I dreamed of a faraway place
where I would be surrounded
by tropical flowers and sandy
beaches, with cool breezes
and dark skinned islanders. But
just as my dream was about
to become true, there on the
coastline of St. Pierre,
Martinique, I spy a very
familiar American icon -
McDonald's. I was ready for
exotic foods of the island, but
there in all it's American glory
stood the double arches. Talking
about a real scene spoiler. I
guess even America has to get
her cut of tourism money from
this beautiful French island.
Where is the pristine beach
where that good looking pirate
has his rum stored, where
I can dance the night away
drinking and making merry.


In 1635, Pierre Belain d'Esnambuc claimed Martinique for King Louis XIII and established Fort Saint-Pierre.


Today, the town is the district capital of the Caribbean North district of Martinique.


MS Noordam is a member of Holland America Line's Vista class and was christened on February 22, 2006, in New York City by the actress Marlee Matlin.


The ship is powered by five diesel generators and one gas turbine. The power generated is used both for propulsion and the ship's freshwater production via desalinization.


The ship consumes approximately 57,000 gallons of heavy fuel oil a day and 23,000 gallons of marine gas oil a day, at peak power production. She can achieve a maximum speed of approximately 24 knots (44 km/h; 28 mph).


During the day, casual attire rules. In the evenings, resort casual is acceptable throughout the ship. There are two formal nights on a seven-day cruise and three on a 10- to 14-day cruise.


I couldn't have asked for a better trip. The food was great,
the room was comfortable, the entertainment was fun, and
I will treasure the excursions as long as I live.


Credits:
Vintage Travel Collab by Plain Digital Wrapper Designers
Excess Baggage Template by Little Green Frog
MLB Thankful, MoolBoran, and MS PMincho fonts