AMA Vida River Cruise

I was very anxious to be ageless this summer. All year long, I am reminded of my age as I deal with business people in their 20s, 30s, and 40s. I am okay just as long as there are no mirrors around. The minute I see myself surrounded by all the youngsters, I am shocked. I can’t believe how much time has gone by.

A few months ago, I somehow felt that if I could escape to Europe for a few weeks this summer, I would not constantly be reminded of my age. I would tour around and fantasize about all of the possibilities that lie ahead. Eliot and I finally planned a trip to Portugal and Spain. We booked an AMA Waterways cruise on the Douro River and then a few days in Madrid.

That is where I am now. I am typing to you from my riverboat suite. This trip was everything I imagined, and more. In addition to my clothes, all I needed was my laptop, iPhone, and iPad to make it work. I am five hours ahead so the work schedule is very accommodating. When I am out touring around, New York is sleeping. When I am back in my hotel room at the end of the day, New York is just getting ready for a full day’s work.

I am free to be me. For the last 10 days, the riverboat cruise has renewed my energy. Most passengers are in their 60s. A handful are older than that. We also have several couples in their 30s and 40s. A real mixed bag.

It was pretty evident that there were many people on this trip who felt just like me. We all wanted to see every inch of Portugal plus spend a decent amount of time relaxing, schmoozing, and tasting the wines and ports of the region.

Life doesn’t get much better than this. Thanks to the Internet and innovative technology, I am able to be where I want to be, and take on whatever persona I want to for an hour, a few days, or even a few weeks.

A must watch video of seniors pretending to be young again on the sun deck of the AMA Vida. Catch Eliot making his moves.

Visiting the only Synagogue in Porto

The following pictures are from the day in Porto.