Rich is travelling with us on this grand tour. Rich is 25, Hugh is 12. They are, in Syl's words, twins from different mothers.
Contemplating the Pantheon, Rome
Hugh so wants to be in with his big brother. He studies him intently, emulates him subtly. But mostly, he tries to impress him. With his worldliness (limited); his humour (not bad for a 12 year old); his anecdotes (we humour him); and his puppy love, which we love.
There is lots of rough play in this relationship, grabbing, pushing, head locks.
The boys had a separate apartment in Dordrecht, which they withdrew to each night. In the man cave, they watched movies and hung out, while we slept.
On board, they have had their own suite and butler. So they have spent a lot of time together. As far as I can observe, it has gone well. They have both slipped into the luxury and endless eating, drinking and service of the Splendida like ducks to water.
Hugh's puppy dog enthusiasm can leave Rich looking for some peace and quiet, which are unfamiliar concepts to Hugh. I've advised Rich to be very specific with Hugh, as in 'leave me alone until ten' as a way to get his needs met. It seems to work.
On the boat this week, coming back from the pool, Rich claimed first shower. In the lift, Hugh pushed the button for their floor and the one before. When it opened a floor early, Rich leapt out thinking they'd arrived. He turned to see a grinning Hugh wildly pressing the button to close the lift door. Hugh got first shower.
In the end, the pictures tell the story here.
With a band of swarte piets in Dordrecht
On the Rhine
Monaco Ferrari
Monaco Ferrari
Hotel Negresco Nice
In the Medina, Tunis
One pool jacuzzi, MSC Splendida
Frocked up for a cocktail party with the captain
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