a wonderful experience and I can not wait to do it again next year! I already have some new lectures in mind!
Lecturing in the glorious Safari Room!