shiny things

We are becoming a bit disillusioned about Holland America. Don't get me wrong - this trip has so far been wonderful. The endless sea, Mommy and Daughter time, kind and friendly staff who can't do enough. But the veneer is slowly coming off the faux glamour of the operation.

We have been making lists of things to write on our post-trip questionnaire - everything from "why are we being nickel and dimed to death?" to "what's with these awful carpets?" After a wine purchase, Beazy had her one bottle (allowed before, if enjoyed in cabin only) confiscated until the end of the trip because she would not pay the $18US corkage fee - a cost in excess of the cost of the wine! I returned to the ship a little later and stood my ground, which is why we had a nice glass of pinot noir before dinner this evening. Tomorrow we are visiting another winery - and I am girding my loins to do battle. Their reasoning is that if you pay one of their exorbitant and often rather poor tours, you are allowed to bring a bottle onboard (because the tour company gives the ship company a kick-back) but for those of us who prefer to go off piste and get something better for less, we must pay the piper ourselves, it seems.

My argument will be one of discrimination. Aren't we all equal? I might throw in that they are showing prejudice against same-sex couples, but that might be going one too far. Especially if I forget and call her "Mom."

We are also disappointed that the shops on board are limited to one all purpose shop with sequinned clothing, brand name handbags and jewellery, and two high-end jewellery shops. That's it. Really? What's with all the jewellery? What about books about the places we are visiting, or local crafts, or practical things like toothpaste?

With such limited fare, it's inevitable that one will pass by shiny things and take a look, just to see if there is something interesting, but it's mostly rather dull or else rather garish.

On one grey day, I passed by and got caught in conversation, learned more than I ever needed to learn about opals (a stone I just cannot muster up too much enthusiasm for) and was entreated to try on a pair of earrings off in a corner. They were rather wonderful I must admit, just the right size and shape for my neck, ears and head. Perfect! Until I looked at the price tag.

But maybe I've become too cynical and unreasonable, finding fault where there is none.

So I put it to you. Take a look at these things and tell me what any sane person should be prepared to pay, in US$, for these puppies. Amethysts, garnets and diamonds in a gold setting. Go on. Humour me.