Hello travel lovers! I’m Jayne from The Travel Village, and today I am thrilled to share my latest adventure. A fabulous cruise with Fred. Olsen aboard the stunning Bolette. This trip was extra special because it was my first “Girls Trip” with my daughter.
Together, we set sail from Liverpool, eager to explore the charms of Northern Spain. The journey combined relaxation, a dose of culture, and just the right amount of retail therapy. Making for an unforgettable half-term adventure. Here’s a little peak into our experience!
Setting Sail From Liverpool
Our journey began in Liverpool, my favourite departure point, whether by land, sea or sky! The Port of Liverpool made things a breeze, check in was smooth, organised and surprisingly, queue free. From the moment we board, Bolette’s charm enveloped us. As a smaller, more intimate ship, she offered a close knit atmosphere perfect for unwinding and connecting.
Finding Serenity at Sea
We spent our first two days at sea, and it was everything we hoped for. A blend of peaceful downtime and engaging onboard activities. My daughter and I enjoyed basking in the sun, relishing delicious meals and even tackling a few jigsaws (a popular onboard activity).
But the real highlight? Our spa day. The spa onboard Bolette was blissfully quiet, allowing us to indulge in facials, pedicures and more without any interruptions. We had the space almost entirely to ourselves, which made for the ideal mother-daughter bonding time.
The Scenic Town of Getxo
Our first port of call was Getxo, a lovely coastal town brimming with natural beauty and a welcoming vibe. We took an excursion to the renowned Guggenheim Museum near Bilbao. A fantastic experience which immersed us in the art and culture of the region.
The museum’s exhibits captivated us upon entry when we saw the likes of Andy Warhol’s iconic pieces and Yoshitomo Nara’s evocative works. This gave us both a deeper appreciation for the vibrant history of the area.
Exploring Gijon
Next up was Gijon, a charming city on Spain’s Northern coast. With its cobbled streets, historic buildings and costal views, Gijon had an authentic, laid back vibe. Although we didn’t have much time here, our brief visit left a lasting impression.
Tours and Shopping in La Coruna
La Coruna was a treat for any fashion enthusiast, it’s the birthplace of Zara after all! We started our visit with a private Tuk-Tuk tour that took us around the city’s scenic highlights, making it easy to soak in the sights. And, of course, a visit to the original Zara store was non-negotiable! With bags in hand and smiles on our faces, we left La Coruna feeling refreshed and delighted with our day of exploring and shopping.
Returning Home
All too soon, it was time to return to Liverpool. Our week onboard Bolette had flown by, filled with laughter, relaxation and unforgettable experiences. Reflecting on the trip, I couldn’t have asked for a better mix. Fred. Olsen created a warm, inviting atmosphere onboard and I can’t recommend them highly enough for travellers seeking both tranquillity and adventure.
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