'Virtual' world cruise sets sail

RESIDENTS of two Bexhill BUPA nursing and residential homes were given a taste of India as their summer 'virtual' world cruise weighed anchor.

As part of BUPA's annual virtual world cruise, older people, who are either nursing home residents or local folk who want to join in the fun, are offered the chance to spice up their holiday season and embark on a cruise without leaving the shores of sunny Bexhill-on-Sea.

Throughout July, staff at both Bupa's Grosvenor Park nursing and residential home and Ancaster Court nursing home, will bring different destinations to life through music, food and entertainment by transforming the homes into a cruise ship and welcoming aboard anyone who is unable to get away on holiday.

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With India as the first port of call, cruisers from both homes sampled traditional Indian cuisine, learned more about India's rich history and enjoyed a Bollywood film party.

Grosvenor Park's home manager, Heather-Louise Pearson, said:

"Everyone is 'welcome aboard' but this is a cruise with a twist, as rather than digging out the passports and packing suitcases, we're taking our imaginations on a whirlwind trip around the world.

"Our first stop in India certainly added some spice to our tour, but we'll be getting a little taste of each place we visit, as well as experiencing all the different cultures, customs and traditions the countries have to offer."

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Over 300 Bupa care homes across the UK are taking part in the virtual cruise and marked the visit to India in a variety of ways.

This included staff dressing up in traditional Indian costume and treating residents to Indian head massages, hand painting and classical Indian dance demonstrations.

Throughout July, the virtual cruisers will also be dropping anchor in Eastern Europe, China and the Caribbean, and will be entertained with deck games, 'on-board' performers and meals at the Captain's Table between ports.

Siobhan Drane, Bupa's community affairs manager said:

"Going on holiday can be difficult for many older people so we're trying to offer the next best thing by getting everyone together to create a holiday atmosphere in our homes.

"We hope to provide a real change of scene and anyone who wants to come along and join us will of course be guaranteed a warm welcome."

For further informatoin call (01424) 213532 or 213535.