DAY THREE

Arrived in Malaga about 8am. Quite a rocky sailing… we had room service breakfast at 7am as we had to be out ready for a trip at 8.20. 

We were taken to the hill town of Mijas, about a forty minute drive. And what a nice wee town it was - the cleanliness of the place was the first thing to notice, and we heard two Americans commenting on the fact. 

A walking tour of the town with our knowledgable guide, then we went for a wine and chocolate tasting session. As large glasses of red wine were placed in front of each person, there were varying expressions of shock/horror or delight. Many people did not touch their wine, which is a complete waste. The man next to me managed his in no time, but I only managed half before we were summoned to the next part of the tour - the chocolate factory.

This was really interesting - an Englishman who has been making chocolate in the village for 11 years gave us an informative talk - about the problems of child labour, and explained the process.

We were then free to wander round, patting the poor wee donkeys (and horses) who had to stand there all day waiting for tourists. I would not like to see them in the 35° summer heat. JR managed to do some shopping…

Back to the ship for lunch. I had a wonderful prawn stir fry, followed by - wait for it - bread and butter pudding!! One of my all-time favourites. Also, tapioca with a mango topping. The servings are small, tiny even, so I don’t feel too guilty.

JR went to the gym, and I found the observation lounge, hoping to find better wifi than in the cabin. I may just have to give up and back blip…

In the evening we have a cocktail reception for ‘first timers’… and we met a couple of nice people. Dinner in the amazing Indochine. Then coffee in the Jazz Bar. It was quiet, but as it was windy outside, the planned show at the pool area was moved to the bar. We had ringside seats for this. Although I didn’t know many of the songs, the younger folk did. We sat with friends, and made many more friends. I think we may have been noticed, as we might well be the oldest ‘dancers’ on the floor. The American ‘travel agent’ group were there, as usual, and they’re SO friendly!

Another late night, and not such an early start. But keeping up with the pace so far…