HAL Pool Party

Our tour started at Mahogany Beach this morning, visiting another beach where Roatán dancers performed. Their foot movement was amazing and this short demonstration was enjoyed with the ocean as a backdrop. We basically stayed on the south and west part of the island.

Next, we ventured to a cameo demonstration. Cameos were originally made in Italy and now also in Japan and Roatán. We knew they were made from conch shells, but this is the first time we saw such a variety of artwork. Usually, they featured a Renaissance woman, but these offered additional carvings of the sea and were quite beautiful.

We moved on to the semi-submarine, to check out the reef. Next to the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, it is the second largest in the world, stretching from Belize to Mexico. In 2005, it had been damaged dramatically by a hurricane, but has come back nicely. We were able to observe a wide variety of sea life. The marine biologist on board provided a fine presentation, dispelling some myths about the underwater world.

We headed back to the ship for a relaxing afternoon. We missed lunch, but that did not hurt us. There certainly was food available, we just didn’t need it.

Dinner tonight was at Le Cirque in the Pinnacle Grill. After finishing, we went to listen to some music. Then, believe it or not, we managed to stay up for the HAL Cats, band and singer, featured at the pool party.

Friday will be Costa Maya. It’s difficult to believe the week is going by so fast.

Maralyn and Norm Hill
Maralyn
Author: Maralyn

Maralyn Dennis Hill, The Epicurean Explorer, is president emeritus of International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association, member of Society of American Travel Writers, and Society of Professional Journalists. She is Executive Editor of Luxe Beat Magazine and contributes to other publications. She also speaks and is a guest on many shows. The majority of Maralyn’s articles are now geared to the luxury market, spas, corporate retreats, business events, and culinary tourism, from simple to gourmet. Maralyn’s description of herself: I was born to travel and tell the tale. I’m energized by different cultures in every aspect of their lives, from food, wine, and destination, to how they conduct business. Travel represents a continual geography lesson.