I preferred QE2 in her earlier years simply as she had received less alteration and she reflected her original finishes. I first sailed in 1983 and I recall the wonderful Double room with its grand brushed aluminium finished spiral staircase. The Theatre bar, in it's super red finish with frames of film stars. I think the gallery had gone by then.
The Magndrome had just been added, never a great plan, and I recall being one of the first passengers to use the area. Within the night club, integral to the Magndrome the dance floor had underfoot lighting and there were two neon type pictures, one of London and one New York. The buffet area to the starboard side was somewhat small by today's standards and through here one connected to the Queens Room. The overall arrangement here did not change dramatically over the years and I'm sure this is the reason why we all loved this room.
The mid ships bar had wonderful green velvet seating, as did the rotunda area. Tables of the World, nice area but I did always prefer the Columbia Restaurant. Maybe someone would know if the statues which were in the Columbia Restaurant went to the Princess Grill or were they removed? The table centre piece lights were cool, one for sale on eBay recently.
Externally, the addition of Alpha and Beta spoiled her line and I was very pleased to see them go a few years later.
If anything is to be done to our beloved liner let us hope and pray she is restored to her 1969 configuration and decor. Bring out the best of her 'Old' and make her 'New'.
