On day 4 we boarded the Holland America Ms Rotterndam and departed Venice (pictured above). Wow! The ship is everything we expected and more. The food is overwhelming and I had to spend 20 minutes on the treadmill this morning just to allow myself to continue.

This photo is of us on our first night drinking very expensive French champagne (thank you Colin and Jan) and drinking a toast to all the family! If only you all were here.

Bars, restaurants, theatres, casinos, libraries, internet, tennis, pools, volleyball, basketball, stand up comedy, caberet, mahjong, 24 room service (included), nightclubs, art galleries (with genuine Picasso, Miro etc), wine tastings, gym, spa - oh, and did I mention that most people are over 50?

The guests are largely americans. Large americans. At dinner last night (which was 5 course a la carte) they actually encouraged us to have 2 mains. "Try the steak and the salmon sir". When I declined and went for pork with apple sauce (you'd love it dad) they actually brought me a second full plate when I had finished the first. I was almost in shock as I politely refused.

One key question has finally been answered. Alcohol can be brought onboard and drunk in the room. We only brought 2 bottles of wine, a bottle of scotch and a bottle of Vodka.

Today we are in Dubrovnik, Croatia. It is stunning...