I'M probably not the target demographic for a cruise, under a certain age and more of a backpacker than an all-you-can-eat buffet type (as well as being prone to seasickness).
But that didn't stop me going into my first holiday at sea with an open mind, and I'm truly grateful I did.
A week of tempting cocktails, every food option you can imagine, sun, sea and trekking in national parks left me kicking myself I hadn't tried it sooner.
I travelled with my two children from Edinburgh to Malta via Gatwick.
The 115,055 gross-tonnage P&O Azura cruise ship is quite a beast. My 11-year-old son (usually more interested in his phone) actually gasped as we approached the ship.
More than 950ft long and capable of carrying almost 3,600 passengers, it boasts 14 passenger decks, extensive restaurant options, a grand theatre, casino and no fewer than four swimming pools one of which had an open-air cinema. We didn't use it but there was also a free kids' club.
The vessel's interiors were most impressive. Its sleek and contemporary appearance was tempered inside with modern wall art and sculptures, as well as a glitzy atrium full of bling.
This story is from the March 13, 2024 edition of Manchester Evening News.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the March 13, 2024 edition of Manchester Evening News.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
History may be about to repeat itself as Reds limp towards cup final
SIR Jim Ratcliffe has a big decision to make once the FA Cup final between United and City culminates at the back end of this month.
United ready to cash-in on Sancho's trip to Wembley final
UNITED will be handed a welcome financial boost thanks to Jadon Sancho reaching the Champions League final with Borussia Dortmund.
Arteta walking a tightrope as emotions run high in tense run-in
CITY look set to be taken down to the wire in the Premier League title race this season by Arsenal.
Money talks, but it won't decide whether or not City are innocent
BEFORE the hearing into the Premier League's accusations against City has taken place, the groundwork for potential outcomes is already being prepared.
Plane sailing as peace breaks out in travel dispute
RYANAIR AND ON THE BEACH ANNOUNCE PACKAGE DEAL i
'Teacher told me to keep quiet about sex'
COURT HEARS BOY'S CLAIM HE SPENT NIGHT AT WOMAN'S FLAT
Three families of stab victims call for inquiry
THE families of the victims of triple killer Valdo Calocane have reiterated their calls for a public inquiry into the deaths after the Court of Appeal heard a bid to change his sentence.
Doctor killed himself with poison ordered from Malaysia
INQUEST IS TOLD BORDER FORCE OFFICERS WERE POWERLESS TO PREVENT DELIVERY
£1m drive to tune in dementia lifeline'
REGION TO BECOME CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE FOR MUSIC THERAPY
Man 'killed by flatmate on way home from pub'
ACCUSED DENIES MURDER CHARGE AND SAYS HE ACTED IN SELF DEFENCE