So as you know Cruise.co.uk staff were supposed be travelling on board P&O Arcadia for 2 nights for our Christmas conference which was cancelled due to still being in dry dock for refurbishment.
Instead we stayed at The Solent Hotel & Spa in Fareham, all I can say is ‘Fantastic Hotel’ the staff were great, the rooms comfortable and the best breakfast I’ve ever had in a hotel!
We travelled down to Southampton by coach and had a sing along to Christmas songs to get us in the mood – the time went pretty quickly. Our rooms weren’t ready so had a short wait so we had a drink in the bar and a look round the hotel. It had a good size pool with plenty of seating if you didn’t fancy a swim. I did take my swimming costume but didn’t have time to use the pool which was a shame.
On Sunday evening we had we went to ‘One Night in Bangkok’ which was a venue at Stoneham Park – this was a large venue with All Inclusive Bar, meal & aerial performers during dinner, they were amazing. Thai dancers & performers were also very good. I had a sore back so didn’t stay too late but the rest of the team went on the dodgems – apparently very funny and from looking at some of the pictures it looks it!
We headed of to Winchester Christmas Market on Monday morning, a beautiful quaint little town where the market spreads round the church – that’s 3 markets I’ve seen this time! As it’s the rules when you go to a Christmas Market – we had mulled wine – mmmmm it was lovely!
Monday was the official ‘Office Christmas Jumper’ Day where the majority of staff wore a Christmas Jumper, hats, glasses and all things Christmassy! It was great fun apart from the few ‘Bah Humbugs’ who wouldn’t wear them. Personally I think they are great and a big hit this year more than in the past.
On Monday afternoon we had our Conference which was really interesting, always something to learn to ensure we do our jobs better & better.
On Monday evening we had a ‘Casino Royal Night’ based at the hotel, full Christmas dinner and wine. They put on a comedian, he was actually very funny then we had a disco – it was a really great night, good to catch up with new staff and meet old faces again.
Some more pictures from conference…
My brother was staying on the ‘Isle of Wight’ on business so on Tuesday morning I hopped on the ferry from Southampton – the RedJet as a foot passenger and as usual got talking to a nice couple who go on River Cruises so out came my business card and hope they call me for their next one.
I went out for dinner with my brother and we had a catch up which was great as don’t see him very often as lives 120 miles away. Usually when I see him it’s at his home with his wife and kids so was nice to spend some quality time with him.
At least I made it onto the water from Southampton – not quite a cruise but hey ho! I did take a photo of the Arcadia as she was in dock ready to sail that afternoon – you can make her out in the photo.
So a great time was had by all at our conference, just wondering what we’ll do next year now as the 1st land based for Cruise.co.uk – Dublin sounds like a great idea – hint hint!
It’s all systems go for me now as have my beautiful daughter Kim’s 18th birthday on 23rd the family down for Christmas from 24th and must squeeze in a night out with the girls tonight.
I wish all my lovely customers & colleagues a very Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year!