I guess it was bound to happen sometime.... the end of this dream trip around the world. In celebration of this maiden world cruise of the newest Queen, Cunard arranged a gala event for those who were there from start to finish.... nearly 800 of us. It was a black tie affair held at Campo Pequeno, a covered bullfight arena. It may sound like a rustic venue, but it was anything but that! We stepped off of our motor coaches onto a red carpet.... and from then on we had to keep pinching ourselves to make sure we weren't dreaming! The entrance was flanked by costumed horses who reared up on their hind legs as we entered. As we progressed along the red carpet, we were greeted by the CEO of Cunard. It was breathtaking to actually enter the arena!! Contrary to what we might have expected (it's a bull ring after all!), the floor was carpeted and strewn with rose petals. Each table was aglow with a gigantic crystal candelabra entwined with roses. And to continue the theme, there were roses and ribbons bedecking the backs of the chairs. A full orchestra was stationed behind the dance floor. And most importantly, the arena was filled with all those people who shared this incredible around-the-world journey with us!
These Portuguese bullfighters have attitude! Ole!!
Chuck preferred the Portuguese senoritas!
Cinderella and Prince Charming at the ball! Midnight has arrived far too soon!
The very last time we arrive "home" to Queen Victoria.
I guess it was bound to happen sometime.... the end of this dream trip around the world. In celebration of this maiden world cruise of the newest Queen, Cunard arranged a gala event for those who were there from start to finish.... nearly 800 of us. It was a black tie affair held at Campo Pequeno, a covered bullfight arena. It may sound like a rustic venue, but it was anything but that! We stepped off of our motor coaches onto a red carpet.... and from then on we had to keep pinching ourselves to make sure we weren't dreaming! The entrance was flanked by costumed horses who reared up on their hind legs as we entered. As we progressed along the red carpet, we were greeted by the CEO of Cunard. It was breathtaking to actually enter the arena!! Contrary to what we might have expected (it's a bull ring after all!), the floor was carpeted and strewn with rose petals. Each table was aglow with a gigantic crystal candelabra entwined with roses. And to continue the theme, there were roses and ribbons bedecking the backs of the chairs. A full orchestra was stationed behind the dance floor. And most importantly, the arena was filled with all those people who shared this incredible around-the-world journey with us!
These Portuguese bullfighters have attitude! Ole!!
Chuck preferred the Portuguese senoritas!
Cinderella and Prince Charming at the ball! Midnight has arrived far too soon!
The very last time we arrive "home" to Queen Victoria.
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