I mentioned in my last blog post that I was writing it from the middle of the Caribbean Sea, on my first ever cruise. That adventure is now complete, and I’ve returned to the cold of Toronto, Canada.

I come away from this experience with some truly delightful memories, and have also discovered some things about this option for travel that I really do not like. Some would say, just enjoy the journey. In fact, I really did. But I’m also one who watches the world around me, and there were some things that just did not sit well.
Normally, when someone says that they have things they didn’t like, these can end up being minor complaints, like my bed pillows were too hard or the air conditioning was too cold or the drinks too watered down. I’m hoping that you’ll find my list a bit more substantial, and that it reflects some unexpected surprises (at least they were surprises to me) about how these experiences are offered.
Continue reading “My First Cruise – Epilogue”




It’s been a trying year to say the least. Lockdowns, restrictions, cancellations, disappointments, even changes to things as simple as ordering food. I went to a local take-out place recently, only to be told that no more than 2 could be inside the take-out order area and that once my order was placed, I had to wait in a pre-marked parking area, in my car. Businesses and people are adapting. I have to admire how well we are adapting. But it still sucks. And on top of it all, my blog host, WordPress.com, decided to completely replace the blog editor I was familar with. Hence no posts for the last two cycles. An old dog can learn new tricks, but it sure takes a lot longer. I decided recently that I needed a break from it all, and with restrictions in place, took a trip north to two parks.
Many of my generation are travellers. We have done our bit for job, country and family, and now have the time and the funds to see the world. Many of us travel to exotic locations, with cultures not remotely similar to ours, to experience all that human civilization has to offer. I’ve seriously considered joining my friends, especially where the destination offers some unique photography. But I’ve also come to realize that much of the beauty of life can be experienced right here, in the country where I live, Canada.
Travelling on assignment or for personal interest is typically a big part of most photographer’s lives. The challenge of managing gear – taking enough, but not too much – is always top of mind. But what about managing your images while you are on the road?