Bernhardt takes cruise to Mexico with classmates
Marlene Bernhardt of Marion joined several classmates and their spouses from her Sioux City, Iowa, high school graduating class of 1953, on a cruise to Mexico Sept. 29-Oct. 3.
Bernhardt was accompanied by two daughters, Cindy Moore and Shelli Hardey, both also of Marion.
They flew to Los Angeles, Calif., and took a bus to Long Beach, where they boarded "The Princess."
Bernhardt said the cruise ship was filled to capacity at 2,400 people.
Their first day was spent at Catalina Island, where they toured botanical gardens and shopped.
The next day, they traveled to Ensanada, Mexico, where they were greeted by a man who took their pictures, then sold them the pictures. The group toured wineries and tasted wine. Everyone received a bottle of wine.
The third day was called a "Fun Day at Sea," where everyone remained on the ship and took in various onboard activities.
The next day they returned to Long Beach, went through customs, and traveled back to Los Angeles for the flight back to Kansas.
Bernhardt said she enjoyed the cruise. She said she spent quality time with a girlfriend from high school.
"The food was delicious," she said.
Every evening, a fancy dinner was served with formal place settings. Entertainment also was provided. They sat at assigned tables.
Bernhardt regrets not having participated in the reportedly sumptuous midnight buffet, which featured ice carvers displaying their art.
"We did get to see an ice-carving one morning, " she added.
"We had a free bottle of champagne in ice in our room," she continued, "but we never drank it. I guess we should have tasted it."
Any extra purchases made on board, such as soda pop, snacks, and gifts, were charged to a "carnival card." Those purchases were transferred to the person's credit card at the end of the trip.
"It was a fun time. I'm glad we went," Bernhardt said.
