Through the Porthole

Description

A ten-day voyage aboard Cunard’s Queen Victoria, from charming ports to vibrant streets. In “Through the Porthole,” Gary reflects on the lost art of leisurely travel, opting for the serene pace of the sea over the rush of modern flights. Set sail with Gary and Marina, where every wave brings new adventure.

Extract

“I want to go back to a time when travelling itself was the main focus. I don’t need to get anywhere too fast. I point a finger of blame at the budget airlines. Flight should have remained a luxury - something special that you could look forward to and appreciate. Flying, in my opinion, has become the lowest form of travel. Getting a budget flight feels to me like getting a bus from a provisional town after the pubs and only club have all kicked out. It’s either going to be a loud but good-humoured case of singing and banter on the way home, or it’s all going to kick off after a drunken remark. “You looking at my bird, mate?” When we took a coach to Lake Como, I enjoyed looking out the window along the way, seeing villages and sights that you miss when you fly. From the hotel base we visited Milan and St. Moritz. We went across to St. Moritz on the Bernina Express railway. The memories I have of the snowcapped mountains and deep valleys is something I will never forget…”