Melbourne (Dec. 21-22) and NCL Report Card

Exactly fifty weeks ago, I landed in Melbourne, setting foot in Australia for the first time and “collecting” my seventh … Continue reading Melbourne (Dec. 21-22) and NCL Report Card

Australia, Norwegian

Brisbane, Australia (Dec. 18)

Two days ago, I wrote that Vanuatu has been deemed the happiest place on earth. This may be so, but … Continue reading Brisbane, Australia (Dec. 18)

Fiji, Norwegian

Fiji (Dec. 13)

Bula is the word of the day. In Fiji, it’s an all-purpose greeting, toast, and blessing whose literal meaning is … Continue reading Fiji (Dec. 13)

Norwegian, Tonga

Tonga (Vava’u), Dec. 11

Mālō e lelei, as Tongans say in greeting. Literal translation: “Thank god for keeping you well.” Sure beats “’sup”! What … Continue reading Tonga (Vava’u), Dec. 11

Norwegian, Samoa

Apia, Samoa, Dec. 10

Talofa (hello) from Samoa! This island shares a common language and culture with its nearby American cousin. In both cases, … Continue reading Apia, Samoa, Dec. 10