12. Corfu

Our Verandah dinner experience was really rather pleasant and a lot less fussy and pretentious than our last visit. The only small gripe was that we had to ask for our wine glasses to be replenished, had the waiters or sommelier been observant they would have done it automatically. I had the home made ravioli to begin, followed by a fillet steak cooked to perfection, and a grand marnier souffle for dessert. Coffee and petit fours completed the meal. We were fortunate in having a seat by the window and the Greek coast was visible throughout the evening just a few miles away, the lights of the roads and villages looking like a string of little pearls.
Following dinner we ventured to the casino and after playing for just a short while found ourselves in the black, so walked away whilst ahead. We are now in pocket for the trip by the grand sum of $20. A sum not to be sniffed at!

Today we are in our final Greek port of call, Corfu and the coast of Albania on our starboard side looks close enough to touch. Being Sunday, many of the larger shops are closed, but the older part of town is vibrant. There is a maze of narrow, windy streets lined mostly with the usual tourist stores and cafes.
Additionally the tavernas and bars along the main boulevard area were packed with locals and tourist alike and it certainly didn't give the impression that the country is nearing bankruptcy.

The weather has been extremely kind to us throughout the trip and today is no exception. All the sailaways have been held on the aft deck in warm sunshine and the lightest of breezes.
We are in port with the Crystal Serenity and another MSC ship, so there should be a number of ship whistle blowings upon our departure in an hours time.

This evening there is an ice carving display and chocolate extravaganza in the garden lounge, an event not to be missed!