A Tale of Two Ships and Planes

Nov 14, 2025
28 mins

Episode Description

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A Tale of Two Ships and a Plane - An Adventure Across Barcelona, Marseilles, and Beyond

In this solo episode of Season 7 of Open Forum in the Villages, Florida, Mike Roth shares an in-depth recount of his recent vacation travels. The trip begins with a smooth experience on Air Canada from Orlando to Barcelona, offering high praise for the airline's business class service. In Barcelona, Mike revisits La Ramblas only to find it under reconstruction but enjoys local tapas and landmarks. The journey then takes listeners aboard the maiden voyage of the Princess Star, highlighting efficient check-ins and exceptional dining experiences, but also touching on the less favorable episode in Palermo, Sicily. The podcast continues with the transition to the Norwegian Jewel for the return trip to Miami, recounting a mix of pleasant port visits and logistical hiccups, such as a missing-person incident at sea. Mike closes by sharing his insights and extending gratitude to the podcast's supporters.

00:00 Welcome to Open Forum Season Seven
00:38 A Tale of Two Ships and a Plane
02:24 Exploring Barcelona
04:48 The Maiden Voyage of Princess Star
07:14 Adventures in Marseilles
12:58 Rural Tour in Rome
13:50 Disappointing Stop in Sicily
15:20 Touring Gibraltar
17:42 Challenges on the Norwegian Jewel
25:18 Final Thoughts and Return Home
25:48 Alzheimer's Tip from Dr. Craig Curtis
26:52 Support and Stay Connected

Season 8 Introduction

Support the show

Open Forum in The Villages, Florida is Produced & Directed by Mike Roth
A new episode will be released most Fridays at 9 AM
Direct all questions and comments to mike@rothvoice.com

If you know a Villager who should appear on the show, please contact us at: mike@rothvoice.com

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