Before the Cruise

Before Our Columbia Snake River Cruise

We booked a cruise along the Columbia and Snake Rivers, but decided to arrive a couple days early to get in some Portland sights.

Surprised, surprise, both of our flights went off without a hitch—or none that we, as passengers could see. The hotel is very near the airport, and they provide a complimentary shuttle service, so after what seemed a longer-than-it-should-have-been wait for our luggage, we were escorted to the shuttle by a cruise line rep even though we weren’t part of the tour leaving the next day.

Arrived at the hotel, and the check-in clerk got us checked in, then told us to leave our luggage with her because the evening reception was underway, and we should take advantage of the complimentary drinks and snacks. Didn’t see a reason to argue with that, so we had our drinks and snacks, then returned for our luggage and brought it to our room.

Two immediate observations. No magnifying mirror in the bathroom. Those of us who are of an age and need help getting presentable will know that this is an amenity that the hotel should add to its rooms. The other was the lack of a self-closing QUIET toilet seat. There were a few other minor issues, which will show up in the inevitable “How was your stay?” email we’ll get soon.

Service in the hotel restaurant was slow, but they seemed short-staffed. Food was very good, so all was forgiven.

The next day, our first official vacation day, had us going to the zoo. As a former zoo staffer, I always enjoy what’s going on at other zoos. Hubster’s biology background has him wanting to visit zoos, too. I especially like seeing how many parents are introducing their kids to the animals. The weather was cloudy and chilly enough so I wore my jacket. Photography was a challenge given all the fencing around the enclosures. I think I got a few halfway decent shots, but most are staying in my camera until I get home. These old bones aren’t conducive to getting down low (or back up), but this is a phone picture.

Dinner at the bar that night, and the food was excellent. Brisket tacos? Why not and the meat was tender as all get out. The calamari was tender, too, and served with aioli rather than the usual marinara.

Next day had us off to the Japanese gardens.

It was “Children’s Day” and there were a LOT of kids. Came across a group of Japanese youngsters putting on a drumming performance. Talent and cuteness off the charts.

Tomorrow, the official cruise begins. Luggage ready by 7 AM (ugh), and then off to Multnomah Falls before boarding the boat.

Not sure how much time I’ll have to get online and keep you updated … but I’m on VACATION and intend to enjoy it.

(Note: I’m aboard the boat now, and the internet is very slow, so this might be the last you hear from me for a while.)

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