Last Post

My latest adventure is coming to an end and I will be flying from Miami to Sea-Tac on Thursday.  So much to do today.  A gala tonight, Special Tea, Redemption of all my Dam Dollars, do more packing, 2 trivias and lots more.  

It has beern a good cruise and this was my first Grand other than the World Cruises.  I don't know any better but lots of people are very unhappy with the cruise and say it is like all other non-grand cruises.

So, I will sign off and I will not be taking any more cruises which means I am done with my blog.  When I think of that it does make me sad.  

Continuiing Sea Days

I Noticed this morning on the ship info channel that we have gone over 13,250 nautical miles so far.  We will be over 14,000 by the time we get to Fort Lauderdale.

I have started packing and most of my clothes are in the suitcases but it is all the other stuff I have got to tackle that takes the time.

I joined tthe book club and enjoyed the meetings so I will need my friend, Harriet, to tell me about the book club on the island.   I think it would be fun to join as long as we can have some murder mysteries occasionally.

I think everyone on the ship has booked more cruises for. the future.  I am the only one who hasn't booked any and don't intend to at this time.  I am content to stay home and also have so much to do.

On every cruise there is always one person (usually a grumpy old man) who should never cruise.  They seem to not like people or are in a constant state of annoyance.  Yesterday I met our resident grump. I was sitting on the steps as I have many a time to let the cabin stewards finish my cabin.  Most people just laugh at me when I apologize but not the resident grump.  He told me that I was in his way even after I apologized for sitting in his path.

We still have one more gala and I have a tea tomorrow.

Crossing

I am enjoying our time at sea.  I have never done a crossing that is so smooth.  All the Catholics aboard take credit because Father James gets very sea sick and he has had a great fear of this part of the cruise.  So everyone, including the Father, have been praying for calm seas.  Makes you wonder.

Last night we had the CSI cocktail party which is always fun.  They are my travel agent and their main headquarters is in Seattle.  They also provide the escorts aboard who are Henk and Lucia.  I also cruised with them back in 2013.  A nice and fun couple.

My luggage will be delivered today.  I have the extra bed so I can put my bags on the bed and slowly pack which is what I do when I pack to leave for a cruise.  Most people on board don't have that luxury because they have one King size bed or both twins are occupied.

The food has been quite good except Joan and I went to the Cantaletto and I thought it had gone down hill since the time we went earlier in the cruise.  

The cough seems to be gone.  It is amazing how everyone gets it early on and then it disappears.  Some had secondary infections and I was very happy I avoided that part.  Just an annoying cough.  The other ailment are the foot and ankle sprains or breaks.  There are at least a dozen of people on the ship wearing the boot, including my formal neighbor, Terry.   So many of these accidents are caused by the uneven streets in ports.

If I can think of other general things on the cruise I will post them as They pop into my mind.

The Azores

I am very impressed with the Azores.  The storm by passed us and we had no problem docking at either of the ports.  The islands are very green and with the contrast of the white buildings with red tile roofs they are beautiful.  We are now headed for the USA.

We had a real treat yesterday.  A big pod of whales came very close to the ship.   They were so close the Captain had to veer to the right.  I have not heard what type of whales but they were medium size. About the same size as a humpback; but I don't think they were humpbacks.

We have also had a few schools of Dolphins and I spotted 4 very large Dolphins along side of our ship a couple of days ago.

At 7:00 every evening we have our before dinner drink at the Crows Nest and also play Pub Trivia.  Last night we almost won which is the exact opposite of us asking for the booby prize.  My team consists of Joan and whoever I can find that is close enough to mouth answers or whisper to me.  I call them my roving team members.  I have a feeling the rest of the teams might cry foul if we won but that is very unlikely except for our good showing last night.

We did have a ball last night so we did do some dancing with the officers and some of the other guys. After dancing we went up to the Crows Nest to listen to Lee on the piano.  His wife, Daphna, joined the ship recently.  We have got to know her and I have enjoyed her stories about Israel.  Her home is in Jerusalem.

2 sea days

We really  needed these sea days.  This cruise has been port intensive and they can become tiring especially for the stair climbers. Our friend, Sue, who goes everywhere admitted that this is the first time she has become weary.

I am typing this as we are docked at one of the islands of the Azores.  Ponta Delgada, on the island of Sao Miguel today and Horta, on the island of Faial tomorrow.  The buildings of Ponta Delgada are newer than most of Portugal and white instead of sand color.  A nice change.  I will continue on a separate blog about Horta and as long as I have good WiFi free I will go ahead and post this short post.

The weather has changed and it is raining.  No free WiFi for me.  There are possibilties that we won't be able to dock at  Horta.  A storm is on its way.

Last Ports

Gibralter is not a good place to visit unless you are going to walk the rock.  Not much at the bottom of the rock so I took the opportunity to do things on board.

Our next port was Huelva and it is a delightful city.  Wide pedestrian streets with great stores and great values.  The town is trying to get the cruise ships in and I think the good vibes they sent to all of us will help in that direction.  Our friend, Don, use to live close and he said it is incredible how far they have come.

We found a little restaurant and a delightful waitress who did her best to translate  the menu for us.  The beer and Joan's wine were excelent.  The waitress actually spoke great English except the menu translation and she was a delightful girl.  We had a lot of fun with all the employees.  They laughed a lot at me and my attempts at Spanish.

Lisbon is a beautiful big city and lots of steps and hills.  We spent our time at Casa Colon in the city center and didn't stay out long.  Again, it was Sunday and not much opened except cafes and souvenier shops.  One exception and that was a very large shoe and purse store.  I am not up to walking uip stairs and hills but where we were was flat and we walked quite a bit just looking at the outside of buildings.

The WiFi at the port was really iffy and not good enough to down load for an hour or so.  Besides I would have to sit on dirty cement.  I willl check out the Azores on the 27th and 28th.  Otherwise, this blog is about my only avenue at communication with home.  

Xfinity Problems

The reason I have been getting some emails and not others is because of the need to update my app for Xfinity.  This takes close to an hour so I can't do it on the ship.  I will try to find free WiFi on shore in Seville.  I am at a lost why I get some emails and not the others as most of the ones I get are from other countries but one just came in from Colorado.  I am also getting facebook but I don't open those as it takes too long to down load.  

I am sitting next to the big rock (Gibralter) but there is no where close to do free WiFi plus I am making sure my battery is  at 100%.  You do not want to run out of battery on a long down load.  My advice to everyone is find a cruise line that does not charge for WiFi.  

Barcelona

I have been to Barcelona twice before but never really saw the sights.  From the airport to the ship and the ship to the airport.  So, it was the HoHo bus - red route first.  What a magnificent city and as The Trumpster would say, HUGE.  Magnificent buildings and plazas.  One problem.  Every few feet there was a red light when we were in the dead of the city.  Instead of an hour or two we were 4 hours completing the route.  Admittedly, we hopped off - once for ten minutes and once for about 30 minutes.  I wanted to continue but my friend wanted to go back to the ship.  If I ever get here again I will take the green route where most of the famous cathedrals are located.  

We did come across a "department" store and it was 9 stories and carried everything from groceries to hardware, clothing, and many things  you wouldn't think of or imagine.  It also had two public rest rooms and I think they are called Banos.  After 3 hours on the HOHO bus the Banos were a welcome sight. 

My impression of Barcelona is the city is a must see but three or four days minimum is needed.

I am not getting my emails and I have to go see Courtney this afternoon.  I haven't had a thing four two days and that seems rather impossible.  Actually, I did have one that came through.  Dana sent one from Switzerland and it made it to the ship but nothing from the states.

Te Phillipino staff show was last night.  Jennie, the gal who mkes my latte' every morning was one of the dancers and Christa who is the waitress at the Crow's Nest was one of the singers.  I also knew the other male singer but his name escapes me now.

Sete

Whoever heard of Sete.  i have driven from Italy through Cannes, Nice and other towns but Sete is way off the road and is basically a port town and full of blue collar workers.  There are rumors that they are building a cruise ship terminal and room on the docks for cruise ships.  This working port was the cleanest and neatest of all ports I have seen.  

There was not a lot to see and the shops did  not have good products.  A lack of neat things.  Most of the clothing stores were low end.  Peggy only bought one thing and for Peggy that is a wasted day.

We did stop and have a sandwich and a French wine.  Father James came along and sat down for awhile to tell us about his visit to the Vatican.  He had a friend who works there and met a lot of others.  No time for an audience with the Pope but he had not expected that would happen.

Joan said her pizza did not sit well so she stayed in her cabin.  I ended up playing Trivia wiith Don and Nancy.  Our Ausie couple left in Rome so that left me alone at the table.  I ate with Harry and Margo.  

As I am sitting here typing this post while we are docking in Barcelona.  I plan to do the HoHo bus and take the route that will take me to the Cathedral that has been being built forever.  Century after century.  This is not my first time in Barcelona but it is the first time I have the opportunity to explore the city.  I think Ihave been here two or three times before.

Livorno. (Leg Horn)

Unfortunately, Sunday is not one of the days to visit an Italian City.  A few things were open and a lot of things closed.   Livorno is a jumping off place for Pisa, Florence, Lucca and Tuscany in general.  Most of the passengers went to other places.  We did walk around and found a department store caled Zara or something like that which we had been told was great.  It was closed.  Peggy and Sylvia told us about a great little cathedral to visit but when we got there it was closed.  Later, Peggy said Zara's opened at 12:00.  Sometimes things just don't work out.  We did have a nice walk about and ended up getting a Gelato.

One thing that has been nice about this cruise is the money.  We have only had to use one currency and  that is the Euro.  Except for the lesser Pacific Islands that usually accept dollars, we have to exchange to six or seven different currencies.  Australian, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong and I can go on and on.  This is great using only the Euro.

We are now at Monaco and we have to tender.  Having been here several times I opted to get a Manicure which is needed.  I wouldn't mind walking in the Gardens as that is a relaxing walk but The only other thing I would want to do is the aquarium.  Prince Rainier was a great supporter of Jaques Costeau and other Marine expeditions and endeavors so it is only fitting that he had this great aquarium built.  But, I have the manicure to be done and I wouldn't have enough time.  It has always been on my to do list but not on the must do list.

Civitavecchia

First, we did find a nice place and had a typical Neapolitan pizza.  What makes their pizza different is the thick ring of crust  with spots of charcoal.  Th rest of the pizza is thin crust.  We had a typical Margherita pizza with just sauce and good mozzarella.  Wine was the order of the day instead of beer.  So we accomplished what we wanted yesterday.

Civitavecchia is the worse port in the world or at least the worse port of this cruise.  This is not just a new conclusion as this is my third time here.  It Is the jumping off place for Rome.  I did Rome from here with Dana and Zion and that was enough.  This is the typical day if you go to Rome.  Exit ship at 8:00.  Catch bus to Train depot and arrive at 8:30 if you are lucky.  Exit train in Rome at 11:00.  Get Taxi and fight traffic to Spanish Steps and it is now 12:00.  Climb steps to Cathedral and Look around.  Stop at nice little Trattoria and eat lunch.  Walk slowly down nice street looking in shops and end up at train depot at 3:00.  Board train and arrive back at the port train depot at 5:30 if you are lucky.  Take bus back to ship and board at 6:00.  Ship leaves at 6:30.

Now I have another gripe about this port.  In the past we could walk to an open market but that is no longer possible as we must take a shuttle out of the port then catch a bus into town to the center of town.  We each bought two tickets; one to go and one to get back.  The lady who sold the ticket personally took us to the bus and spoke to the driver.  Even the advertisement inside the bus showed two stops and the stop at the beginning and a stop at the end.  Apparently the driver has his own agenda.  From port to train depot and train depot to port.  No stops are allowed.  He also insisted that we give him the second ticket so we could go back to the port.  We felt ripped off but started laughing because what can you do about it.  We each were out 4 Euros.

Napoli

I am in the library with my Ipad on my lap as I have found a warm spot.  I have on  a short sleeved sweater and lightweight jacket so the bottom of my arms are cold.  I guess   I  have been in Naples five times so other than going out for their famous pizza and a walk about I will stay on the ship most of the day.

The ship is actually nice when most of the people have left.  Quiet but also still.  When everyone is on board the ship becomes like a bee hive.  Coming and going all the time.

Last night the masked gala was ho hum and I don't say that because I have become jaded.  I say it because they should have opened the theater for the dancing.  The Ocean Bar's dance floor is about the size of my bedroom.  You Don't put a hundred people in my bedroom and expect them to dance.  I did dance a couple of dances but not so much fun.  I left and went back to my cabin to read. 

I haven't talked about the food on board.  I don't cruise to eat like others on board and it is very easy to distinguish the food cruisers and others.  The food is quite good in both the dining room and the Lido.  I also believe, at least the two times I have been there, that the Pinnacle food is even better than on the Amsterdam.  They have a different chef for almost every year and this year the Pinnacle has an excellent French chef.

The flowers on board are gorgeous but our Amsterdam florists were the best in the world so it is hard to beat them but this florist is trying his damnest to do just that.

I will post this now but if anything exciting, dangerous or spectacular happens while I am out I will cover the "happening" in my next post.

Spectacular Croatia

As you all know our two previous tours were less than successful.  Albania -- nothing to see except our shepherding dog.  Montenegro -- would have been good but for Mother Nature's interference.  The tour of Croatia was designated a cultural experience..  I have found these type tours are the ones I like most.  You see some sights but you also experience their food, music, everyday life and the country side.

After doing the tour of Dubrovnik's old town(?sp - I am in library and have none of my materials with the proper spelling.) which was very exciting seeing the wall and St. Dominic's Monestary we headed out of town along the coast and into the country.  Quite a few people walked the wall which is in much better shape than the Great Wall of China but, of course, built much later in time.

We were taken to a typical wealthy home in the country when Croatia was actually a part of Yugoslavia

but before the USSR was involved.  A small farm that looked like it could sustain the family and the neighbors.

We were given the tour of the farm and the equipment they used and then we were treated to a good lunch, with local wines, and local music.  The food was very good and the music palatable.  I do not like Turkish music as it sounds like fingernails on a blackboard.  On the way back we were treated to an old resort town which was now blended with modern adjustments.  The beach was beautifu and apparently they get a wealthy class of Europeans, including a lot of yachts.

Beautiful Venice

The last  time I was here it felt like it  was 5 below zero but our day in Venice (mainly around San Marco square) was a gorgeous sunny 72 degree day.  St. Marks Cathedral looked spectacular with its outside frescos having been restored and most of the scaffolding was gone.  It appeared the scaffolding was in the area of the last fresco to be restored.  Last time I was here the cathedral was covered by scaffolding.

What do you do in Venice.  First, a capuccino  and an Italian sweet.  Then a stroll through the square and a lot of people and pigeon watching.  I have to say the pigeon population is down from around 500 to 100 which is a very good change.  Three small groups with permanent stands at three restaurants were playing classical music.  No street entertainers which I miss.  

Then a walk through St. Marks.  Not enough time to do the museums so we mostly went window shopping at all the shops surrounding the square.  We also went to the Venice version of Rodeo Drive with all the expensive shops such as Channel, Dior, etc.  After buying a couple of things it was after 3:00 and we headed for an Italian Lunner.  My word for the meal before Dinner but after Lunch.  Pasta and Chianti and a great table outside but in the shade and we ate at a leasurely  pace.  We then headed back to the ship around 5:30.

I woke up this morning and I could see nothing from my cabin window.  Fog had come in and hopefully it will clear soon.  I woke up with a hitch in my hip so either too much walking yesterday or I slept wrong.  I won't be able to go out today but that is ok as we have to be back by 12:30 anyway.

Montenegro

Montenegro appears to be the exact opposite from Albania.  Eleven per cent unemployment as compared to fifty per cent unemployment.  Albania kept communism for many years where Montenegro rejected it.  Good leadership seems to be one of the differences and Montenegro is on its way to being prosperous and possibly joining the European Union.  It is a beautiful country and wonderful things to see.

Now I will tell you about the tour from hell.  A very interesting guide and he had a good manner of telling the story of Montenegro.  Mother Nature did not cooperate.  A downpour hit and by the time we got to the old town of Budva the streets were like a river.  We waded through and it contiued to pour but the umbrella kept off the rain but the boots were soaked and the jeans were wet up to the knees.  After our tour of the old town we headed back to Kotor.  Just like home an accident backed up traffic and we couldn't move for an hour.  Not fun when you are soaked.  It was about 62 degrees so we managed but I opted to get my wet boots off and cut the tour short.  The bus did take us back to the ship and it didn't clear up until around an hour before we were to leave.

The hills look black but it isn;t because of the dirt or rock but because of the black pines.  I just wish we coud have had the good weather we have been having instead of the downpours. 

Durres, Albania

I can only think of one tour worse than the one we took here.  That tour was in Nicaraugua and I said "They were not ready for us.". Even though Albania has been out of the control of the USSR since 1991 it has been a very difficult transition with poor leadership and continuing communist influence.  Many people wish for the return of communism so they don't have to work for their food.  They don't remember the limits on food and the long lines.

I didn't enjoy looking at the bleak gray buildings and frankly there was not much in Durres of interest.  Lots of walking on very bad sidewalks and roads.  We were also walked to a square where there was nothing  except one cafe.  No stores.  Plenty of gypsy kids with their hands out.  Just as we were leaving we did notice a bear on a leash but we had to get to the bus. 

Our next stop was a winery.  Probably 95% of us have been to wonderful wineries all over the world.  This winery was bleak and even the bottles looked Russian and if a bottle can be depressing these were depressing.  Antiquated methods but not liike some of the home wineries in Italy that have charm.

We did have one interesting happening.  When we were at the museum a beautiful golden retriever like dog decided he was going to stay with us.  If a car came too close he would bark at it viciously and protect us.  He did the same thing to pedestrians who he thought was a threat.  He walked with us for a long time and I think he wanted to escape Albania and I was about to put my sticker on him when he decided we were safe so he did leave us.

Our guide was fine and he did relate lots of anti communist feelings.  Too bad Bernie Sanders young supporters weren't around to hear about the fruits of communism.

Corfu, Greece

The last Greek Island and it is the biggest.  The city of Kerkira is the largest island city but we got the shuttle to the old town and enjoyed walking to the other side.  We also saw the fort which is extremely tall as it is on what appears to be a small mountain.  I said it was a fort but it looked more like  a fortification.

Not particularly a good shopping area but we did find a grocery store which provided a couple of items needed such as hair spray.  I am running low.  Pharmacies in Greece are strictly pharmacies and they do not carry a lot of other stuff.

Finally, we move on to another country.  It has been Greece all the time..  Remember, we even added  another  Island to take the place of Istanbul.  Tomorrow we go to Albania and we do have a tour to get a feel for the country.  My first time in Albania so I will report my impressions later.

Katakolon (Olympia)

Another Greek Island and another beer.  I think they are synonymous.  This island is where the rich and famous have vacation mansions so nothing really gets going until the season starts.  I think it started with our ship because all the shops and cafes were open.  The only reaon for a ship to dock is the ruins of Olympia.  That is the only thing here other than this nice little town.  Not particularly a good place for bargains but really nice stuff (rich and famous tourists) and fair prices.

Last night we had our white gala and I did look smashing in my new white outfit.  I used rinestones to  make it more dressy since it is an outfit I can wear many times at home.  I was surprised that so few people wore all white.  There was an attempt by many to have a white top or a white pair of pants or skirt but paired with another color.  But, when you think about white you know spaghetti will not be your choice for dinner; maybe you should have white wine; and white is not slimming.  All good reasons for not wearing white.

Kusadasi

Well it was a great bazaar and great shopping but one problem.  I thought I was in Viet Nam again.  Or, on the corners in Hong Kong.  The merchants practically dragged you into the stores. I have heard all the pitches in the world but there is a new one here.  My turn.  My turn.  Joan was with me and she did go into a HAL recommended store and bought a soft black leather handbag.  Beautiful and very similar to Coach bags,  They were not as pushy.  After awhile the merchants wear you down.  I was exhausted fighting them off.

There were several cafe's along the water and we sat for about two hours just enjoying the sun and talking to quite a handsome young man who was fluent in English.  He answered questions about the history of his country and was very charming.  We also talked about the lack of cruise ships and the economic harm to these merchants.  It is really sad since they rely on the tourist trade.  HAL and Seaborne are the only lines allowing their ships to go to Turkey and it appears at this time only the port of Kusadasi.  I did not feel at all unprotected except from the hungry merchants.

After a beer we were led to a shop for wallets.  Our young man took us to his cousin's workplace but the owner took over.  He was the worse.  He took all her bags and even Joan's sun glasses and sat me down to hold everything while he showed her wallets.  She didn't find one she liiked so (very common tactic) he had more upstairs and wanted her to go upstairs.  That is a no no.

Needless to say we were tired of the merchants and went back to the ship.

Istanbul --NOT and Lesbos, Greece

We did our sightseeing from the Deck in Istanbul.  One change was made and the crew who were scheduled to leave were taken to the airport so they were able to disembark.  The Captain took us up the Bosperas (?sp) Strait up to the Black Sea and then back on our way to Lesbos.

Lesbos was another easy walking town and Margo, Harry and I walked to the Cathedral.  Souvenier shops, bakeries, candy stores and cafes were open but not much more.  It is Sunday.  The Greek Easter is around the 20th of April.  The candy stores were incredible with all their Easter goodies.  The Cathedral was a beauty both in and out.

We received a letter from the Captain saying we are going to Kusadasi tomorrow.  Also, in that letter we will be getting free wine and/or beer at 5:30 this evening.  All along I have been saying he was making a big mistake by not doing so immediately.   A lot of the passengers on his ship are here because of the Istanbul stop.  Well. at least part of it.  I shouldn't blame the Captain.  Actually it is Seattle.  He can't do any thing without their direction.

Tomorrow is serious shopping day since I have seen all the local ruins on two prior visits.  I have been told by crew and passengers that this is the best shopping.  I wasn't able to shop before since I was on tours which took all the time.  

Myrna, Greece

Myrina turned out to be a friendly city and easy to navigate.  It is close to the Dardanellas on the way to Istanbul.  We do have to stop at the Port of Istanbul to pick up about 50 people but no one gets to debark including the crew that were scheduled to debark.  They now have to stay until Venice.  We still don't know about Kusadasi.  The warning by the State Department says to leave the country so I am wondering about this port.  It is far from Istanbul

Getting back to Myrina - - I was in one shop and I said to the lady taking my money for a purchase that our ship coming in was a surprise.  She said yes and more - - "It was a gift from God."  The people were so happy we were there with smiles, hellos and lots of help.

I woke up to cards and a big Happy Birthday sign.  And, when I came back from Myrina I had candy and another card, baloons, ribbon that says Aged to Perfection and another sign.  So much for keeping my BD a secret.  Joan is taking me to the pinnacle tonight for more festivities.  I also got a lot of emails with BD wishes.  just before my BD I received chocolate dipped strawberries.

So I will keep you posted as to where we go next.  A cruise with true adventure.

Captain's Announcement

Our Captain just notified us that we will not be going to Istanbul due to the State Department warning Americans to leave the country.  We don't know yet about Kusadasi, Turkey, port city for Ephesus, etc.  We are going to some island and I don't quite know where this is.  It is sometjhing like limnes but I will have to wait until the Captain's letter is delivered.  As a matter of fact I need to look on the globe as I have never heard of this place and I don't even know what country it belongs to.  

Today we were in Kavala, Greece and it is quite an easy city to get around.  Easy to walk to town and some of the sites including a very well preserved Aquaduct.  We bumped into Sue and Peggy and Peggy had done some serious shopping.  As she was showing off her table runner (shawl) she attracted a Greek man who spoke some English.  We all engaged him in a conversation and eventually he announced he was 70 years of age.  Peggy told him she was 80 and would he be her boyfriend.  He thought for a moment and asked what were they capable of doing.  We, of course, cracked up and I am sure we were the talk of the neighborhood.  

We then went to her great shop and did a little shopping ourselves then on to a little restaurant for lunch and a beer.  It was so nice we were able to sit outside.  Wonderful beer and food and temperature of 70 plus.

I sure wish we could go to Israel but we are too far away.

On ship

Other than checking the terminal out I spent the day on the ship doing some necessary things, like getting my hair cut and It was absolutely necessary to do a load of laundry.  If I hadn't I would be going Commando.

My friends Sue and Peggy did go out shopping and Sue came back with a gorgeous new necklace, earrings, and a pancho.  This led to a discussion of style as an individual thing.  If I wore what Sue had bought ---first I would be lossed in the pancho and you wouldn't see me and ---second the necklace would hang down to my naval.  The colors, textures and boldness looked fantastic on sue but it would look lousy on me.  I call it individual style.  Peggy is known to buy wall hangings and then wear them as part of an outfit.  Last night she had a lizard about 10 inches long on a chain with a white sweater and gold pants.  She looked good as this is her unique style but few can get away with it.  I have known Peggy since 2010 and this is a style she has become famous for.  She can turn a non clothing item into clothing.  I have seen her wear table cloths and look beautiful.

Our new Padre has made a splah on the ship.  I am not the only female that thinks he is absolutely adorable but I think I am the only one who has had two pecks on my cheek.  

Greece

We have several stops in Greece including Pylos and Santorini.  Yesterday we did go to Pylos and what a beautiful day.  About 65 degrees and the sun felt very good.  The ship is very cold in spots and, of course, the Crow's Nest is one of the coldest places.  My cabin is nice and comfy since  the first couple of days.  Pylos is not a particularly spectacular city and since it was Easter Monday the tourist places like the castle were closed.  We sat in the square in the sun and people watched.

Santorini is a very large island and the ship anchored in the Harbor of Thira.  My daughter, Dana, and grandson, Zion, and I were here before but didn't go up to the city on top of the hill.  There are three ways to get to the top.  Mule, steps and paths, and cable car.  This time I did go up in the cable car and it was worth it.  I enjoyed the city of white wash buildings and a lot of the buildings are built out of the cliffs.  Quite amazing.  The ship is not going to Oia which is my favorite town on Santorini.  It is the town with all whitewashed buildings but have blue roofs and domeIs.  It was another beautiful sunny and warm day and a good day to stop and have a local beer.

Tomorrow we will dock in Piraeus which is the port to get to Athens.  I will stay in Piraeus since I have been several days in Athens and then twice more single days.

Easter

Easter on board a ship is not much different than on land in that you have Mass and a service for Protestants, Easter Egg Hunt and brunch.  We then had the black and white ball and dancing with the Officers.  That part is different.

I am now off to go to Pylos, Greece.  I believe I have not been here before.  We do have to tender in which is the first time we have used tenders on this cruise.

Valletta, Malta

I walked out on the Promenade Deck and it was quite balmy so I dressed accordingy.  A hop on hop off bus was in order since I couldn't go with John on his quest to see Malta by walking.  Our first real stop was Mdina which was quite a ways from Valletta.  This is an old city but people live and work there so it isn't like ruins.  

Quickly, the weather changed and I was quite cold.  We got back on the bus and was taken on a long tour of the island.  Walls everywhere and the island looks like one big fortress.  They have been conquered so many times.  I think every major and not so major country has occupied it.  Most recently the Germans but with England's help they were able to repel the Germans.  I believe it was in the 70s when they became an independent country.The main cathedral was polluted by people.  Two Ships  were in and that is always a bad sign.  I was ok with not going into the Cathedral as I have been in most of the major cathedrals in Europe and I vowed at one time never to enter another.

The Le Cirque dinner was very good but the place was only about 20% full.  This was amazing to me as I was told I couldn't get reservations for 7:00 and I had to go at 7:30.  I was also seated at a table for one.  A lady I know from two world cruises, Lisa, wrote a book entitled "Table for One".  So I thought about Lisa's book and I was very happy.  My cabin neighbors were there also and were concerned about me being alone and I told them the story of Lisa.  We have made reservations for another ordinary night at the Pinnacle for the three of us.

It is Easter today so I assume luncch will be an Easter brunch.  This is usual fare on Easter for all the Dam ships.  Happy Easter to all.

Trapani, Sicily

From a distance Trapani looked quite pretty but up close not so pretty.  Again we were told it was a small city but in fact it is quite large.  Not as big as Cagliari but still big enough that we took the double decker around the city.  As we were getting off the bus a lady informed us that the Church down the street was open for viewing the "floats" that would be in the Glood Friday Parade,  I am glad we went to view them because the Parade that was suppose to go by our ship never happened.  Lots of people were waiting for the parade.  Whether there was misinformation or rumor; who knows.

Tonight I go for the special dinner I mentioned previously - - Le Cirque.  When I was on the cruise to Alaska I was assaulted and battered.  It was probably an accident as I don't believe the beverage man intended to hit me but he did when he barged into my cabin after I told him I would be out of the bathroom in about 5 minutes.  He hit me with the door and I had a huge bruise.  I was given an apology by a personal call from Passenger relations and they also gave me this free dinner.

Cagliari, Sardinia

What a large city.  This really surprised me because everyone talked about it as if it was a small town.  So wrong as it was very big.  Joan and I and a couple hundred others decided to take an open vehicle around the city.  Not a particularly pretty city but ripe with conquerors of the past and their various fortresses.

It appears that one of its chief exports is salt.  Salt farms (yes that is what they call them) over many acres.  I, do hope they do not farm the one that had flamingos wading in it.  The flamingos are white since they don't have shrimp to eat.  But, beware of sea salt with other than white granuals. 

Tomorrow we will be going to Trapani, Sicily and the Captain even indicates it is a small community.  I will wait and use my own judgment.

Did I tell you we have a new priest on board as our other one headed back to Seattle.  Father James is young and adorable.  He played Trivia with us at the Crow's Nest while we were having our before dinner drink.   He also was having his before dinner drink.  Also, I ran into him the first morning he was to give 8:00 Mass and asked me to show him the way to the theater where he was over due.  Did I say he is quite adorable.

I will have to remind myself to tell you all about some of the shows and why I sit where I do.  Also, tomorrow night I have my dinner at the LeCirque special.  This was free from HAL due to the assault and battery I endured on the Alaska cruise.  I will explain that later for those of you that do not know about this incident.

Malaga, Spain

It was nice getting off and walking around.  They had a shuttle taking us to the edge of town.  I had wanted to walk the port but after walking some I was having difficulty with my breathing.  I don't think my cold helps but at this time I have to realistically change some of my plans.  John and I had Malta all worked out and I have had to tell him that I would not be able to go.  I did not want to hold him back and slow him down.  We both were looking forward to the plans my friend Malta Paul had laid out for us.  So I will just do as much as I can and if I have to I will take tours or hire drivers.

Today was a sea day and that meant laundry and a manicure.  Rhoda is very good; surprisingly so.  Tonight, is Italian night so we should have some good Italian food.  Tomorrow is our Sardinia port.

I have been going to some of the shows and have enjoyed most of them and walked out on a couple only.  One of the lecturers is super good and I have gone to three of this lectures on ships and yachts and the people who were on them.  I also like the fact he cuts it off after 45 minutes.  Just enough

Sea Day

I decided I better get busy booking some tours so I spent time looking at the tour books and listening to Jeff who is the tour specialist.  Malta is lined up because My friend Malta Paul gave instructions to his friend John and we are going together.  Malta is Saturday so I have to figure out what to do on Sardinia and Sicily.  After looking at the tours I think we are better off getting a taxi and a driver.  Jeff's talks on these two islands will be coming up on TV as I must have missed them this morning.  I have been to the places surrounding Malaga, Spain so I guess exploring Malaga is in order.  Last time I was here we opted to tour the Nieu Amsterdam that had just been put into service so I have not really got around in Malaga.  

I will talk to people later and figure everything out.

In Madeira, Spain

My feet hit terra firma today for the first

time since boarding.  It felt good to walk around the town.  Not a lot to do since it is Palm Sunday but we did see a procession heading into the local church.  I believe both Spain and Portugal are mostly Catholic so this is quite a big deal.

The latest gala was called a Classical Gala and Bruce showed up for dinner and met Joan.  Ada doesn't like him at all and it really shows and she finally got up in a huff.  Me, I collect characters so even though I wouldn't want a steady diet of Bruce I enjoy jousting for awhile.  I went to my cabin after dinner (after 10:00) since I am babying myself hoping to stop this cold before it gets worse.

I don't know how I did it but there is a photo in the middle of my typing.  It would be nice if it didn't pop in the middle and I can place it where I want.  I will take it for now and keep fooling with a camera symbol on my new Ipad.

St. Paddy's day

Most every one was in some shade of green.  There must be at least 100 different Greens and I think they were all on board.  There was the usual pub crawal which And I don't partake.  It lasts about an hour and you pay $20.  Included in that $20 are 4 drinks.  I cannot imagine drinking 4 drinks in an hour.  I was watching a little show down in the Ocean Bar when they came in.  Twenty or so people did participate.  

Last night CSi invited about one half of their clients aboard (the other half will be feted later) to the Caneletto for dinner.  I had veal picatta and it was good.  I also tasted their lasagna and it was good.  In the past when you did not pay for the food at that restaurant the Lasagna was quite awful.  Once they started charging it got better.

I am ready to get off the ship tomorrow at Madeira but it is Palm Sunday so no shops are open but they will have the parade and I am looking forward to that.  Tonight we have another Gala and I believe this one is called Classical.  That means I can pick any thing from my Formal wear.

I do have the cruise cold crud.  I have been so cold that my immune system didn't fight it off but I do have zinc louzenges and that seems to be keeping it at a minimum.

By, for now

Party tonight

We are going to have our first party tonight in Joan's suite.  Joe, Tom and I will be present and I was in charge of getting lime slices and bring my strawberries.

Last night we had four guys from Orange County, California who did doo wap songs.  I enjoyed the doo wap but they had too many jokes and not enough doo wap.  I am still waiting for some really great entertainment and I did miss the Amsterdam dancers and singers so I will have to wait until they perform again.

Time to go upstairs for Joan's party and I will finish this later.

Sun is gone

Not only is the sun gone but the smooth seas are also gone.  I had a pair of heels out for our tropical night but I think I will stick to sandals tonight.

I went to hear Chef Geary give a presentation on making cheese cake.  He is quite funny and as he says he never tells jokes.   He only tells stories of his family and friends and that is all he needs to make people laugh.  I have heard him before as he is on the ships quite often.

A quiet day as I wanted to get some computer stuff done and they got my safe fixed so I was able to pick up my "valuables" out of the safe deposit box.   Also, got a little hand wash done.  Long cruises sound like you are busy every minute having fun but the truth is you still have mundane things to do including hand washing or going to the laundry room.  No cooking or cleaning and your bed is made for you though.

I had a little incident on the last day of the Alaska cruise which I took last year.  A beverage man barged through the door after I asked him to wait 5 minutes until I was out of the bathroom.  In doing so he hit me with the door and I had a large bruise.  I reported the incident to my travel agent and they in turn reported the inciddent to HAL.  I received a telephone call from guest relations apologyzing  and was told a gift would be waiting for me in my cabin.  Needless to say there was nothing out of the ordinary.  I emailed my agent so she would have it on Monday.  Things moved fast.  A good bottle of wine and chocolate dipped strawberries appeared Monday afternoon from Cruise Specialists, my agent.  Today, I received from HAL a gift notice of a Le Cirque dinner and a regular dinner, both at the Pinnacle.  I am happy.

ship life

On routine days life on the ship is not that different than home except at this time we are rolling a bit.  Some of the passengers cannot tolerate even a little movement but those of us with sea legs enjoy  it especially at night as it rocks you like a baby at night and you sleep well.  Now, that is my experience and there are, of course, my detractors who think I am crazy.

It has been unbelievably warm.  We are having 72 to 75 degree weather.  I must look at where we are as things changed somewhat because of Nassau.  We have to still be near the Carribean because the Atlantic Ocean is not as warm as they keep posting water temperature.  I did looke at the elevator mats and they tell me it is Monday.

Last night Ada, Joan and I were the only ones at our table and we did a lot of giggling.  Roland (our officer) the other night stopped by to say hello and I think I saw a little sign of relief as our quite vocal table mate wAs not present.  I, however encountered him up in the Lido while I was getting my fruit, yogurt and sweet roll.  I do not drink the coffee in the Lido as it is utterly vile.  I buy a Latte at the Exploration cafe and then go to the Lido.  Bruce and I exchanged a few snarky remarks and he was in his best form.

Paul's friend did get in touch with me and left me his cabin number.  He did come to my cabin to visit and get aquainted.  He was telling me that he loved to dance and he had been at the Ocean Bar the night before but there were not many ladies until this short little gal named Joan came down from her cabin.  That, of course, was my friend Joan so I called her up and gave her a bad time about the rumors of what she did the night before embellishing the imaginary naughty parts.   The three of us did lunch together.

I is going to be a fun cruise.

Gala

I was wrong.  You can be wrong once in your life.  I only saw one couple not properly dressed.  I was amazed and very happy to see most people really did follow the rules and proper etiquette.   I Think I can

The champagne they served to us before we went into dinner was disgusting.  I would guess it had sat on a table for 4 hours before hand.  It was warm and no bubbles.  This was a first for me as the champagne has always been cold and bubbly if not the best.

The Special Captain's dinner was very good and our officer at our table ordered fantastic wine.  White for appetizers and a wonderful red for the main course.  I asked the wine steward if either wine was on my wine package and he smiled and said no.

The couple I mentioned has not shown up again and Bruce came to the table  and Ada has been added since I mentioned who I was sitting with for dinner.  Joan was at Bart's table as a guest and he heads up all matters cullinary.  So Bruce, Ada, our officer and myself were present.  Bruce has turned out to be quite a lively talker and I don't think our officer has seen his type before.  A former University Librarian he seems to know everything.  I did not get on his trivia team because it had already been formed but, even though we haven't done that well as a team. we are having fun.

Sunday Musings

The only way I know the day of the week is by the mats on the floor of the elevator.  This means tonight is the Captain's welcome gala.  I have decided to wear my electric blue dress that I bought and wore once for my Robin and Andy's Wedding two years ago.  At the time I bought it I said I would take it with me if and when I took another long cruise.

After taking four world cruises I am quite use to announcements that people are being taken off the ship or seeing the ambulance waiting for us to get to the dock.  I even remember stopping at a couple of ports we were not destined to be.  This is a new one even for me.  The first day after leaving port, the Captain announced we would be making a little stop at Nassau to take off a seriously ill passenger.

WE had to change course and make for Nassau which was not on our itinerary.  The ship had to squeeze in between the massive ships owned by Disney and a couple of other companies.  We were not allowed to go ashore but it was nice seeing Nassau from the deck..  I hadn't been there for years.

So tomorrow I will tell you about our Gala.  Remember when they were called balls?  I think I know why they changed the name.  Some people refuse to dress for balls so by changing to Gala they can wear more ordinary clothes.

Disgusting Passengers

The gal in the library who helped me get connected yesterday was super not, only super nice but also used Apple products from the beginning.  She absolutely was brilliant and so knowledgable.  I plan to get her some candy when off shore.  But, while I m on line doing my thing I could not miss three disgusting people who were rude and crude.  She never lost her temper and put up with the verbal abuse.  I wanted to go over and slap them.  One woman and two ugly old men.  Why do these type people go on cruises?  If you don't like people a cruise is not for you.  If you cannot be civil to the people ho re helping you and giving good service you do not belong on a ship.

I did go to the show after dinner last night and there was a comedian and needless to say, I slipped out as I wasn't laughing.  Mike and Diane caught me sneaking out and they were enjoying him.  Diane said I have never lived in the deep South so I did not appreciate his humor.  She is probably right.

Stay tuned.

I'm connected

This will be short but I did want to mention that facebook messages to me are not downloading once I am off line.  All other messages download so it will be best to write directly or comment on my blog if it isn't personal.  But, if you want everyone to know what you are saying you can comment here,

I got my luggage fast and my cabin was orgainzed before dinner.  But my head is not organized at all.  I have spent two weeks on this ship before but I am lost constantly.  It will take awhile to organize the brain.  I can't even blame it on a short term memory problem as it was quite awhile ago that I was on this ship with Dana and Zion.

I think I am going to enjoy my table and one guy, Bruce, wants me on his trivia team.  I guess my fame in knowing Rap groups has proceeded me.  That reference is really a joke as I got lucky with an answer to a rap question and I have never lived it down.  The other couple are really great and I notice the wife loves white wine.  I will eventually get their names in my brain.  One person didn't show so there were only four of us last night until Joan joined us after dinner.  She hated her table and changed to ours .  There were people sending food back and giving the boys a bad time.  Neither one of us like to do that and find it embarrasing to be around it so she will stick to our table.

So much catching up to do.  My good ship friend, Peggy, and I talked over breakfast for two hours catching up.  Many other ship acquaintances, friends and good friends.  At least 30 people are on in one of those categories.

Bruce has my same humor and he will be fun.  Joan and my friend, Joe, and his new partner, Tom,  are delightful and we sat with them at the Crows Nest before dinner.  Sue, another, ship friend joined us.  The reason I am mentioning some of these people by name as they will come up from time to time in future blogs.

Joan had really good news and it is about time.  She was upgraded free of charge from a veranda suite to a signature suite.  Beautiful and big and we will be having our parties up in her suite.  BUT, she didn't get her luggage until 6:30 and I had everything put away by 4:30.  They treat us serfs who reside on the Main deck better than the suite people.  Joan is now a suite people and I am very happy for her.

I will sign off for now.

Biding my Time

I am in a holding pattern right now.  Everything is crossed off my list except for the last minute packing.  I have nothing to do  and I am getting itchy and bitchy.   So that is why I am typing this totally unnecessary  blog.  

I am not looking forward to the flight to Miami and I have my fingers crossed that HAL will have. someone ready to get me to my hotel after I land.  I have not had good luck with this part of my trip.  Once it  took me almost as long to get to my hotel in Fort lauderdale after I landed as it took me from Seattle to Miami.  A driver that didn't know where she was going didn't help and she got lost on top.of everything   else.  Remember the Broward County election fiasco with hanging chads?  This driver was representative of those voters.  Need I Say more.

Next time I post I will be on the ship unless something notable happens before embarking.

Packing room

MY PACKING ROOM IS NOW CLEAN

AND MY LUGGAGE JUST WENT OUT 

THE DOOR WITH FEDEX.  I WILL BE

ON THE PRINSENDAM ON MARCH 11TH

TO SAIL THE MED AND BLACK SEA.

FOLLOW ALONG WITH ME ON

MY 55 DAY JOURNEY.                                                                                               

 

W

That was a successful post after much punching of unknown symbols so I will now try this again to see if the post is successful and smoothly created.

The Bag Lady is back.  I will board the Prinsendam on March 11th at Fort Lauderdale, Florida.  I am practicing using my new Apple I-Pad so I will be up and running when I board.  I am now going to post and see if I have figured out the system.