23.05.2015 — 23.05.2025
Ten years. A whole decade of marriage. And somehow, it still feels like just yesterday we were walking out of our ceremony, beaming.
To celebrate this milestone, we planned a pre-cruise getaway to Rotterdam — and what unfolded was a whirlwind of luxury, nostalgia, seafood, and some very unexpected upgrades.
London to Rotterdam in First Class Style
We kicked things off with the Eurostar from London to Rotterdam — though not exactly how we imagined. What started in a cramped seat with no window and a screaming child next to us quickly turned into the most fabulous train experience of our lives.
After boarding but prior to departure, I went to enquire whether I could pay for us to sit in premium, as we wanted a window, and to my absolute shock, we were offered a free upgrade to a private first class cabin at the very front of the train. Suddenly, we had space, quiet, and our own luggage cabin. Roast beef for lunch, endless wine, and just as the train delayed in Brussels, the train manager brought us a bottle of champagne to take with us and two full glasses — just to make the wait more pleasant. Honestly, I could’ve stayed there all day. Luxury on wheels. Thank you to the Eurostar team for making us feel so special!
All Aboard the SS Rotterdam
Eventually (and reluctantly), I left my beloved pod and we arrived in Rotterdam, where we checked into our home for the next two nights — the historic SS Rotterdam, a retired ocean liner turned hotel and museum. Once the flagship of the Holland-America Line, this grand vessel now lives permanently moored in Rotterdam’s harbour, offering a unique blend of maritime history and retro glamour.
Night one was for unwinding — with a cheese board from home (thanks, Mum!) that had been meant for our train picnic, now turned post-champagne snack session.
Stepping Into Maritime History
On day two, we dove headfirst into the SS Rotterdam’s past with a comprehensive behind-the-scenes tour. From the massive engine room to the crew quarters and bridge, the tour was brought to life by passionate volunteers — some of whom actually worked aboard the ship during her sailing years. Hearing their stories added such a touching personal layer to the experience.
A highlight was standing on the very stage where Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Duke Ellington once performed. It was genuinely surreal to be in a space that once echoed with the voices of musical legends.
Exploring Delfshaven — Rotterdam’s Historic Gem
Later, we hopped aboard a classic Rotterdam water taxi and zipped over to Delfshaven, one of the few parts of the city that survived the WWII bombings. It was like stepping into a postcard — cobbled streets, gabled houses, and old-world charm.
Naturally, we found the oldest brewery in Rotterdam (some things never change) and settled in for some drinks and Dutch snacks. From there, we meandered through historic streets, making the most of the sunshine — and a few more well-earned refreshment stops.
A Very Special Dinner — and a Very Special Dress
Our 10th wedding anniversary night was one to remember.
We began with champagne in the ocean bar on board SS Rotterdam, before taking a water taxi ride (again from the SS Rotterdam) to Hotel New York, the former headquarters of the Holland-America Line, where we enjoyed a glass of wine in the elegant wine bar.
Then it was on to Zeezout, a Michelin-starred seafood restaurant perched on the waterfront. We booked a six-course tasting menu… which somehow turned into nine! Every dish was spectacular — fresh, inventive, and worthy of its spot on the list of the world’s top 100 restaurants.
To mark the occasion, I had my original wedding dress transformed into a cocktail dress by our wonderful local seamstress. She kept the bodice and replaced the skirt with a deep purple one — our wedding colour. I absolutely loved wearing it again, reimagined and ready for a new chapter.
Reflecting on a Decade
Ten years ago, we said I do. Today, we’ve built a life filled with laughter, adventure, and love. I feel incredibly lucky to have a husband who gets me, makes me laugh, and always brings me back to what matters.
Here’s to the next ten years- more travel, more quiet moments, and just continuing to figure it all out together.
Mr & Mrs O’Gorman
Est. 23.05.2015 ❤️
Congratulations Lidz and Keefy on a milestone not many couples make these days. Wishing you many more years of love, happiness, travel and great adventures.
Fabulous dress!
Fabulous food!
Congratulations to you both.