Back Home
Home is good! We’ve seen all the kids, spouses, and grandkids (except Jordan @ Purdue). Our calendar is filling up with grandkids’ school, sporting, & miscellaneous events. We’re catching up on paper, house & yard work. So far we’ve seen deer, Turtles, ground hogs, rabbits, squirrels, robins, cardinals, starlings, doves, swan, blackbirds, ducks, and Canadian Geese (with babies) plus maybe others in the neighborhood. Jan came home with 8 Hard Rock guitar pins for a total of 90. She needs one from Seattle, Washington to complete all of USA and Canada.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Saturday, April 17, 2010
April 15, 2010 New York, NY, USA
Tuesday was 6th parade of the chefs; meaning lobster & baked Alaska. Entertainment has been good the last few nights. We played a little bingo & casino. Packing has been the order of the day.
We’ve traveled 42790.4 Nautical miles in 101 days. We used 1631 minutes of internet time.
Our 101st we woke up about 5, did necessary things. Room service delivered breakfast before 5:30. Finished packing, were in the Queens room by 6:30, off the QM2 at 7, at La Guardia, and in the air by 10. The plane had the longest & fastest ride taxiing when we arrived at O’Hare. While waiting for our plane we stroke a conversion with a couple from Brisbane, Australia that were traveling to Madison, Wisconsin to visit people that they had met on another cruise. The departing plane was late getting to O’Hare but we still left only about an hour late. Jan was able to move the flight schedule up, therefore we got to Ft. Wayne about 6:00 instead of 9:00. Chris was the one who drew the long straw and picked us up and brought us home. Home was indeed “Home Sweet Home”
Friday we worked only laundry, mowing, banking, getting & sorting mail, garbage & recycling, clothes to the dry cleaners, etc. Oh yes, taxes. Both cars & the mower all started right off.
Tuesday was 6th parade of the chefs; meaning lobster & baked Alaska. Entertainment has been good the last few nights. We played a little bingo & casino. Packing has been the order of the day.
We’ve traveled 42790.4 Nautical miles in 101 days. We used 1631 minutes of internet time.
Our 101st we woke up about 5, did necessary things. Room service delivered breakfast before 5:30. Finished packing, were in the Queens room by 6:30, off the QM2 at 7, at La Guardia, and in the air by 10. The plane had the longest & fastest ride taxiing when we arrived at O’Hare. While waiting for our plane we stroke a conversion with a couple from Brisbane, Australia that were traveling to Madison, Wisconsin to visit people that they had met on another cruise. The departing plane was late getting to O’Hare but we still left only about an hour late. Jan was able to move the flight schedule up, therefore we got to Ft. Wayne about 6:00 instead of 9:00. Chris was the one who drew the long straw and picked us up and brought us home. Home was indeed “Home Sweet Home”
Friday we worked only laundry, mowing, banking, getting & sorting mail, garbage & recycling, clothes to the dry cleaners, etc. Oh yes, taxes. Both cars & the mower all started right off.
Monday, April 12, 2010
April 12, 2010 Fort Lauderdale. Florida, USA
After leaving Barbados we watched a very good movie: “The secret of bees”.
Saturday night the entertainer was the comic John Evans. Unfortunately he was on earlier in the cruise & last year’s also.
Sunday while eating lunch the Oasis past by on the port side. Last night this group of Cunard singers & dancers did “On the Westside”, their best performance yet.
From New York to Fort Lauderdale we’ve traveled 41783.1 Nautical miles & it’s day 98.
Arrival in New York is approximately 7:00A.M. Thursday on day 101 having traveled 2790.2 Nautical miles.
Fort Lauderdale is known as the “Venice of America” because of its expansive & intricate canal system. We went through the long immigration line and caught the shuttle to the Galleria Mall. We met the Webster’s & Strokes there and all had lunch at Seasons 52. We killed the afternoon enjoying some time with Webster’s at the mall. Once back onboard we watched “Recount” before the evening meal and “Overboard” before bed. The best part of the day was talking to the family.
This is properly the last blog update until after we get home as we need to pack, etc.
After leaving Barbados we watched a very good movie: “The secret of bees”.
Saturday night the entertainer was the comic John Evans. Unfortunately he was on earlier in the cruise & last year’s also.
Sunday while eating lunch the Oasis past by on the port side. Last night this group of Cunard singers & dancers did “On the Westside”, their best performance yet.
From New York to Fort Lauderdale we’ve traveled 41783.1 Nautical miles & it’s day 98.
Arrival in New York is approximately 7:00A.M. Thursday on day 101 having traveled 2790.2 Nautical miles.
Fort Lauderdale is known as the “Venice of America” because of its expansive & intricate canal system. We went through the long immigration line and caught the shuttle to the Galleria Mall. We met the Webster’s & Strokes there and all had lunch at Seasons 52. We killed the afternoon enjoying some time with Webster’s at the mall. Once back onboard we watched “Recount” before the evening meal and “Overboard” before bed. The best part of the day was talking to the family.
This is properly the last blog update until after we get home as we need to pack, etc.
April 12, 2010 Fort Lauderdale. Florida, USA
After leaving Barbados we watched a very good movie: “The secret of bees”.
Saturday night the entertainer was the comic John Evans. Unfortunately he was on earlier in the cruise & last year’s also.
Sunday while eating lunch the Oasis past by on the port side. Last night this group of Cunard singers & dancers did “On the Westside”, their best performance yet.
From New York to Fort Lauderdale we’ve traveled 41783.1 Nautical miles & it’s day 98.
Arrival in New York is approximately 7:00A.M. Thursday on day 101 having traveled 2790.2 Nautical miles.
Fort Lauderdale is known as the “Venice of America” because of its expansive & intricate canal system. We went through the long immigration line and caught the shuttle to the Galleria Mall. We met the Webster’s & Strokes there and all had lunch at Seasons 52. We killed the afternoon enjoying some time with Webster’s at the mall. Once back onboard we watched “Recount” before the evening meal and “Overboard” before bed.
This is properly the last blog update until after we get home as we need to pack, etc.
After leaving Barbados we watched a very good movie: “The secret of bees”.
Saturday night the entertainer was the comic John Evans. Unfortunately he was on earlier in the cruise & last year’s also.
Sunday while eating lunch the Oasis past by on the port side. Last night this group of Cunard singers & dancers did “On the Westside”, their best performance yet.
From New York to Fort Lauderdale we’ve traveled 41783.1 Nautical miles & it’s day 98.
Arrival in New York is approximately 7:00A.M. Thursday on day 101 having traveled 2790.2 Nautical miles.
Fort Lauderdale is known as the “Venice of America” because of its expansive & intricate canal system. We went through the long immigration line and caught the shuttle to the Galleria Mall. We met the Webster’s & Strokes there and all had lunch at Seasons 52. We killed the afternoon enjoying some time with Webster’s at the mall. Once back onboard we watched “Recount” before the evening meal and “Overboard” before bed.
This is properly the last blog update until after we get home as we need to pack, etc.
Saturday, April 10, 2010
April 9, 2010 Bridgetown, Barbados
From New York to Barbados we’ve traveled 40345.9 Nautical miles & it’s day 95.
The exchange rate $1 equals 2.03 Barbados Dollars.
Barbados is an island that is 21 by 14 miles located in the far southeastern corner of the Caribbean islands.
The Noordam (the Holland American ship that was first cruise back in 1994) and the Caribbean Princess were docked on the QM2 port side. We watched them leave shortly before the QM2. What a beautiful sight!
We got caught by downpour going into Bridgetown. After the rain subsided some we continued viewing the city doing window shopping. We didn’t do as much as we had planned because of the rain. Jan got sprayed & soaked from behind apparently by a passing car & had to do laundry once last time. We met some Midwestern folks. They recently opened the Harley Davidson shop. Both had worked at Harley Davidson in Milwaukee. They seemed to be about our age and when they retired, they took on a new enterprise. I think they were glad to have some “local” folks to talk to. Arrival in Fort Lauderdale is approximately 6:00A.M. Look out USA, here we come!! Two more ports (of 34) & then Home!!!
From New York to Barbados we’ve traveled 40345.9 Nautical miles & it’s day 95.
The exchange rate $1 equals 2.03 Barbados Dollars.
Barbados is an island that is 21 by 14 miles located in the far southeastern corner of the Caribbean islands.
The Noordam (the Holland American ship that was first cruise back in 1994) and the Caribbean Princess were docked on the QM2 port side. We watched them leave shortly before the QM2. What a beautiful sight!
We got caught by downpour going into Bridgetown. After the rain subsided some we continued viewing the city doing window shopping. We didn’t do as much as we had planned because of the rain. Jan got sprayed & soaked from behind apparently by a passing car & had to do laundry once last time. We met some Midwestern folks. They recently opened the Harley Davidson shop. Both had worked at Harley Davidson in Milwaukee. They seemed to be about our age and when they retired, they took on a new enterprise. I think they were glad to have some “local” folks to talk to. Arrival in Fort Lauderdale is approximately 6:00A.M. Look out USA, here we come!! Two more ports (of 34) & then Home!!!
April 4 thru April 8, 2010, 2010 Sea Days
The night before we got to Rio de Janeiro we saw an oil drilling rig that was lit up like a giant Christmas tree. Another rig could be seen from our foyer in Rio and another out at sea the next morning. An albatross flew along starboard side for several miles as if it was an escort. The temperature has been about 80 degrees lately.
We haven’t had ESPN since the conference tournament week then we got it Saturday night. Unfortunately we didn’t discover this until Butler had already won. We did see most of Duke’s win. Monday we watched Butler’s courageous effort. Close doesn’t count or show how great a game it was.
Our last wine tasting (fourth) was Monday afternoon. We attended our last Captain & Senior Officers’ cocktail party & then attended a new production by the Cunard singers & dancers.
Entertainment has been very good with a comical magician Friday night (& again Monday afternoon) and a comical juggler Monday night. Thursday evening we saw “Rachel Getting Married” until we walked out. Several others walked out before us (it’s a terrible movie). Also Monday afternoon was the Country Fair (a charity event). Jan ran the Second Hand Rose (like a garage sale) & I helped a sport director last year. Several other booths and games are some of the events.
The serving staff sang “Let me call you sweetheart” to Gloria & Lloyd when serving their 62nd non-anniversary cake (their anniversary is in June). Another night we had popcorn served with our deserts for the Stokes since they had never had popcorn.
We have received a couple of E-mails from Mary & Vince, a Chicago couple we enjoyed from last year’s cruise. Vince is originally from Barbados.
The night before we got to Rio de Janeiro we saw an oil drilling rig that was lit up like a giant Christmas tree. Another rig could be seen from our foyer in Rio and another out at sea the next morning. An albatross flew along starboard side for several miles as if it was an escort. The temperature has been about 80 degrees lately.
We haven’t had ESPN since the conference tournament week then we got it Saturday night. Unfortunately we didn’t discover this until Butler had already won. We did see most of Duke’s win. Monday we watched Butler’s courageous effort. Close doesn’t count or show how great a game it was.
Our last wine tasting (fourth) was Monday afternoon. We attended our last Captain & Senior Officers’ cocktail party & then attended a new production by the Cunard singers & dancers.
Entertainment has been very good with a comical magician Friday night (& again Monday afternoon) and a comical juggler Monday night. Thursday evening we saw “Rachel Getting Married” until we walked out. Several others walked out before us (it’s a terrible movie). Also Monday afternoon was the Country Fair (a charity event). Jan ran the Second Hand Rose (like a garage sale) & I helped a sport director last year. Several other booths and games are some of the events.
The serving staff sang “Let me call you sweetheart” to Gloria & Lloyd when serving their 62nd non-anniversary cake (their anniversary is in June). Another night we had popcorn served with our deserts for the Stokes since they had never had popcorn.
We have received a couple of E-mails from Mary & Vince, a Chicago couple we enjoyed from last year’s cruise. Vince is originally from Barbados.
Sunday, April 4, 2010
April 3, 2010 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
From New York to Adelaide we’ve traveled 37100.2 Nautical miles & it’s day 89.
The exchange rate $1 equals 1.75 Real
Rio de Janeiro means “marvelous city”. Population is approximately 6.5 million.
The shuttle was provided by H. Stern in Ipanema. We were given an enjoyable self-guided tour with head phones, followed by a salesman giving gifts. He didn’t pressure us & showed the retail jewelry shop. After looking around we walked a couple of blocks to the beach. We walked along the beach on the sidewalk with curvy designs and did an about face to take the shuttle back. Gloria & Lloyd were at H. Sterns also. After lunch Jan went out to check out the shops on the dock. Arrival in Bridgetown, Barbados is approximately 9:00A.M.
From New York to Adelaide we’ve traveled 37100.2 Nautical miles & it’s day 89.
The exchange rate $1 equals 1.75 Real
Rio de Janeiro means “marvelous city”. Population is approximately 6.5 million.
The shuttle was provided by H. Stern in Ipanema. We were given an enjoyable self-guided tour with head phones, followed by a salesman giving gifts. He didn’t pressure us & showed the retail jewelry shop. After looking around we walked a couple of blocks to the beach. We walked along the beach on the sidewalk with curvy designs and did an about face to take the shuttle back. Gloria & Lloyd were at H. Sterns also. After lunch Jan went out to check out the shops on the dock. Arrival in Bridgetown, Barbados is approximately 9:00A.M.
Friday, April 2, 2010
March 30, 2010 Jamestown, St. Helena, UK
The exchange rate $1 equals .62 Pound.
St. Helena is an island of volcanic origin & is a UK territory. The island was discovered by the Portuguese in 1502 and is about 12 by 7 miles and has a population of 4255 (2008 census) which is about the QM2 has with staff & passengers. This was where Napoleon Bonaparte was last exiled & first buried. A tender was needed to get ashore. Since there was only one place to dock, it took more time to get passengers to shore. Staff was not allowed off to allow the passengers to have more time. We first went to a distillery & tasted 3 small samples. Next we started up Jacob’s Ladder. We did approximately 300 of the 699 steps before deciding to save our legs & retreated back down. We then walked around the quaint town that resembled an early settlement. Jan bought post cards & mailed them at their post office. We’ll probably be home before the mail since the mail ship (no airport) only comes every 3 or 4 days. We also visited the museum, church, and some shops. At night Rondell Sheridan, a comedian, was one the entertainers we’ve had. In a few days we’ll be on the QM2 for 6 months out of the last 15.
We’ll arrive in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil approximately 5:00A.M. Saturday (4:00 A.M EDT).
The exchange rate $1 equals .62 Pound.
St. Helena is an island of volcanic origin & is a UK territory. The island was discovered by the Portuguese in 1502 and is about 12 by 7 miles and has a population of 4255 (2008 census) which is about the QM2 has with staff & passengers. This was where Napoleon Bonaparte was last exiled & first buried. A tender was needed to get ashore. Since there was only one place to dock, it took more time to get passengers to shore. Staff was not allowed off to allow the passengers to have more time. We first went to a distillery & tasted 3 small samples. Next we started up Jacob’s Ladder. We did approximately 300 of the 699 steps before deciding to save our legs & retreated back down. We then walked around the quaint town that resembled an early settlement. Jan bought post cards & mailed them at their post office. We’ll probably be home before the mail since the mail ship (no airport) only comes every 3 or 4 days. We also visited the museum, church, and some shops. At night Rondell Sheridan, a comedian, was one the entertainers we’ve had. In a few days we’ll be on the QM2 for 6 months out of the last 15.
We’ll arrive in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil approximately 5:00A.M. Saturday (4:00 A.M EDT).
Friday, March 26, 2010
March 26, 2010 Cape Town, South Africa
After a good night rest we were entertained by the local naval band followed by breakfast with 3 couples that got on yesterday, we took the shuttle and hopped on the “Blue tour” bus for the approximately a 2-1/2 hour trip with the running commentary of several highlights. One of the sites was the hospital where the 1st heart transplant was performed. This was also very beautiful & informative. We then did a short shopping walk. After a late snack back onboard there was a very entertaining local bagpipe & drum corp. At the program, there was an exchange of gifts between Captain Bates & Cape Town reps since was the inaugural visit of the QM2.
Day 81 is complete, leaving a mere 20 days left. The internet did not work while we were in port.
We’ll arrive in St. Helena approximately 9:00A.M. Tuesday (3:00 A.M EDT Tuesday).
After a good night rest we were entertained by the local naval band followed by breakfast with 3 couples that got on yesterday, we took the shuttle and hopped on the “Blue tour” bus for the approximately a 2-1/2 hour trip with the running commentary of several highlights. One of the sites was the hospital where the 1st heart transplant was performed. This was also very beautiful & informative. We then did a short shopping walk. After a late snack back onboard there was a very entertaining local bagpipe & drum corp. At the program, there was an exchange of gifts between Captain Bates & Cape Town reps since was the inaugural visit of the QM2.
Day 81 is complete, leaving a mere 20 days left. The internet did not work while we were in port.
We’ll arrive in St. Helena approximately 9:00A.M. Tuesday (3:00 A.M EDT Tuesday).
March 25, 2010 Cape Town, South Africa
The exchange rate $1 equals 7 Rand
The QM2 was welcomed by a naval band playing patriotic songs for several countries. We caught the shuttle to the V & A Waterfront where we bought 2 day tickets on the Hop On double decker bus, Hop Off which we rode to the Table Mountain Cableway. The cable car rotates on the way up. Even though it was overcast, we enjoyed the tremendous view on top. The bus gave us ear buds with a running commentary of several highlights the entire 2 hour “Red tour” round trip. This was much better than ship sponsored excursions. Cape Town is a beautiful, very clean, & modern city. Fox news broadcasted that Cape Town is the 3rd most dangerous city (behind 2 Mexican cities) with 6 deaths per day, but we’ve felt very save in both of the South African Cities. Cape Town is the second-most populous city in South Africa and largest in land area.
The World Cruise Banquet started at 5:30 in the evening with a cocktail party in the Queens Room followed by an hour journey by bus (8 in our convoy) to the Vergelegan Wine Estate accompany with police escort. Once there we waited another ½ hour to get off the bus. Actually, we did better than others who had longer times. They started serving before many voyagers arrived. At our table only 3 of 9 were seated. Our table included 4 passenger couples plus Social Hostess, Freda Singleton (she did the most work to making the banquet as pleasant as it was). Our table was in the center and behind the table with President & Managing Director Peter Shanks, Desmond Tutu (who gave the opening prayer) & his wife, and the balance of that table were passengers who had the most time traveling with Cunard. Captain Bates’ table was to our left. The food was the poorest we’ve had of the cruise. The wines were good and plentiful. Ray Rouse, Captain Bates, and President Shanks gave brief speaks. I enjoyed having a classy, elegant, and beautiful date in Jan! The entertainment was good and many danced to the orchestra.
The exchange rate $1 equals 7 Rand
The QM2 was welcomed by a naval band playing patriotic songs for several countries. We caught the shuttle to the V & A Waterfront where we bought 2 day tickets on the Hop On double decker bus, Hop Off which we rode to the Table Mountain Cableway. The cable car rotates on the way up. Even though it was overcast, we enjoyed the tremendous view on top. The bus gave us ear buds with a running commentary of several highlights the entire 2 hour “Red tour” round trip. This was much better than ship sponsored excursions. Cape Town is a beautiful, very clean, & modern city. Fox news broadcasted that Cape Town is the 3rd most dangerous city (behind 2 Mexican cities) with 6 deaths per day, but we’ve felt very save in both of the South African Cities. Cape Town is the second-most populous city in South Africa and largest in land area.
The World Cruise Banquet started at 5:30 in the evening with a cocktail party in the Queens Room followed by an hour journey by bus (8 in our convoy) to the Vergelegan Wine Estate accompany with police escort. Once there we waited another ½ hour to get off the bus. Actually, we did better than others who had longer times. They started serving before many voyagers arrived. At our table only 3 of 9 were seated. Our table included 4 passenger couples plus Social Hostess, Freda Singleton (she did the most work to making the banquet as pleasant as it was). Our table was in the center and behind the table with President & Managing Director Peter Shanks, Desmond Tutu (who gave the opening prayer) & his wife, and the balance of that table were passengers who had the most time traveling with Cunard. Captain Bates’ table was to our left. The food was the poorest we’ve had of the cruise. The wines were good and plentiful. Ray Rouse, Captain Bates, and President Shanks gave brief speaks. I enjoyed having a classy, elegant, and beautiful date in Jan! The entertainment was good and many danced to the orchestra.
March 24, 2010 Sea Days
We attended Ray Rouse’s questions & Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu’s answers in the
Royal Court theatre. Very interesting. Jan played bingo unsuccessfully but an acquaintance was 1 of 4 to split the $1600 (she taking winnings & getting off in Cape Town. We had dinner with Cunard’s President & Managing Director Peter Shanks and Social Hostess Freda Singleton. How we keep getting these invites we don’t know. We enjoy the social with nice people from other countries, the food, and the overall experience.
We attended Ray Rouse’s questions & Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu’s answers in the
Royal Court theatre. Very interesting. Jan played bingo unsuccessfully but an acquaintance was 1 of 4 to split the $1600 (she taking winnings & getting off in Cape Town. We had dinner with Cunard’s President & Managing Director Peter Shanks and Social Hostess Freda Singleton. How we keep getting these invites we don’t know. We enjoy the social with nice people from other countries, the food, and the overall experience.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
March 20, 2010 Durban, South Africa
The exchange rate $1 equals 7 Rand
We started the day with breakfast in the Britannia. When we were entering the port there was about a dozen kayaks plus other small boats observing the QM2 arrival and when we left there many boats giving a big send off. Everyone had to go through immigration starting at 6:45. We finally got through after 40 plus minutes and went to shore. The queue was worst than last year in L.A. Durban is a beautiful & clean large & modern city similar to Hong Kong but better & wider rode & streets. We took a taxi ride to & from Moses Mabhida Stadium. While there we rode the Sky Car to the top over the stadium. It’s a wonderful view form there over looking the city. The stadium is very new with canvas removable top and will host some preliminary matches for the World Cup (soccer). The finals will be in Cape Town. The stadium is in a large sports complex with a separate stadium for rugby and another stadium for something. There are cricket fields and other sports fields. We got back for lunch and Jan took the shuttle to the shopping mall. Our evening dinner table helped the Stokes celebrated their 53rd anniversary. We then enjoyed “the Blind Side”. We’ll arrive in Cape Town, South Africa approximately 8:00A.M. Thursday (2:00 A.M EDT Thursday). .
The exchange rate $1 equals 7 Rand
We started the day with breakfast in the Britannia. When we were entering the port there was about a dozen kayaks plus other small boats observing the QM2 arrival and when we left there many boats giving a big send off. Everyone had to go through immigration starting at 6:45. We finally got through after 40 plus minutes and went to shore. The queue was worst than last year in L.A. Durban is a beautiful & clean large & modern city similar to Hong Kong but better & wider rode & streets. We took a taxi ride to & from Moses Mabhida Stadium. While there we rode the Sky Car to the top over the stadium. It’s a wonderful view form there over looking the city. The stadium is very new with canvas removable top and will host some preliminary matches for the World Cup (soccer). The finals will be in Cape Town. The stadium is in a large sports complex with a separate stadium for rugby and another stadium for something. There are cricket fields and other sports fields. We got back for lunch and Jan took the shuttle to the shopping mall. Our evening dinner table helped the Stokes celebrated their 53rd anniversary. We then enjoyed “the Blind Side”. We’ll arrive in Cape Town, South Africa approximately 8:00A.M. Thursday (2:00 A.M EDT Thursday). .
March 21 & 22, 2010 Sea Days
More socializing, attending lectures, movies, and other miscellaneous activities. We went to another wine tasting. They explain taste, clarity, and smell about 3 white & 3 red wines. Also explained is where, history, and miscellaneous information about the wineries. Monday Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu spoke to an overflowing packed Royal Court theatre. His presentation was also show live on TV. His talk was very informative and humorous as he told it like it was. We ate at Todd English for lunch. Food was very good & plentiful with a nice atmosphere. We sat by a window overlooking the pool area on deck 8; the view away from the atmosphere.
More socializing, attending lectures, movies, and other miscellaneous activities. We went to another wine tasting. They explain taste, clarity, and smell about 3 white & 3 red wines. Also explained is where, history, and miscellaneous information about the wineries. Monday Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu spoke to an overflowing packed Royal Court theatre. His presentation was also show live on TV. His talk was very informative and humorous as he told it like it was. We ate at Todd English for lunch. Food was very good & plentiful with a nice atmosphere. We sat by a window overlooking the pool area on deck 8; the view away from the atmosphere.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
March 20, 2010 Port Louis, Mauritius
The exchange rate $1 equals 31.44 Rupee (day 75).
We had breakfast in our stateroom thanks to room service. We took the complimentary shuttle to Cauden Waterfront and walked through many shops of which many took the U.S. dollars & many didn’t (this saves money). We tried to mail post cards but couldn’t buy the necessary postage stamps. One vendor was trying to charge $15 for 9 stamps. Most vendors would negotiate prices. Temperature got up to 87.8.
A couple more days at sea before arrive at Durban, South Africa approximately 8:00A.M. Tuesday (2:00 P.M EDT Tuesday). Then we’ll be only 6 hours ahead of the home time down from the maximum of 18 hours not that long ago.
The exchange rate $1 equals 31.44 Rupee (day 75).
We had breakfast in our stateroom thanks to room service. We took the complimentary shuttle to Cauden Waterfront and walked through many shops of which many took the U.S. dollars & many didn’t (this saves money). We tried to mail post cards but couldn’t buy the necessary postage stamps. One vendor was trying to charge $15 for 9 stamps. Most vendors would negotiate prices. Temperature got up to 87.8.
A couple more days at sea before arrive at Durban, South Africa approximately 8:00A.M. Tuesday (2:00 P.M EDT Tuesday). Then we’ll be only 6 hours ahead of the home time down from the maximum of 18 hours not that long ago.
March 15 thru 19, 2010 Sea Days
Its 5 days of socializing, attending lectures, and other miscellaneous activities. I saw flying fish while doing my walking on deck 7. On the 16th, we were invited to a dinner with Entertainment Director Ray Rouse & his lovely wife, Lise, plus 3 other couples. This was a very enjoyable evening. New entertainers (minus one) got in Fremantle. They were very good. The fifth performance was presented by all 4 (super).
Its 5 days of socializing, attending lectures, and other miscellaneous activities. I saw flying fish while doing my walking on deck 7. On the 16th, we were invited to a dinner with Entertainment Director Ray Rouse & his lovely wife, Lise, plus 3 other couples. This was a very enjoyable evening. New entertainers (minus one) got in Fremantle. They were very good. The fifth performance was presented by all 4 (super).
Thursday, March 18, 2010
March 14, 2010 Perth (Fremantle), Australia
The exchange rate $1 equals 1.03 Australian dollar.
We took the free shuttle to Norfolk Hotel in downtown Fremantle and stroll around a bit. Then we jumped on the free city bus for a tour around the town. We got off by the train station. None of the ticket machines worked so we got a free ride to Perth. Perth is the capital (at the mouth of the Swan River) of the Australian state of Western Australia. We talked to an informative but young man on the train getting advice about Perth. When we got off the train he and his senior citizen parents walked us several blocks to a bus stop so we could catch the right bus to Kings Park. Very helpful, nice and friendly people. We decided to walk after they left. It’s a beautiful park with a wonderful view of the bay from high up. We walked back & bought tickets to catch the train. We got off the train near the QM2 & enjoyed the partying of the locals & others from near by areas. We’ve never seen so many people giving the QM2 a salute on the departure.
The exchange rate $1 equals 1.03 Australian dollar.
We took the free shuttle to Norfolk Hotel in downtown Fremantle and stroll around a bit. Then we jumped on the free city bus for a tour around the town. We got off by the train station. None of the ticket machines worked so we got a free ride to Perth. Perth is the capital (at the mouth of the Swan River) of the Australian state of Western Australia. We talked to an informative but young man on the train getting advice about Perth. When we got off the train he and his senior citizen parents walked us several blocks to a bus stop so we could catch the right bus to Kings Park. Very helpful, nice and friendly people. We decided to walk after they left. It’s a beautiful park with a wonderful view of the bay from high up. We walked back & bought tickets to catch the train. We got off the train near the QM2 & enjoyed the partying of the locals & others from near by areas. We’ve never seen so many people giving the QM2 a salute on the departure.
March 12 & 13, 2010 Sea Days
Friday: I met Cheryl Sinclair who sang last night and I told her she was the best performer of this year’s cruise. We were invited to eat at the hotel manager’s (David Stephenson) table. He canceled but the Chief Purser and her superior the Purser Quest Services were very good hostesses. It was a very enjoyable evening with the two ladies. One couple was form Maryland & Rhode Island. The other couple was from Sydney are a Prince & Princess. He is of Russian royalty & she by marriage. The Purser Quest Services got engage of New Years Day to the First Officer who was driving the QM2 at the time.
Friday: I met Cheryl Sinclair who sang last night and I told her she was the best performer of this year’s cruise. We were invited to eat at the hotel manager’s (David Stephenson) table. He canceled but the Chief Purser and her superior the Purser Quest Services were very good hostesses. It was a very enjoyable evening with the two ladies. One couple was form Maryland & Rhode Island. The other couple was from Sydney are a Prince & Princess. He is of Russian royalty & she by marriage. The Purser Quest Services got engage of New Years Day to the First Officer who was driving the QM2 at the time.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
March 11, 2010 Adelaide, Australia
The exchange rate $1 equals 1.03 Australian dollar.
From New York to Adelaide we’ve traveled 26173.5 Nautical miles & it’s day 66.
Adelaide is the capital and the most populous city of the Australian state of South Australia and is the fifth-largest city in Australia with a population of more than 1.28 million.
We took the 40 minute shuttle into Adelaide and walked about 1-1/2 blocks to catch the free C99 bus. The bus driver gave a rounding narrative on the highlights we passed. We got off after riding it most of the way and walked to the zoo. We enjoyed seeing pandas, kangaroos, wallaby, koalas, quokkas, orangutans & varieties of monkeys, tapir giraffes, emus, bears, meerkats, wild cats, and many other animals & birds, but no elephants or zebras. A good zoo experience.
We headed back to near the shuttle drop off point where we shared a $7 Subway foot long. Prices are higher for very similar items in Australia and Zealand. Jan was getting her hair done and I rode the shuttle back. Jan’s hairdresser got her education by phone, her dad worked in the coal mines, and that there no jobs for women unless they work in the coal mines. This confirms what a lecturer said that kids in rural & outback area get their education by phone because of lack of local schools. Both Sydney and Adelaide are very similar to the USA except prices are a little higher with businesses such as Pizza Hut, KFC, Target, Shell, and Subway to name a few. Adelaide even had a Woolworth and Ikea; and ones similar to Burger King & Texaco. Jan was a dolphin went got back and also earlier in the week. While writing this blog I had the balcony door open and a very fly entertained for a while trying to get rid of it. Today and yesterday we had 24.5 hour days. We’ll arrive in Free Mantle, Australia approximately 8:30A.M. Sunday (6:30 P.M EDT Saturday).
The exchange rate $1 equals 1.03 Australian dollar.
From New York to Adelaide we’ve traveled 26173.5 Nautical miles & it’s day 66.
Adelaide is the capital and the most populous city of the Australian state of South Australia and is the fifth-largest city in Australia with a population of more than 1.28 million.
We took the 40 minute shuttle into Adelaide and walked about 1-1/2 blocks to catch the free C99 bus. The bus driver gave a rounding narrative on the highlights we passed. We got off after riding it most of the way and walked to the zoo. We enjoyed seeing pandas, kangaroos, wallaby, koalas, quokkas, orangutans & varieties of monkeys, tapir giraffes, emus, bears, meerkats, wild cats, and many other animals & birds, but no elephants or zebras. A good zoo experience.
We headed back to near the shuttle drop off point where we shared a $7 Subway foot long. Prices are higher for very similar items in Australia and Zealand. Jan was getting her hair done and I rode the shuttle back. Jan’s hairdresser got her education by phone, her dad worked in the coal mines, and that there no jobs for women unless they work in the coal mines. This confirms what a lecturer said that kids in rural & outback area get their education by phone because of lack of local schools. Both Sydney and Adelaide are very similar to the USA except prices are a little higher with businesses such as Pizza Hut, KFC, Target, Shell, and Subway to name a few. Adelaide even had a Woolworth and Ikea; and ones similar to Burger King & Texaco. Jan was a dolphin went got back and also earlier in the week. While writing this blog I had the balcony door open and a very fly entertained for a while trying to get rid of it. Today and yesterday we had 24.5 hour days. We’ll arrive in Free Mantle, Australia approximately 8:30A.M. Sunday (6:30 P.M EDT Saturday).
March 7 & 8, 2010 Sydney, Australia
The exchange rate $1 equals 1.03 Australian dollar.
Sydney is the capital of the Australian state of New South Wales and is the largest city in Australia with a population of more than 4.28 million.
Captain Bates’s crew took the QM2 as close to the Opera House as possible before turning around and docking at the Garden Pier. We took the free shuttle to Castlereagh Street 4 times.
Sunday night we scouted the Darling Harbour area along both sides of the water. Monday morning we walked to the Opera House, took the ferry round trip to the zoo (didn’t go to the wonderful zoo as we’ve been there before), and then walked though a large portion of the Royal Botanic Gardens. While in the gardens we saw the largest bats we’ve ever seen with wing spans of at least 2 feet. Both the bats & the trees are on the endanger list. The bats are partial to blame for status of the trees. Before we left the garden and headed back to the QM2 we came across Ibis. These birds have long and a curvy beak and are bigger than chickens and smaller than Flamingo and we’re told they are dirty. After lunch we went back out and enjoyed shopping with the Websters. We grabbed a quick bite and went to town the fourth & final time. We walked through Darling Harbour to China town. We finished by each having a beer on top the Sydney Tower enjoying its 360 revolution and seeing the QM2 and sights of the city. Now we graduated to diamond status and have received our pins. This means we get more internet time and can eat at Todd English free once each segment.
The exchange rate $1 equals 1.03 Australian dollar.
Sydney is the capital of the Australian state of New South Wales and is the largest city in Australia with a population of more than 4.28 million.
Captain Bates’s crew took the QM2 as close to the Opera House as possible before turning around and docking at the Garden Pier. We took the free shuttle to Castlereagh Street 4 times.
Sunday night we scouted the Darling Harbour area along both sides of the water. Monday morning we walked to the Opera House, took the ferry round trip to the zoo (didn’t go to the wonderful zoo as we’ve been there before), and then walked though a large portion of the Royal Botanic Gardens. While in the gardens we saw the largest bats we’ve ever seen with wing spans of at least 2 feet. Both the bats & the trees are on the endanger list. The bats are partial to blame for status of the trees. Before we left the garden and headed back to the QM2 we came across Ibis. These birds have long and a curvy beak and are bigger than chickens and smaller than Flamingo and we’re told they are dirty. After lunch we went back out and enjoyed shopping with the Websters. We grabbed a quick bite and went to town the fourth & final time. We walked through Darling Harbour to China town. We finished by each having a beer on top the Sydney Tower enjoying its 360 revolution and seeing the QM2 and sights of the city. Now we graduated to diamond status and have received our pins. This means we get more internet time and can eat at Todd English free once each segment.
Friday, March 5, 2010
March 4, 2010 Auckland, New Zealand
The exchange rate $1 equals 1.83 New Zealand dollar.
We’ve advance our clocks another 3 hours over the last few days making us 18 hours ahead of Indiana. That should be the last of the 23 hour days and will start getting 25 hour days working the way back home including 2 days before we get Sydney.
Another whale was spotted and we attended another wine tasting during our see days.
Jan & I went separate today as she did sightseeing and I got my first haircut (must have lost weight) since Indiana and some drugs for my lingering cold. I found Lloyd waiting for his first haircut and we kill the morning together. Lloyd and Gloria had lunch together and then the 3 of us took the shuttle back Britomart Transport Centre again where Gloria purchased a phone card to call her sick granddaughter (also in New Zealand) and then she got a pedicure while us guys killed time walking, having cappuccino and sitting. They’re very good company. The people here are very friendly and helpful. At 5 P.M. a local show presented “Haka – the legend” which we also saw last year. Then had a very good dinner and called it a night.
March 5, 2010 Bay of Inlands, New Zealand
The exchange rate $1 equals 1.32 New Zealand dollar.
Today we tendered to and from Paihia Wharf. We walked around the little village and then along the lovely beach to where they were setting up a circus. It was fun watching people of all ages enjoying the beach & water. The elementary schools were observing the QM2.
Another school was performing songs & dances close to the tender dock. Paihia area has wonderful landscape.
Tonight t the entertainment was Pingxin Xu playing beautifully an unusual instrument of a dulcimer.
We’ll arrive in Sydney, Australia approximately 7:00P.M. Sunday (3:00 A.M EDT Sunday).
These are approximate times as we often get in early. You can watch from the port side of the bow of the Queen Mary 2 as we travel by using: http://www.cunard.com/bridgecam/qm2_cam1.asp.
The exchange rate $1 equals 1.83 New Zealand dollar.
We’ve advance our clocks another 3 hours over the last few days making us 18 hours ahead of Indiana. That should be the last of the 23 hour days and will start getting 25 hour days working the way back home including 2 days before we get Sydney.
Another whale was spotted and we attended another wine tasting during our see days.
Jan & I went separate today as she did sightseeing and I got my first haircut (must have lost weight) since Indiana and some drugs for my lingering cold. I found Lloyd waiting for his first haircut and we kill the morning together. Lloyd and Gloria had lunch together and then the 3 of us took the shuttle back Britomart Transport Centre again where Gloria purchased a phone card to call her sick granddaughter (also in New Zealand) and then she got a pedicure while us guys killed time walking, having cappuccino and sitting. They’re very good company. The people here are very friendly and helpful. At 5 P.M. a local show presented “Haka – the legend” which we also saw last year. Then had a very good dinner and called it a night.
March 5, 2010 Bay of Inlands, New Zealand
The exchange rate $1 equals 1.32 New Zealand dollar.
Today we tendered to and from Paihia Wharf. We walked around the little village and then along the lovely beach to where they were setting up a circus. It was fun watching people of all ages enjoying the beach & water. The elementary schools were observing the QM2.
Another school was performing songs & dances close to the tender dock. Paihia area has wonderful landscape.
Tonight t the entertainment was Pingxin Xu playing beautifully an unusual instrument of a dulcimer.
We’ll arrive in Sydney, Australia approximately 7:00P.M. Sunday (3:00 A.M EDT Sunday).
These are approximate times as we often get in early. You can watch from the port side of the bow of the Queen Mary 2 as we travel by using: http://www.cunard.com/bridgecam/qm2_cam1.asp.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
The exchange rate $1 equals 1.03 Australian dollar.
Friday night we attended a World Cruise Senior Officers Cocktail Party. Our table of 8 then ate with Captain Bates & his social assistant at his table. He’s a very personal, interesting, and humorous person. He just married last May 9th and plans on retiring this August.
Today we rode the tender in to Whitsunday that was a 30 minute ride. We walked and enjoyed the town and the beach. The return tender was on a much larger boat and we had a conversation with a nice young fellow that is a tour guide who gave us some tid bits of information. A very good day.
We’ll arrive in Auckland, New Zealand approximately 7:30A.M. Thursday (1:30 P.M EDT Wednesday). We now are advancing our time 1 hour the next 3 nights before we get to have some 25 hour days retuning home.
Friday night we attended a World Cruise Senior Officers Cocktail Party. Our table of 8 then ate with Captain Bates & his social assistant at his table. He’s a very personal, interesting, and humorous person. He just married last May 9th and plans on retiring this August.
Today we rode the tender in to Whitsunday that was a 30 minute ride. We walked and enjoyed the town and the beach. The return tender was on a much larger boat and we had a conversation with a nice young fellow that is a tour guide who gave us some tid bits of information. A very good day.
We’ll arrive in Auckland, New Zealand approximately 7:30A.M. Thursday (1:30 P.M EDT Wednesday). We now are advancing our time 1 hour the next 3 nights before we get to have some 25 hour days retuning home.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
February 25, 2010 Rabaul, New Guinea
The exchange rate $1 equals 2.79 KINA
The last two days were mostly uneventful. Tuesday our table joined a few others for a sing-a-long of old folk’s songs. Yesterday the Equator was crossed and many Pollywogs were initiated and became Shellbacks. We saw dark colored dolphins a few times. Just relaxing & having social days. We woke early today and stepped out on the balcony to see where we were and could already smell the ash in the air. After a leisure breakfast we grabbed the tender for a short ride to shore. We walked on volcanic ashes nearly 7 miles to and through Rabaul. Very interesting and it makes you appreciate our way of life, where we live, and what we have! Some of the volcanoes were steaming, but not spitting lava. After a late lunch we stood in a queue for passports again.
We’ll arrive in Whitsunday Island, Australia about 6:30A.M. Sunday (3:30 P.M EDT Saturday).
We’ll then be the in Great Barrier Reef.
The exchange rate $1 equals 2.79 KINA
The last two days were mostly uneventful. Tuesday our table joined a few others for a sing-a-long of old folk’s songs. Yesterday the Equator was crossed and many Pollywogs were initiated and became Shellbacks. We saw dark colored dolphins a few times. Just relaxing & having social days. We woke early today and stepped out on the balcony to see where we were and could already smell the ash in the air. After a leisure breakfast we grabbed the tender for a short ride to shore. We walked on volcanic ashes nearly 7 miles to and through Rabaul. Very interesting and it makes you appreciate our way of life, where we live, and what we have! Some of the volcanoes were steaming, but not spitting lava. After a late lunch we stood in a queue for passports again.
We’ll arrive in Whitsunday Island, Australia about 6:30A.M. Sunday (3:30 P.M EDT Saturday).
We’ll then be the in Great Barrier Reef.
Monday, February 22, 2010
February 22, 2010 Guam
From New York to Guam we’ve traveled 19484.8 & it’s day 49.
Money is US Dollar.
Yesterday we attended a lecture by Dr. George McGavin on “To the ends of the Earth: biological exploration and discovery” followed by the film “The lost land of the volcano”. This film was very interesting and will or was on the Discovery channel. His first lecture was on bugs and his second was on poo. Believe it or not the lectures were funny, informative, and interesting. I missed his other presentations.
We woke up before 6, got ready, and stood in a long line to go through immigration. We were lucky as before the queue started to move the queue was 3 to 4 times longer much like L. A. last year.
We took the 40-minute shuttle ride to a Hyatt Hotel. From there we enjoyed the “Under Water World” aquarium and then to the Hard Rock Café & purchase the last guitar pin this trip. We just walked & looked around until we found a K-Mart to purchase a few items. We returned to the Hyatt where there are several pools. We worked our way to the beach. Guam is pretty & nice place, but once is enough.
After tomorrow the cruise will half over.
We’ll arrive in Rabaul about 8:30A.M. Thursday (6:30 P.M EDT Friday).
The internet was down again the first the three times I tried to update the blog.
From New York to Guam we’ve traveled 19484.8 & it’s day 49.
Money is US Dollar.
Yesterday we attended a lecture by Dr. George McGavin on “To the ends of the Earth: biological exploration and discovery” followed by the film “The lost land of the volcano”. This film was very interesting and will or was on the Discovery channel. His first lecture was on bugs and his second was on poo. Believe it or not the lectures were funny, informative, and interesting. I missed his other presentations.
We woke up before 6, got ready, and stood in a long line to go through immigration. We were lucky as before the queue started to move the queue was 3 to 4 times longer much like L. A. last year.
We took the 40-minute shuttle ride to a Hyatt Hotel. From there we enjoyed the “Under Water World” aquarium and then to the Hard Rock Café & purchase the last guitar pin this trip. We just walked & looked around until we found a K-Mart to purchase a few items. We returned to the Hyatt where there are several pools. We worked our way to the beach. Guam is pretty & nice place, but once is enough.
After tomorrow the cruise will half over.
We’ll arrive in Rabaul about 8:30A.M. Thursday (6:30 P.M EDT Friday).
The internet was down again the first the three times I tried to update the blog.
Friday, February 19, 2010
February 19, 2010 Yokohama, Japan
From New York to Hong Kong we’ve traveled 18135.4 & it’s day 46.
The exchange rate $1 equals 83.63 Yen
Yesterday at lunch I lost part a tooth eating a hamburger (it wasn’t the food, but a bad tooth). After breakfast we rode the shuttle for about 40 minutes to the Post Office. We walked more than 7 miles getting Hard Rock Café guitar pin #6, going up to the 69 floor of Landmark Tower (Japan’s tallest building), through Nissan’s corporate headquarters, and Cosmo World (an amusement park with the largest ferris wheel, a water log ride, and a unique roller coaster plus many other rides). Yokohama is a beautiful city with many sky scrapers, more than ample road system, and fairly clean with friendly people. Jan is doing laundry again.
Tonight we’ll advance our clocks 1 hour. That will be 15 23-hour, 2 23 ½ - hour, and 1 25 hour days.
As long as we’re Japan’s territorial waters we can not use the internet. There been problems with the internet service much of the time, hence making it hard to update the blog.
We’ll arrive in Guam about 6:30A.M. Monday (3:30 P.M EDT Tuesday).
From New York to Hong Kong we’ve traveled 18135.4 & it’s day 46.
The exchange rate $1 equals 83.63 Yen
Yesterday at lunch I lost part a tooth eating a hamburger (it wasn’t the food, but a bad tooth). After breakfast we rode the shuttle for about 40 minutes to the Post Office. We walked more than 7 miles getting Hard Rock Café guitar pin #6, going up to the 69 floor of Landmark Tower (Japan’s tallest building), through Nissan’s corporate headquarters, and Cosmo World (an amusement park with the largest ferris wheel, a water log ride, and a unique roller coaster plus many other rides). Yokohama is a beautiful city with many sky scrapers, more than ample road system, and fairly clean with friendly people. Jan is doing laundry again.
Tonight we’ll advance our clocks 1 hour. That will be 15 23-hour, 2 23 ½ - hour, and 1 25 hour days.
As long as we’re Japan’s territorial waters we can not use the internet. There been problems with the internet service much of the time, hence making it hard to update the blog.
We’ll arrive in Guam about 6:30A.M. Monday (3:30 P.M EDT Tuesday).
February 17, 2010 Nagasaki, Japan
The exchange rate $1 equals 83.63 Yen
Nagasaki means “long Cape”. Today was a wonderful experience. This is the first time the ship docked in a in a non container port. The temperature was about 50 F and mostly sunny. We bought an all day tram pass which was good as to the number of times we got on and off. The Hypo-peace Park is hard to describe the significant and beauty the park is with memorial statutes for USA, and many other countries from all parts of the world. We also stopped by the Atom Bomb Museum, Nagasaki National Peace Memorial Hall. The Urakami Cathedral and the Peace Statue are in the park and other interesting sites are in the area. Back on the QM2 for lunch, and then back off. We walked through China town to Glover Park and Confucian Shrine.
We back onboard in time to attend the inaugural ceremony held in the Royal Court Theater. Four of the QM2 officers were presented with flowers and gifts from the city of Nagasaki and Captain Bates gave plaques of the QM2 to the mayor and other dignitaries. This was followed by children from a local nursery sang and danced. The girls were dressed in traditional Japanese kimonos and the boys in Samurai outfits. They were well rehearsed and did a beautiful job for 4 & 5 years olds. The program was closed by 2 women doing a portion on Madam Butterfly opera. The women and the lady pianist did well but we’re not opera fans.
The exchange rate $1 equals 83.63 Yen
Nagasaki means “long Cape”. Today was a wonderful experience. This is the first time the ship docked in a in a non container port. The temperature was about 50 F and mostly sunny. We bought an all day tram pass which was good as to the number of times we got on and off. The Hypo-peace Park is hard to describe the significant and beauty the park is with memorial statutes for USA, and many other countries from all parts of the world. We also stopped by the Atom Bomb Museum, Nagasaki National Peace Memorial Hall. The Urakami Cathedral and the Peace Statue are in the park and other interesting sites are in the area. Back on the QM2 for lunch, and then back off. We walked through China town to Glover Park and Confucian Shrine.
We back onboard in time to attend the inaugural ceremony held in the Royal Court Theater. Four of the QM2 officers were presented with flowers and gifts from the city of Nagasaki and Captain Bates gave plaques of the QM2 to the mayor and other dignitaries. This was followed by children from a local nursery sang and danced. The girls were dressed in traditional Japanese kimonos and the boys in Samurai outfits. They were well rehearsed and did a beautiful job for 4 & 5 years olds. The program was closed by 2 women doing a portion on Madam Butterfly opera. The women and the lady pianist did well but we’re not opera fans.
February 15, 2010 Shanghai, China
The exchange rate $1 equals 6.83 Yuan
The excursion took us for a ride on the famous Maglev Train (which reached a speed of more than 400 km/hour, nearly 267 miles/hour) to & from the Pudong Airport. We completed the excursion with a visit to Jinmao Hyatt Building (an 88-floor skyscraper) and enjoy the view even though the Burj Dubai is hard to top. This is our last excursion since canceled the rest after our Viet Man experience.
In the evening before the ship port there was great program by a local group of youths. They sang and dance; performed acrobatics, and juggled.
The exchange rate $1 equals 6.83 Yuan
The excursion took us for a ride on the famous Maglev Train (which reached a speed of more than 400 km/hour, nearly 267 miles/hour) to & from the Pudong Airport. We completed the excursion with a visit to Jinmao Hyatt Building (an 88-floor skyscraper) and enjoy the view even though the Burj Dubai is hard to top. This is our last excursion since canceled the rest after our Viet Man experience.
In the evening before the ship port there was great program by a local group of youths. They sang and dance; performed acrobatics, and juggled.
February 10, 2010 Vung Tau (Phu My), Viet Man
The exchange rate $1 equals 27,564 Vietnamese Dong
The ship’s tour took us to the National History Museum which included water puppetry (neither were impressive), Notre Dame Cathedral, the Reunification Hall (once the Presidential Palace where April 30, 1975 marked the end of the Viet Man War. We did have an enjoyable meal that took over 1 ½ hours (twice the time needed). We were to have up to three hours of walking but got less than ½ hour and half of that was at the lunch hotel. The tour office told Jan we would ample time to do what we wanted as we would be in the area, hence no Hard Rock Café pin. We spent 80 to 90% of the time including forever riding through China Town. We complained to the tour office to no avail.
The exchange rate $1 equals 27,564 Vietnamese Dong
The ship’s tour took us to the National History Museum which included water puppetry (neither were impressive), Notre Dame Cathedral, the Reunification Hall (once the Presidential Palace where April 30, 1975 marked the end of the Viet Man War. We did have an enjoyable meal that took over 1 ½ hours (twice the time needed). We were to have up to three hours of walking but got less than ½ hour and half of that was at the lunch hotel. The tour office told Jan we would ample time to do what we wanted as we would be in the area, hence no Hard Rock Café pin. We spent 80 to 90% of the time including forever riding through China Town. We complained to the tour office to no avail.
Monday, February 8, 2010
February 8, 2010 Laem Chabang, Thailand
The exchange rate $1 equals 30 Baht (Thai Baht)
Yesterday we attended multiple lectures in the Illuminations plus I watched the silent film “Safety Last” starring Harold Lloyd. Whenever we attend a lecture in the Illuminations we think of the 3 ladies from last year’s cruise.
Last night we ate dinner in the Chef‘s Gallery for Indian cuisine to celebrate Jan saying “yes” to my proposal 46 years ago. The Chef‘s Gallery is by reservation only. The chef demonstrated the preparation of the first 3 courses of a 4 course meal and each of us received a copy of the recipes.
Today we awoke turned our TV to ESPN coverage of the Super Bowl (the score then was the Colts 3-0). We went to breakfast at half-time and watched the rest on the big screen in the Illuminations. Later we took the free shuttle to the Siam Bayview Resort Hotel In Pattaya. Jan got her Hard Rock Café guitar pin quickly (#5; she had already got the pins at the last 2 ports on prior trips) and we walked along the beach looking for the Buddha Temple unsuccessfully. Last year we went to Bangkok from this port.
Tonight our table of 8 ate at the Chef‘s Gallery for French cuisine. Very good & entertaining, but too much.
The ship’s internet service has been down a great deal; therefore making it very hard doing emails, facebook, and updating the blog. Thanks for your patience.
The exchange rate $1 equals 30 Baht (Thai Baht)
Yesterday we attended multiple lectures in the Illuminations plus I watched the silent film “Safety Last” starring Harold Lloyd. Whenever we attend a lecture in the Illuminations we think of the 3 ladies from last year’s cruise.
Last night we ate dinner in the Chef‘s Gallery for Indian cuisine to celebrate Jan saying “yes” to my proposal 46 years ago. The Chef‘s Gallery is by reservation only. The chef demonstrated the preparation of the first 3 courses of a 4 course meal and each of us received a copy of the recipes.
Today we awoke turned our TV to ESPN coverage of the Super Bowl (the score then was the Colts 3-0). We went to breakfast at half-time and watched the rest on the big screen in the Illuminations. Later we took the free shuttle to the Siam Bayview Resort Hotel In Pattaya. Jan got her Hard Rock Café guitar pin quickly (#5; she had already got the pins at the last 2 ports on prior trips) and we walked along the beach looking for the Buddha Temple unsuccessfully. Last year we went to Bangkok from this port.
Tonight our table of 8 ate at the Chef‘s Gallery for French cuisine. Very good & entertaining, but too much.
The ship’s internet service has been down a great deal; therefore making it very hard doing emails, facebook, and updating the blog. Thanks for your patience.
February 6, 2010 Singapore
The exchange rate $1 equals 1.41 SGD (Singapore Dollar)
The free shuttle took us to the Harbourfront Centre/Singapore Cruise Centre Coach Bay. As we
walked the large, pretty, and clean mall we met 2 guys from the states operating 2 Wind Spinners kiosks. They gave us advice on what to see & how plus help with money exchange. Following their advice we took monorails to Sentosa Island. The island is under a massive construction which will soon include a Universal Casino, more hotels, rides, etc. in addition to the beaches, small space needle-like ride, gardens and much more. We like to come back and recommend it to families with kids.
The exchange rate $1 equals 1.41 SGD (Singapore Dollar)
The free shuttle took us to the Harbourfront Centre/Singapore Cruise Centre Coach Bay. As we
walked the large, pretty, and clean mall we met 2 guys from the states operating 2 Wind Spinners kiosks. They gave us advice on what to see & how plus help with money exchange. Following their advice we took monorails to Sentosa Island. The island is under a massive construction which will soon include a Universal Casino, more hotels, rides, etc. in addition to the beaches, small space needle-like ride, gardens and much more. We like to come back and recommend it to families with kids.
February 5, 2010 Port Kelang/ Kuala Lumpar, Malaysia
The exchange rate $1 equals 3.40 RM
We took the free shuttle to the Bukit Tinggi shopping mall. The mall is very big, modern, and clean. We mostly walked the 3 floors and visited many stores, but bought very little. Very enjoyable. We got back for lunch and then Jan did laundry again.
The exchange rate $1 equals 3.40 RM
We took the free shuttle to the Bukit Tinggi shopping mall. The mall is very big, modern, and clean. We mostly walked the 3 floors and visited many stores, but bought very little. Very enjoyable. We got back for lunch and then Jan did laundry again.
Friday, February 5, 2010
February 4, 2010 Penang, Malaysia
The exchange rate $1 equals 3.40 RM
Advance our clocks 1 hour again
The pin we got today, of course has a story. In checking the map of Penang, the Hard Rock appeared to be too far and hard to get to on foot. Once off the ship, we worked our way through the offers of taxis. They really did not want a short trip just to the café and back, so we took up a nice English speaking driver to see some sites and be out about three hours. The driver was an excellent tour guide as he guided us through several Buddhist Temples, including the largest relining Buddha. We also went to a park where we saw up close monkeys; one with a baby. There was also an eagle circling around. There was also a beautiful orchard's greenhouse. Our last stop before the Hard Rock was a Batik silk painting company. It was awesome to see the process and how much is done free hand. So on to the Hard Rock; it was a nice drive along the coast with many very expensive condos and hotels along the way. Once there, the first thing we saw was a large statue of Michael Jackson. The next was the manager welcoming us. He followed us into the rock shop and asked if we were the people who collect pins. We did not recognize him, but he had met us last year in Bangkok. The Hard Rock in Penang had just opened in November and he was transferred to open the new café. He offered us drinks and proceeded to give us a tour of the restaurant and hotel. It has rooms that you have the swimming pool off of your patio. It is a beautiful location on the beach with at least 6 or 7 interconnecting pools. He said to come back and to let him know when we reach 100 pins. He also gave us a Hard Rock lanyard; even better than the one we got at Yankee Stadium. We had lunch on the ship and then took the free shuttle to the shopping mall (not the most desirable place, but we got in some steps). Later we enjoyed the pianist, singer, and comedian. One of the best we’ve seen on cruises. We finished the night in the Golden Lion pub playing Liars Club.
The exchange rate $1 equals 3.40 RM
Advance our clocks 1 hour again
The pin we got today, of course has a story. In checking the map of Penang, the Hard Rock appeared to be too far and hard to get to on foot. Once off the ship, we worked our way through the offers of taxis. They really did not want a short trip just to the café and back, so we took up a nice English speaking driver to see some sites and be out about three hours. The driver was an excellent tour guide as he guided us through several Buddhist Temples, including the largest relining Buddha. We also went to a park where we saw up close monkeys; one with a baby. There was also an eagle circling around. There was also a beautiful orchard's greenhouse. Our last stop before the Hard Rock was a Batik silk painting company. It was awesome to see the process and how much is done free hand. So on to the Hard Rock; it was a nice drive along the coast with many very expensive condos and hotels along the way. Once there, the first thing we saw was a large statue of Michael Jackson. The next was the manager welcoming us. He followed us into the rock shop and asked if we were the people who collect pins. We did not recognize him, but he had met us last year in Bangkok. The Hard Rock in Penang had just opened in November and he was transferred to open the new café. He offered us drinks and proceeded to give us a tour of the restaurant and hotel. It has rooms that you have the swimming pool off of your patio. It is a beautiful location on the beach with at least 6 or 7 interconnecting pools. He said to come back and to let him know when we reach 100 pins. He also gave us a Hard Rock lanyard; even better than the one we got at Yankee Stadium. We had lunch on the ship and then took the free shuttle to the shopping mall (not the most desirable place, but we got in some steps). Later we enjoyed the pianist, singer, and comedian. One of the best we’ve seen on cruises. We finished the night in the Golden Lion pub playing Liars Club.
Yesterday, February 2nd, we advanced our clocks again 1 hour making us 12 hours ahead of home and therefore approximately ½ around the world.
February 3, 2010 Phuket, Thailand
The exchange rate $1 equals 30 Baht
Getting the Phuket the Hard Rock Café Guitar pin was very simple. The ship did not go into port, but used tenders (life boats) to get us ashore. The area that we were taken to was continuous beaches. Once on shore, we stopped at the first large hotel and secured a map and directions. We were very close and it only took about a half hour to get to the Hard Rock Cafe. It is located at the Marriott Hotel. Once we purchased the pin and looked around, we checked out the street shops which sell everything. We then walked the beach and then headed back to the ship.
February 3, 2010 Phuket, Thailand
The exchange rate $1 equals 30 Baht
Getting the Phuket the Hard Rock Café Guitar pin was very simple. The ship did not go into port, but used tenders (life boats) to get us ashore. The area that we were taken to was continuous beaches. Once on shore, we stopped at the first large hotel and secured a map and directions. We were very close and it only took about a half hour to get to the Hard Rock Cafe. It is located at the Marriott Hotel. Once we purchased the pin and looked around, we checked out the street shops which sell everything. We then walked the beach and then headed back to the ship.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
January 30, 2010 Cochin, India
The exchange rate $1 equals 46.29 Rupees.
The port was substitute to Cochin instead of Bombay (Mumbai) for the second consecutive year causing Jan to miss another Hard Rock guitar pin. We walked approximately ½ mile to Taj Malbar Hotel. In that brief walk we turned down more Tuk Tuk drivers than you can on your fingers & toes plus a few taxi drivers. Most speak very good English and are personable. Last year we saw the life of Slum dog Millionaire with a wonderful guide doubling as a Tuk Tuk driver. This year at the hotel we experienced the opposite side of life. Jan checked out the spa, and then we met some fellow passengers and shared beer and relaxing conversation. The hotel facilities were very beautiful and elegant.
While we were gone other passengers saw dolphins put on a show accompany by a whale. Oh, we saw flying fish a few days ago. We did see them last year, but thought they were birds.
We advanced our clocks ½ hour before entering Cochin and again after leaving.
Yesterday, February 2nd, we advanced our clocks again 1 hour making us 12 hours ahead of home and therefore approximately ½ around the world.
The exchange rate $1 equals 46.29 Rupees.
The port was substitute to Cochin instead of Bombay (Mumbai) for the second consecutive year causing Jan to miss another Hard Rock guitar pin. We walked approximately ½ mile to Taj Malbar Hotel. In that brief walk we turned down more Tuk Tuk drivers than you can on your fingers & toes plus a few taxi drivers. Most speak very good English and are personable. Last year we saw the life of Slum dog Millionaire with a wonderful guide doubling as a Tuk Tuk driver. This year at the hotel we experienced the opposite side of life. Jan checked out the spa, and then we met some fellow passengers and shared beer and relaxing conversation. The hotel facilities were very beautiful and elegant.
While we were gone other passengers saw dolphins put on a show accompany by a whale. Oh, we saw flying fish a few days ago. We did see them last year, but thought they were birds.
We advanced our clocks ½ hour before entering Cochin and again after leaving.
Yesterday, February 2nd, we advanced our clocks again 1 hour making us 12 hours ahead of home and therefore approximately ½ around the world.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
January 27, 2010 Dubai, United Arab Emirates
From New York to Dubai we’ve traveled 9752.0 Nautical miles & it’s day 23.
Our clock is 9 hours ahead of New York.
The exchange rate $1 equals 3.67 Dirhams.
We rode the complementary shuttle to the Bur Juman Shopping Centre (mall) where walked some. We rode the Dubai Metro to the nearest station we were told to get to the Burj Dubai.
We then walked approximately an half an hour thru constructions sites (sand), on pavement, and when lucky sidewalks to the Burj Dubai. The Burj Dubai is an experience not to miss. The quay
took us down long corridors with walls explaining the construction followed by illustrations about the amount steel, iron rods, and glass used. The condensation is collected and used. The elevators went up 120 stories with great speed (with ears popping) to within about 15 stories (of the 140 floors) from the top. The view is indescribable. While up there we found a metro station much closer making the return trip easier. We did walk 9.22 miles in all.
From New York to Dubai we’ve traveled 9752.0 Nautical miles & it’s day 23.
Our clock is 9 hours ahead of New York.
The exchange rate $1 equals 3.67 Dirhams.
We rode the complementary shuttle to the Bur Juman Shopping Centre (mall) where walked some. We rode the Dubai Metro to the nearest station we were told to get to the Burj Dubai.
We then walked approximately an half an hour thru constructions sites (sand), on pavement, and when lucky sidewalks to the Burj Dubai. The Burj Dubai is an experience not to miss. The quay
took us down long corridors with walls explaining the construction followed by illustrations about the amount steel, iron rods, and glass used. The condensation is collected and used. The elevators went up 120 stories with great speed (with ears popping) to within about 15 stories (of the 140 floors) from the top. The view is indescribable. While up there we found a metro station much closer making the return trip easier. We did walk 9.22 miles in all.
January 26, 2010 Muscat, Oman
The exchange rate $1 equals 0.38 OMR.
Thanks to Fanette, Janet, and Margaret, took the excursion “Muscat Impressions”. Our guide was English Professor at college and was informative, personable, helpful, and easy to understand. The Sultan’s (President) palace flanked by Portuguese forts (Jalali & Mirani) and the Bait Al Zubair Museum (small, very clean, and interesting) were highlights. This is a very pretty and clean place. You’ll receive a ticket from the police if your vehicle is dirty or a taxi driver without the traditional clothing on. Tourists (20%) are the second largest income behind oil and ahead of farming & fishing.
We did buy some souvenirs.
The exchange rate $1 equals 0.38 OMR.
Thanks to Fanette, Janet, and Margaret, took the excursion “Muscat Impressions”. Our guide was English Professor at college and was informative, personable, helpful, and easy to understand. The Sultan’s (President) palace flanked by Portuguese forts (Jalali & Mirani) and the Bait Al Zubair Museum (small, very clean, and interesting) were highlights. This is a very pretty and clean place. You’ll receive a ticket from the police if your vehicle is dirty or a taxi driver without the traditional clothing on. Tourists (20%) are the second largest income behind oil and ahead of farming & fishing.
We did buy some souvenirs.
January 22 Thru 25, 2010 Sea Days
We just did odds & ends such lectures, movies, shows, and some casino time. We participated in the decathlon (nine events, the tenth event apparently was the awards party) with Dave & Mick (competitors last year). The sports directors changed the events & the rules multiple times, but they’re nice people (Marc reminds of Steve in personality & ability). Between the Tug-a-war & the awards we attended a wine tasting of 3 reds & 3 whites. Then had our seventh in champagne, all in less than an hour. Speaking of free drinks; we attended another cocktail party (another night).
Dolphins put on a couple different shows. The group were very active jumping, usually in pairs, but was vertical completely out of the water.
We just did odds & ends such lectures, movies, shows, and some casino time. We participated in the decathlon (nine events, the tenth event apparently was the awards party) with Dave & Mick (competitors last year). The sports directors changed the events & the rules multiple times, but they’re nice people (Marc reminds of Steve in personality & ability). Between the Tug-a-war & the awards we attended a wine tasting of 3 reds & 3 whites. Then had our seventh in champagne, all in less than an hour. Speaking of free drinks; we attended another cocktail party (another night).
Dolphins put on a couple different shows. The group were very active jumping, usually in pairs, but was vertical completely out of the water.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
January 21, 2010 Safaga , Egypt
The exchange rate $1 equals 5.64 Egyptian pounds.
The excursion today went to Luxor, Karnak, & the Valley of the Kings. Temperature was 15 C (59 F) to a high 22 C (72 F). The trip went through mountains and then through rural areas where the crops were cabbage, tomato, and similar products. Their main products are sugar cane and aluminum. The crops are irrigated by water pumped from a canal of water that comes from the Nile. There were work donkeys, some camels and cattle. The people seem to live in homes that make trailer parks look like luxury. There were many check points and/or intersections where vehicles had weave through gates one direction at a time. Elsewhere there were speed bumps to slow traffic.
It was very interesting and enjoyable visiting the Temple of Karnak in Luxor. There are avenues of ram-headed sphinxes, courts, and pylons. The hypostyle Hall is a mass of over 100 pillars with every square inch of which seems to be covered with carved figures and hieroglyphics.
A buffet was at a Sheridan big enough to feed the caravan of approximately 17 buses of about 40 each.
We continued across the Nile to the West Bank and the Valley of the Kings. A ride on a train on four carts took us to tombs. Our tickets allowed us to enter 3 tombs of Pharaohs. The first was a very steep and okay. The other 2 were easier but much more interesting. All went down with the walls & ceiling telling stories through hieroglyphics.
Then we traveled back across the Nile the East Bank and along the canal to the mountains to the Queen Mary 2. We very tired of setting as the trip was 3 to 4 hours each way.
The exchange rate $1 equals 5.64 Egyptian pounds.
The excursion today went to Luxor, Karnak, & the Valley of the Kings. Temperature was 15 C (59 F) to a high 22 C (72 F). The trip went through mountains and then through rural areas where the crops were cabbage, tomato, and similar products. Their main products are sugar cane and aluminum. The crops are irrigated by water pumped from a canal of water that comes from the Nile. There were work donkeys, some camels and cattle. The people seem to live in homes that make trailer parks look like luxury. There were many check points and/or intersections where vehicles had weave through gates one direction at a time. Elsewhere there were speed bumps to slow traffic.
It was very interesting and enjoyable visiting the Temple of Karnak in Luxor. There are avenues of ram-headed sphinxes, courts, and pylons. The hypostyle Hall is a mass of over 100 pillars with every square inch of which seems to be covered with carved figures and hieroglyphics.
A buffet was at a Sheridan big enough to feed the caravan of approximately 17 buses of about 40 each.
We continued across the Nile to the West Bank and the Valley of the Kings. A ride on a train on four carts took us to tombs. Our tickets allowed us to enter 3 tombs of Pharaohs. The first was a very steep and okay. The other 2 were easier but much more interesting. All went down with the walls & ceiling telling stories through hieroglyphics.
Then we traveled back across the Nile the East Bank and along the canal to the mountains to the Queen Mary 2. We very tired of setting as the trip was 3 to 4 hours each way.
January 20, 2010 Sokhna , Egypt
The exchange rate $1 equals 5.42 Egyptian pounds.
A caravan of 5 buses took our excursion to City Star Mega shopping mall in Cairo to get some fresh air and exercise (approximately 7 miles). We walked a floor, and then climbed the stairs to the next floor each of the seven floors going into many stores. We went on a scavenger hunt looking for a new twister into several nail salons to no avail (they didn’t know what a twister was). There was a very large grocery store (similar to an older and small Wal-mart) on the bottom floor. No luck there either. On our way out after about 3.5 hours we found a pharmacy that had several choices. We shared a fajita and each had a virgin margarita at El Chico. The shuttle bus took over 2 hours each. We were late getting back in time for our normal meal setting, and therefore eat the buffet on deck seven.
The exchange rate $1 equals 5.42 Egyptian pounds.
A caravan of 5 buses took our excursion to City Star Mega shopping mall in Cairo to get some fresh air and exercise (approximately 7 miles). We walked a floor, and then climbed the stairs to the next floor each of the seven floors going into many stores. We went on a scavenger hunt looking for a new twister into several nail salons to no avail (they didn’t know what a twister was). There was a very large grocery store (similar to an older and small Wal-mart) on the bottom floor. No luck there either. On our way out after about 3.5 hours we found a pharmacy that had several choices. We shared a fajita and each had a virgin margarita at El Chico. The shuttle bus took over 2 hours each. We were late getting back in time for our normal meal setting, and therefore eat the buffet on deck seven.
January 19, 2010 Suez Canal, Egypt
Not much is going on since our last report. We been going to lectures and participating in sports (getting the valuable vouchers). Two people have been hurt (1 minor and 1 apparently blew a knee playing and must get off is Cairo).
We’re getting 3 good meals a day; plus we’ve had many interesting conversations with many different residents of many different countries. Last night we requested the first available French evening at the Chef’s Grill for all of our dinner table. In the evening we’ve had steaks, surf & turf, pasta, fish, and many other excellent choices.
Last night we enjoyed “Middle on Nowhere” at the Illuminations. Back in cabin we drank sum sparking wine and ate the snacks of cheese and crackers plus cashews while sitting out balcony.
A great date night.
We have had just a couple of high fifties and low sixties. Most days were low forties to low fifties.
Today we entered the Suez Canal before 4 A.M. at the back of the caravan of 13 and emerged the leader about 3 P.M. Apparently there were 34 ships going north. Ships have wait in Lake Bitter as the canal is one way. Lloyd, Gloria, and I spent about an hour in the Commodore Room and went to the Winter Garden taking in the view. Jan spent her time on a lounge chair soaking up the sun and meeting more people. The canal is still enjoyable and very interesting.
Not much is going on since our last report. We been going to lectures and participating in sports (getting the valuable vouchers). Two people have been hurt (1 minor and 1 apparently blew a knee playing and must get off is Cairo).
We’re getting 3 good meals a day; plus we’ve had many interesting conversations with many different residents of many different countries. Last night we requested the first available French evening at the Chef’s Grill for all of our dinner table. In the evening we’ve had steaks, surf & turf, pasta, fish, and many other excellent choices.
Last night we enjoyed “Middle on Nowhere” at the Illuminations. Back in cabin we drank sum sparking wine and ate the snacks of cheese and crackers plus cashews while sitting out balcony.
A great date night.
We have had just a couple of high fifties and low sixties. Most days were low forties to low fifties.
Today we entered the Suez Canal before 4 A.M. at the back of the caravan of 13 and emerged the leader about 3 P.M. Apparently there were 34 ships going north. Ships have wait in Lake Bitter as the canal is one way. Lloyd, Gloria, and I spent about an hour in the Commodore Room and went to the Winter Garden taking in the view. Jan spent her time on a lounge chair soaking up the sun and meeting more people. The canal is still enjoyable and very interesting.
Sunday, January 17, 2010
January 16, 2010 Civitavecchia, Italy
We had breakfast served to our room prior to leaving on the excursion through the beautiful & green countryside to Tuscania. Interesting tour capped off by stopping at a winery where we received a glass of wine and some snacks. We bought a bottle for Lloyd and Gloria. We enjoyed petting the white begging cat. Tomorrow we will travel the strait between Italy’s and Sicily before spending all day passing through the Suez Canal on Wednesday. First we have a substitute port of Sukhna instead of the originally schedule to Alexandria, Egypt. Tonight we were notified that the port in Vietnam was change Vung Tau to Phu My for ease of disembarkment access to Ho Chi Minh City. Earlier we inform we now are going back Cochin, India instead Mumbai.
We had breakfast served to our room prior to leaving on the excursion through the beautiful & green countryside to Tuscania. Interesting tour capped off by stopping at a winery where we received a glass of wine and some snacks. We bought a bottle for Lloyd and Gloria. We enjoyed petting the white begging cat. Tomorrow we will travel the strait between Italy’s and Sicily before spending all day passing through the Suez Canal on Wednesday. First we have a substitute port of Sukhna instead of the originally schedule to Alexandria, Egypt. Tonight we were notified that the port in Vietnam was change Vung Tau to Phu My for ease of disembarkment access to Ho Chi Minh City. Earlier we inform we now are going back Cochin, India instead Mumbai.
January 13, 2010 Lisbon, Portugal
Today we took the shopping bus to Lisbon. We found the Hard Rock Café (a quaint place) across the street when got off the bus, thus Jan got pin # 2. We went walking and when decided to return it started raining. We stood outside waiting to get on the second bus. We were soaked and Jan did some laundry in addison to drying our coats and other outer gear. The temperature dropped 5 degrees C while we were gone. Tomorrow we’ll pass through to Strait of Gibraltar.
We’ve have had mostly formal dinners with cocktail parties on several of those evenings.
We continue to participate in sporting events, go to lectures, relaxing in the World Cruise lounge, meeting new acquaintances, and etc. Basically we’re having enjoyment.
Today we took the shopping bus to Lisbon. We found the Hard Rock Café (a quaint place) across the street when got off the bus, thus Jan got pin # 2. We went walking and when decided to return it started raining. We stood outside waiting to get on the second bus. We were soaked and Jan did some laundry in addison to drying our coats and other outer gear. The temperature dropped 5 degrees C while we were gone. Tomorrow we’ll pass through to Strait of Gibraltar.
We’ve have had mostly formal dinners with cocktail parties on several of those evenings.
We continue to participate in sporting events, go to lectures, relaxing in the World Cruise lounge, meeting new acquaintances, and etc. Basically we’re having enjoyment.
January 11, 2010 Southampton, England
Today it is in the low 40’s as we reach Southampton. The tour excursions have been canceled because of the snow and ice there. We did not have one scheduled, but we took the shopping bus to the West Quay mall. We walked around the 3 floors at least twice and only went in just a few stores. We passed up going to IKEA. It was next door, but didn’t need anything from there for awhile.
The side walks were icy but very little snow. They don’t have the equipment we have in the Midwest and react like southern states.
We were transferred back to Table 69 with two couples with Susan and Gilbert as our servers. We did get rid of candelabra.
We left port with over 600 on the World Voyage. There are about 200 before arriving (mostly USA and Canadians). It is always interesting to see where everyone comes from.
I have been taking some computer classes and Jan has been going to some of the lectures and participated in “Mastermind” show, but did not fare very well, but it was interesting to see it played out. It is a BBC TV show and the actual host did the show. She has done a couple exercise classes and found muscles that had not been used for sometime. We’re looking forward to warmer weather and walking outside.
Today it is in the low 40’s as we reach Southampton. The tour excursions have been canceled because of the snow and ice there. We did not have one scheduled, but we took the shopping bus to the West Quay mall. We walked around the 3 floors at least twice and only went in just a few stores. We passed up going to IKEA. It was next door, but didn’t need anything from there for awhile.
The side walks were icy but very little snow. They don’t have the equipment we have in the Midwest and react like southern states.
We were transferred back to Table 69 with two couples with Susan and Gilbert as our servers. We did get rid of candelabra.
We left port with over 600 on the World Voyage. There are about 200 before arriving (mostly USA and Canadians). It is always interesting to see where everyone comes from.
I have been taking some computer classes and Jan has been going to some of the lectures and participated in “Mastermind” show, but did not fare very well, but it was interesting to see it played out. It is a BBC TV show and the actual host did the show. She has done a couple exercise classes and found muscles that had not been used for sometime. We’re looking forward to warmer weather and walking outside.
January 6 Thru 10, 2010
Ship life is still good. With 5 23-hours days, we seem to be sleeping in later each day. The temperature outside most days has been in the low 50’s. Two of the lecturers are the same as last year’s cruise and their talks were the nearly the same. The singers & dancers are performing the same programs and some of performers also. We still enjoy them when attend. However we have seen several movies at the Illumination theatre including: “Julie & Julia”, Time Traveler’s Wife”, The Stone Family”, “The International”, and “500 Days of Summer” and all or part of the following on TV: “Hitch”, “Mamma Mia”, “The Bourne Identity”, “Employee of the Month”, and “10 Items or Less”.
Gloria and Lloyd, from Toronto have been good company and it was fun to see how many of the crew was still on board. We have been at a table for six this week, but our waitress from last time will be taking care of us starting Monday at a table for eight. She was really good at learning our tastes and needs so we were happy to have the change.
Ship life is still good. With 5 23-hours days, we seem to be sleeping in later each day. The temperature outside most days has been in the low 50’s. Two of the lecturers are the same as last year’s cruise and their talks were the nearly the same. The singers & dancers are performing the same programs and some of performers also. We still enjoy them when attend. However we have seen several movies at the Illumination theatre including: “Julie & Julia”, Time Traveler’s Wife”, The Stone Family”, “The International”, and “500 Days of Summer” and all or part of the following on TV: “Hitch”, “Mamma Mia”, “The Bourne Identity”, “Employee of the Month”, and “10 Items or Less”.
Gloria and Lloyd, from Toronto have been good company and it was fun to see how many of the crew was still on board. We have been at a table for six this week, but our waitress from last time will be taking care of us starting Monday at a table for eight. She was really good at learning our tastes and needs so we were happy to have the change.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
January 5, 2010
Today we ate our 3 meals and play Baggo (we took the top spots) together, and then went our separate ways during the day.
Jan went to exercise class and took in lectures. I went to the sport desk and then to the Winter Garden. This is now the World cruise lounge with Kevin as our concierge. Debra has other duties on board. So far we met Susan, Rusty, Ray, Jamie, Gunn, and Erin. Most the crew is new to us and several are going on vacation in South Hampton. I lost at slots in the casino but later won playing blackjack, netting a sizable $4 for the day. After the evening meal we enjoyed a pianist in the Royal Crown theatre, then crashed. Not much is going on tomorrow except possibly laundry.
Today we ate our 3 meals and play Baggo (we took the top spots) together, and then went our separate ways during the day.
Jan went to exercise class and took in lectures. I went to the sport desk and then to the Winter Garden. This is now the World cruise lounge with Kevin as our concierge. Debra has other duties on board. So far we met Susan, Rusty, Ray, Jamie, Gunn, and Erin. Most the crew is new to us and several are going on vacation in South Hampton. I lost at slots in the casino but later won playing blackjack, netting a sizable $4 for the day. After the evening meal we enjoyed a pianist in the Royal Crown theatre, then crashed. Not much is going on tomorrow except possibly laundry.
January 4, 2010
Yesterday we medowed out in the hotel. It’s new and must have been built on limited land for there are approximately 8 rooms per floor.
Today we had a relaxing breakfast and finished packing. When we checked out the clerk called for cab. Mistake! A limo came. The driver was from Ecuador and like most cab driver was hard to understand. Although he has been driving for 2 years in New York he didn’t know where Yankee stadium was and couldn’t get his GPS to find the address we gave him. After a couple of stops (getting directions) we got there and Jan got her Hard Rock guitar pin. While she was getting the pin I help the driver with his GPS entering the address to get to pier. When he got close we had to convince him to stay in the queue. We got our luggage and turned them over to ship’s baggage handlers, paid too much for our transportation, checked in (we kept our Passports) and got to our room all in about a half of an hour time. The rest of the day was spent unpacking, attending a cocktail party, and eating with Lloyd and Gloria. Later saw “Julie and Julia” in the Illuminations. Full Day!
Yesterday we medowed out in the hotel. It’s new and must have been built on limited land for there are approximately 8 rooms per floor.
Today we had a relaxing breakfast and finished packing. When we checked out the clerk called for cab. Mistake! A limo came. The driver was from Ecuador and like most cab driver was hard to understand. Although he has been driving for 2 years in New York he didn’t know where Yankee stadium was and couldn’t get his GPS to find the address we gave him. After a couple of stops (getting directions) we got there and Jan got her Hard Rock guitar pin. While she was getting the pin I help the driver with his GPS entering the address to get to pier. When he got close we had to convince him to stay in the queue. We got our luggage and turned them over to ship’s baggage handlers, paid too much for our transportation, checked in (we kept our Passports) and got to our room all in about a half of an hour time. The rest of the day was spent unpacking, attending a cocktail party, and eating with Lloyd and Gloria. Later saw “Julie and Julia” in the Illuminations. Full Day!
Sunday, January 3, 2010
We got an E-mail from our Toronto couple 2009 World Cruise dinner mates telling us they booked the 2010 World Cruise. We started dreaming. After the last cruise we said we couldn’t go again until the cat died, and unfortunately the 15 year Lucky abridged. Jan got on the internet with our travel agent and after some questions and negotiations we booked our cabin.
Then came getting prepared. This included booking round trip flights between Fort Wayne to New York. We put the cars in storage in our garage and changed the insurance. We turned down the temperature gauge, unplugging electrical devices. We canceled or changed utilities, subscriptions, and etc.
January 2, 2010
Our daughter and her family took us to the Fort Wayne Airport and our adventure started. The flights were uneventful and enjoyable, leaving approximately on time and arriving on time in Chicago O’Hare and early at New York’s La Guardia. We got our luggage quickly at the third location they sent us to. We got a cab quickly and the trip to the hotel was quick and reasonable. The hotel is very new, nice, and in an iffy neighborhood.
Then came getting prepared. This included booking round trip flights between Fort Wayne to New York. We put the cars in storage in our garage and changed the insurance. We turned down the temperature gauge, unplugging electrical devices. We canceled or changed utilities, subscriptions, and etc.
January 2, 2010
Our daughter and her family took us to the Fort Wayne Airport and our adventure started. The flights were uneventful and enjoyable, leaving approximately on time and arriving on time in Chicago O’Hare and early at New York’s La Guardia. We got our luggage quickly at the third location they sent us to. We got a cab quickly and the trip to the hotel was quick and reasonable. The hotel is very new, nice, and in an iffy neighborhood.
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