The town stretching high into the surrounding dramatic hills looked glorious with the rising sun reflecting back off craggy hillside.  What a splendid view from my stateroom. 

Whenever I visit California, visiting the Queen Mary at Longbeach takes priority, despite several previous visits.  Similarly, whenever I visit Madeira, afternoon tea at the Reid’s Palace Hotel in Funchal, if not fully booked, also takes priority. Jackie, one of my dinner companions successfully arranged for three of us to enjoy a leisurely and indulgent two and a bit hours on the terrace of Reid’s. 

I met Chris and Jackie in front of the Purser’s desk at the arranged time of 1.15 pm.  We took a taxi to the Hotel where we arrived with around 45 minutes to relax before afternoon tea.  My metphormins are going to have their work cut out.  While the cakes were tasty and probably full of sugar. So far, some two hours later, I feel no ill effects.

We spent well over two hours, and the personnel at the hotel were slick, fluent, warm and friendly.

A line if taxis were waiting at the top of a hill maybe 50yards ahead.  On the way, somebody’s gated drive had the most amazing driveway to his residence.

A taxi took us back to the Queen Victoria after a,splendid afternoon. There were warmish spells when the sun came out, which fortunately was frequent.

There will be little to write about over the next few days, but I do intend to write frequently.

Many thanks for reading,

David, 17.12 hrs in his stateroom.

The Captain has just announced our imminent departure, 2,634 NM to Barbados with a following E/NE wind, low seas and increasing temperatures.  travelling at c 16+ knots.