South East Group of Care Homes Sets Sail for 2026 Virtual Cruise with First Stop in France
Residents and team members across Nellsar Care Homes have once again embarked on their much-loved annual virtual world cruise – promoting meaningful well-being through enriching themed activities, with this year’s voyage beginning in France.
Following the continued success of previous armchair adventures, the 2026 virtual cruise will transport residents to three vibrant destinations over the coming months. From February to April, residents will journey through France, Jamaica and Australia. The cruise has already docked in France, with Jamaica next on the itinerary before the adventure concludes down under in the sunshine.
With cuisine playing a central role in every Nellsar Care Home cruise, it was only fitting that the first stop celebrated a country renowned for its exquisite food.
At Woodstock Residential Care Home, residents sampled classic French favourites including croissants, crêpes and quiches, alongside beautifully decorated cakes and sweet treats prepared by the Home’s talented Kitchen Team. Creativity was also in full flow, with residents crafting French flags using red and blue tissue paper, proudly displaying their handiwork throughout the Home for the remainder of their stay in France.
Meanwhile, at Abbotsleigh Care Home, Valentine’s celebrations took on a Parisian twist. Residents created heart paintings, floral artwork and two striking Eiffel Tower designs – one painted and another carefully constructed using straws. A light-hearted French-themed trivia session added to the festivities, with prizes awarded to those who demonstrated their knowledge of France.
At Hengist Field Care Home, residents embraced French culture through themed games and reminiscence sessions, sharing treasured memories of holidays gone by. Conversations explored iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Moulin Rouge, the Arc de Triomphe, the Palace of Versailles and Notre-Dame Cathedral. The Kitchen Team prepared a specially curated menu featuring Coq au Vin or broccoli and stilton quiche, followed by crème caramel and profiteroles, bringing the flavours of France to life.
Residents at Loose Valley Care Home enjoyed their own authentic dining experience at ‘Du Café de la Loose Valley’, a charming French-inspired bistro transformation complete with Parisian-style table settings. After sampling traditional French snacks and drinks, residents took part in a friendly cultural challenge centred on famous figures and well-known landmarks, sparking plenty of conversation and laughter.
One resident shared: “I look forward to the cruise weeks so much – it feels like we’re properly going away together. The music, the food and all the decorations lift everyone’s mood and it gives us so much to chat and laugh about.”
Viv Stead, Head of Recreation and Well-Being at Nellsar, said: “Our mini cruises are all about bringing people together through shared experiences that feel meaningful and joyful. Residents love the sense of adventure and the opportunity to explore different cultures through music, activities and food. It’s a wonderful way to lift spirits, spark reminiscence and support overall well-being across our Homes.”
With Jamaica next on the horizon, promising vibrant music, bold flavours and tropical celebrations, before the cruise concludes under the Australian sun, residents are already looking forward to the next chapter of their 2026 voyage.
