A selection of people from the Enterprise go down to Risa for a short vacation, but none of their recreational activities quite go as planned.

I'm a little curious as to why, when the crew apparently drew straws, that four members of the command crew were the ones who got to go to Risa, but I'll let that slide. Overall, this story is rather good. Each of the characters has a part in proceedings (although it would have been nice to see at least a little of Travis' mountain climbing skills) and the sub-plots follow through nicely. Trip and Malcolm fall foul of their overactive hormones, Archer gets caught in a web of intrigue, and Hoshi gets some despite only popping down to learn some languages.

Not everything is completely explained; Archer's would-be girlfriend simply leaves without any of us finding out what she wants and it's a bit of a mystery how Hoshi can be fluent in an alien language in less than a day. However, these are minor little niggles in a story that moves along rather nicely, sets up a potential Suliban sub-plot to come and has some enjoyable moments of comedy as well. Phlox's need for hibernation is a neat little idea, and his attitude when he's woken up is simply wonderful.

If you're looking for crew bonding you'll be out of luck. If you want scantily-clad women and a chance to shout at the TV that the landing party are idiots, this is the story for you.

****

Would you like to go to the Enterprise Season One guide, head back to the main TV reviews page, read older reviews in the Reviews Archive or return to the front page?