We had been talking about a RTW trip for a long time and finally last September took the plunge and booked it. At that time it was 16 months off and seemed a lifetime away.

In the last month our flights and pre and post cruise hotels have all been confirmed.

We upgraded our flights with BA to LA as this allows double luggage allowance but we are returning from Dubai with Emirates so will arrange to leave a suitcase on board ship to be collected from Southampton and delivered to our home address.

The excitement is increasing as we have started researching our ports of call and I take every shopping opportunity to increase my cruise wardrobe.

The next stage will be sorting out our Indian Visas which from my research could prove to be a nightmare and cause many sleepless nights. At the same time the final balance will be due which will also cause sleepless nights and bring tears to Garry's eyes.