The Spanish Riviera

Part 5 - Adventures Along the West African Coast

Over the loudspeaker, I hear welcome to the Straits of Gibraltar. A narrow strait that connects the Atlantic Ocean from the Mediterranean Sea and separates Europe from Africa. Historically, the Straits have witnessed exploration, battles, and trade for thousands of years. From Phoenician traders to Roman fleets and Moorish conquerors and a route of immigration, a bridge between civilizations.

It's also symbolized the near end of the cruise. I was determined to make the most of the couple days left with port stops in Motril and Alicante along the Spanish Riviera to the end port of Barcelona.

Located close to Granada, the town of Motril is becoming a gastronomical hub. Fisheries provide fresh seafood, especially shrimp, and the fertile hills are filling with vineyards. We drove north with a magnificent viewpoint of the coastline. as the tour bus stopped at a couple of villages nestled in the hills. Trellises of roses, gelato and fruit stands, artisans crafting jewelry. A simple way of life. Back on the ship, our mighty band of six travelers met up for sunset, karaoke and other mischief.

Another amazing sunset as we cruised north along the Spanish Riviera

The day has finally come as we docked in Alicante, the last port on this long and strange trip. An easy ten-minute walk into downtown provided some much-needed shopping and dining on this short port day. Alas, with new sneakers in hand, a walk around old town and a tasty sangria to quench the thirst on a hot summer day, it was time to head back to the ship. With packing done and a quick shower and change, it was time for the last solo meetup. with dinner. Then off to drink the night away with Tony, our favorite piano player. We sang to Sweet Caroline and Who the F is Alice for the last time on the cruise. Hugs were had, memories made as we headed our separate ways promising to keep in touch.

I love the flexibility of being able to experience a variety of travel styles. Over the last couple of years, I've stayed in hostels and eco resorts. I've travelled solo, joined in group tours or volunteered in wildlife conservation. Last summer, I tested out my first long distance cruise and slowly became addicted to the lifestyle. Getting the chance to share adventures with new friends. I already have 7 cruises booked for the next couple of years and constantly dreaming of new maritime adventures for 2027.

One of our many drunken nights aboard the Norwegian Sky that starts with Karaoke and ends at the Atrium Bar