A Day in Perth
Thanks to Princess Cruises and Majestic Princess, we were invited to remain on the ship for two extra nights. This provided us the chance to take a train into Perth. A security guard helped us purchase the most economical ticket option. As it turned out, the fact that we were a party of two going round trip from Fremantle to Perth, the best deal was a family ticket. We could go through the express lane and travel unlimited for less than if we'd purchased to round trips for each of us. I love when people offer help like that! The ride was scenic and smooth. We were dropped off right in the heart of a mall. Perfect since our goal was to take advantage of the weekend sale and our strong US Dollar!
In the heart of Perth, is a relaxing park. Set in the midst of amazing architecture, old and new, Stirling Gardens is the oldest park in Perth. Over a hundred years old, there are several whimsical statues throughout. By the time we reached here, we were lugging our new luggage along. Such a relaxing spot to take a rest, people watch and plot out our next move.
One of my favorite parts about Perth... the architecture. If only we didn't have our new luggage!!! There are many cruises in the Australian market, so I know we will return for a visit one day. Anyway, as we walked down the street, we enjoyed looking to the end of the street to the stunning Swan Bell Tower. Made of copper and glass, the 18 bells played beautiful music! Named for its location next to the Swan River, the colored glass was regal in the sunlight. In stark contrast, the Town Hall, Cathedral and Library provide a completely different feel to the City Centre. Built in 1870, this Gothic style Town Hall is the only one of its kind in Australia. Standing along side the century old structures are stunning modern apartment and office buildings.
After a nice afternoon of touring the City Centre, we returned to our near empty ship, showered and went to look at the colorful skies. Even an industrial area is beautiful at sunset! My favorite time of day... so peaceful.
Usually a hub of activity, the Piazza became a quiet spot to sit and enjoy tea and coffee. Too bad the photographers weren't available for photos on the stairs because this was the only time on over forty cruises that the grand staircase had no people to interfere with a portrait. We definitely spent some time in this area... the coffee bar is where we started every day with a Cappuccino. Not sure what you call the beautiful piece of furniture that held the tea... but I loved it! Each little drawer held a different type of tea. What a treat for a late afternoon moment of relaxation before preparing for a fun night out!
With barely anyone on the ship, getting a reservation in the Crown Grill was simple. We had preordered our wine so it could be opened, decanted and breathe... Luce, a Super Tuscan, is one of our favorites! Though we were in a steak house, I opted for a special gluten free/nightshade free pot with a delicious broth, sausage, carrots, mussels... it was surprisingly the BEST meal I had the whole vacation! We had some VERY tasty food but this one was exceptional. Restaurant to ourselves... excellent service... best company (my husband)... perfect wine and my special meal!
We like to purchase a photo for each of our cruises to go in a binder. Unfortunately, we lost a few in Hurricane Harvey and have been working to find a special photo to add (not necessarily from formal night). my dear husband only allows one click, which puts a lot of pressure on the photographer. He is not a fan of pictures! Here is the formal night click from this cruise!
With our photo in hand, we returned to the bar for a nightcap. Not a soul… In the background of the photo on the left, you can see the restaurant we just left. They served the officers because it was so slow. Nice treat for them! We were a little surprised the musical entertainment continued. It felt like being on the Titanic… the band played on. I think they were happy to have someone to play for! Time to call it a night…
