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Travel stories, photography, and reflections from around the world.
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26 Oct 2026 — Sicily: Mount Etna in the Fog and an Uphill Adventure in Taormina
A foggy visit to Mount Etna, an uphill adventure through Taormina, a wonderful lunch at Granduca, and an Italian evening aboard Explorer of the Seas.

Joseph F Thompson Studios, LLC
Oct 265 min read


2026-10-20 — Santorini, Greece — Baklava, Broken Plates, and the Chef’s Table
A wonderful day in Santorini with Patty, baklava, Greek dancing and plate smashing, followed by a relaxing massage and an exceptional Chef’s Table dinner.

Joseph F Thompson Studios, LLC
Oct 205 min read


October 19, 2026 — A Day at Sea: Pampering, Pancakes, and a World Cruise Reunion
Sea Day - 19 Oct 2026 Aboard Explorer of the Seas, a day between ports brought old friends, seven wines, a lovely dinner with Patty, and a very well-prepared face for tomorrow’s adventures. You would think a day at sea would be an opportunity to sleep late and take things slowly. Well, I was up at 6:00 a.m. There were people to see, appointments to keep, and pancakes to catch before breakfast closed. Somewhere in the middle of all that, I intended to fit in a nap. Even a rela

Joseph F Thompson Studios, LLC
Oct 195 min read


October 18, 2026 — Dubrovnik, Croatia: A Close Shave, Croatian Cooking, and Good Friends
A little morning pampering, a taste of the Croatian countryside, a well-earned nap, and an evening with friends who are always ready for another adventure.

Joseph F Thompson Studios, LLC
Oct 195 min read


October 17, 2026 — From Venice to Ravenna: All Aboard Explorer of the Seas
An exceptionally smooth departure from Venice, a reunion with old friends, a little pampering, and one suitcase that apparently had travel plans of its own.

Joseph F Thompson Studios, LLC
Sep 195 min read


2026-10-15 — Venice, Italy — From a Speedboat to St. Mark’s Square
An exceptionally smooth arrival, a little Italian style, and a day spent finding my feet in Venice.

Joseph F Thompson Studios, LLC
Sep 186 min read


2026-10-14 — Travel — IAD-EWR-Venice
Continue the Journey Back to the Explorer of the Seas 2026 Journey Hub — follow the complete voyage and all daily stories.

Joseph F Thompson Studios, LLC
Sep 181 min read
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