After the exhilarating success of our Las Vegas reunion last year, the SWU Class of 1994 decided to take our next adventure to new heights—or rather, to the open sea! For over a year, Bjean took the lead in planning, meticulously coordinating everything from choosing the perfect cruise to booking tickets for everyone. Our group chat was buzzing with excitement, updates, and last-minute changes as we all worked to make the trip happen. Some of our batchmates had to cancel at the last minute due to unforeseen commitments, but that didn’t dampen our spirits—we were determined to make the most of this long-awaited reunion.
From January 29 to February 3, 2025, we set sail on the vibrant Carnival Radiance, embarking on an unforgettable journey from Long Beach, California, to the stunning Catalina Island and the lively streets of Ensenada, Mexico. Excitement buzzed in the air as we counted down the days, eagerly awaiting the chance to reconnect, relive old memories, and create brand-new ones against the breathtaking backdrop of the ocean. This wasn’t just a trip—it was a celebration of friendships that have stood the test of time, and we were ready to make every moment count!
Getting to the Cruise
I left early in the morning to catch my 9:30 AM American Airlines flight from Tucson to LAX, feeling under the weather with a cough, cold, and slight fever. The freezing temperatures didn’t help, but my excitement for the trip kept me going. Upon landing, I booked an Uber to Long Beach, California, where our adventure would begin. The ride was smooth, though my mind was preoccupied with thoughts of the upcoming trip, eager to see my old friends once again.
The first familiar face I met was Jenna, who had taken the same flight. Jenna works as a medical technologist in Utah, and we quickly caught up on each other’s lives as we waited. Soon after, Gil called from the airport to let us know he had arrived. Gil, who works as a lead tech in one of the reference labs in Austin, Texas, was relieved to have made it despite the delays. Outside the Carnival Radiance, Jenna and I chatted, unaware that we needed to check in our tickets inside the big dome. Since online check-in was only available until midnight the previous day, we had to go through the manual process at guest services to confirm our details and get our boarding passes. We rushed to guest services to complete our ticket information, just as Gil informed us he was on his way to meet us.
Jenna had brought some wines, but unfortunately, anything over 15% alcohol was not allowed due to cruise regulations that aim to prevent excessive consumption and ensure compliance with maritime alcohol policies. Gil, clearly disappointed by the restriction, came up with a creative idea—he started pouring Limoncello into the bottle cap and taking small shots, playfully offering them to us as well. We couldn’t help but laugh at his determination to make the most of the situation. We had to say goodbye to Porto and Limoncello but managed to bring one red wine onboard. As we eagerly waited, we kept calling Bjean, Girly, and Levi, who were still en route. The excitement was building up as we anticipated their arrival.
Girly and I, along with Bjean, had done our internship together in Cagayan de Oro City in the Philippines, making our reunion even more nostalgic. Those were the days of long shifts, late-night duty rotations, and endless laughter that helped us push through the challenges of training. We built a bond through shared struggles and triumphs, supporting each other when exhaustion hit and celebrating even the smallest victories. Levi, on the other hand, was my classmate during our second and third years in college, and reconnecting with her felt like a beautiful rewind of our academic journey—sleepless nights spent reviewing for exams, hurried notes passed in class, and the shared dream of one day making it in the medical field. Seeing them again, after all these years, reminded me how deeply our friendships were woven into our past, and how effortlessly we could pick up right where we left off
After an hour, they finally arrived. The moment we saw each other, time seemed to stand still. Seeing Girly from Saudi Arabia, Levi from Sweden, and Bjean, who I last met at our Las Vegas reunion, now with her husband, Reynan, felt surreal. The air was filled with shouts of excitement, arms flung open for tight embraces, and eyes glistening with unshed tears. We held each other for what felt like forever, laughing, and marveling at how, despite the years and distance, nothing had changed between us. The warmth of friendship wrapped around us like a familiar blanket, and in that moment, it felt as if we had never been apart. The bond that started decades ago had not only survived but had grown stronger. It was a reunion filled with overwhelming joy, a reminder that true friendships endure the test of time, and we were here, together again, ready to make even more memories.
Boarding the Carnival Radiance
After our happy reunion, we boarded the ship and found our rooms on the 8th floor, except for Gil, who was on the 7th. The ship’s grandeur left me in awe. It was massive, with elegant hallways, grand staircases, and vibrant lighting. Once settled, our first gathering was, of course, over food—hot dogs and sandwiches at one of the ship’s casual food spots. The conversations flowed effortlessly as we shared stories, laughed about the good old days, and talked about how life had taken us in different directions over the past three decades.
The ship’s app helped us stay connected as we navigated our way to dinner at the Sunrise Restaurant, a cozy dining spot offering a beautiful ocean view and a diverse menu of international dishes, known for its excellent service and relaxing ambiance. We adjusted our table to 337 for 7:45 PM and topped up our cards for onboard purchases, especially for the casino. While trying our luck at the slots, we encountered some challenges using the machines. It took a while to figure out, but once we did, we had so much fun!
Later that night, we headed to the Red Frog Bar, a lively Caribbean-themed bar with tropical cocktails and live entertainment, creating a fun and laid-back atmosphere perfect for socializing and unwinding. Unfortunately, the karaoke was fully booked. Instead, we enjoyed watching others sing and danced along to their performances, sharing laughter and making the most of our first night onboard. Girly, full of excitement, pulled us all to the dance floor, insisting we make the most of the night despite missing out on karaoke. Her energy was contagious, and soon, we were all moving to the rhythm, laughing, and enjoying every second. The night was filled with joy and energy, setting the perfect tone for the rest of the trip.
Day 2: Catalina Island
The next morning, we took a small boat to Catalina Island. The island was breathtaking, with crystal-clear waters, a picturesque harbor, and a charming small-town atmosphere. Catalina felt like a peaceful escape from the bustling mainland. We initially planned to rent a golf cart, but since only six people were allowed per rental, and we were seven, we decided to stroll instead. Walking through the quaint streets, we admired the stunning views of the ocean, colorful Mediterranean-style buildings, and lush greenery, all while enjoying the fresh breeze.
We explored the island, took a submarine tour to watch the fish, bought some souvenirs, and returned to the cruise ship for lunch. The submarine tour was a unique experience, allowing us to descend beneath the ocean’s surface in a glass-enclosed vessel. The vibrant marine life surrounded us as we peered through the large windows, watching schools of colorful fish dart through the coral formations. It felt like being inside a giant aquarium, except we were in the wild, witnessing the natural beauty of the underwater world. The underwater experience was mesmerizing, as we watched these creatures move gracefully in their habitat, creating a magical and immersive atmosphere.
Dinner that night was a formal affair, and we all dressed up for the occasion. It was one of those special evenings where everyone made an effort to look their best, with elegant dresses, suits, and a refined atmosphere filling the dining room. The restaurant had a classic, sophisticated charm, with beautifully set tables, warm lighting, and the gentle hum of conversations and laughter. The menu featured gourmet selections, from succulent steaks to fresh seafood, perfectly paired with fine wines.
Later, we spent time at the casino, where Bjean enjoyed unlimited drinks. Gil took full advantage, making sure he never ran out of cocktails! We then headed to Limelight Café, an intimate venue that hosts live performances, comedy shows, and music acts, providing a vibrant nightlife experience onboard. We watched Liza Alvarado’s comedy show and later danced at Liquid Lounge. Girly had the time of her life dancing with Gil—she completely lost track of time! It was a night filled with fun and laughter, and we found ourselves reminiscing about our younger days, dancing without a care in the world.
Day 3: Ensenada – A Missed Adventure
By the third morning, I felt extremely sick with a bad cough and headache. I decided to stay in my room and take medicine while the others went ashore in Ensenada. They called me, but I told them to enjoy without me. Ensenada, often called the “Cinderella of the Pacific,” is known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant street markets, and delicious cuisine that blends traditional Mexican flavors with fresh seafood from the nearby waters. My friends explored the bustling boardwalk, lined with street vendors selling souvenirs, local crafts, and fresh seafood. They took pictures at the famous Ensenada sign, a popular spot for tourists capturing memories of their visit. They also indulged in tacos—though they found them quite expensive at $2.50 each, the flavors were undeniably authentic, with freshly made tortillas and a variety of meat and seafood fillings. Additionally, they went on a short city tour, visiting local markets filled with colorful produce, artisanal goods, and traditional Mexican snacks like churros and tamales. The mix of vibrant culture and mouthwatering food made Ensenada a truly captivating stop on our journey.
Upon their return, they checked in on me before we headed to lunch at the Lido Buffet, a casual, self-serve dining area featuring a wide variety of cuisines from around the world, perfect for those who want quick and delicious meals while enjoying the view of the open sea. Despite missing out on the day’s excursion, I was happy to be feeling slightly better. The kindness of my friends checking on me reminded me of the deep bond we shared, one that distance and time could never break.
Day 4: A Day at Sea
We enjoyed a delicious breakfast at the Sunset Restaurant, an elegant dining spot known for its gourmet cuisine and attentive service, offering a special selection of dishes made with high-quality ingredients. The Filipino crew prepared a special tapsilog for us, making us feel at home. A day at sea is a time to truly soak in the cruise experience—no port stops, just the vast ocean surrounding us. The day was spent relaxing on the deck, feeling the salty breeze, and marveling at the endless blue horizon. Some guests chose to lounge by the pool with a refreshing drink in hand, while others explored the ship’s entertainment options, from trivia games to live music performances. It was the perfect opportunity to unwind, indulge in great food, and make the most of the cruise’s amenities without any rush.
Afterward, I took a nap before heading out with Gil to get burgers and chicken for lunch at Guy’s Burger Joint, a popular spot on the ship known for its juicy, handcrafted burgers and crispy seasoned fries. The place had a laid-back, diner-style vibe, and the aroma of sizzling patties filled the air as we waited for our food. After indulging in the delicious meal, we explored more of the ship, watching some onboard performances and soaking in the beautiful ocean views from the deck.
That evening, dinner was extra special as we were served Filipino dishes like adobo and sinigang. Over our meal, we reminisced about our college days, teasing Levi for purchasing an extravagant item on the ship—something I said I wouldn’t buy in my lifetime! We shared so many laughs that our stomachs hurt, enjoying every moment of our last full day on board.
Final Day: Farewell for Now
The last morning arrived too soon, bringing with it a mix of emotions—joy from the unforgettable moments we shared and sadness that it was time to part ways. As we hugged and exchanged heartfelt goodbyes, we couldn’t help but reminisce about the laughter, the late-night talks, and the way we seamlessly fell back into the rhythm of friendship, as if time had never passed.
We promised each other that this wouldn’t be the last, agreeing to reunite again in 2027, this time in Switzerland. While parting was difficult, there was comfort in knowing that our bond remained unshaken. No matter where life takes us, we will always find our way back to each other. Looking ahead, we hold onto the excitement of another adventure together, knowing that friendships like ours are rare and meant to be cherished.
Looking back at the pictures, I feel a warmth in my heart, knowing that even though only seven of us from our 200-strong batch could make it, we created memories that will last a lifetime. Each snapshot captures the joy, the laughter, and the unbreakable bond we share—proof that friendships like ours transcend time and distance. Though we have walked different paths and built our own lives, coming together felt like returning home. No matter where the years take us, we will always have this moment, and we will always have each other. Until we meet again, my dear friends, these memories will keep us connected.
Till we meet again, SWU College of Medical Technology Class of 1994! Switzerland, here we come!
