I'm booked on the 11/30/00 Cape Town to Southampton voyage and have two questions: (1) at what point the weather will change from sunbathing to windy/rainy. We arrive in the UK on 12/14 and naturally, I expect winter weather but how many of the 14 days prior to that should be warm? Any thoughts? and (2) Since it appears to take two days to fly to Cape Town (from NY), I've decided to take some extra days at either end of the trip - what are some recommended day trips from Cape Town? THanks. <BR>

I don't have the answers to your questions, but I just wanted to tell you that the QE 2 is the BEST and you will have a great time! I just got off her July 4th cruise, and my next trip on QE 2 (my fourth w/ her) will be the Dec. 14 crossing to NYC (right after you get off!). It's a wonderful ship and the crew is fabulous and the food is top-notch and the staterooms are lovely! I can't say enough! Bon voyage! <BR>

Michael, <BR> <BR>I haven't been on the QE2 since her refit this past winter - what changes did you notice? I really wish they'd figure out some way to camaflage those '60's style columns in the Queens Lounge!

With regards to the weather you shoul be Ok upto about 2/3 days from Southampton. The cruise takes you past the Canary Isles which are a winter sun destination for Europe.I would guess round about the coast of Spain/Portugal you'll see a change. <BR> <BR>I hear the Garden tours and Vinyard are worth doing, <BR> <BR>Have a great trip !

The re furb looks great, I dont think you can get rid of the columns in the Queens lounge they are part of a structural support. However the lounge is a great improvement with new seating,colour, decor and new deep rich wood panelings.

I love the original details (circa 1969) of QE 2! They should not be hidden! Remember, in the 40's and 50's people thought that Victorian details were ugly and got rid of them, and later on (in the 60's) the same with Art Deco things. Who's sorry now? Everything represents a certain era and should be left alone for future generations to enjoy! The 1960's were a time of new art and progress! The QE 2 and I are from the same year (1969) and I certainly don't want to be remodeled (maybe just restored someday!) <BR>