This one's for you, Pam!

And here's to you, Mrs. Pamela

Viking loves you more than you will know (Wo, wo, wo)

God bless you please, Mrs. Pamela

Emirates holds a place for those who pay

(Hey, hey, hey...hey, hey, hey)

I just couldn't resist it!

What an exciting day I've had.  It all began when the doorbell rang.  Now, it always takes me a few seconds to figure out what the loud noise is as it doesn't ring that often.  The teenager has his own ring tone - repeatedly, so I know when it's him.  The other issue is that the bell rings over in the kitchen rather than by the door so it just doesn't sit right.

I jump up (as it's so far from my chair by the window over to the door) and rush over to check out who is there through the peep hole.  A man I don't know but I open the door anyway.

To find it's the Fedex man!  Yes!  He's holding a parcel for me and I know what it contains.

He scans and I sign and take the package.

Once I'm back inside I grab the scissors and cut it open.  To find the most wonderful goodies inside.

I hope my photography can do justice to the bits and pieces inside.

 Two travel document bags and a Viking brochure.

One travel document bag with the brochure.

 Document bag opened up.

 OMG!  It's got your name on it.

 Close up of your name and country.

  Luggage labels.

 I think we may be going to be the youngest on this trip.

 Whoever thought they'd see the day that my name wasn't associated with New Zealand?  All the rich old Yanks on the trip will think I'm a wealthy Arab.  

My documents.

 A Viking longship sticker.

 Back view of the travel pouch with zip pocket for passport.

 Information book with all our destinations plus additional tours we can choose to do.  Most seem to be around 39 pounds.

 Your welcome aboard letter.  This man thinks just like you do.  I like his opening sentence.  One of the most important aspects of travel is anticipation.

Front view of pouch.

 Contents page of booklet.

Ship and room details.

You almost feel like you're already there.

Can you find our room?  I'm sure we'll be pleased that we paid extra to get an opening window.  We'll need it in the minus temperatures that Switzerland is having at the moment.

Staff/passenger ratio is 1/4.  Not bad.

With only 16 days before our trip the anticipation is rising as are the excitement levels.  High tea at Etihad Towers is booked.  The time will go so quickly once big sister arrives here that I'm sure we won't do half of what I've got planned, especially as I will still be at work that week.

Watch this space!