Formal Night

Formal nights on cruise ships can be a pain. Sometimes you just don't feel like dressing up. Plus it means you have to pack so much more than you would otherwise. Our itinerary had three formal nights. We participated in two of them (hit the casual buffet for the third). It's actually kind of fun, once you're through the pain of getting ready. And even more fun with friends, a double date at sea! After a nice kidless dinner (thank you kids club!) we took a stroll along the upper deck of the ship.

Tallinn, Estonia

I was very excited about visiting Estonia. I've been to a couple dozen European countries, so hitting the lesser touristed countries in the east and the northeastern Baltic countries is high on my list. They're full of charm, very cheap and have a noticeably different feel than your typical western European city. Tallinn hits all the right notes. My only complaint is that it's gotten a little carried away with the tourism factor and everyone seems to be cashing in.


My first view of Tallinn from my breakfast table aboard the ship!


We saw many other cruise ships along the way, this Disney cruise ship (on the left) was a regular companion to our ship (on the right) in ports




The "sweater wall"


I didn't see too many people buying sweaters under the July sun












Trevon takes charge; I should submit this photo to Rick Steves








Monkeys see, monkeys do

Helsinki

Based on previous traveler reviews I wasn't expecting to be impressed by Helsinki. I was pleasantly surprised. Finland's capital is a very open city with a slightly more eastern flavour than its other Scandinavian sisters, hinting at Russia just beyond. Anchored by two memorable churches, a pretty little harbour, a tempting market square and a lovely central park, the city has all the right components for great sightseeing opportunities.




The Three Smiths Statue by Felix Nylund


Esplanadi Park




City Hall


Uspenski Cathedral, an eastern orthodox cathedral




The Helsinki Lutheran Cathedral








Rudolph, will you be my dinner tonight? Reindeer is a popular dish in Helsinki.


Market Square












The Temppeliaukio Kirkko (Rock Church) is a thrilling work of modern architecture in Helsinki. Completed in 1969, it is built entirely underground and has a ceiling made of over 13 miles of copper wire.




Back on the ship!