How They are Keeping Us Safe!

Well, first of all, you cannot enter the country unless you've been vaccinated. In fact, while we were in Rouen, we saw and heard a protest (peaceful--mothers with strollers) of about 5000  anti-vaccers. The marched right by our boat chanting something in French (of course).

I already mentioned the fiasco at the airport where they had the discs posted on the floor every six feet. That fell apart when there were thousands crammed in long, long lines filling every available space. At least everyone was wearing a mask--even if not always correctly. 

While we were in Paris, we wore masks everywhere indoors. Outside it was optional. There was hand sanitizer everywhere and most places checked our Covid cards. 

The elevators only allowed people within the same group to ride together. One night, we came back from dinner and many of the basketball players from the French Olympic team were there. Holy cow! Those guys are soooo tall!! We had to wait a bit for an elevator that night.

Once we got on the boat, it was the same protocol--masks in public areas unless you were eating or drinking. They also have hand sanitizer everywhere. In addition, they take our temperature every morning. 

They have signs everywhere to promote social distancing.

There are signs in the lounge area too. Plus, considering there are only 32 passengers on board, it's easier to social distance.

As it turns out, this week is only their 2nd cruise after being out of work for 18 months. We all know someone who has been affected like that. It's just sad. These people work so hard and are so happy to be back at their jobs. The poor piano man sometimes plays to an audience of 4! When we heard that (from Stephanie and Nicky), we've made it a point to stay up every night for the entertainment. It's not like we need to go to bed at 9 p.m. It's just that we like our downtime and we are going at 100% from early morning! Anyway, we've stayed up for all the entertainment and even did some dancing. Not too many people are. 

Next week, they are only expecting 26 passengers and the week after that there are only 9! Now would be a perfect time to come! It's like a private cruise. In fact, the cruise director took a few of us out the other night in Rouen to the Joan of Arc Cathedral (I cannot begin to say or spell it in French). Every night at 10:30 p.m., there is a musical and light display on the cathedral telling the story of William the Conqueror. 

It was a fun experience. But, we just docked in Rouen at 10:15. I'm pretty sure we would not have ventured out on our own in the dark if "Tony" had not invited us. So cool! Oh wait, maybe since he knows we're in the "royal" suite, we're getting "royal" treatment!

Also, Butch, Stephanie and Nicky have done some biking and hiking with just them and maybe one other couple. Today, Steph and Nicky are going out with the bike guide--Zoran. He invited them to join him as he scopes out some new biking trails. 

We have had a fabulous time and can't believe it's almost over. As always, it's gone by way too fast!! Before we leave, Avalon (our cruise line) is giving us FREE Covid tests which is required for us to get back in the US!

Given the current circumstances, we don't have a problem following any of the rules. It's been well worth it and not an issue. We're just happy to be out traveling again!!