Cafe on the 12th deck often hits the spot perfectly, and the pool is not too far away. On tropical itineraries such as the Sun Splashed Isles, eating on deck is very pleasant. There always seems to be a breeze, no matter what the temperature, and in February if it’s not snow, it’s good! Sun Splashed Isles is a great 10-day itinerary from Miami return, departing February 22, 2014. I will be presenting onboard as part of Oceania’s enrichment program for the duration of this cruise. Our ports of call lend themselves so beautifully for storytelling, weaving all manner of myth, mystery, medicines and history of the Caribbean. Not only are you able to work on your tan, but you may also learn quite a bit about this beautiful part of the world. The new Bon Appétit Culinary Centre is the only hands-on cooking school at sea. Massimo, a well known and fantastic chef, is scheduled to be on this cruise, so all “foodies” are welcome to join me and learn the art from a master. The Artist’s Loft offers a wonderful opportunity to learn or hone your creative skills from the artists-in-
residence program; perhaps a watercolour expression of Tortola will be your souvenir. The Turks and Caicos Islands, Puerto Rico, St. Maarten and St. Barts will certainly deliver the consummate Caribbean image on any level. Tortola, the Dominican Republic and finally to Nassau, Bahamas, completes this idyllic island sojourn with a return to Miami for your connections home. First time cruisers: this is a wonderful itinerary for
you to discover how fantastic cruising can be. Start with Oceania and you will realize that you are home. I look forward to welcoming you on the Sun Splashed Isles itinerary aboard Riviera in February. Ken Beattie is the Manager of Habitat Programs for the Canadian Wildlife Federation. kenb@cwf-fcf.org For more information or to book your trip visit www.oceaniacruises.com