Woman's First Europe Trip at 60: Pope Waves and Aperol Spritzes

Brook Sabin's mum had never set foot in Europe, but by day two of her first trip at age 60, Pope Leo XIV was waving at her during his birthday celebration.

The New Zealand pair stumbled into the papal party completely by accident. While exploring the Vatican Museums, Brook spotted journalists gathering below their overflow balcony. His 20 years as a reporter told him exactly what was coming.

"Stay here and look casual," he whispered to his mum. Forty minutes later, the Pope arrived to open a new library, and the crowd erupted in Italian birthday songs.

This incredible moment was just the beginning of their 10-night Mediterranean cruise aboard Enchanted Princess. The journey took them from Rome to Athens, visiting Italian islands, Croatian cities, and Greek beaches without the stress of packing and unpacking at hotels.

Their Roman start featured authentic pasta, pizza, and mountains of gelato between tours of the Colosseum and Forum. They deliberately chose September to dodge peak summer crowds and heat.

In Naples, they took a boat to Capri and rode the island's famous single-seat chairlift to Monte Solaro. Their feet dangled above hillsides as the Mediterranean spread out below them.

Croatia delivered more magic. In Dubrovnik, they walked through the ancient city gates at 7:15am, enjoying the iconic streets almost entirely alone. Split offered similar early morning tranquility before they returned to relax on the ship.

Montenegro's Kotor Bay resembled Milford Sound, with mountains towering over their ship as they sailed through the fjord-like passage. Most passengers gathered on deck with drinks, turning the scenic cruise into an impromptu cocktail party.

Sunny's Take

The beauty of their cruise wasn't just the destinations. It was watching someone experience Europe's wonders for the first time at 60, proving that dream trips don't have expiration dates.

Brook's mum chose simple pleasures too. In Corfu, they stepped off the ship and headed straight to a waterfront beach club. She sipped an Aperol spritz while gazing at the Old Fortress's stone walls rising from turquoise water.

"I really like Europe!" she declared with an emphatic grin.

The ship itself offered 25 restaurants and bars, four pools, a sprawling spa with heated stone loungers, and nightly entertainment. Between exploring ancient cities and swimming at Marina Grande Beach, they celebrated mum's birthday at a secret dining theatre with violinists and LED screens.

Sometimes the best adventures happen when you finally take that leap, no matter your age or how long you've waited.