Wednesday, July 23, 2014

Getting Closer to Lisbon

An Update from our Ship's Librarian Laurel:
 
07/22/14

 
The horn has been blowing every two minutes or so for the past two days, but we are now finally emerging from a dense enveloping mist, as well as a fair amount of boat traffic down the English Channel. For those of us who aren’t busy navigating, standing on deck with only that whiteness around you is a truly awesome experience! As of this afternoon, it’s finally clear again however as we zip across the Bay of Biscay.

 
Our Sunday-at-sea was spent lounging around the aft sundeck, as well as reading, watching movies, playing dominoes, and hitting the gym (or thinking about it). While watches were still on, all classes were cancelled. The extra time gave many cadets the welcome opportunity to catch up on homework, study for license exams, and read over their notes for any midterms still to come.

 
Everyone’s thoughts have now turned to Lisbon, with its beautiful beaches and amazing views from the summit of the city’s seven hills. Yesterday evening, Henry from Chartwell’s – born in Lisbon– gave us a slideshow and lecture in the cadet lounge about all the activities available in the city of his birth. The cadets certainly sound like they are ready to tackle Lisbon, and I’ve been hearing lots of intense discussion. Tours are also scheduled for outside the city, including a bus trip to the local beach town of Caiscais, and a jeep tour of Sintra, a hill village with a fairy tale-like palace and lots of nature trails. Around town, Henry also mentioned a great many sights and neighborhoods worth exploring, in addition to some lovely parks, museums and restaurants worth visiting. His pictures were outstanding and we thank him for his many fine suggestions!

 
No sight of our feathered friend today, who yesterday was spotted roosting in one of the lifeboats. Maybe he left us for the beaches of France, or some English scones along the way.


Look out for plenty of pictures and more news soon after our upcoming break in Portugal!

 
Cadet Shout Out: Matt Hayes, from the 2nd class, says “Hi mom and dad, having a blast on the TSES 2014! Miss you and see you soon.”

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