All the way to America

Observations from an alternate reality

University of Maryland, Baltimore County, Mrs H and me with True Grit

I’m feeling suitably guilty. I was in the US recently with Mrs H. visiting Iona, my daughter, who is studying in Baltimore for a year.

Initially, I considered getting there by boat, a transatlantic voyage. The thought of a cruise anywhere fills me with dread, but Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 (QM2) still maintains a crossing not a cruise throughout the year.

I’m not sure what the difference is, but my interest was piqued at the thought of experiencing a significant historical journey. Even better if it sailed from Liverpool (unfortunately not, it’s Southampton).

The QM2 is a proper ocean liner built with extra strength and power to withstand the rigours of the North Atlantic in all weathers. Two sharing their cheapest stateroom costs a little more than a business class flight (each), which includes 7 nights accommodation, food and entertainment. It sounds better value than a plane, provided you’re happy with a week at sea, two if you want to return home again.

Alas, I was swayed by the dark side and modern convenience. We flew on a very new and full, Virgin Atlantic Airbus. Small solace that I could divide my selfish carbon quota, slightly more…