Liverpool, UK - June 11

Lazy Afternoon reading. Even tried to sit on the balcony comfy chairs but lasted about 5 minutes. The sky did finally turn blue but the breeze was too cold for me. Went to the Explorers Lounge and then to dinner in Compass Rose. We sat at our favorite table for two in the corner where Mark and Adrinna do a wonderful job of taking care of us. Chatted a little with one of the Head Waiters, Joey, whom I remember from cruises on the Voyager.. I asked about the iPad system for taking orders being used by servers in the dining room. He said it was now in effect on all 4 Regent ships. Joey said the kitchen gets the order right away so the food comes up faster and it hotter. He also said it has eliminated the confusion caused by bad handwriting. Food is certainly a cut above past cruises.

Tonight’s entertainment was a young man who played a lovely 14k solid gold flute. Made us think about Ethan and his dedication to learning the flute….although not a sold gold one yet!

Jim was in bed early and I watched most of Beauty and the Beast. Great day all around! The Captain had announced during dinner that the night would be rocky because of high winds….and he was absolutely correct. Sounded like someone banging on the side of the ship for most of the night.

First view of Liverpool

This morning under grey skies we sailed into Liverpool. We are docked at the Cruise Terminal that is about two blocks away. Part of the walkway is covered but most is open to the chilly breeze.

Liverpool is located on the eastern side of the Mersey Estuary.  Liverpool was listed as a borough from 1207 in the patented letters of King John- very important documents in history. The borough remained with a population of about 500 for several centuries.  Because of an increase in population it was classified as a city from 1880. In 2015 the city proper had a population of 478,580 people and the metropolitan area 2,241,000. The city is

within the historic county of Lancashire. Its urbanization and expansion were largely brought about by its status as a major port, which included its participation in the African slave trade.

Liverpool was the port of registry of the RMS Titanic that sank in April 1912. Liverpool’s status as a port city has contributed to its diverse population, which historically, was drawn from a wide range of peoples, cultures and religions, particularly those from Ireland. The city is also home of the oldest Black African community in the country and the oldest Chinese community in Europe.

Natives of Liverpool are referred to as Liverpudlian- from a long-standing joking alteration of Liverpool as Liverpuddle.  A more local nickname for people from this city  is “scousers”, a reference to “scourse” a form of stew. The word “Scourse” has also become synonymous with the Liverpool accent and dialect. The city celebrated its 810 anniversary this year.

Beatles statue at the port

Labeled the “World Capital City of Pop” by Guinness Book of World Records, the popularity of the Beatles, and other groups contributes to Liverpool’s status as a tourist destination. Since Liverpool gave birth to the Beatles there are many landmarks related to individuals in the group or words in their songs. Cavern Club is where they played before they were such a smash hit. Strawberry Field is actually a former Salvation Army children's home in the suburb of Wooton. There is a popular Beatles Center nearby showcasing their music and career.

Since this is Sunday there is not much action on the streets or in the port. We seem to be the only game in this downtown area Would love to see the difference tomorrow morning would bring. There is a large ferris wheel at the port and in the city itself there are some spectacular glass office buildings. Only a few bikers and joggers- hearty Liverpudlian

souls can be seen on the streets. Still is a city with an interesting history. Glad we stopped by!