Land and Sea Travel, LLC Blog

MSC Seascape – Cruising out of Galveston, TX

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 02:11:22 GMT

MSC Seascape

- Cruising out of Galveston, TX

We had the opportunity to explore Galveston’s newest Cruise Terminal and the arrival of MSC Cruise lines to Galveston. Long a mainstay in Europe, this Italian line maintains its roots and is planting some new ones with this expansion. We are Land and Sea Travel® LLC and this is an introduction to MSC and its exceptional ship, the Seascape .

The Ship: MSC Seascape

The MSC Seascape marks MSC’s arrival at the Port of Galveston, sailing from the newly developed Pier 14, complete with a new parking deck. This very large ship accommodates up to 5,877 guests in 2,270 cabins, including a variety of floorplans and connecting cabins for larger family voyages. The ship features extensive sitting and dining areas, reminiscent of a city’s theatre and dining district, providing more space and options than typical cruise ships. Guests begin boarding near the multi-story Atrium, a soaring central space anchored by Seascape Reception, Guest Services, and a very large bar, with a stage above the bar on the next level, setting the tone for a grand embarkation experience.

Itineraries

Sailing Roundtrip from Galveston to the Western Caribbean on 5 Night or 7 Night Cruises, on cruises not adjusted for local conditions such as hurricanes and other itinerary changes, the MSC Seascape visits the following ports:

7-Night : Galveston, Texas - Costa Maya, Mexico - Isla de Roatan, Honduras - Cozumel, Mexico- Galveston, Texas

5-Night : Galveston, Texas - Costa Maya, Mexico - Cozumel, Mexico - Galveston, Texas

Cabins and Suites

The Seascape has a wide variety of cabin types to suit every traveler, from Deluxe Interior and Ocean-View cabins to Deluxe Balcony, Premium Aurea Suites, and Grand Aurea Suites. For discerning guests who wish to remain somewhat apart while enjoying the option to join the rest of the ship as desired, there is the Yacht Club, with its own categories of suites, and more private dining and pool or lounge spaces. The accessibility features of some categories of rooms are outstanding. Aurea cabins also have some exclusive other exclusive dining options. Each cabin is thoughtfully designed for comfort, style, and functionality.

Note: Cabins have European-style electrical controls that require putting your cabin card in the slot inside the cabin beside the door to activate the electricity in your room. When you leave, you need to remember to pull your card out and bring it with you, because the door will still be locked even if your card remains in the slot.

Shows & Entertainment

Entertainment is woven throughout the ship, with performances and live music available in multiple venues. The Chora Theatre serves as the main stage for featured shows, while Le Cabaret Rouge stages traditional variety shows with singing, dancing, and comedy. Guests can enjoy live music, pastries, and ice cream at Times Square , or relax in Liberty Plaza , a striking space highlighted by a stylized metal tribute to the Statue of Liberty. For those seeking gaming excitement, the MSC Signature Casino provides a lively environment for table games and slots, ensuring there’s something to entertain every guest throughout the day and evening (while at sea).

Dining Options

The Seascape has an exceptional range of dining experiences, designed to appeal to every taste while emphasizing comfort and connection. The ship’s restaurants feature subdued color palettes and rich textures, focusing attention on your dining companions and the cuisine rather than flashy decor. Buffet-style meals are served at the Marketplace Buffet and Restaurant , ideal for breakfast and lunch. For specialty dining, Butcher’s Cut and Chef’s Court within the restaurant showcase premium beef, while HOLA Tacos and Cantina brings casual Mexican flavors, and Ocean Cay Restaurant specializes in fresh seafood. Guests seeking Japanese cuisine can enjoy Kaito Teppanyaki or the Kaito Sushi Bar , the latter an open, circulating space with sushi selections.

Cabin-category exclusivity is offered in select venues such as Skyline Restaurant for Aurea guests, and the ship’s main dining rooms Cafe Jonda and Green Wave Restaurant serve relaxed full-service meals without sacrificing the subtle décor. Seating is European style with separate tables, but very close together, so they foster more direct communication with neighboring diners. The variety of options ensures that guests can alternate between casual and fine dining, themed experiences, and buffet options, all while enjoying thoughtfully presented dishes that match the quality of the surroundings. Desserts and presentation are emphasized, making each meal a complete sensory experience.

Shopping

Shopping is abundant on board, with a wide variety of stores for nearly every interest or need. Guests can browse photo and digital services, immersive galleries, fashion boutiques, accessories, perfumes and cosmetics, duty‑free finds, fine jewelry, art, watches, sunglasses, and more. The ship carries premium brands and luxury watch offerings – TimeVallée is highlighted among the onboard boutiques, noted for its focus on prestige - alongside other Italian and international labels. Onboard shopping with extended hours at sea allows guests the time to find that perfect gift or necessities.

Bars & Lounges

MSC Seascape offers an array of bars and lounges to suit every taste, from casual to sophisticated. Guests can unwind at the Seascape Bar, enjoy cocktails at Shine Bar, or sample fine wine at the Champagne & Wine Bar or the Wine Cellar . Additional options include the Sky Bar, Sports Bar, Cocktail Bar, the stylish Horizon Bar, and the Uptown Lounge, ensuring there’s always the perfect spot to relax, socialize, or toast the day’s adventures or one of life’s many celebrations – even if that’s with water, club soda, or something stronger.

Desserts, Snacks & Coffee

Venchi 1878 Chocolate Bar is the go-to destination for chocolate, ice cream, or hot chocolate. The Loft Café combines a coffee, music, bar, and a news-and-comedy club atmosphere, while Venchi 1878 Gelato brings authentic Italian gelato to guests seeking a sweet, refreshing dessert - but we’ll have to wait until our next visit to experience it - time was just too short… These indulgent treats and casual spots for a pick-me-up - appeal to many – others may call to you - there are choices.

Gathering & Novel Spaces

Explore, relax, or create memorable moments such as stopping in the Boulevard du Cabaret , a light-filled corridor that changes colors perfect for photos and balloon-effect simulations on the way to Le Cabaret Rouge . Guests can walk the Infinity Bridge on deck 8, an arched walkway over the water with stunning midship views, or the Bridge of Sighs higher on deck 16, a glass catwalk over the stern with dramatic views of the wake and decks below. The glass panoramic lifts at the stern provide ocean vistas while rising between decks. Creators can also record on the go in the Broadcasting Rooms , ensuring your content keeps up with your adventures.

Personal Care, Spa & Fitness

For health, relaxation, and rejuvenation, Deck 8 offers the MSC Gym powered by Technogym , equipped with everything needed for a full workout at sea. The Aurea Spa provides a full range of indulgent services, including individual and couples’ massages, thermal pools, hot rooms, a snow room, a beauty salon, and a nail salon. The Spa provides more space and amenities than typically found on other ships. A visit to the Barber Shop maintains grooming or preparing for an evening of rest and relaxation.

Pools & Activities Aboard

For guests seeking excitement and variety, the ship hosts a wide range of action-oriented activities. Sports enthusiasts can head to the MSC Sports Arena for tennis, five-a-side football, or basketball. Thrill-seekers will enjoy Robotron , a giant arm ride synchronized to music above the Marina Pool , where guests can also relax in the main pool, hot tubs, or enjoy drinks at the Marina Bar. Families and Aurea guests have exclusive spaces like the Top 19 Solarium while the Hall of Games provides entertainment for all ages. The Jungle Pool Lounge and Beach Bar combine indoor pool fun with a jungle-themed atmosphere and convenient poolside dining. At the stern, the Infinity Pool and Infinity Bar create a serene retreat where water appears to merge with the sunset - so stunning that this space was chosen for the MSC Seascape’s crew and company management’s inaugural Caribbean pre-sailing celebration out of Galveston.

Kids’ Amenities & Spaces

MSC Seascape offers a variety of age-specific spaces for children and teens to play, explore, and unwind. On Deck 18, the Kids Area provides a dedicated space for toddlers through teens to enjoy games and activities away from the crowds. Families can splash at Pirates Cove Water Park , a pirate ship-themed pool experience, or engage in light sports and fitness at the Hall of Games. These thoughtfully designed areas ensure fun, safe, and memorable experiences for young travelers.

The Yacht Club

This is best described as a “ship-within-a-ship experience” from Deck 16-20 in the bow, with restricted access to guests in this enclave’s cabins, the Yacht Club offers exclusive amenities and elevated service for discerning travelers while still providing full access to the rest of the ship. Guests enjoy private 24-Hour butler service, a dedicated restaurant, two reserved massage rooms in the Aurea Spa, and concierge services The The ONE Pool , solarium, and sundeck provide serene relaxation, while the MSC Yacht Club Grill and Bar offers casual dining and drinks. Families benefit from convenient proximity to kid spaces, making The Yacht Club both luxurious and practical for a complete cruise experience.

Pre- or Post-Cruise Stay

Galveston Island

It can enhance your cruise experience to book Pre- and Post-Cruise stays on Galveston Island to unwind and relax. Here are some of the highlights - see our Blog on Galveston Island Stay for more.

Galveston Beach and the Seawall District

These set the tone with wide stretches of sand, ocean breezes, and open Gulf views, paired with easy access to restaurants, shopping, hotels, attractions, and the island’s convention center. The area supports relaxed beach time, casual dining, bike paths, and an unhurried start or finish to a cruise, while the Pleasure Pier adds classic seaside amusement with a Ferris wheel, thrill rides, family attractions, and food, including water rides known for soaking riders and nearby walkways.

USS Texas (BB-35) and Texas Independence

The USS Texas (BB-35), the only surviving dreadnought battleship to serve in both World Wars, including D-Day, is located nearby. The San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site , where Texas won its independence, with preserved battlefield grounds and monuments tied to early American and Texas military history.

Historic Landmarks & Architecture

The Hotel Galvez , opened in 1911, is a historic beachfront hotel and Seawall landmark. Nearby, Sacred Heart Catholic Church is a designated historic site. The Strand Historic District features Victorian-era buildings, boutiques, museums, and restaurants reflecting Galveston’s role as a major Texas port.

Family Attractions & Indoor Experiences

Moody Gardens is a multi-faceted attraction with aquarium, rainforest, and science exhibits housed in its iconic glass pyramids, along with seasonal events.

Science & Space

NASA’s Johnson Space Center offers Mission Control tours (with advance planning) and a museum focused on U.S. human spaceflight.

Ports of Call

Your itinerary may vary and these highlights from ports of call are not intended as an exhaustive list of ways you might choose to explore each destination.

Costa Maya, Mexico

In Costa Maya, consider walking through Mayan archaeological sites such as Chacchoben , where pyramids, plazas, and ceremonial structures rise from the surrounding jungle. Take part in guided jungle walks or cycling routes near historical areas or spend time kayaking or paddleboarding on calm lagoons known for layered shades of blue. Round out the visit by stopping in small towns and craft markets to sample regional foods, see handmade goods, and learn about local history.

Isla de Roatán, Honduras

In Roatán, plan to snorkel or scuba dive along the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef , where clear water and close-to-shore reefs make time in the water a central activity. On land, consider ziplining across forested hills , joining guided mangrove or coastal boat tours , or visiting wildlife parks and botanical areas . Include stops at seaside villages and scenic viewpoints to see everyday island life and wide views over the coastline and reef.

Cozumel, Mexico

In Cozumel, start with reef snorkeling or drift diving , letting gentle currents carry you along coral formations and marine life. On land, consider visiting the Mayan site of San Gervasio , riding ATVs or e-bikes along coastal and jungle paths , or taking boat trips to shallow sandbars such as El Cielo , known for clear water and sea life. Spend time in San Miguel walking town squares, visiting churches and small museums, and enjoying waterfront paths that reflect the island’s maritime history.

Planning and Booking

We are available to assist you with travel planning and booking for this experience aboard the MSC Seascape, to Galveston, or to the Rivers of Europe, International Rail Travel, or Alaska. With over 30 years advising clients on a world of continually changing travel options, we at Land and Sea Travel ® LLC would love to help plan and book your next journey, family vacation, or group travel to the centers of historic and cultural roots – to walk where they walked and see for yourself.

Make it a Great Day!

Eileen

Land and Sea Travel ® LLC

Universal Studios Florida and Co-Nexion 30th Conference

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 18:18:05 GMT

Universal Studios Florida & Co-Nexion Conference 2025

Getting There

Our trip began with a non-stop Southwest Airlines flight from DFW to Orlando for the Co-Nexion 2025 Travel Convention , for extensive training, travel supplier meetings, and a celebration of Nexion’s 30th-anniversary.

The Hotel and Convention Center

Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando served as both our hotel and convention venue, and it proved to be an outstanding choice for travelers seeking comfort, convenience, and atmosphere. Upon landing, we took advantage of the dedicated shuttle service for Universal on-site resorts, making arrival smooth and effortless.

Our spacious king room overlooked the lagoon and water taxi dock, providing a calming view of boats gliding back and forth throughout the day. It struck an ideal balance between tranquility and proximity - quiet enough to recharge after long days yet fully connected to the energy of Universal Studios Florida .

One of Sapphire Falls’ most appreciated perks is its scenic water taxi, which offers what is arguably the most enjoyable and convenient transportation option to Universal CityWalk and the theme parks. The short boat ride across the lagoon feels less like transit and more like part of the vacation experience itself.

The resort is thoughtfully designed and expansive enough to host multiple large events simultaneously without ever feeling crowded. Guests have access to a resort-style pool with both shallow and deeper areas, a well-equipped fitness center, and welcoming common spaces that work equally well for relaxation or informal meetings.

Dining on property at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort is well supported. The resort features two primary restaurant options: Strong Water Tavern , which offers a relaxed, inviting atmosphere with larger, shareable tapas, appetizers and a well-curated drink menu – and downstairs, Amatista Cookhouse , an upscale relaxed full-service restaurant on site, which we unfortunately didn’t have time to experience during this stay but remains a convenient choice for guests seeking a sit-down dining option without leaving the resort. In addition, the on-site café proved invaluable during long convention days, reliably offering hot breakfasts, quality coffee, gelato, a variety of drinks, sandwiches, salads, and essential sundries.

Adding a light touch of charm is the occasional surprise character appearance. While not so frequent that it disrupts your plans, it’s just common enough to create memorable moments. During our stay, we unexpectedly ran into King Louie , familiar from Madagascar and other films as the leader of the lemurs, making a lobby appearance—an easy reminder that at Universal, the experience extends beyond the park gates. Character meet-and-greets, parades, and seasonal events are part of the story.

Overall, Loews Sapphire Falls Resort delivers a rare combination of resort tranquility, event-ready infrastructure, and seamless access to Universal Orlando’s attractions, making it an excellent choice for leisure travelers, families, and hosted events alike. We’re happy to work through this and other resort and park options with you to tailor your visit based on your available time, interests, and specific needs.

Co-Nexion Travel Convention and Training

The heart of the trip was a multi-day 30-year anniversary of the Co-Nexion Travel Convention and Training . Training days started well before 8 AM and typically ended around 5 PM. With so much packed into the schedule, breakfast and lunch often overlapped with seminars and travel supplier meetings if you lingered over a meal. Days were full of workshops, sessions, and meetings designed for Travel Advisors and agency owners. The long hours were intense, but the professional rewards were significant and meaningful.

During the convention, I was honored to receive the Circle of Excellence Award for the third year in a row, as well as the Eddie’s Choice Award , given to only one agent each year for identifying meaningful, actionable issues. Being selected out of thousands of agents was a true highlight.

Because the convention schedule allowed limited time in the parks, we stayed an extra night to enjoy more of Universal Studios, ensuring we could experience attractions and areas that would have otherwise been missed.

CityWalk – Gateway to Exploring the Parks

With approximately eight hours of free time spread across three days, our exploration of Universal Orlando’s parks was necessarily selective. While this was nowhere near enough time to experience everything, it was more than enough to appreciate the scope, energy, and variety that defines the destination.

All park time began with a scenic boat ride to dock at Universal CityWalk , the lively pedestrian corridor that connects the hotels to the parks. We started here on our first evening after arrival, using CityWalk as both an introduction and a convenient dining hub.

During our stay, we enjoyed meals at the Hard Rock Café , featuring a pink Cadillac complete with a “God is my co-pilot,” (from the Blues Brothers movie) and at Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville , where live music played the entire time we were seated to eat. We also treated ourselves to ice cream at The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen . Karaoke had to be skipped due to early mornings and packed schedules as did Antojitos authentic Mexican Food . CityWalk proved to be an easy, flexible option for dining and unwinding between meetings and park visits.

From CityWalk, guests pass the iconic rotating Universal Globe , then branch off toward either Universal Studios Florida or Universal Islands of Adventure. With the parks just a short walk or scenic boat ride from the resort, we made the most of each available window.

Due to the time required for the convention, we were very limited in getting to experience the live entertainment and nightlife options. And did I mention karaoke?

Universal Islands of Adventure

We began in Islands of Adventure , where the scale and motion of the park are immediately apparent. Our first ride was Skull Island: Reign of Kong , followed by time spent watching others brave Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls , where riders emerged thoroughly drenched after steep drops. Even while not riding, the park remains highly immersive rollercoasters thunder overhead, water rides splash nearby, and themed environments shift quickly as you move through the islands. The Jurassic Park River Adventure also fits in this section of the park near Kong.

The Marvel Super Heroes area of the park and The Incredible Hulk Coaster towers over all but Dr Doom's Fearfall , with attractions for Spiderman.

The Jurassic Park / Jurassic World area stood out for dinosaurs appeared at multiple points throughout the land, and we saw marquee attractions including high-speed VelociCoaster , which dominates the skyline. We also stopped at Burger Digs , located near the Jurassic Park Discovery Center for food and refuge during a rainstorm. One small but practical note for visitors: soda cups are barcoded, and once filled (even partially), refills are not permitted.

We also explored The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade , where guests lined up for Butterbeer while enjoying the richly detailed streets, shops, and castle views. There are several Harry Potter-themed areas spread across the parks , and we did not have time to visit them all on this trip. These are some spots to catch next time.

Even the decorative exteriors with monumental statues add to the experience in The Lost Continent , with ancient ruins and an interactive fountain. when entering Islands of Adventure or passing by the Mythos Restaurant , which is the 10-Time Winner #1 Theme Park Restaurant in the World” according to Theme Park Insider.

We also spent time in Seuss Landing , which offers a lighter, more whimsical contrast to the thrill-heavy areas of the park. Attractions included The Cat in the Hat , Caro-Seuss-el, One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish, and the elevated High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride , providing a relaxed, bird’s-eye view of the land.

Universal Studios - Daytime

Our visit to Universal Studios Florida was brief, as we started this day later than planned. We mostly completed a walk around the lagoon, passing through but not having time to stop. Highlights within the Universal Studios Park for a future visit include:

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Ministry of Magic , located near Diagon Alley. and the streets of Hollywood/Production
Diagon Alley / King’s Cross Station / Hogwarts Express - Connects Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Florida to Hogsmeade in Islands of Adventure, allowing rapid travel between the Wizarding Worlds.
Hollywood/Production Central - the entry area with attractions like Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon and themed shops.
Springfield - The Simpsons , with colorful streets, themed dining, and photo opportunities with the Simpsons characters.
Fast & Furious – Supercharged - high-speed thrill ride, complementing other action-oriented attractions.
Woody Woodpecker’s KidZone - rides and activities for younger guests.

Despite the limited time, the walk provided a sense of the scale, theming, and detail of the park, giving us a feel for its vibrant streets, shops, and character experiences.

Universal Studios - Private After-Hours Event

One evening, our convention host had arranged a private after-hours event inside Universal Studios , offering exclusive access once the park had closed to the general public. The event was centered in the New York area and Hollywood/Production Central , creating a lively yet uncrowded atmosphere.

The night began with a quick late-night bite at Minions Café, right inside the park, followed by a stop at the pizza shop near Revenge of the Mummy ride and the Blues Brothers stage. The evening featured live music at the Blues Brothers stage, dancing, and rides including Revenge of the Mummy and Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon , all accessible without the usual crowds.

As we exited the park, we encountered a giant robot outside Transformers: The Ride – 3D , providing a perfectly eccentric and memorable end to the night - an experience that felt distinctly Universal.

Other Universal Park Experiences in Orlando

Universal Studios has several additional experiences outside the parks we visited that we didn’t get to include and remain for a future trip:

Epic Universe – A NEW (for 2025) park requiring a separate ticket and reachable via shuttle or private transport. Major features include:
Super Nintendo World , based on these classic video game characters
Universal Monsters like Dracula, Frankenstein, and others...
DreamWorks Animation land featuring Shrek, Kung Fu Panda,...
Additional rides, experiences and lands from Universal’s storytelling.

Universal Volcano Bay Water Park ’s vast water park experience, reachable via shuttle from CityWalk or by car, where you can find the Krakatau Aqua Coaster, Ko’okiri Body Plunge, and more!

VIP or behind-the-scenes tours – Available at Universal Studios Florida or Islands of Adventure; guided tours begin at designated park locations and provide limited-access insights into attractions and operations.

Orlando and other Regional Activities

Had we been able to stay longer, there was so much more to explore in Orlando and nearby attractions from high-energy theme parks to educational, natural, and more relaxed excursions - making it a destination that rewards both first-time visitors and repeat travelers.

Kennedy Space Center and Museum - For those interested in science and history, a day trip to the Kennedy Space Center and Museum at Cape Canaveral is must-see. This experience offers an incredible look at NASA’s launch facilities and the history of U.S. space exploration, though this requires advance reservations.

SeaWorld Orlando - Combines marine life encounters with large-scale attractions and roller coasters, offering a mix of educational exhibits and thrill rides suitable for a full day visit.

Discovery Cove - A limited-capacity, all-inclusive experience focused on relaxation and close-up animal encounters, including snorkeling, lagoons, and curated nature experiences. Reservations are required well in advance.

Walt Disney World Resort - While often treated as a separate destination, many vacationers choose to combine Universal and Disney experiences, either with a single-day visit or as part of a longer stay. We can help coordinate ticketing, transportation, and pacing between the two resorts based on your priorities.

Other nearby attractions - The Greater Orlando area also offers nature parks, airboat and water adventures, cultural sites, and unique local experiences that extend beyond traditional theme parks and can be added to a customized itinerary.

In Summary

The trip blended thorough professional development with theme-park fun, food adventures, and memorable moments. From early-morning training and industry awards to rollercoasters, wizarding worlds, and after-hours dancing in the park, it was an energizing mix of achievement and adventure. We have so much more to experience and look forward to our return – like karaoke (or not).

Call Out

As Travel Advisors, we are available to help plan your vacation for solo travelers , couples , families , friends , reunions , or clubs from a world of travel options within your budget. You don’t have to navigate this alone, which can be reassuring in both finding and deciding on an adventure or relaxation, and when you need assistance away from home . Whether it is Universal Studios and Loews Sapphire Resort , Orlando parks and attractions, a Cruise and Rail tour of Alaska , a gentle European River Cruise through history, a round-the-world-cruise , or an expedition cruise , we are here to help to make your next dream adventure a reality!

New York Stay and Princess Cruise: New York, Bermuda, and Caribbean (almost)…

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 19:39:49 GMT

New York Stay and Princess Cruise: New York, Bermuda, and Caribbean (almost)…

Getting There…

To New York…

Flew from DFW into LaGuardia Airport on American Airlines and took a cab into Midtown to our hotel, the Thompson Central Park. What was surprising is that at the airport, the next cab in line was told to move and we were moved over to a cab that had just bypassed the whole line – and that cab didn’t have a working card reader but the fare was $85 cash from LaGuardia to our hotel in Midtown near Central Park (not stated upfront). Not quite sure what happened there – but it was very irregular.

New York, New York

The Thompson Central Park - Hotel in New York

We stayed one pre-night before the cruise in the Thompson Central Park Hotel (next to Carnegie Hall). Thompson at 7 ^th Avenue and 56 ^th Street and is considered to be a part of “Midtown”. This was a great hotel – very quiet considering all of the activity on the street below – and there as a little bit of a view. The King bed was very comfortable and the room was decorated like someone lived there. The shower was – amazing. Never had to select the floor before getting into the elevator before, but it worked – seemed to take less time to get the right car. Also, the upper floors are apparently penthouses, apartments, or condos in many buildings. Not sure if that was the case here – but that was a little surprising.

New York Subway

The front desk provided a map of the subway system to get “Downtown” toward the southern end of Manhattan. The subway was very convenient to reach the 9/11 memorial. Riding the subway from 57th street and 7th Avenue (which is “Midtown”) we got off at Courtland Street (This is “Downtown”), right by the 9/11 memorial and in front of St Paul’s Chapel (of Trinity Church). All those local to New York, from the Thompson Hotel front desk to others cruise passengers from New York, warned about getting on the subway past rush hour but never at night due to safety concerns – just don’t do it – and to stay in Manhattan on the R or W line. We could hop on the subway at 57th street and 7th Avenue (our hotel was between 56 ^th and 57 ^th Streets). The system ties a person to a debit or credit card used and apparently allows for a single one-time bill for the day (I’d have to check receipts to confirm this – but other locals confirmed that it “should” work). And then, we were on our way.

St Paul’s Chapel

We started by visiting St Paul's Chapel, which is famous today as the “little Chapel that stood” on 9/11 when a now famous sycamore tree shielded the church and historic graveyard from destruction. In the cleanup from 9/11, it became a stopping point for those working on the towers to recover in body and spirit. Some of the patches from various departments of different types of emergency services from around the country are displayed here - given by those serving to those praying for and serving those responders. A bell was donated by the City of London after 9/11 to symbolized their mutual support.

However, the Chapel’s original fame is from our founding as a nation. Congress met under the Constitution for the first time at Federal Hall on Wall Street (by the New York Stock Exchange), and there President George Washington took the oath of office and confirmed it with “So help me God” on the balcony and delivered his inaugural address to Congress in the Senate chamber inside. Following this, President Washington, Congress, and all senior officials, following the official schedule of events directed by Congress, which was in session, proceeded directly to St. Paul’s Chapel to pray, with selected readings from the Anglican Book of Common Prayer, omitting passages where the King of England had established himself as head of the Church and modified tenants of faith – traced to the roots of the condition of the Puritan’s movement to these shores.

This marked the peaceful transition from the Articles of Confederation to the Constitution, by the People exercising their rights under the Declaration of Independence to better protect the self-evident and unalienable Rights as the Declaration acknowledged. This service in the Chapel was to show the law was dependent on the Creator for authority and to show gratitude and a prayer for blessings. https://wallbuilders.com/resource/americas-religious-heritage-as-demonstrated-in-presidential-inaugurations/

9/11 Memorial

Visiting the two large pools is sobering with the new tower looming over it all. Engraved stones surround each pool with the names of those who lost their lives on that day, and one section covers those on Flight 93 and the Pentagon . What was surprising was the short distance from City Hall and the City Emergency services just across a block or two past St Paul’s Chapel , making the response faster – but those NYPD and NYFD first responders going up into the towers were close. It’s a period of reflection – and of appreciation for their resolve.

One World Tower - at the World Trade Center.

Dining by the Hotel

We returned on the subway to the hotel for the evening and ate dinner across the street in Antonio's Pizza for a New York pizza cooked in a coal-fired oven. In the morning, we started the day eating at Acadia, a wonderful Mediterranean restaurant on the corner of 57th Street and 6 ^th Avenue. Great subdued decor - light and airy - with an amazing breakfast and terrific service.

Getting on Board our Ship in Brookland (Redhook Cruise Terminal)

Cab from the Hotel to the Cruise Ship

From there we took a cab down to the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal (what locals call the “Redhook” terminal for the neighborhood where the terminal is located). This was right by the Atlantic Basin, where a local ferry docks. Having the Princess Medallion shipped to your home before boarding saves a lot of time. There is a special line if you already have a Medallion and that saved about 20 minutes or more. It’s still the standard passenger screening, but the line is shorter. From there, we boarded our ship and as the sign says when leaving Brooklyn up the escalator to the ship, “Fuhgeddaboudit”.

The Island Princess

The Island Princess is the original “Love Boat”, which was made famous by the TV series of the same name but has been refurbished so that it seems both comfortable and modern. This is a mid-size ship, between smaller and huge vessels, so it feels more comfortable, and we seemed to encounter the same couples more often than on other similar sized ships, which was more a matter of shared interests than the ship size... You see the people who tend to share your interests (and dining times). All started as you might expect – to topside pool party with dancing, and one such a bright and clear day, plenty of photos of the city. We’ll cover more on the ship in a bit. Now, a weather update…

Welcome Aboard - Change of Itinerary

Hurricane Erin

We had been watching Hurricane Erin in the Caribbean make some unpredictable moves around the Northern Caribbean. Shortly after boarding, at the pool party to celebrate sailing, the announcement was made that we would not be able to safely sail to the Northern Caribbean to Turks and Cacaos, the Bahamas, or Puerto Rico - but were planning to sail to Bermuda. Some chose to sail on a later cruise while others debarked to their homes nearby and would return when we sailed.

While some were disappointed, we had an opportunity to stay in New York. Princess had made a sound decision based on experience and we fully supported and appreciated it. Itineraries can change based on some factors and weather is one of these. As the situation developed, conditions would be reviewed when the forecasts were updated.

Credits were issued by Princess with a Future Cruise Credit (FCC) of 50% of what each passenger paid to be applied for another cruise and cancelled shore excursions were automatically credited. Guests who stayed on board were also provided with a non-refundable $250 in onboard credit for this trip only.

Staying in New York

The Central Atrium and Eileen taking a spin on the wheel. We remained on the ship in the evenings, going into the city for the day and returning for dinner. We settled into this pattern while we remained docked in New York

New York - Times Square and tickets to a Broadway Show

Times Square

Now, since we were staying in New York for a few more days, the Princess crew created some shore excursions to get those who wanted to visit Times Square or take a free Ferry from right beside the dock over to the Wall Street Ferry. On our first day in port, we opted for a ride to Times Square and were dropped off by the Marriott on 42nd Street. Bright lights, huge advertisements, unmistakable.

Buying Show Tickets (by the Statue of Father Duffy)

On arriving, we walked with our new cruise passenger friends from Alabama over to the line to the right of the monument to Father Duffy to buy tickets to Broadway and off-Broadway shows. These shows are displayed on a tall red board with times listed for available shows. A few people were available to describe different shows and with some show flyers. The ticket booth is to the left of this board, and it seemed to take about an hour or so as the line built up waiting for ticket sales to open. As we waited in line, it started misting or drizzling on and off. Eileen held our spot in line while I walked across the street and bought an umbrella and a New York Yankee's poncho. (I did ask for a Brooklyn Dodgers one if it they had it - which got a big laugh).

A bite to eat at Carve before the Show

Since those we were with were all seeing the same show on Broadway, we all went to get something to eat together and with tickets in hand, headed to Carve, a diner recommended by locals for lunch. This was just down the street from the ticket booth. Sandwiches and Parfait were the order of the day and at a very reasonable price.

Broadway Play (The Golden Theater – Operation Mincemeat)

We saw "Operation Mincemeat" at the Golden Theater (On-Broadway), beside the Marriott. This play was hilarious and the singing and acting top-notch covering drama in one of the intelligence coups of WWII, where a man dressed as a British officer was handcuffed to a suitcase with false plans to divert enemy troops away from Sicily to Sardinia for the Allied invasion of Sicily. It worked and was a true story. While all the actors/actresses played multiple roles, one actor proved the power of acting near the end of the show by simply removing or putting on his glasses and it was if a completely different person were now standing in the same space. He did it again to prove the point - wow.

Now, it seems like this is the thing to do in New York as every single person asked if we had seen a play and then wanted to be clear if it was on-Broadway or off-Broadway – then our assessment if it was any good or worth seeing. Some others had different opinions (but had seen different plays), but when we told them what we’d seen, they echoed that they had loved it.

Bus Pickup to Return to the Ship

After the play, we returned to the pickup point our driver had noted, but the Marriott had asked them to move on from 42 ^nd Street to not block their entrance, so they shifted to the other side of the Marriott on 41 ^st Street. We had seen one of our buses as we exited the Golden Theater but figured we’d just missed it and that bus was on the way back and we’d have to catch the next one. No - that was the one. So, we essentially just walked around the block to get to the bus that was right there. Our new friends spotted the shift, and we caught the bus, which whisked us off to the ship just as the rain picked up. I (Mike) needed the exercise anyway.

Princess Shipboard for the Evening

Wall Street Ferry - Midtown 5 ^th Avenue - Notable Buildings - Staten Island Ferry

Ferry to Wall Street Ferry Terminal (Redhook pickup at the end)

The next day, we took the ferry over to the Wall Street ferry pier with some other new friends from New Jersey who worked in NYC. They gave us the basics of the bus system, like the "M" being for Manhattan and escorted us up to Midtown at 57 ^th St and 5th Avenue and we parted ways as they continued to their destination. I’m not entirely sure they expected us to be seen again, but off we went.

Midtown 5 ^th Avenue (Trump Tower, Churches, St Patrick’s Cathedral)

We stopped at the Trump Tower - what we later found was one of many such buildings carrying the Trump name in NYC and had lunch at a great price compared to what we had been seeing. It was a reminder that New York has provided many Presidents to the US and although not born there, our first President, George Washington led the Country from New York City.

Then we walked south, past the 5th Avenue Presbyterian Church, then the St. Thomas Church (Episcopal), where we stopped and listened to a great sermon over on the side.

We continued to St. Patrick's Cathedral. From our other blogs, we have seen some of the great churches of Europe and St. Patrick’s Cathedral fits right in with style, but the lighting is much brighter – so some of the details are much clearer and in contrast – but each Cathedral, Basilica, and Church is beautiful and unique in its own way.

There was an exhibit at St Patrick’s that day to highlight one of the problems, drug addiction, that have taken so many lives earlier than expected and among family members of those victims, were tourists viewing the stained glass, the statues, and the sweeping arches. It was surreal and a reminder of change to see the contrast of the elevating surroundings, the pain, surrender, and the comfort all at once in groups of tourists, visitors, and parishioners sharing this space for a time.

Rockefeller Center, Subway to the South Ferry Terminal

From there we went looking and found the Top of the Rock and Radio City Music Hall, stopping for coffees and a chocolate pastry at Gregory’s. We also checked Rockefeller Center, where the ice rink is for the winter before taking the subway at 49 ^th .

Being a little more familiar with how the subway worked on the R &W lines from our pre-night. But here, there was no Transit system agent – it was also where we found that not every exit has accessible access to the street level – and most stations have exits on the 4 corners of the street – if you’re on the wrong one, you’re just going to have to re-orient and use the surface crosswalks. At this time of day, it was very sparse. We went from 49 ^th Street down the R line to the Whitehall Street to the South Ferry stop. Just kept walking East toward the water and eventually the signs guided us to the Staten Island Ferry.

South Ferry Terminal – Staten Island Ferry

The Ferry to Staten Island was free, and we waited with everyone to jump on the ferry and pick our spot. The sun had returned, so we got some good pictures cruising past the Statue of Liberty – given the digital zoom limitations of our cell cameras. The ferry was crowded, and most of the passengers seemed to be there for the ride past the Statue of Liberty rather than commuting.

When we exited the ferry, we found a monument to the WWII Coast Guard just to the right. Considering how many ships and material left NY Harbor for Europe in WWII and the activity of submarines, the important and costly sacrifice of the Coast Guard – and Merchant Marine – can’t be overstated in our success. It’s just a reminder of how important NY has been in US history even with all the other history made here.

Return to South Ferry Terminal (with nearly everyone else)

After arriving on Staten Island - we rushed over to get on the ferry returning to the South Ferry Terminal in Manhattan. The Transit officials had a great time with it – getting everyone to hustle because the next ferry was about to leave – had to smile at it. “Run!”

Wall Street, Trinity Church, Federal Hall, New York Stock Exchange, Trinity Church

After a walk up toward Wall Street we could see Trinity Church and as we approached, we could see the front of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) on Broad Street. This was surprising, because you hear about the Stock Exchange being on Wall Street – but that side is not the iconic photo with columns that ends up in pictures – that’s the Broad Street view.

It’s hard to imagine Trinity Church visible further west on Wall Street being the tallest building in the city for a time, as it’s dwarfed by skyscrapers today. It still looms large in history.

Federal Hall, where the Congress met after the Constitution was ratified and the Electoral Votes for George Washington’s election, and was administered the oath of office that sits over on the other side of Wall Street from the NYSE and between them at the end of Wall Street is Trinity Church.

Ferry back to the Ship

As we were now getting closer to our seating time for dinner, we headed to the Wall Street Ferry Terminal down the hill. After waiting for a short time, we found we were mixed in with commuters using ferries to other location and our stop was a special being run at the end of the pier to the Redhook Ferry stop in the Atlantic Basin – directly next to where our ship at dock 12. One thing – these ferries move quickly – it seems you might be able to waterski off one – certainly off the Fast Ferry we saw churning up that water.

We did not opt for the Tenement Museum, while others did and expressed their appreciation for the presentation of the conditions and personal histories presented.

Princess Shipboard for the Evening

Our time in New York was now coming to an end. With the delay from Hurricane Erin, we could not reach ports in the Northern Caribbean – so Turks and Cacaos and Puerto Rico were going to have to wait for a later trip – but we were now sailing out of NY Harbor at 8AM the next day… for an extra Day in Bermuda.

Leaving New York Harbor

The Island Princess - the "Love Boat"

Our Cabin

Eileen picked a cabin toward the aft (rear) by the elevators and stairs and it was perfect. The cabin was an upgrade to Two decks down where the exercise area or directly to the theater in the bow. One or two decks down and we could walk though through the ship from Stern to Bow.

Ship Experiences

We took advantage of the dance lessons and found the teaching method created and taught by the Cruise Director, Jason, to be quite simple and effective. Some dances we caught on sea days were the Merengue and the Bachata, but we missed the Tango and Rumba. We could have used more time with similar music after the instruction just to reinforce that learning.

Athletics and Contests

The well-equipped gym was two floors down, with weights, machines, treadmills, and a convenient filtered water dispenser to refill your workout bottle. Being on a lower deck, there was a lot less motion in the gym that would be felt a little more strongly on larger ships with the gym near the top deck forward.

Other amenities included a large spa and solarium and a pool, more forward with movie screen and musical events periodically.

There were various games lined up by the crew and one of these was an indoor putting contest. We also tried the shuffleboard up top and there is a basketball court for those so inclined.

Bible Study

In the mornings at sea, there were opportunities to participate in Bible Study. We were blessed to meet two new friends from Alabama who brought a bag full of Bibles and copies of words for four great songs for everyone. They had been going through Philippians and so we picked up there, and on Sunday, lacking a pastor, and with many coming for the first time wanting more of a service than a study, Mike had prepared just in case to lead the service on chapter 3 – very humbling and grateful.

Dining

Let’s just say we did not have the standard dining experience. As Mike started telling the wait staff about his list of allergies – the wait staff called over their manager, and the head of the wait staff, Magdelana, came over and asked if we’d like to stay at that one table for the rest of the cruise so she could make sure there were not any challenges. Each day, Magdelana would pull up her ‘laptop’ – a writing pad - and take my order separately. As fitting a Texan, pretty much anything from a cow - beef, milk, and cheese - are Mike’s menu – and so it was. Eileen had a great server as well – very professional yet friendly and we were both very happy with our service and the food in the main dining area 7PM seating in the “Bordeaux” dining room, table 120. This time we did not go overboard with photos, but the entrees from Lamb, Fillet Mignon, and a variety of salads were as great as the desserts. Usually, we would go to the buffet on a cruise, but the food and service were terrific in the main dining room, and we returned night after night. The “laptop” was still funny each day.

One thing – I (Mike) thought the coffee in the buffet area was great. Not being a connoisseur of coffee take my opinion for what it’s worth, but I’ve tried a few and like more of a light roast without much bitterness and adding enough cream to make butter – so there was a faint trace of coffee in the cup. But there was plenty of cream – which is usually in limited supply elsewhere.

Between the buffet for breakfast and lunch, and pizza and ice cream snack counters out by the pools, and a grill, we did not go hungry. Breakfast at the buffet was perfect and trying to stay on a higher protein diet, it had what I needed. But the ice cream snack bar was playing my song.

Two specialty restaurants, the Crown Grill and Sabatini’s, Italian dining, were available to those looking for different culinary experiences and more intimate settings.

New York to Bermuda - Two days at sea

Sailing to Bermuda on calm seas - once again grateful for the decision to stay in New York and not take a risk on Hurricane Erin.

Bermuda

Arriving in Bermuda

As we pulled into Bermuda, two cruise ships docked, but one was departing as we arrived and that ship was departing the berth. As our ship maneuvered in the shallows near the dock, sand from the bottom swirled around in the water – increasing the range of colors and highlighting how that turquoise waters appear with the sands under the water.

We arrived next to the Marina where various charters, water taxis, and catamaran cruises regularly depart. This is a short distance from the Royal Navy Dockyards and the shops. There are some high-end shops for pottery and jewelry and various levels of clothing (and hats) depending on your tastes – but more formal attire, Hamilton, as the capital, is your best bet.

Driving and Traffic Warning

One warning here – this is the UK, so they drive on the wrong side of the road (if you’re American – or from pretty much anywhere else). So, if you’re crossing the street, stop – wait - look twice and pay attention to which lane the driver is in. (Please)

Sunset Catamaran Cruise

There was little time given our arrival time to remain in the port for shopping for now, and we had to get ready for the catamaran trip. So, we boarded and changed to take a quick sunset catamaran tour around the Dockyard area to catch the view near some picturesque, wooded rocks silhouetted by the setting sun. While drinks are included – we opted for waters and other had stronger liquids as we cruised past the docked Cruise ships and out toward a spot to see the setting sun.

On the return, the crew even put up some sail rather than just the engine as we had been going against the wind. As we returned, the lighting from the boat, the dockyards, and the ships, made for some great memories.

Night Aboard the Ship

Next Morning

Mini-bus tour of the Island.

The tour does cover some of the high points of the island, but also some history – and Bermuda has a rich history that ties into US history – after all we both started out as British possessions – and then we parted ways. We had originally chosen one tour but were interested in the other tour as well – we did back-to-back tours on different mini-buses, and each driver added different flavor and stories the other did not. So key point - you might not hear everything on the first visit.

It is no exaggeration to call Bermuda a series of islands joined by bridges with churches among homes on the middle ground with resorts to demarcate the land from the sea and forts on high ground. Offshore there are coral reefs everywhere and these contributed to a great number of wrecks – many accidental – but as land-based pirates will do, some were ships lured in with lights in the wrong places for safe navigation so pirates could row out and loot (I mean salvage) the cargo. Much of the higher ground on the island have forts or observation or navigational aids - such as a lighthouse or two. (notice the white roofs on every house)

Bermuda Government

Bermuda is under a Royal Governor from the UK, not a President. Even though it is a part of the UK, immigration is extremely restricted, requiring being descended from a citizen of the island or marrying a citizen. A limited number of skilled professionals are permitted to immigrate as well and as a guide indicated are usually medical professionals. Wealth does not buy citizenship or residency, and Bermuda famously publicizes their rejection of those who act as if their wealth buys them access.

Bermuda Churches

Bermuda has the highest ratio of churches per capita, and these are quite evident all around the island – in walking distance in essence from anywhere. Many of these have above-ground crypts for families, many of which go back more than 300 years or more for original settlers. Some examples are seen here. Once you come, you stay, and so does your family.

In Hamilton, the National Art Gallery can be found on Church Street, and just beyond it past the main island bus terminal is the Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity, a magnificent stone structure in regular use. One thing to note is that this is not that far from the waterfront, but you do have to move with a purpose if you’re viewing the interior and trying to get back to the tour.

Bermuda Business

While tourism is a major part of the economy, it is the insurance industry that dominates the Bermudan economy and that is centered in Hamilton. However, in smaller businesses, it did not take long for Bermuda to ban franchise businesses from the island – there is a KFC in Hamilton, and it is the ONLY chain restaurant because it was grandfathered in under the law and allowed to operate after the ban. If you don’t see familiar restaurant names, or a Scoops, Mr. Chicken, etc... that is the reason and now you know it.

View of the harbor in Hamilton. For a longer time to explore Hamilton, consider finding an alternative ride (bus or ferry from Hamilton to the Royal Navy Dockyard).

Bermuda Homes

One interesting point about living on the island is that there is no central water supply. All the roofs on the island are coated with lime to decontaminate rainwater – which is stored in an underground cistern on the same property. There are no exceptions to this, and even public buildings collect water. When the rain comes, the cistern on the property gets filled but drains in the dry season and resupply is expensive. But when a hurricane knocks out power – it doesn’t have the same impact. Still, it’s very different from other places that don’t collect rainwater and need reservoirs or some other storage or freshwater source.

Another interesting note about these homes. Houses often have brilliant colors or faded colors rather than white. Limestone is prevalent on the island, so it is used for building, but limestone will allow water to soak through, so they coat the exterior with hardened clay (for pigmented waterproof seal), but the sun bakes out the color over time. A deeper pigment indicates a newer coat. These colors are also used in churches, but some are also finished in all white.

Bermuda Beaches and Golf

Golfing is a very popular way to spend a vacation in Bermuda if you are staying longer or just for the day. , With Golf Courses – such as the Pro Tour and world-renowned Port Royal or Tucker's Point courses, or the many the golf resorts - it is a major draw.

At several points, we stopped for photos of beaches where you could spend the day, such as Half Moon Bay, or a pink sand beach. Bermuda's beaches are also a major attraction on the warm sands.

Return to the Ship for the Night

Entryway to the Royal Naval Dockyards grounds.

Last Day in Bermuda

Different Mini-bus Tour

The next day we went ashore for a different Mini-bus Tour of the Island – with many forts and more history of the island. During both tours, some aspects of the history of Bermuda were shared and is is aggregated for clarity. So some may appear on day 1 that is additional detail from this day.

St George’s

This town on the Northeast side of the island was the first settlement on the island and here are a number of forts and churches and is centered around the ocean and ferry terminal. The walking portion of this St Georges started at the Marina and a park contains a statue to Sir George Somers and a canon. To be fair, there are canons everywhere on Bermuda.

Historic St Peter’s Church was established in St George’s in 1612, and is the oldest Protestant Church in continuous use in this hemisphere. As it was a little warm, we walked down and had some ice cream at yo Cherry, and then returned to continue the tour.

Also in St George’s is an unfinished Church, and Fort Victoria, where the great gunpowder plot that resupplied colonial forces from British Naval gunpowder stores took place. Following around the coast you pass Fort St Catherine and The St Regis Bermuda Resort, before passing again through St George’s.

National Aquarium and Zoo

Our next stop was the aquarium and zoo. Yes – there are other options for seeing what’s living under the water – but we were not prepared for snorkeling or diving. From a shark, rays, some glittering fish and outside a tank for seals – yes – seals, (my favorite was the barracuda because I can’t recall ever seeing one before - but Eileen has seen them in the water).

From there, we walked across to the adjoining zoo. Flamingos, Galapagos Tortoises. Parrots, and Alligators and a few other exhibits completed this stop, with a short lecture not that far down the road from our driver and guide. We stayed up on the porch out of the sun and talked with one of the locals.

Shipwrecks

Shipwrecks were both a risk and windfall from the many reefs. After one such wreck, the Sea Venture, Bermuda became the rescuer of the colony at Jamestown, Virginia. Those marooned had to build two vessels (very small vessels) from the wreckage and native trees and arrived in time with supplies from the hogs and plants on the island to save the Jamestown colony from famine and destruction. On hearing of the pleasant conditions on the island and lack of any inhabitants, England decided to construct a colony there.

Royal Navy Dockyard Museum and Self-Guided Tour.

Museum - Early Island History

The tour returned and we stopped before re-boarding the ship to take a tour of the Royal Naval Dockyard . There is a separate admission fee. We visited the museum, and it covered the early inhabitation of the island – unlike other settlements, there were no inhabitants at the time the first British ships arrived. But given its strategic location, England found the spot irresistible, many touting the plentiful food on the island after timidly approaching from the very loud screeching of millions of birds and believing the island to be cursed or worse.

Their curiosity satisfied that the island was safe, farming grew up as an industry, but it was the Royal Navy that built the islands – yes – there are a lot of islands that make up Bermuda and just from maps, it seems the Royal Navy determined to put a fort nearly everywhere one would fit with a decent line of sight to ship approaches or any place enemy forces might land. The many reefs around the island had made it a cottage industry to try to get crews to wreck and loot the cargos.

The Royal Naval Dockyards Grounds

On the grounds are pools fed by the ocean and a dolphin show is part of the attraction – where for some extra mount, there is a close encounter. We instead opted for a walk up the hill to see some of the fortifications and the large building at the top. As these are largely coastal artillery forts, there is a display and history of the Bermudan defense forces being called into service by the British during WWI in particular for their artillery skills. But there were other types of service.

One curiosity was a “jail” where the prisoners essentially lived at the bottom of a grotto in the center of the camp – there was water, but no roof except some overhanging rocks and from the remainder of the trip, those white rooftops were not there – so the water may or may not have been disinfected in the jail – if there was rain recently.

Apart from the defensive walls, barracks, storehouses and command headquarters, there are numerous examples of the cannons and artillery guarding the island from its founding. As noted elsewhere, Bermuda is an island of forts with overlapping defensive coverage from many positions. Combined with the reefs channeling anyone attempting to come ashore into very small approaches, no one has attempted to take Bermuda.

A (very) Brief Early Military History - the US and UK

Bermuda was the source of gunpowder that saved the US War of Independence at a critical point. The story gets a little wild from there – in that the Americans traded food for the locals to grab gunpowder out of the British magazines and row it out to waiting ships. We were fairly resourceful it seems. There remains a monument to the location of that place where the pilfered gunpowder was stored near the town of St. George at Fort Victoria.

But just as the island provided safety to America, Bermuda became the assembly point for the fleet of British warships that launched attacks on the US in the War of 1812 – including Fort McHenry where the National Anthem was written – by the rockets’ red glare… for the troops that burned the White House, and for those that attacked New Orleans. The War ended – well – it technically ended even before the Battle of New Orleans , and then we returned to peace.

Eventually, the US and England became allies and Bermuda’s strategic location made it important to US defense well into the Cold War and the US Navy built up the ground and runways for patrolling the waters around the island. The current LF Wade Airport essentially covers the decommissioned US Navy airfield constructed out of separate islands.

Crystal Caves

Our 2 ^nd mini-bus tour also included a trip to the Crystal Caves . Often you think of caves as cold places – cooler than the air above. This was shocking, but the cave was considerably warmer than the air temperature outside, or maybe I just didn’t like being underground and my heart rate warmed me up (Mike). Either way – others noted the same effect. Two boys playing cricket had discovered the cave on someone else’s property searching for a lost ball. Eventually, a boat was put in the cave and visitors had to climb down a rope onto the boat to see the cave. A floating pontoon bridge allows visitors to walk from one end to the other (where a human fits anyway), and lights were added – giving better pictures and to show how deep the water in the cave can be. If something goes in the water, it stays in the water.

Two boys playing cricket had discovered the cave on someone else’s property searching for a lost ball. Eventually, a boat was put in the cave and visitors had to climb down a rope onto the boat to see the cave. A floating pontoon bridge allows visitors to walk from one end to the other (where a human fits anyway), and lights were added – giving better pictures and to show how deep the water in the cave can be. If something goes in the water, it stays in the water.

Return to the Ship for Departure

View of the Island Princess docked at King's Wharf from the top of the Royal Naval Dockyards command headquarters.

Bermuda to New York - Two days at sea

Ship Experiences (Shows)

The shows were heavy on music and there was a show where the talented singers and dancers really hit the mark - the show "Encore" and "On the Bayou" were audience hits.

Other performances also entertained in the evening. Piano player and vocal entertainer Kory Simon wowed the crowd that gathered to hear him play in the main atrium and was universally appreciated with great audience engagement. Other entertainers and groups shared this space at different times and in the evening, there were several places to catch some entertainment. Entertainers and musicians Chris Lash and Dan Middleditch brought high energy performances to the theater. Even in Karaoke there were several talented passengers who provided very high-level vocal talent and the sing-off before returning stunned the crowd in the Explorer Lounge with some noting “It was a real show”.

An amazing piano player, Kory Simon, had an accident onshore and had to stay in Bermuda. Everyone was singing his praises prior to this and singing along to his playing in the central hall amidship. Pray for Kory. It's a reminder that even on vacation, travel insurance might be needed for medical care and evacuation back home. Ask about this as benefits may vary and the cost of getting home can be very high.

Morning arrival in New York Harbor

As we passed under the bridge at the harbor entrance, we were preparing. Bags were already set to go off before up (picked up the night before – as is usual). But as we had a later flight, our departure was much later so we waited in the Explorer Lounge after breakfast.

Transfer to LaGuardia Airport (bus)

Really happy someone else was doing the driving here – I’d never seen so many yellow/orange taxis in one place – it seemed like two decks of cabs, 4-6 lanes wide for more than a half-mile total. Somehow after circling twice, the bus driver found a spot to let us out all the while getting pressured to leave right then – we helped with luggage, and it all went quickly – then we settled in for the long layover for our return home.

Most Frequently Asked Questions by Travelers

Sat, 09 Aug 2025 22:45:17 GMT

Here are the Answers to you Questions!

Most Frequently Asked Questions by Travelers

As a travel advisor, I've compiled a list of the most common questions asked by those planning to travel, based on insights from various travel experts, advisors, and search trends. These are drawn from popular sources like Conde Nast Traveler, TravelPulse, and others, focusing on practical concerns for both first-time and experienced travelers. I've grouped them into categories for clarity and provided brief, actionable advice for each. This can help you anticipate traveling needs and be prepared for your upcoming vacation. We here at Land and Sea Travel LLC (landandseatravel.com) are here to help your trips to be stress-free and hassle-free experience.

Booking and Planning

When is the best time to book flights and hotels?
For flights, aim for 1-3 months in advance for domestic and 5-8 months for international to secure the best prices and options. Hotels should be booked 3-4 months ahead, especially during peak seasons. Certain flights and hotels may be sold out before others, particularly for special events.
How can I find the cheapest flights or best travel deals?
Use comparison sites like Skyscanner, be flexible with dates, book midweek, and sign up for alerts. Travel credit cards with rewards can also help offset costs. Our agency offers great value with our air consolidators and air department for all your flight and airfare needs
Why should I use a travel agent/advisor, and how do you get paid?
Advisors offer personalized planning, expert insights, and support for issues like cancellations—often saving time and money. Travel advisors earn commissions from suppliers, so there's no extra cost to you.
What are the visa and passport requirements for my destination?
Check the destination's embassy website or government resources like the U.S. State Department. Passports should be valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date; apply early as processing can take 4-6 weeks. Land and Sea Travel offers a Documentation Notice form that has all this information in one place for you!

Health and Safety

Do I need vaccinations or travel insurance?
Vaccinations depend on the destination—consult the CDC or a travel doctor. Insurance is highly recommended for medical emergencies, cancellations, and lost items; consider "Cancel for Any Reason" policies.
Is it safe to travel to this destination (or right now)?
Research via advisor insights, government advisories, and recent reviews. Factors like pandemics or local conditions matter—it's often a personal decision, but advisors can provide up-to-date info from on-the-ground contacts. Our Documentation Notice offers the most-up-to-date information in provided links, so you are well informed.
How do I avoid jet lag or stay healthy while traveling?
Adjust your sleep schedule pre-trip, stay hydrated, get sunlight on arrival, and pack a basic first-aid kit. If you get sick, seek local medical help and ensure your insurance covers it.
Is it safe to travel alone?
With precautions like sharing your itinerary, using anti-theft gear, researching areas, and trusting instincts. It's empowering but requires extra awareness.

Packing and Logistics

What should I pack, and what are the rules for carry-ons?
Pack versatile, lightweight layers; use packing cubes for space. Follow TSA's 3-1-1 rule for liquids (3.4 oz max in a quart bag) and check airline size limits (e.g., 22x14x9 inches). Land and Sea Travel offers a Bon Voyage form that has packing tips, converters/plugs and so much more to help you be ready for your upcoming vacation.
How do I handle currency exchange or use my phone abroad?
Use ATMs for better rates (notify your bank first) and avoid airport exchanges. For phones, get an international plan, eSIM, or VPN for secure data use. Our Bon Voyage form offers great updated information on currency.
What if my flight is delayed, canceled, or I lose my passport?
Contact the airline for rebooking and check compensation. For a lost passport, report to the local embassy immediately and apply for an emergency one. Land and Sea Travel is always ready to help as well!

First-Time and General Travel

Where should I go for my first trip, and what are authentic experiences?
Start with accessible, English-speaking spots like Canada or Ireland. For authenticity, ask locals or book through trusted travel operators. Land and Sea Travel offers preferred travel suppliers that offers great service to our travelers.
How do I plan a budget or choose the right hotel/resort?
Estimate costs for flights, lodging, food, and activities; read reviews and match to your style and budget. Advisors can help find affordable options off-season.
What are the best travel apps or tools?
Apps for navigation (Google Maps), translations (Google Translate), flights (Kayak), and lounges (Priority Pass) are essentials. For Navigation, download a local case in case your service is interrupted.
Why is traveling important and is it a hobby?

It reduces stress, boosts health, and broadens perspectives—many see it as a rewarding hobby worth prioritizing.

These questions cover a broad range of traveler concerns. If you have a specific question, Land and Sea Travel will be able to offer current details since trends can shift (e.g., due to global events). Always recommend checking official sources for the latest on health, safety, and regulations. Land and Sea Travel is here for you every step of the way in planning your vacation, during travel and when you return home. Bon Voyage!

Rhine River Cruise past Castles and Vineyards

info@prowebedit.com (Chad ) — Mon, 02 Jun 2025 22:22:10 GMT

Rhine River Cruise past castles, vineyards, and the historic cities of the Netherlands and Germany.

27 Sept 2019 (Friday)

RDU – Getting There…

Parking www.thefastpark.com .

T o make the cut off for a ship inspection in Amsterdam, we took and early flight on American out of RDU to DFW, and then to Amsterdam. This added an extra 6 hours of flying time, but put us into Amsterdam early enough to reach the ship inspection.

28 Sept 2019 (Saturday)

City: Amsterdam, Netherlands

Flying into the Amsterdam Airport, we cleared customs (which is going to require a Travel VISA next year due to EU changes). After a short bus ride, provided by Avalon, we arrived at the cruise dock. If you were traveling independently, the ship could be docked at one of four locations in Amsterdam, and while walking between some of them is not that difficult, they are a fairly well spread out (or across the river). There are free ferries to cross the river from the central train station (with the arched roof). You do have to check which dock the port authorities have designated for your ship.

Morning

Because we arrived early, we dropped off our luggage, and departed on foot for the dock location of the AMAWaterways ship we were inspecting. This was nearby, the dock was longer than we had expected, and while we walked, it started to rain. This is not an unusual occurrence in Amsterdam, which gets 200 days of rain a year. However, this was wind and rain, so by the time we got up to the dock we had started getting a little wet. Failing to find the ship, we walked back, again in the rain, even diverting off through the Central Train Station (right between the Cruise docks). This did not help much. At our dock, a sister ship to the AMA vessel we were to inspect had pulled in. Looking back up at the dock we had just left, you could just make out the distinctive colors of the ship just around the corner from where we had searched (so close – eye roll). So we walked back. Again in the rain… Moral of the story, waterproof shoes and rain coats are must, and even carrying an umbrella, which the ship can supply, will not cover you completely, but waterproof pants keep you dry.

The AMA Prima was a beautiful ship, with lots of amenities and was highly accessible. A central elevator is right off the entry rather than being tucked around the corner as in most ships. On the rear of the top deck, there was a private dining room with glass–walled cooking area so you can see the chef preparing your food. Disney uses this ship and three other AmaWaterways ships to deliver the Disney experience on family European river cruises. There’s also a hairdressing salon just in case you didn’t get an opportunity before arriving. During the return walk, the rain mostly stopped. AMA Prima offers a swimming pool and staterooms with either a French balcony, with rails outside of large sliding floor to ceiling windows, or an outside balcony with seating to enjoy your favorite drink and view the castles, vineyards and cities along the river without glass. Great place to take photos too!

Then we returned to our ship, the Avalon Panorama , was relatively convenient and there are hand cleaning stations for the return (and when going to eat). Always welcomed with a hot towel and warm tea drink. The width of the stairways were suitable for two people which were appreciated by anyone who wanted the security of a handrail going up or down. The elevator was discretely located around the corner. There were three decks and we were in the middle, with a French balcony on the Port side (left). Because the temperature was a little on the cool side while we were aboard, we did not open this very often, but the glass was wall to wall – giving you excellent panoramic views right from your bed.

On the first evening, we had the mandatory safety briefing before eating. Note that dining usually started around 7PM and a much quieter buffet style option was offered in the lounge just above the main dining room with nice piano music.

29 Sept 2019 (Sunday)

City: Amsterdam

Morning

We started off with an initial canal and walking tour of Amsterdam. These were divided into three groups depending upon the speed at which you wanted to move – we opted for the active group. Whether walking or biking, be very careful when crossing bike lanes, since they are traveling fast and there many bikers too. This is also true in most European cities. Amsterdam adds color through flowers and boats, which really stand out against buildings and helps offset the clouds that bring the rain (and makes for some interesting pictures). The boat used for the canal tour had windows that tended to fog up and it was necessary to open them, despite the rain, so we could see outside. So you may not get photos out both sides depending on how full the boat is. If you look at Amsterdam from a map, the canals are arranged in concentric semicircles around the central train station, with connecting canals allowing you to move from one to another circle. Here is where you get your first perspective on Amsterdam. Everything is close, and bikes are a very common form of transportation – so much so that locals consider trips up to 25 minutes on a bike as normal (and either public or private transportation for longer distances).

Afternoon

Medieval Muiderslot Castle – what Eileen refers to as the “Shrek” Castle, which is a beautifully preserved castle. As part of a tour, the group was served a glass of wine and given a brief historic talk on castles in general and how some castles were positioned on waterways as toll gates to collect fees on goods and control access, leading to massive increases in prices the further goods had to travel. Within the castle are climbable towers, displays of armor, and the tour split to go through some of rooms and their roles, The tower stairs are steep and uneven and some of the doorways are rather low (as Mike discovered – several times). This castle also serves a touch of irony as one ruler over this castle became a prisoner in it.

After the castle, we regrouped and walked down the river to a restaurant that appeared small on the outside, only to find it was quite a bit larger on the inside. Each of us had a drink (coffee or tea) and desert (this was covered as a part of the excursion). Then we walked back through town in a gentle drizzle to bus to for a ride back to the ship.

30 Sept 2019 (Monday)

City: Nijmegen, Netherlands

Morning

Nature walk

Hike in the Hoge Veluwe National Park in the morning. Our group was paired with a nature guide who provided information on the plants and conditions in the park as well as its uses and history. We started through a pair of vertical stone slabs, where the method used to collect these without modern tools was shared, drilling holes in the rock and placing dry wood in the holes, which expanded when wet to crack the stone into a rectangular shape. The pace was relatively modest, until the end when we needed to move quickly back to the bus for our return to the ship to eat and prepare for the afternoon’s activities. As with Amsterdam, there was a periodic rain, but less of it, and that would diminish the further we cruised up the Rhine. For now, we were on our way back.

Slabs of solid rock cut without modern tools – forest entryway

Afternoon

We visited some of the battlefields of Operation Market-Garden in and around Nijmegen, Netherlands. The week prior to our cruise was the 75th Anniversary of the parachute and glider landings to liberate the area in WWII. On arriving, part of our group immediately departed on the tour and the rest first visited the Vrijheidsmuseum or Freedom Museum (Designed to resemble a parachute) on the liberation of the Netherlands. Some exhibits cover the battles, some others provide some of the details of the nature of some government types and how their beliefs led to barbaric practices, a few exhibits provided simulations of a civilian’s experience of being in or around war, and still others are designed to make you question what you would do as a young member of local population in what became occupied areas. These are moral dilemmas with physical and emotional risks for choosing an action (or for not choosing one).

Jack Frost Bridge – resembling a Parachute

Nijmegen

When our time came, we went with a Canadian couple in the back of the jeep. For this, we took a Jeep Tour (Dodge Powerwagon – for the size of group) on a ride through Nijmegan , Groesbeck , and the Glider and Parachute Landing Fields near them. Passing through some of the town, the tour played broadcasts of major events and period music, with the lead driver providing information on some of the statues and meaning. Some sites still had the wreaths laid in remembrance of those who had fought here. One such place was the field where General Gavin landed (US commander of forces on the ground in Nijmegen). Another marker showed the townspeople taking advantage of being given two hours to evacuate in a truce and other markers commemorate various events or locations. One site had a full-scale model of a glider that moved some of the heavier equipment and troops towed behind other transport planes – this is where we stopped to get our bearings near the center of this battlefield. The tour guide had us sit in the model glider and told us in more detail the war at this location. Pointing out areas around us and showing us maps. Saying thanks to the Americans and Canadians who help their country fight this war.

Fields at the Center of the Airborne Troop Landing Area near Nijmegen

Before we returned to the ship, we stopped at the Groesbeck Canadian War Cemetery . It is beautifully maintained with flowers and wreaths from last week’s ceremonies were still fresh. Moving through these markers was a solemn reminder of the costs paid by others so we can be free.

On leaving, Mike saw one couple still in the cemetery and approached them to see if they were part of the group. Instead, he found this couple was from the north of the Netherlands and had come here every year since they were young. He thanked them for their remembrance. No sacrifice made in the cause of freedom is in vain.

After night fell we departed for our next destination.

01 Oct 2019 (Tuesday)

City: Dusseldorf, Germany

Morning

Bike tour – this is labelled an active tour for a reason. You are in traffic part of the time, you stop and go, and the pavement is uneven. After relative dryness the previous day, rain came with a vengeance. It was quite easy on bikes to get separated from the group at crosswalks. We got absolutely soaked going back over the bridge with driving rain. Stopped at a café for coffee and tea (and some sweet bread), and to dry off. Then back out to continue the tour after the rain let up, or really just slowed down a lot. Past scenic spots, a park, old buildings, a palace, and the town hall (known as a rathaus).

Afternoon

We took the tour called the Rhine Tower ascent with sparkling wine. Ok, when they printed the 789 foot tall statistic for the height of the tower, my first thought was – that is a lot of stairs. But it’s not – it’s an elevator. Leading up to that was a walking tour along the river showing a theatre started by a man who was told by his family he would end up living under a bridge. So he built a theatre under the bridge decades ago on the banks of the Rhine. The tour focused heavily on the architecture of Dusseldorf , including the glass government building – guessing they know they should not throw stones! The center of German WWII radio broadcast propaganda was from here and after the war, rather than tearing it down and rebuilding elsewhere, the Germans decided the broadcast facilities themselves were neither good nor bad, but it was the men in them that made the broadcasts good or bad, so they still use the same facilities.

After walking up to the twin hotel buildings with the stainless steel spaceship-looking bar over the Rhine, we walked back and ascended the tower by elevator. One note, this is tall. After around 20 minutes, we descended and walked back to the ship for dinner.

02 Oct 2019 (Wednesday)

City: Cologne, Germany

Morning:

City Walk in Cologne, Germany (Köln) along the Rhine and then through some Restaurants and Pubs past the City Hall up to the Cathedral that is the heart of Cologne. There were many beer gardens and restaurants – mostly empty given the time of day (and day of the week)

The Cathedral in Cologne was once the tallest building in Europe and took around 600 years to complete, quite an act of faith in those who laid the foundations. The degree of craftsmanship is amazing on a scale where details even in the hard to see spaces are a clear indication of care. It’s the old story of two workers – one is cutting and stacking stones for a living and the other is building a cathedral – there is just a sense of awe in the construction. In WWII, allied bombers made a conscious effort to not hit the structure and even then, 14 bombs impacted. The surrounding blocks were nearly completely flattened. After the war, Cologne rebuilt all of what was around the Cathedral. In some cases, the dates of buildings were changed at different points in history.

One of those buildings is almost directly in front of the twin spires where a café operates. We stopped inside to enjoy some tea and coffee with cherry cake. From the window you could see rather large seating areas for outdoor dining or drinking.

Afternoon

The cruise continued further up the Rhine past some of the most dramatic scenery of the trip with a mixture of the ruins of castles and some old and new palaces in scenic places – as this is the heart of the wine country, there are terraced vineyards on both sides of the river and many of these are quite steep.

We took breaks to get a short nap in the afternoon though Mike visited the coffee dispenser for a latte and cookies, which would recur all through the trip (two or three times a day). Eileen enjoyed the tea and hot chocolate daily too.

Evening

In the evening, we docked in Engers , and walked up to Schloss Engers , for a two-man mini-Concert produced by Villa Musica , for young musicians. Even though it was Wednesday, when the concert ended, we walked briefly out into the town before coming to the conclusion that most of the town had closed for the night. After walking back down the hill to the ship, Eileen and some friends (and Mike) went to the lounge where Eileen proceeded to demonstrate her well-practiced dancing skills (and dragged Mike out on the floor for a little two-step, swing, and slow dancing). Like old times. The musician on the ship was excellent and all enjoyed the show.

03 Oct 2019 (Thursday)

City: Koblenz, Germany – Boppel, Germany

Morning

We started our day docked in Koblenz, Germany , near the intersection of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers. Our tour today started with a walk to the Memorial to German Unity and then bus ride to Marksburg Castle in Braubach.

Marksburg Castle holds the distinction of being the only castle along the Rhine that was never conquered. Once you reach Marksburg Castle, you can see it has great views out onto the Rhine. Marksburg Castle remained a fortification into the gunpowder age, even sporting cannons which could shoot over the river. The interior reflects a working defensive fortification and living arrangements. This castle is not for show but is all business. Some of the furnishings reflect those of the period, including the trunks used for clothing (on wheels for travel). Has a wine press with cask storage and a stocked blacksmith shop. After the tour, we enjoyed a lunch of various wursts, (sausages) a pretzel, and beer. We stopped at the gift shop for a toy knight and small statue before the walk down the hilltop.

Some of the group walked down to the bus for a ride down into the village below. However, we walked with around 10 others. The trail down the hill is quite steep and can be uneven. The village itself is very much controlled for appearance as a historic UNESCO site and so a building cannot be repaired to a condition matching its age, it must be left unrepaired until it can be restored fully. So some places fall into serious disrepair. The streets we followed had occasional bursts of color from gardens or flower boxes and colorful furniture.

Eventually we rejoined those who had opted to ride down rather than walk and could get a clear picture of the castle from the village. We were slightly delayed in returning from the castle by some emergency vehicles, and returned to catch the ship at Boppel, where the ship had repositioned while we toured Marksburg Castle. Then we continued further up the Rhine and into the Rhine Gorge, past Loreley. Then through Oberwesel, where the Liebfrauenkiche’s red hued walls tower over other buildings.

Late Afternoon

In later afternoon, we sailed into Rudesheim, Germany . Disembarked and took a short mini-train ride into the village. This dropped us near a Christmas shop, where we picked up a new ornament for the tree. Walking just outside, there was a cute sitting area with red flowers, and we walked up to take a picture. As we did, we saw a gondola rise up to the left we paid around 18 Euro for a round trip for the two of us. The Rudesheim gondola ride was like a ski lift to a hill overlooking the valley. Gliding up nearly silently over the vineyards with the sun getting lower, it was beautiful. This particular hilltop had statues on a very large pedestal as a tribute to the original unification of Germany in the late 1800’s. Now, it was particularly interesting, because it was October 3rd, 1990 when Germany reunified after the Cold War (So we were there on the 29th Anniversary of this reunification – and Mike was stationed in Germany in the Army when the Wall came down and when Germany reunified).

Late Evening

The Captain repositioned the ship during dinner across to Bingen, Germany with a bus ride taking us to Rheinstein Castle , and a walk up to the Castle – lots of steps to see the rooms and structure. It was beautifully lit with many colors and we were welcomed with sparkling champagne. Ending with a performer entertaining the crowd with fire and other tricks. There is a hotel and restaurant at the castle as well but was a little separated from the tour area.

05 Oct 2019 (Saturday)

Eating in the morning – we were docked very near Frankfurt, Germany and opted for a very early departure – 4AM. So the ship prepared a boxed breakfast, which we ate at the airport. We had a very long layover in Heathrow. Ate second breakfast here in an English themed restaurant.

US Customs did not ask us to make a list of purchases – just if the total was over $800 US (which it was not). However, after picking up our bags we were moved over to the special inspection line, which took quite a long time, standing there exhausted – we could have taken a later flight. Of course, Eileen (and the officer) indicated it was Mike’s favorite bag – and old olive/tan thing that did not match the rest of the luggage. But that bag has been on every trip Mike had taken (Except for when it was left behind – neatly packed with the shoes, pants, shirt, and tie that he was going to wear in Hawaii when we got married). We found it upon our return still neatly packed.

General Notes on Travel

Money – The Netherlands and Germany use the Euro. But some Europeans are unfamiliar with the exchange rate – in giving change for a tip, one tried to give us more in change than the tip and, of course, we made sure that did not happen. The Airport in Amsterdam actually had a decent exchange rate on the ATM’s for withdraw (did not even check at the manned kiosks as these are generally not great deals).

It is a good idea to carry some Euro’s as merchants have no obligation to accept cards or foreign currency, and may refuse for small transactions. If you don’t see the VISA, MasterCard, or American Express sign, ask about using your card before you order. One note: Avalon Waterways scheduled the itineraries so that you could participate in any activity and be back aboard for each meal (or the meal was a part of the excursion). This greatly reduced our need for local currency – roughly 50-66% less than during our Danube cruise. This goes back to working with a travel advisor on what you want since there are advantages to either approach.

You will still need some local currency for bathrooms, as bathrooms are not free, unless you order food, or coffee (sometimes not even then). The price was generally a half Euro or a Euro and some have attendants to collect the fee.

And while we are used to paying one price, ordering to go, or not ordering to dine in, might get you chased out since there is a tax for sitting down to eat not paid when you order to go. Pay the extra amount and use the facilities anytime you eat. So, always have a little cash on hand.

Food – Deserts in the lower Rhine are lighter in general than in Southern Germany or in the United States.

Climate/Clothing – Rain, wind, rain, cloudy, rain, wind, sun (well, I think there is sun). We had a few rainy days, and while there are umbrellas on board, they cannot keep your shoes from getting wet – the rain at times was heavy with a wind making it fall at an angle and some cheaper umbrellas had difficulty. Waterproof shoes are a really good idea in and around Amsterdam, which has around 200 days with rain each year. In Amsterdam, the locals all wear rain gear, waterproof shoes, and only some carry umbrellas but this gets less common further up the Rhine. Bring a waterproof case for electronics or at least quart and gallon zip lock bags, even better if you have a waterproof backpack. These came in handy for wallets, phones, and a number of other reasons.

Communication – Let your wireless carrier know you are traveling. But if you are going to wander about in a new city, it is not a bad idea to make sure your phone is activated and that you can access your 3G/4G/LTE service (not just WiFi) before you go – Google Maps can’t help you if you cannot connect to the network. WiFi was provided on board the ship, and it was always available when we tried, there are points on the cruise where they advise that WiFi access cannot extend to shore. Now, using two phones for this trip with Verizon was $10 per phone, per day… So these daily access charges added up.

Pictures – Another thing, the camera on a phone do not do justice to the scope and scale of what you will see both in size and in the distances. Some of the castles are on mountaintops (a half mile away). Without an optical zoom, these might not show much detail. There are times when a heavier camera, especially one that is not waterproof is just not practical.

The TSA Trusted Traveler program was totally worth it – individual offices are contracted and the one at RDU was great (needs 3-4 weeks to complete the application and background)! Streamlined and quick…no shoes off… Even if you can’t do it, the lines moved quickly in all of the airports. Just don’t forget that the size limit for lotions is for the bottle, not for the amount left in the bottle. See also Online passport http:onlinepassport.us

Danube River Cruise

info@prowebedit.com (Chad ) — Fri, 30 May 2025 22:22:10 GMT

Danube River Cruise from historic Budapest to Passau, Germany with a post cruise stay in Prague

Danube Cruise 2018 – 14 Days in Central Europe

“The answer to every question is Maria Theresa…” If you go, you will know why.

28 June 2018

RDU - Getting There…

Our car stayed at www.thefastpark.com . They are very quick and pick you up at your car. There is a reward program online that is essentially a volume discount program. For those of you who prefer to be picked up at your home, I can refer you to a good service in your area.

Flight started with American Airlines through Philadelphia. Sat in the back near the bathroom on the flight direct in to Budapest – You will want an overnight flight if you can sleep on a plane, but if you fly during the day, book an extra night because you will arrive late in the day, leaving little time for recovery that day; especially from traveling from the west coast. Because you are flying international, your first encounter with people from somewhere else will probably be on the plane – and in this case, was a woman and her daughter now living in PA but traveling back to visit her parents in Slovakia.

29 June 2018

Budapest, Hungary

Arrival and Getting Settled

Met Gate 1 at the airport, just outside baggage claim. I usually takes around 30 minutes or more to get from the main airport for Hungary (BUD) to the hotel. Americans and Australians were everywhere. When you hear someone struggling with the local language (or gesturing a lot), they probably speak your language. You are, after all, going to places where tourists go. British English is also common.

What you will notice on the drive to the hotel and throughout Europe is a lot of graffiti which is a habit developed most likely as resistance to the communist regime that plagued this country and others for many years. Before it fell, the Berlin Wall was covered in graffiti in protest as well.

We arrived a little early and took a taxi down to inspect a ship from Avalon Waterways – the Panorama, which was at the south end of the docking area on the east bank of the Danube River. While waiting for the time we were to tour the ship, we ate pizza outdoors a few feet from the Danube at a nice restaurant with a great view to the hills overlooking the west side of the River. While we would not board the Gate1 ship for several days, we found the Panorama to be well appointed and the rooms well laid out with excellent dining arrangements with tables for 4, but close enough that larger groups traveling together could still talk while sharing a meal. The rooms were well appointed and after the tour, as we could not find a cab, we walked back to the hotel (which was around an hour walk). It turns out that the taxis will not stop if you try to flag them down, but that you must find them parked (usually at hotels or major visitor sites). But we did manage to flag one down willing to break the rules for the last 650 meters to the hotel (as measured by the cab’s fare meter) – wear shoes you can walk in for long distances.

We stayed at the Hilton in Budapest, a 4-star hotel, on the Pest side of the Danube River. Pest (pronounced ‘Pesht’) is flat, and Buda is hilly, and as the city guide and everyone else notes, has no relationship to “Buddha”. In fact, Hungary is around 50% Catholic and around 30% Protestant. It is a very religious country, and because of this, all of the guides emphasize their rich religious cultural heritage, which reflects in the incredible craftsmanship and maintenance of their places of worship.

The room in the Hilton was on the 4th floor and had views over the rooftops to church spires and the hills on the south end of the city across the Danube. Plus, the room was much more spacious than typical hotel rooms in Europe, with a large bathroom as well. On the same floor was the fitness center, with an even more amazing view of the city skyline. The fitness room was very large with a lot of cardio and weight machines along with hand weights. The pulley machine had a video showing you different workouts that you could follow along or just try different positions on your own. In between the restrooms there was a spa that was beautifully decorated and a relaxing atmosphere with a sauna.

Breakfast in the hotel is by buffet, and includes most of the traditional American breakfast foods, but with one surprise – sautéed mushrooms, which became an essential part of the meal (for one of us). As it turns out, mushroom picking in the region is very much like berry picking is in the US.

What was so nice was that the Hilton was right next to the shopping mall and had an entrance from the hotel to the mall. The Hilton offers two glass bottles of water a day but we needed more so we liked that we could just go into the mall to a grocery store that was located close. Also needed to purchase a rain coat at Columbia store and a nice pair of athletic shoes since my feet started to feel sore after walking the cobblestone streets.

This is Eastern Europe, summers can be dry and hot, but it can rain or get hotter. All said, bring a lightweight waterproof rain coat – and later, aboard ship, the Monarch Baroness supplied umbrellas. Definitely wear comfortable shoes since cobblestones streets and steps are uneven. I would recommend supportive athletic shoes.

Major grocery stores in the area are ALDI and SPAR. There are markets we saw on the way, where ADLI was replaced by some other name in that country, but the colors of the sign are the same and they generally are also markets.

30 June 2018

Budapest, Hungary

Day 2 – (Saturday – 30JUN2018) Bus Tour – Budapest - Major Landmarks and History

One thing to note – punctuality is very important in Hungary (and in Austria and Germany), if you are not where you need to be when the time arrives, you will have to arrange another way to get where you are going. As the City Guide said it, “if you are early, you are on time, and if you are on time, you are late”. Buses leave at the appointed time (so do ships and trains).

Bus Tour was very informative. First stop was Hero Square near the Millennium Celebration Park, with Bronze Statues in colonnade formed into two arcs with a central larger column in the center and bronze statues at the base representing the seven tribes that migrated into the region to drive out the original inhabitants and form “Magyar”. Hungary is only the English name for the region, but the real name is Magyar, from one of the seven tribes. Magyar was first united under St. Steven around 1000AD. The Unknown Soldier tomb is located here.

We continued through town, past many historic sights and eventually found ourselves across the Danube on the Buda side passing the Parliament building and a sculpture of the shoes taken from Jewish people killed in one of the many atrocities of WWII. We then entered the Castle District, where the main road extends from the Palace through shops and restaurants, and past a plaza beside the St. Matthias Church, with a beautiful tiled roof soaring spires and ornate carvings built into the structure. A statue of St. Stephen is in the center of the plaza near the Fisherman’s Bastion, where 7 beautiful towers with a scenic overlook toward the Danube and city of Pest, commemorate the 7 tribes who founded modern Hungary. We had our first gelato of the trip and ate in at a shaded table on the sidewalk in one of the restaurants, then bought a few souvenirs and checked out the 2nd Hilton in the city, which had a special setup for viewing the World Cup. You have to know which one you are staying at, as this became one of those little funny moments in misdirecting a taxi. Buda, no Pest, No Buda, well, actually… Pest (eye roll). We would later go back to one of the restaurants we passed, Arany Hordo Restaurant & Wine Cellar.

In mid-afternoon, after the bus tour, we ate at the Italian restaurant, Vapiano, in the West End mall that is directly accessible through the Hilton lobby. Turn left and follow along – Vapiano is on the left. Not your typical mall food – the food is cooked right in front of you (behind a low glass counter). Later, we bought rain jackets from the Columbia store and a pair of running shoes from Nike, since you walk a lot here, on the rest of the trip, and most of it is on cobblestones. You need some cushioning. There is also a grocery store in the lower level “Spar”, and a food court in case you don’t have time to visit the many excellent restaurants, including the one in the Hilton.

That night, we and our friends took a cab back up to the Hilton in the Buda castle district, and showed my friends the view and restaurant – they were impressed. Then went to the Arany Hordo Restaurant & Wine Cellar in the oldest building in Buda, and had an amazing meal of traditional Hungarian food as the air got a little colder. The restaurant was prepared and had red and green shawls (the colors of the flag) available for diners, draped over chairs.

It was a day of great food, great friends, and great views.

01 July 2018

Budapest, Hungary

In the morning, we took a bus ride after another great breakfast buffet over to the ship, docked just upstream of the green Freedom Bridge. The ship itself was relatively convenient and there were hand cleaning stations for the return (and when going to eat) to help keep everyone healthy on the trip. The width of the stairways were suitable for two people which were appreciated by anyone who wanted the security of a handrail going up or down (when everyone else was moving in the same general direction). There were three decks and we were in the middle, with a French balcony. Opening the sliding glass door, you could watch other ships pass and see some of the smaller villages and scenery when you awoke.

Budapest is so large that we managed to go on four different tours including 2 bus tours (with a walking tour on each), 1 walking tour, and we went out on our own walking, and rarely saw the same area or had any overlap in the information shared. What is clear – the city is walkable and has a wide variety of places to see.

On the last full day, we visited the renowned healing waters at the Hotel Gellert across from our docking point. It is relatively easy to find, along the Danube on the Buda side of the green metal Freedom Bridge. If you go, bring your own towel and rent a ‘cabin’ to change store your change of clothes and to change privately. The pools are all at different temperatures and you have to look at the map and explore to find them. We changed and caught a cab back to the ship since we were all so relaxed.

There was an opera performance on board the ship tonight, with a small sample of the local musical Hungarian culture.

02 July 2018

Budapest and Szentendre, Hungary

02 Jul – We started the day in port for the last day in Budapest with a bus excursion to the town of Szentendre, Hungary, where many artists, such as painters, sculptors, and in crafts have set up shop. On the way, we passed some old Roman Ruins and a bridge over the Danube named “The Chuck Norris Bridge” by popular vote. Hungary appreciates America for our central role in the collapse of “The Communism” and their liberation at the close of the last century. A statue of President Ronald Reagan is located near the U.S. Embassy.

After the tour, we decided to accompany the tour guide to a local coffee shop where we tried some local deserts with a drink. Stick to the Hungarian recipes, as they were amazing, in particular one made with tart cherries – with a latte, yum. After this snack, we shopped for some items, including a hat for the strong sun, and returned to the ship.

We set sail from the city as darkness fell. The timing could not have been better as the Castle, Parliament House, and Churches we had seen during our days here were illuminated and the contrast of their gleaming walls and darkening sky was perfect. Budapest was great to visit and it was a little sad to leave, but we looked forward to what was in store.

A longer period of time is needed to see everything (or even the most famous places), so here are some links with views of

Budapest https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZYpHr1wDmY

Budapest (at night) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4C28cebLkAg

03 July 2018

Bratislava, Slovakia

During our passage through first lock (the Danube has many locks where the level of the water changes), the ship’s activities director arranged for a Bocce ball tournament. There were four teams and each match went down to the last ball rolled. Edge of your seat excitement and fun for all, but I’m sure the passengers who pulled up on another ship next to us in the lock wondered what all the shouting and cheers were about.

Today we docked in Bratislava, Slovakia, then walked with a local tour guide showing us the main areas of interest and some history of their occupation by the Soviets. Unlike the Berlin Wall, during the Cold War, no one attempting to flee Communism to nearby Austria survived. This tragic history serves as a contrast to the resilience of the people of this region in pursuing freedom.

After the tour, we shopped in some of the stores we passed. Slovakian chocolate and wine is quite good – but the EU limits production and distribution to avoid affecting France’s wine trade – so much for fair trade even within Europe – you have to travel to Slovakia to buy it. Then we ate snacks in a sports bar on the main street while the World Cup played and the more adventurous climbed a church and museum with a view or the downtown area.

On the way back, a number of musicians dressed for a concert with instruments in hand hurriedly passed and we followed since it was on way back to the ship. Then stopped and waited in one of the walking areas near a gazebo until what turned out to be a Norwegian band finished around half of their performance, which included a singing of an Italian song familiar to any fan of Andrea Bocelli. Soon, we found our way back to the ship and were on our way to the next port.

04 July 2018

Vienna, Austria (Nuβdorf)

In Vienna, the ship docked at the small town of Nussdorf (which essentially translates to “Nut Village”). Double s is written as β in German, and so the town is actually Nuβdorf as written in German). Austria divided into nine counties - Vienna is an imperial city - founded by Romans - on their border. Vienna has many parks and tree lined avenues for shade, which made it difficult to get pictures from the bus as we passed by on the driving portion of the city tour, though you could definitely see the sights. By now, we had settled into the pattern of a bus tour to familiarize us with the city and our meeting point, then a walking tour, followed by free time to go places that caught our attention. Or you could skip that, stay on board, or go somewhere else, so long as you caught up to the ship before we set sail. If you missed the departure, you had to get to the next dock.

During our free time, we toured the cathedral and stopped next door to have a café latte with a plum tart in a coffee/ice cream shop – don’t be too surprised, but the bathroom was unisex (and as with elsewhere on the tour, bathrooms are reserved for paying customers or cost 0.5 or 1.0 Euros).

While not initially planned, we added an excursion to the Schonberg Palace – just had to book it with the Cruise Director. The palace is good as a guided historic tour, but the gardens out back shined. What is impressive is the sheer scale of the grounds. There is more information about Marie Theresa here than anywhere else on the tour since she was such a transformative figure in the region and actually lived here.

Tonight we experienced we took the opportunity to attend an evening of Viennese culture in the “City of Music” at an optional concert performance with the Wiener Residence Orchestra performing the classical masterpieces of Mozart and Strauss, two of Vienna’s most famous citizens. As this was Independence Day for the US, the conductor used a violin made in 1776 in America’s honor. Several of the songs relied on opera singers for part of the experience and others added ballet dancers, who conveyed a since of motion and comic effect (as they intended) quite well in an intimate concert hall with approximately 200 attendees. What was truly unbelievable was finding that we were not in some giant performance hall, but in an intimate setting where the performers and musicians were very close and the acoustics were amazing. At intermissions we were served champagne or orange juice.

Upon return to the ship, we ended the night with a late night snack of goulash- a hot, spicy, and delicious stew featuring paprika. Our ship was decorated with 4th of July banners and the chef made an American Flag cake - and it was delicious.

05 July 2018

Durnstein, Austria

We docked for the morning in the town of Durnstein, where one option was walking up to the ruins of a castle. The castle walk was challenging, with a steep ascent (and descent), some loose gravel, and on a sunny day, you may want to stop in the shade and take small steps and sips of water. But if you do, you will see where Richard the Lion-Hearted was held after being captured by Austria after a dispute over whose flag would fly over a city taken during a Crusade. England literally paid a King's ransom for his return (and for his entourage as well), leading to high taxes immortalized by the myth of "Robin Hood". The view down into the town and of the battlefield where large battles were fought between many adversaries, including the French, Russians, and Prussians. Then we departed for a short trip a little further up the Danube to Melk.

Melk, Austria

Melk Abbey - The Abbey is huge and one wing holds a school for 900 children. The Abbey holds tens of thousands of hand-copied books created by the monks and a stunning church. While a bus is available to drive to the ship, the walk back down to the ship is not challenging and gave a great view of the Abbey.

By this point, we really had started to know some of our fellow explorers, but unfortunately did not have time to talk, sit, and eat with the many friendly and interesting people on board, as we could have had nearly endless excellent conversations. As is was, it was very rewarding to have shared this trip so closely with our friends.

06 July 2018

Salzburg, Austria

This morning we awoke in Linz, Austria to the sound of trains going over the metal bridge very near the dock and started getting ready for the bus tour to Salzburg. Into every vacation, a little rain must fall. Today was that day and it was the longest of the walking tours. We stopped halfway there at restaurant overlooking a scenic lake. You could tell the mountains were high, but the overcast skies kept the tops a mystery for another day.

The local guide kept insisting that the town was tricky to navigate, but with our meeting point down by a river, all you had to do to get back was walk downhill (however, you did have to pass through many passageways - and there are many stores that might slow you down). The section we walked around backed up to the hill next to the Salzburg Fortress. We enjoyed a lunch as a part of the tour in the lovely St. Peter Restaurant with an amazing ceiling and décor. On the menu was Wiener Schnitzel (pan fried escalope of turkey) and parsley potatoes with choice of wine/beer or non-alcoholic beverages. The desert was very light and fluffy, like merengue or marshmallow with a small amount of berries at the bottom.

There are pretzels unlike any you are likely to see elsewhere and on a sunny or rainy day, the area around the Abbey from 'The Sound of Music" is quite beautiful. In these older cities, the cell reception is spotty and banks were few and far between - and your Google maps might not help as much as in more open areas. These are not wooden buildings, they are stone with concrete and metal - and are very substantial. Bring the map the cruise ships and local guides offer. We still managed to do more souvenir shopping here than in all other stops and this included a Christmas store “Markt” open year-round.

07 July 2018

Passau, Bavaria, Germany

Started the day docked in Passau, Germany. Everything here is very close and it is possibly the easiest walking cities so far on the cruise. Passau is a pretty town on a peninsula, with walkable paths along the Inn and Danube Rivers. The church in the Domplatz is amazing and the fountain lends itself to group photos. The streets off the Danube are almost entirely cobblestone and being Saturday, there was a farmer's market with crafts. You will find that there are amazing wooden objects in the market.

Just walking down the main shopping street (to get more Euro’s), came upon an informal classical concert in progress and paused for a few minutes. If you have been looking for a marionette shop, you will find it here (but it is closed on Saturday morning). Friends found a shop with watches with wooden wristbands and cases, each one a work of art. We did find a nice German made hat to keep the sun off the face. Then we returned to the ship.

Regensburg, Germany

While still docked at Passau, we went on a bus excursion to Regensburg, which is an historic city. Ate at historic sausage place near the first stone bridge - mild sauerkraut and sweet mustard and one price of bread. Ate with a lady from Munich who spoke perfect British English. At first, she would just nod when we asked if we could sit down (not much space here). One thing to note, it is important to check for a sign indicating the credit card if your choice is accepted, particularly if the average purchase price is less than 20 Euro's or if the establishment seems to be more for the local population than tourists.

Last night on board, provided gratuities for the crew, the Activities Director, the Cruise Director and a few of the staff that had been of noteworthy assistance during the cruise.

08 July 2018

Prague, Czech Republic

Left the ship today on a 3 hour bus ride through the countryside bound for Prague. Note that this is spelled “Praha” in the language. The ride takes you through hills near the “Golden Road” the entire way.

Upon arrival this afternoon, we noticed that the tour split into two groups, one which was going onto another leg of the trip to Berlin, and one departing for home from Prague. Each group had its own city guide from Gate1, with ours led by Jirjina. The walk from the hotel to the square was less than 5 minutes, and passes the Palladium Mall – with shopping. We had a tour of the area immediately around the hotel, centering on Republic Square, with restaurants, entertainment, banks, and easy access to cable cars routes to reach all of the city, then were free until the city tour started, so we had lunch at a Chinese restaurant in the square.

We returned to check into the Imperial Hotel, a 5-Star Art Deco masterpiece, complete with works of art and amazing restaurant. The staff was very helpful and available, but stayed in the background. The concierge was great, getting an all-day pass for the local cable car system and setting up tickets for the castle tour about an hour outside of Prague. The room, which was quite spacious was of dark, rich tones, and the bathroom only was a work of art. However, we requested a footstool and bath mat to shower in the tub as it is elevated very high off the floor, which the staff was able to provide. I would recommend guest to request an assessable room for those who need accessibility or some rooms have a separate shower and tub. The hotel was only a 5 minute walk to Republic Square and 30 minutes on foot to the Old Town Square.

Prague is the most secular city of Europe with the least Christian influence, though there are many cathedrals and statues of religious scenes and events. You will see quirky statues in unexpected places, with heads and bodies coming out of buildings or on top of buildings, and Prague is somewhat famous for odd statues. You will need to watch out for broken (or missing) cobblestones, even on very busy streets, particularly at night, and there are many employees and others smoking outside the stores lining the busier streets, which has become very unusual in the US. Like many other places we had visited, Prague is still recovering from Soviet occupation, which only ended a little over 2 decades ago.

There were many enjoyable places to see on the outskirts of the city and walking over the Charles Bridge, but we loved seeing the outskirts of the city and the food was nice. Strangely, I was approached from a woman who grabbed both arms and shook me lightly in broad daylight in the city square. This is a common tactic of pick-pockets to cause a distraction while their partner tries to lift a wallet or valuables – and is not limited to Prague – after all, we were in major cities. So far as we could tell, no one had anything removed and (to be generous) it just may have been a case of mistaken identity. Be aware there is more of this in this city but this only happened to me in our group and no one else had this experience.

Our city tour picked up with a bus ride to Prague Castle tour in the northwest part of the city, where the President lives. The castle has a huge Cathedral we visited within the walls. From one of the gates of the castle you get a view to the Petrin Observation Tower, which looks like a small Eiffel Tower, on a ridge to the west of Town in the Mala Strana (or Lesser Town), which we would later visit on our own. We ended the bus tour with a stop in the Jewish District and walking tour past the very old Jewish Cemetery, built in layers to avoid disturbing older graves. The tour continued through the Old Town past very high end shopping and into the Old Town Square. Many of us chose to walk back to the hotel with Jirjina, where we learned a lot more about what Prague has to offer.

We ventured out for pizza with friends following some time later, and found the Pizza Coliseum about 10 minutes from the hotel, but with outdoor seating in an open plaza by a theatre, Afterwards, we found some Gelato.

09 July 2018

Prague

Today we ventured on our own across the River, starting with Public Transport (all day pass bought at the hotel concierge). The bus was near the hotel and after a few tense moments figuring out which bus and then which stop we needed, we exited, turned, and found ourselves exactly where we wanted to be, buying a ticket for the tram up the mountain to the park and miniature Eiffel Tower (The Petrin Tower). Walked (partially up the tower, then strolled around the gardens and continued to the beautiful Strahov Monastery. We had a wonderful lunch with homemade beer and then walked through to the monastery and down the street into the city of Prague. After exiting the Monastery, we found the terrace restaurant run by the monks with a beautiful view of the city below. There was an artist's table outside and we purchased a small watercolor picture. Continuing down toward the city we visited another Gelato store and stopped off at a puppet store to buy a Pinocchio marionette for our grandson.

One of the shortcuts recommended by our City Guide had us pop out of an alley in front of the American Embassy – it’s easy to forget that we have travelled to the capital cities of three European countries and seen the US embassy in 2 of them.

Finally, we reached the Charles Bridge over the Volta River that flows through Prague, dividing the Castle area and Lesser Town from Old Town and New Town. There were musical performances and wonderful statues on both sides, as well many artists plying their trade and selling their works. On the river were tour boats, paddle boats, kayaks, and some river rafts.

As we returned from the castle, we found that traffic had been gridlocked all over the city, to the point where people were getting off public transport after waiting hours for it to move. So bring your map just in case…

Several couples went to eat dinner together tonight. The meal was great and one thing holds true, the soups here are worth having. But waiters have a problem with large parties splitting the bill when everyone is at the same table, even if you tell them up front. One thing that worked for us was to tell the waiter how much of the final bill each would pay.

After leaving, a few of us stopped for frozen yogurt or ice cream in a toasted cinnamon cup than walked back out into the city… Then we had more Gelato – really, this does not get old.

10 July 2018

Prague

Trip to the historic Karlstejn Castle, a fortress on a ridge with strong defenses that held the crown jewels of several empires during its . The tour began with a ride out through the countryside of the Czech Republic and a stop at the bottom of a gravel trail through the woods up to the castle gate.

The castle is quite impressive in size and the thickness of the walls. The courtyards and very large rooms provided a nice backdrop as the guide provided the history of most of the objects in the room and events here that affected history in Europe.

The way down from the castle starts from the same entry point as the gravel trail but circles around the castle and down through the picturesque homes, restaurants, and shops lining the streets of the village of Karlstejn. Our ride back to the castle was waiting at a parking lot at the very bottom of the road. Of course, several mandatory gelato stops were available as you walked.

During our time in Prague, while walking with a few people on the same trip, one ran into Rick Steve, famed travel writer and blogger. It was really cool to see the post of his stay in Prague. But there are other bloggers who have done some amazing editing and summaries of the places of Prague.

Prague https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LHCEkm_Wu0Q

Since it was a long day, we opted to eat dinner in the restaurant at the hotel.

That night, bags were unpacked, repacked, and tagged for pick up for the morning ride to the airport.

11 July 2018

Going Home…

Because of our flight time, we had around 30 minutes to eat breakfast in the hotel at the buffet. This is a 5-star hotel and the food, service, and setting had been impeccable on every visit. Having this included with the tour was valuable and very convenient.

The ride to the airport was on a slightly rainy day, but American airlines was at a different pier than the drop-off point. So a number of us ended up getting carrying/dragging bags a couple hundred meters (yards) to reach the right terminal.

Refrigerator Magnets – Decided to get refrigerator magnets from cities we visited in the same colors to build a theme.

As for Customs, write down the type and amount of goods you intend to bring back, with the local currency converted to US dollars. Don’t wait for the end of the trip to make a list – you will probably have bought more than you remember. Also, on the return, there are automated kiosks for customs – however, the line for these kiosks can be long – get the form on the flight and fill it out – grouping related items into categories saves time – like “clothing” and “refrigerator magnets”. Customs allowed 800.00 U.S. dollars duty-free.

General Notes on Travel…

Money – Hungary uses the Forist and the Czech Republic uses the Koruna (Crowns), but Euro were accepted everywhere, US Dollars were accepted in Hungry (Magyar) and everywhere for trips… but every shop has their own exchange rate if you do not pay in the local currency. This can add 10-15% to your cost – let your bank handle the exchange rate if you are using your card. Plus, they never take your card to some back room to run it. They bring the wireless card reader and printer to the table and have them in the taxis and you sign for it – but let them know you want to pay by card and if you would like to add a tip. Also, if it is less than 20 Euro, most vendors do not like taking your card and can refuse. So have cash – at one point, one of us had to leave the restaurant, get cash, and return. If you don’t see the VISA, MasterCard, or American Express sign, ask about using your card before you order. (That restaurant had a lot of dirty dishes to wash, but I’m pretty sure you don’t get that option.)

Communication and pictures – Let your wireless carrier know you are traveling. But if you are going to wander about in a new city, it is not a bad idea to make sure your phone is activated and that you can access your 3G/4G/LTE service (not just WiFi) before you go – Google Maps can’t help you if you cannot connect to the network. WiFi was provided on board the ship, and it was always available when we tried, there are points on the cruise where they advise that WiFi access cannot extend to shore. Now, using two phones for this trip with Verizon was $10 per phone, per day… So these daily access charges added up. Another thing, the camera on a phone does not do justice to the scope and scale of what you will see both in size and in the distances.

Bathrooms are not free, unless you order food, or coffee. And while we are used to paying one price, if you order to go (or to not dine in) and then sit down, you might get chased out since there is a tax for sitting down to eat that you don't pay when you order to go - and the restaurant gets the fine. Pay the extra amount to sit and use the facilities anytime you eat. (Always have cash on hand – Euros worked everywhere we went).

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Paris and Rhone River Cruise - AMA Kristina

Fri, 23 May 2025 03:24:26 GMT

Paris and Rhone River Cruise - AMA Kristina

Paris stays by rail to Lyon and cruises on the Rhone River to Avignon

Paris – the city of lights – the city of love… followed by a River Cruise down the Rhone River with its long history of culture, agriculture, and conflict going back thousands of years.

A great destination to celebrate a special occasion, and this is exactly what we did for our 25 ^th wedding anniversary!

AMA Waterways aboard the AMA Kristina, with a beautiful crew.

CLICK HERE to check out more photos and videos of this trip.

Getting There – December 4, 2022

Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) to Charles De Gaulle International Airport (CHG), Paris

Direct overnight flight from the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) to Charles De Gaulle International Airport (CHG) aboard American Airlines. One item that was different in the baggage area on arrival is that after we picked up our bags, the exit from the baggage area was back in the same direction that we entered the baggage area – make sure you get your bags first and don't just follow the crowd, they may not have checked baggage.

Day 1 – December 5, 2022

Paris

Our transport driver met us at the gate just after exiting the baggage area by the driver, and soon after we pulled out onto the road, we were introduced to the traffic jam typical to the morning and evening rush hours. Paris is not a large city; however, it is very dense and tends to have traffic.

Renaissance Paris Hotel Nobel Eiffel Hotel had the opportunity for a three pre-night stay in Paris with AMA Waterways.

Several tour guides would remark that the hotel was located in a very posh area of Paris. Shop owners, staff, and restaurants were likely used to a more international clientele visiting France.

Walking out of the hotel to explore, we stopped first at a bank on the corner to pull some Euros out and were pleasantly surprised that the exchange rate was near 1 to 1 with US dollars for tips for tour guides, drivers, and wait staff, and some other vendors that did not accept cards or had difficulty getting their machine to work. Some machines give you a choice for the size of bills – smaller is better. We would stop several more times at ATMs along the journey.

We stopped and ate lunch at XVI Avenue , a restaurant a short walk from the hotel—pizza, soups, and in Mike's opinion, the best French Onion soup he had ever had. Then we walked to an overlook on the circle Place du Trocadéro with a view across the Seine River to view the Eiffel Tower .

After a much-needed nap to compensate for the jet lag, we ate dinner at Carette on the circle Place du Trocadéro near the Eiffel Tower overlook, with huge portions and beautiful deserts. Along the street, the facades of the buildings are magnificent, which a few tour guides would remark was an artif act of changes made to Paris architecture at a point in the past.

One thing that stood out, on the streets in Paris, few people smile back at you, but once inside a building, a smile is usually returned, and people are quite polite and friendly, much as they would be in any large city. That friendliness was also present in parks and the areas where someone is relaxing instead of being on the way somewhere (plus, it was a little chilly outdoors, so people may have been more in a hurry than they otherwise may have been.

Day 2 – December 6, 2022

Paris

We woke to a great hot breakfast served buffet-style and started with a bus tour through the city under low clouds hiding the top of the Eiffel Tower and passing the Arc de Triomphe . One detail the guide shared is that there is a tunnel under the massive circle around the monument to get to the monument directly. There are regular twice-daily ceremonies for these commemorated on the monument – it is treated with similar respect as our tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington.

Moving down the Avenue des Champs-Élysées between the Arc de Triomphe and Place de la Concorde, which continues as a park with a wide walking area leading directly to the central courtyard of the Louvre, past high-end world-famous stores based in Paris, I am only sorry the pictures were quite challenging to get because the eye can catch more detail than a camera on a bus. The storefronts were works of art in themselves, and the reflection of what we later discovered reflects a French maxim to invest in the façade so that your place, be it a home or business, will be appealing. So, it is no accident that the exteriors are beautifulNew Paragraph

We continued our tour through the streets of Paris, in both a glorious celebration and simultaneously a tragic moment, a smaller golden flame monument, precisely like the one on the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor that was a gift from France commemorates the deep friendship between France and the United States, going all the way back to the assistance of the French in sending a fleet to prompt a more immediate end to our War of Independence to become a free nation. Although the Statue took on a completely different meaning related to immigration because of a poem on a plaque added much later, its original purpose as a link between our two nations is not forgotten. The flame also sadly marks the top of the tunnel where Princess Diana's accident occurred.

From there, we crossed the Seine River (pronounced "sane”), which runs through the center of Paris, parked near The Eiffel Tower stop on the tour, and walked up near the base. The Eiffel Tower and the Seine River are convenient navigational aids for moving around the center of Paris, where The Louvre , the Cathedral of Notre Dame , the Musée d'Orsay , the Palace of the Invalides , and many other of well-known sites line the Seine River. The walking portion of this tour started at the Paris Town Hall (Town Halls are called the" Marie" in every town and village and usually have an open front door). We would see many of these as we continued the journey.

The Town Hall of Paris (Hôtel de Ville) is named differently than any other town hall (Marie) in France, is several blocks past the Louvre when coming from the direction of the Arc de Triomphe , and it is here that we disembarked the tour bus and continued on foot. After a brief stop at the town hall to view the decorations and amusements for Christmas, we crossed the bridge over the Seine River to an island in the middle of the river and visited the outside of the Cathedral of Notre Dame, which is still being renovated from a fire that damaged the center of the structure a few years ago. Repairs are being worked on constantly to be ready to reopen by the time Paris hosts the Olympic Games in 2024. Scaffolding and safety rigging is up around the building as well as a wall protecting the site and potential visitors until it is ready. From there, we crossed another bridge, leaving the island for the far bank of the Seine, and stopped for a croissant and a coffee at Café du Paris, with a view from outside to Notre Dame.

From there, we took the tour bus to walk through a Christmas Market in the park between the place be la Concorde and the Louvre. The " Roue de Paris ” is a huge Ferris wheel, found in the Place de la Concorde by the Louvre marks the end of the market. Here, I was introduced to Vin Chaud (hot spiced wine) warmed in kettles. When they say hot – it means really hot. I picked up a hat similar to what the French wear from a seller in the market, which helped keep off the chill. At every end, we found a cheese maker selling delicious melted cheese on bread, and once you try it, either here or with pizza, you may also give a nod of appreciation to the skilled cheese makers of France.

From this point, we returned to the hotel and walked down to eat with some new friends on the tour, this time to Le Malakoff . Several restaurants are located on the traffic circle of Place du Trocadéro (Trocadéro Square) , which has two large museums flanking an open area visible as a landmark high on a hill overlooking the Eiffel Tower. This area became our go-to spot for meals near the hotel and a guidepost on a later walk at night to find out way back to the hotel.

After dinner, we returned to the hotel for a nighttime bus trip on the " City of Lights " Tour to the hilltop village of Montmartre & Illuminations Tour that was well outside of Paris. At the base of the hill, we transferred from the bus to the mini train for the ride up the hill directly in front of the Moulin Rouge , meaning "Red Windmill," which hosts a world-famous cabaret. Montmartre is centered around the smaller local Church and the much larger and ornate Basilica, with views over Paris. After a tour of the Basilica, we ate dinner in La Bohème Montmartre restaurant by the local Church and found several places with partial views of the lights of Paris well below.

As we finished, after a walk to the funicular and a short ride down the steep slopes of the hill with another short walk to meet the bus, we were on the way back to the hotel. The bus stopped at a point near the Eiffel Tower, and we watched the light show – sparkling and shimmering in the glow that never seems to leave.

While in Paris, Morocco, a former French colony, advanced to the semi-finals of the world cup. With a sizeable Moroccan presence in Paris, several roads became blocked with cheering fans celebrating. As we approached the Arc de Triomphe, with fireworks lighting up over the monument, the streets became gridlocked with sold lines of blue lights of the police, the white glow of the oncoming cars, and the red lights of the vehicles ahead. It was a subtle, unintentional tribute to the French flag of vertical blue, white, and red lines.”

Day 3 – December 7, 2022

Paris

For our last full day in Paris, we had the concierge get us tickets to a guided tour to The Louvre , the hotel arranged a cab to get us there, and we met the tour guide near a horse and rider statue in the courtyard between either wing of the building and collected our audio device. Make sure you have your tickets and try to stick close to the guide, as at the gates of train stations or major attractions, the venue agents are only looking for a count, and if others get between you and the rest of the tour, you might get separated. Look out for each other – it also gets crowded inside, and knowing who is in the group can help you stay connected to the guide when you spend more time than expected at an exhibit.

We entered the Louvre from steps at a non-descript stairway under the courtyard and walked past the gift shops and food courts as we entered, past the bottom of the glass pyramid in the center of the courtyard. The Louvre's attractions are not just inside. The exterior has large numbers of statues and carved ornaments and every wall, and many ceilings have some artistic treatment, if only in shaping the materials in the background. The building itself is art.

As the guide pointed out, there are 18 acres of exhibits; it will not be possible to see everyone in a day, so check out the layout before arriving or check the map when the guided portion of the tour ends. We chose to see sculptures and the French art area, which takes you to both wings. There str many stairs involved in some places between galleries, and the means to move between these were not evident in all areas, but there are lifts in some locations where stairs were present. It was challenging to move between the wings while staying inside the building.

A tip on photographing art, such as paintings. In some cases, the frame is an integral part of the composition, and in others, focusing on the content only on the canvas changes the picture entirely. One image, titled "Guardsmen," evoked a "Three Musketeers: feel to it, a window into Alexandre Dumas's story of the young man aspiring to join the King's guards, the Musketeers. With and without the frame changes the results – try one or the other or both methods yourself. Just be aware that some canvases are more the 20 feet wide and may be filled with details.

We ate before leaving the Louvre but were surprised to find how long we had been inside. The sun was fading, and it appeared the cabs were busy, but we walked along the Seine River back toward the Eiffel Tower, where we could cross back and continue up the hill to the traffic circle where our go-to restaurants were located, then return to the hotel. It was a slightly longer walk than expected because we kept finding pictures to take, such as the d'Orsay Museum in the old Paris to Lyon Train Station , the Seine River , and the glow of the Eiffel Tower in the twilight was inspiring. We both could not help singing the song from the movie Mama Mia, "walks along the Seine…"

Day 4 – December 8, 2022

Paris to Lyon

At the end of this phase of the trip, we embarked on a TGV high-speed train from the Pont-du-Gard Train Station in Paris bound for Lyon. Baggage is usually stored in spaces at each end of the train. For this phase, AMA Waterways collected the luggage at the hotel and trucked it to the ship in Lyon, and by the time we arrived, it was in our stateroom. It was only later we would find just how much of a convenience this was. Remember, the train travels very fast, and you experience ear pressure from rapid elevation changes. In addition, if you tend to have motion issues, facing forward and not backward is better. It takes a while to get used to the fast-oncoming trains and the sensation as they pass by so quickly. Lyon had two stops for the train, and we had to depart the train at the 2 ^nd stop at Lyon Poincaré. From there, we were picked up by bus and transported to the main square (Place Bellecour) in Lyon, where the Basilica is clearly visible high above the city.

Lyon is the hub of French gastronomy, so we started with a brief walk through the main square and a quick trip for a bite to eat (and drink). While this is a generalization, French food can be very calorie-dense and seem smaller than portions in the US, and this was no exception to that general rule: sausages, cheeses, loaves of bread, water, and wines. While small, it was very filling.

Lyon hosts a days-long festival, the Fête des Lumières , centered on December 8 for St Mary in gratitude for saving the city from a flood. Illuminations are placed in windows, and the crowds are enormous. The main display with the festival's theme was in the town square, " I Love Light. " A light show for the city's leading exhibition is projected from downtown onto the large buildings on the north side of Sonne River. The river to the south is the Rhone River. Our ship, the Amakristina, was docked near the main square, a short walk across the bridge over the Rhone, then past one more bridge.

When we reached the ship on AMA Waterways , we were greeted with "Welcome home." After settling in, we had a briefing and ate dinner. The ship had been decorated for Christmas with a large tree near the entry desk and other decorations in various places around the ship.

After dinner, we walked along the Rhone to the main square with another couple. Note that cobblestones have uneven surfaces and gaps along the streets.

Finally, at the end of the evening, Roberto, the onboard musician, entertained those who were up. Roberto was a very talented musician and quite the singer, and we purchased his CD recorded in Rome – when we got home, it did not disappoint!

Day 5 – December 9, 2022

Lyon

Morning Lyon city tour. We visited the Basilica (La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière) overlooking the city. I stopped in the old town and walked through the cobblestone streets past well-decorated restaurants with attractive facades.

Afternoon excursion to Beaujolais , with its orange-yellow stones and wines. It was particularly foggy today, so the miles-long views over scenic valleys just were not going to be visible. On the way, we stopped in the community of Val d'Oingt, a small village around the d'Oingt Tower (Tour d'Oingt). After walking around the village, we bought hot chocolate and continued to the vineyard.

We visited a family vineyard, where our guide and Pasqual, the proprietor, entertained us and talked about the wines he made – particularly his aging of wines and the techniques in aging wines rapidly that many now practice. This was a discussion of variations of the region's wines due to a combination of factors. Then we proceeded to the tasting room, where Pasqual continued the debate and drank the wine. We brought back a bottle to share (since there was plenty of wine aboard). If anything, it was even better than the samples in the tasting room.

Day 6 – December 10, 2022

Lyon to Vienne

Morning - Walking Tour to Basilica overlooking the town and the mini-Eifel Tower of Lyon.

In the morning, we departed the ship for the Lyon Christmas market and spent a fair amount of time walking up and down the city park used for this purpose. There were vin chaud and gift sellers, where we bought other items such as a model of a small bakery with a lighted stone oven and a figurine of a baker with a large wooden spatula since Mike bakes, and bought some scarves as well – not sure if it was the cold. Still, these looked like good gifts for personal wear. Also, we bought a gingerbread tree which would later end up on the desk of one of the ship's crew who has a taste for gingerbread as another passenger played secret Santa. We all liked this crew.

We walked back to the ship for lunch.

Back onboard, we had a presentation from a silk scarf maker, consistent with one of the principal businesses of the City of Lyon. Many of the more significant buildings along the Sonne River were used to manufacture silk products or to house workers in the silk industry. There was some shopping, and yes, silk scarves were purchased.

This evening, the French Soccer Team advanced in the World Cup to the semi-final round, and although I did not get to see it, knowing that it would be helpful tomorrow. On our cruise, some visited two different establishments in the city to watch the match.

Day 7 – December 11, 2022

Vienne to Tournon

Walking tour through town to the Cathedral of Vienne and the Roman Temple of Augustus . It is easy to forget that Rome did control large parts of France (Gaul) and that there are distinct cultural variations based on that control. We would later discover that external influences on the Rhone peaked near Avignon, where French, Roman, and Spanish cultures blended as Catalonians.

Besides, the Roman Temple is a residential building with a plaque dedicated to Thomas Jefferson , who stayed there while also visiting the vineyards and wineries of the region. While photographing the plaque, a resident passed by and was interested if we had been able to watch the French Soccer Team win last night. While we had not, it was confirmed we had heard about the French victory (thanks to our Cruise Director) and were rooting for France, which brought a smile.

We stopped at a hotel courtyard decorated for Christmas and explored a few streets as we waited for the train (well, sort of a train) to carry us to the top of Mount Pipet.

The top of Mount Pipet has a panoramic view over the Rhone, the red-roofed town, and the Roman Amphitheater immediately below. Looking carefully at the photo, you can see the three-story hotel with the dark grey rooftops about halfway up and a little to the right. It would be quite a walk if you were so inclined. There are also two ruins, one down to the left with a very high wall and another fort perched atop the hill to the right. There were many places where the various parts of the territory on either side of the Rhone were controlled by a King, a Duke, a foreign government, or armies warding off each other (but not always), so fortification was not typical. Still, every town and city seemed to have them. Also on the top of the mountain is the site of Saint Peter's Museum.

Back aboard the AMA Kristina, the ship hosted a contest on the 12 Labors of Bacchus, not a drinking game… okay, it could be a drinking game, but it wasn't, though, for part of it, there was a tasting to test your ability to detect different flavors. But the content was also a combination of the history of wine, the Rhone River's grapes, and the reasons for the vast differences in wines throughout the region, even with the same grapes.

This evening, we had Christmas Dinner, and, in this case, the classic French dish, Boeuf Bourguignon, was one selection and my favorite meal of those aboard, though every meal was special because of the company we shared and the crew.

Day 8 – December 12, 2022

Tournon-sur-Rhône

Instead of the train ride through the gorge of the Doux River, we went to a Wine and Chocolate Tasting with information on the region's wines and the effect of wine on the taste of foods. Our guide, a sommelier in his own right, introduced our sommelier who covered the history of wines, the effects of water, soil, and sunlight on wine grapes, and how varied the area along the Rhone is. The pairings of different wines with chocolates a top French chef made amazed many. This understanding came in handy later aboard the ship with the gingerbread and vin choud (or hot wine), really bringing out the flavor of the ginger. We followed the wine and chocolate pairing with a walk across the river and through the Village Tain L'Hermitage to the Valrhona Chocolate factory store. One of the chocolates was based on cocoa butter (the non-dark portion of the cocoa paste used in white chocolate) and citron (lemon), which tasted exactly like the lemon meringue pie Eileen's mom made.

Once we were all aboard, we set sail in the early afternoon.

With Roberto singing, a few enterprising passengers, with help and encouragement from our intrepid Cruise Director, proceeded to decorate the Christmas trees placed on the dance floor – untangling the strings of beads and snowflake hangers and managing to make a good showing.

Now, with a dance floor covered by three decorated Christmas trees, you might think there would be no dancing but au contraire (a little French lingo for you). We got up and danced around the trees and the tables used for water and cookies.

Day 9 – December 13, 2022

Tarascon to Avignon

From the dock in Tarascon, took a morning walking excursion to the formerly Roman village Arles where famed artist Vincent van Gogh spent a significant period of his life. One garden where we stopped on the tour displayed one of his paintings of the garden. The garden is in the same state as in the picture. We had the opportunity to shop, offering many Van Gogh items we purchased for gifts, such as a pocketbook, scarf, soap, and lavender gift items. The streets and city had that old classical look of stone and cobblestones, passing an ancient Roman Amphitheater and a Colosseum. The Colosseum took on a different role at other times, and the arches were bricked up to create a defensive fortress. Access has been unchanged since the Romans' days and maybe a challenge for those with mobility difficulties. The Church of Saint Trophime , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also located here.

In the afternoon, we went on a tour to Les Baux de Provence , to the Carrieres de Luninieres light and sound show in the old mining caverns. We opted to join two other couples on this tour rather than our original plan for a castle tour that was a short walk from the ship. After a drive through the countryside, we entered the old quarry, where massive blocks of stone columns supported the roof and became screens for projectors throughout the cavernous space. Works of art and other artistic and historical events were projected on most surfaces, accompanied by music throughout the cavern treating visitors to a spectacular experience.

The village of Les Baux is set on a moderately steep hill. Charming shops and homes lined the main street up to a dramatic overlook with views of orchards, lavender fields, low mountains, and vineyards established under Roman rule thousands of years ago. Pictures do not do it justice since it is a panorama of history, not just of a rocky outcropping.

As night fell, we delighted in a special illuminations cruise as the ship sailed towards the renowned Avignon Bridge, made famous by the French children's song "Sur le pont d'Avignon."

Day 10 – December 14, 2022

Avignon

Morning Avignon Walking Tour and Papal Palace Tour – Avignon the "City of Popes," UNESCO World Heritage Site – "Historic Centre of Avignon." Avignon was the official home of the Pope for 70 years. After the election of an Italian-born Pope who moved the official papacy to Rome, the cardinals elected a second Pope in Avignon. A struggle over the leadership of the Church resulted until Martin Luther stepped forward. The tour was informative on the history and the struggles of the Church, which included a tragic and destructive chapter in French history that entangled all cultural structures into the ambitions, agendas, and intrigue present during the French Revolution in 1789.

One section of the Christmas Market was on the main street through the town. Still, another, sponsored by Village Des chansonniers et artisans , was tucked away in the Cloître des Célestins , an old church off a side street from the market adjacent to a municipal administration building. With the additional lighting, the Church had a magical feel to it, as the craftsmanship of the structure was on par with some much larger and more famous cathedrals, beautiful in its simple and raw form, absent the frescos, paintings, and sculptures that adorn those other sites.

Avignon has some roads that turn, and navigating without a map can be challenging. Help out those who are on your ship whenever you get a chance. Go with others because four can lighten the load of navigating, and it's more fun to learn and explore when you share the experience.

In the early afternoon, we traveled to Grignan to tour Château de Grignan (castle) . Fields of lavender and a village surround the base of the hill where the castle stands. These fields bloom in the spring, ending in June, and up to mid-July. We are past that season, so the lavender flowers had been harvested, leaving only the base in rows of green. Grignan is one of those places where even walking up into the town that surrounds the fortress, it is hard to point a camera in any direction and not find something attractive or appealing to capture, though some of these and in the absence of the expected presence.

The Collégiale Saint Sauveur Church is attached to the castle's outer walls and is simply decorated compared to the ornate Cathedrals and Basilicas in other sites – it is beautiful in a different way. The sanctuary is clear of distractions, and the Church has nativity scenes set up with illumination of different parts based on the narrative of the Christmas story.

After entering the gate to the inner castle walls and main building, details on the loss of priceless historical artifacts and wanton destruction of aristocratic and Church sites in the French Revolution were covered in a clear photograph of the entryway before restoration. Statues were smashed, defaced, or cut into pieces, typical of the destruction that accompanies conquering a civilization, as our Louvre tour guide put it. The buildings were looted and burned. The restored façade and interior are magnificent but seem to have still places where statues would have been present and are conspicuous in their absence.

Following the chateau, we visited the charming Domaine de Cordis bed-and-breakfast and truffle farm after a short ride. We were entertained and informed by the charismatic owner whose family is an integral part of the business. After covering how truffles grow and the training of truffle hunting dogs, a demonstration of how enthusiastically a truffle hunting dog does her work was provided. Now, being an intelligent man and factoring in the cold and wet weather, our host provided us with a quick demonstration of the dog searching for truffles using a pre-planted truffle, a fact he readily admitted to doing – with our gratitude. We moved indoors to a tasting area, a shop, where we sampled various truffle-infused products and oils. Beyond truffles, the farm is open for weddings and a place to stay, and although the time of year and weather did not cooperate for a romantic setting outdoors, it was not hard to see how beautiful it could be in the spring or fall for your special day.

While in Avignon, France advanced from the semi-final round to the final with a victory in the World Cup.

Day 11 – December 15, 2022

Avignon to Paris

After we checked out of our cabin, we returned to walk in the town in the rain while the ship held our bags. We returned to the Christmas Market inside the Cloître des Célestins old church and found the vendors charming.

On the way back, we stopped at the Calvert-Museum , accessible from the lower levels, which had some echoes of the Louvre but with some unexpected differences in the subject matter.

Finally, we stopped at the Patisserie Vernet Café pastry shop and had some incredible pastries and hot chocolate. The apple tart was perfectly sweetened and would have easily been a $6 dessert in the US, but this was 1.5 Euros, about $1.50 US. The hot chocolate was melted and mixed—such a treat. We then returned to wait for the taxi our Cruise Director had arranged to pick us up and transport us to the rail station.

Having departed from the ship and the cruise, getting back to Paris and the airport had some surprises. Avignon is big enough for two train stations. After paying the taxi driver, we found the process works like this. Thirty minutes before the arrival of the train, the turnstiles allow travelers to place their boarding pass on the scanner, and the turnstile opens. All your luggage must go through with you all at once – this was a sign of what would come. There was a long ramp or an elevator to get to the 2 ^nd floor of the station where the train platform was located. While the railcar number is on the LED on the side of each car near the doors when waiting for the train, the place to stay is marked by the railcar number in the terminal. It is good to be close to the right door since the boarding occurs reasonably quickly – for reference, the higher number seats are at the top – we were in 72 and 73. Move outside when the time is under 5 minutes.

The convenience of AMA Waterways moving the luggage by truck from Paris to Lyon cannot be understated. Without this, the movement of bags onto the train during a short stop is on the passenger; there is no baggage check. At either end of the railcar, there are racks for bags, and inside, there is a small area for some bags. When the train arrives, you have to carry these. We were on the train upstairs, carrying three rather full and heavy bags down the stairs with other passengers below. Traveling light has an advantage, one we did not have.

Unlike the guided tour by our excellent Cruise Director, Fintan, when boarding in Paris, the conductor checks each passenger's ticket by seat assignment; expect this, so you are not fishing around for your boarding pass while the conductor stands waiting.

After arriving in Paris, the Taxi stand was at the stop train's end.

Stayed at the Hotel Mercure Roissy-Charles-de-Gaulle . The hotel has a shuttle, but it is not complimentary. After arranging to purchase seats, we went down to the restaurant in the hotel (a 4-star hotel) and ordered meals and a wine from one of the vineyards in l'Hermitage where we had visited. The dinner and the wine were superb and capped an experience we hope to repeat.

Return – December 16, 2022

Paris and Return Flight

A 3-night post-stay in Barcelona was an option, but we had to opt for the return to Paris and an overnight stay with a departure the following day. Leave ample time to reach the correct gate at Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) . The terminals have a single drop-off point, and the terminals are enormous. As we walked through, we were passed by many people rushing to get to their gate and heard more than one story of travelers who had to get a hotel because they had missed flights. There are many Airports with direct flights to Paris.

Other Notes

Medical Considerations

Rules at the time required a Covid test within 48 hours of boarding, and while this was not checked, if there had been a problem, not having the proof of that could be a problem. Buy and bring your test kits with you. No test was required at the time to fly back to the US as a citizen. Policies require that if you get sick, the ship will arrange for a doctor, but if you are positive, you must leave the ship – so stay well, use the hand sanitizers, bring a small bottle of hand sanitizer, and enjoy your vin chaude.

Pictures

This was my first time using the iPhone 13. It was terrific, automatically applying filters for haze and light levels that required post-editing to apply for the Canon SX70 (which had been unintentionally set off of its usually spot-on automatic filters and exposure settings). When found and corrected, the Canon did its usual excellent job and, with a 65X Optical built-in, can get some details that would have been lost (even considering it did not have the right lens filter for these conditions. The old reliable Samsung S6 (yes, it's that old) still does a great job in general landscapes and applies auto-filters well - I just did not use it as often, except at night – where it's still the best.

A 3-Night Rome, Italy Pre-Cruise

Mon, 19 May 2025 14:46:59 GMT

The Magnificence of Rome

Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW Airport)

Day 0 - Getting there - 07 September 2023, Departure 5:00PM

Arrived early for the flight and took photos of the parking place so we could find it on the way back – flying on Delta to JFK and then on to Rome. First, JFK… To transfer between the domestic flight and the international flight, we had to collect bags and hop on a bus to the next terminal, passing through security again. Because we had a long layover, we had to ask the airport rep for information on the next terminal. When we arrived at the next terminal, our boarding passes were cancelled (everyone’s boarding passes were cancelled) and had to go to the airline desk to have them reissued and to check bags. This is not the norm. Most times your luggage will check through. There may have been a security breach and additional precautions taken to increase security. JFK is interesting, the main food court in the Delta terminal was prior to going through security to the international gates. Once you pass through security to go to the gates, your choices are very limited.

Rome, Italy

Day 1 - 08 September 2023, A rrival 7:00AM

Arrived in Rome at the Leonardo da Vinci Airport with private transfer to our hotel about an hour away. Arrived too early to check into the room at the Hotel Forum , which is located just beside the Roman Forum , so we stored bags with the concierge desk, ate breakfast in the hotel overlooking beautiful views of the area around the Forum (we loved the view so much that we had breakfast here daily), and went out exploring the immediate area. The convenience of this hotel for what we wanted to see cannot be understated. Plus, it was directly beside one of the main restaurant roads by the Forum.

When returning to check in to the Hotel Forum , opening our 3 ^rd floor window facing the Roman Forum to take a picture would find even more passers-by snapping photos of us (our hotel). The elevator entrances and overall size are much smaller than average and operate separately. The hotel staff were both friendly and efficient. One pleasant surprise was the lack of road noise. Our travel report (that we give to our clients as well) recommended upgrading to a deluxe room to avoid the road noise below. We walked outside to the area of people taking pictures of our hotel and then we discovered why - the view of the ruins of the Forum of Nerva with the Hotel above it!

But first. we started the day walking past the Roman Forum for the first of many times, stopping frequently for pictures. The Forum contains the remnants of grand palaces, temples, monuments, and the homes of Rome’s rulers and leading citizens over thousands of years. The Forum is flanked by the Colosseum on the South, the Campidoglio and “Vittorio” or more formally, the Monument to Vittorio Emmanuel II , the 1 ^st King of Italy and to Italian veterans of World War I.

In the evening, we walked to the Trevi Fountain , where crowds had gathered in the warm evening, just as sunset was starting to cast its orange glow over the rooftops. Continuing to the Spanish Steps , we enjoyed the beautiful view over the rooftops with the glow of the setting sun beyond Saint Peter’s Basilica and surrounding area!

We stopped for pizza and lasagna on the walk back. I will be kind and not discuss the name of this regrettable choice, but sometimes the off-the-beaten-path restaurant with no guests is that way for a reason. It was definitely microwave lasagna and not the most expensive kind. Fortunately, there was not much of it. It’s not all perfect and it felt like we may have been on a hidden camera with Chef Gordon Ramsey right around the corner. In all, we found Italy, as expected by reputation, is an incredible culinary experience and all other experiences in Rome were excellent. We had fun tasting and comparing, particularly with “lunch” being the different versions of gelato and Tiramisu throughout Rome!

Rome, Italy

Day 2 - 09 September 2023

The morning started with a walk up to the hotel rooftop, where a bar opens in the evening (you can go to Eileen’s YouTube channel to see a video of the rooftop and all the destinations we visited), and then a quick walk past the Roman Forum to get some Euros from the bank on the street, Quattro November , then a walk back to the hotel. After a quick taxi ride from the hotel to the tour group meeting point with a delay for all the group to arrive, and then a short walk, we left Italy and entered the Vatican Museum in the country of Vatican City . Remain reasonably close to your guide and listen for directions as the audio devices are blocked by some of the thick walls and sharp angles as you pass displayed works of art created over centuries, in the buildings, rooms, and halls that at times both compete with and brilliantly frame the displays.

The tour began with an introduction of the history of the Vatican and the creation of the Sistine Chapel , then moved further into the Vatican Museum , which is also a work of art. Crowds flock to the site and rather than being only a museum, is currently used for its original purpose. The feeling one gets is not only the reverence of those who had constructed it, but that of awe in being so small in comparison to the greatness of God.

The Sistine Chapel was one of the surprises for Mike, as he pictured a quaint quiet place of prayer at ground level in a little village. Well, it is one of the highest points in the Vatican complex and while it is quiet, it is only because the guards caution the large crowds flowing through and pausing that there is no talking. The colors are vibrant, and the paintings have life in them. No photos are allowed within the Sistine Chapel, so it must be experienced in-person. When our tour guide had assembled us, we exited into St. Peter’s Square , near the entrance to our next stop, St. Peter’s Basilica .

St. Peter’s Basilica is huge and reflects a refinement and feats of Engineering, design, and craftsmanship over a sustained period. From the statue ‘Pieta’ , of Mary holding the body of Jesus, to the countless statues, selection of materials, and simply a scale that is unmatched for that era and has stood the test of time. New Paragraph

As we exited St. Peter’s Basilica , we happened upon the changing of the Swiss Guards . As we stepped further away from the Basilica into St. Peter’s Square we entered the massive arched colonnades on either side, like outstretched arms from the Basilica. These colonnades were capped with many statues. From this vantage point, the Basilica dome could be seen, as could the Papal Apartment and the Sistine Chapel high over the other administrative buildings.

Walking east out of St Peter’s Square toward the San Angelo Fort , we stopped at Universal Bar Pizzeria for Gelato and Tiramisu with some mineral water on the main entry road. Mike said, “Best Tiramisu I’ve ever had!” The staff was engaging and while not being intrusive, made the service a part of a great experience as we enjoyed our desserts in the shade on an outside table watching the crowd. After a long day on our feet, we chose to get a taxi back to the hotel from the taxi stand across from the San Angelo Fort back to the Campidoglio , then walked over to eat.

Rome, Italy

Day 3 - 10 September 2023

In the morning, after eating in the hotel we ventured out again to the city past the Vittorio bound for a dress shop we had seen from a taxi, and found it closed since it was Sunday morning. So, we walked with no destination in mind other than a vague idea that we wanted to see some of the architecture. Eileen stopped to rest in the shade on a low wall next to a large brick structure and as I was looking up our exact location to see what was nearby, a couple walked by mentioning to each other that they were going to the Parthenon but wanted to see something else before going to the entrance. Eileen got up to follow them to the Pantheon , then we stopped at the small, but ornate Basilica of St Eustace located in a small piazza nearby. The Basilica had an active congregation, a nice change from so many of the churches we had seen in other places that were essentially museums filled with only tourists. When we returned to the walk to the Pantheon , we were surprised that Eileen had sat down on the low wall behind the Pantheon!

Knowing now that the distance on the map was not a significant obstacle, we headed to the Piazza Navona , with three magnificent fountains, where we stopped at Ristorante Tucci , and enjoyed Gelato and Tiramisu. While relaxing in the shade and enjoying our early lunch (desert), Eileen noticed visitors entering an ornate building on the other side of the Piazza. Walking over to the entrance, we entered and found the Church of Saint Ages of Agone . The choir was practicing or participating in some sort of service, and the perfectly blended voices raised in song were ethereal.

After listening for a few minutes, we continued our walk, eventually reaching the bridge across the Tiber River in front of the impressive Italian Supreme Court of Appeals . This is one of the iconic night photography spots of the Vatican over the St Angelo Castle foot bridge across the Tiber River . On returning to start our afternoon tour, we passed the Palazzo Venezia and entered its atrium and courtyard, but this would have to wait as our next tour was to begin shortly.

In the afternoon, we joined a walking tour of the Colosseum and into the Roman Forum , site of the ruins of temples, monuments, Emperors’ homes, fortifications, and palaces from Rome’s earliest days. Our tour guide explained that the Colosseum was not built in a day, but that by the standards at the time, was built in record time as a massive public undertaking, The walls are concentric circles made of arches stacked one level on top of another and connected to each other by sold walls and arches on the outer ring. A massive shade was hoisted over the seats with poles locked in place with holes in the top row of stones. Beyond the vast scale of the structure, the steps here are quite steep and tall. To go back down, we had to use the elevators, which were almost on the exact opposite side of the gift shop, so it took a little while to get there and then to find the group again at the exit.

Our guide clarified that while Christians, criminals, and slaves were fed to the lions, brutalized, and killed in barbaric methods in large numbers in the Colosseum , the vast majority were unceremoniously slaughtered in the woods outside of Rome’s northern city limits. It was in the book “Gospel on the Ground” by Kristi McLelland that Eileen learned of man named Telemachus that who brought the gladiator entertainment to an end. We learned the end of the gladiator games did not come from acceptance of Christianity, it came from Telemachus who walked into the area, not as a combatant, but in protest that death was viewed as sport. He stood inside the area and said, “In the name of Christ Stop!” A gladiator killed Telemachus as an answer to his words. On his death, unarmed, even the jaded spectators turned to each other in shock and crowd fell over the crowd that triggered the end of the mortal combat; a realization that they have become desensitized to this form of entertainment and therefore, the last battle of the gladiators. Billpetro.com/history-of-telemachus. As we left the grounds of the Colosseum , we passed the Arch of Constantine and our walking tour continued to Palatine Hill .

Palatine Hill , or Palatino , was the home of the emperor and the original site of the fortified city of Rome . What was once the Flavian Palace , the epicenter of the greatest empire the world had known, now has only portions of a wall with a stone plaque and a small stone in the dirt where the Roman Emperor’s throne once sat and only the base of columns left of a huge structure that displayed Rome’s power to visitors. A wonderful view atop the Palatine Hill displayed all the ruins below.

As this was our last night in Rome, we ate at the restaurant, Angelino ai Fori , which was located just after leaving the Forum, and on the corner of the street we passed going to and from the Hotel Forum each day.

We could have easily spent three more days exploring and streets, sites, and tastes of Rome, and every picture changes with the position of sun in the sky, casting light and interesting shadows, but our next stop tomorrow would be the port of Civitavecchia , for a cruise through the Greek Isles and to Malta aboard the Celebrity Reflection . See the blog Here! https://www.landandseatravel.com/mediterranean-sea-cruise-aboard-the-celebrity-reflection-greek-isles-and-malta

Greek Isles and Malta Cruise - Distinctive Voyages Sailing aboard the Celebrity Reflection

Fri, 16 May 2025 12:54:56 GMT

10-Night Mediterranean Sea Cruise : Rome - Greek Isles - Malta

Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy

Day 4 - 11 September 2023, Set Sail at 5:00 PM

On this trip, we started with 3 pre-nights in Rome, staying in a hotel near the Roman Forum, enjoying the wonders of this ancient city. This proved to be a great introduction to Greek culture since Rome adopted many elements of Greek culture and arts, even carrying much of it back to Rome itself. See the separate article on this part of the trip for more details. See the 3-nights our Rome blog .

We started the day with an early checkout and waited for our transfer to the ship docked at port at Civitavecchia ., which is about an hour’s drive from the center of Rome, about the same travel time as to the Leonardo Davinci Airport . The transfer driver from the hotel to the ship was about 45 minutes late arriving since traffic in Rome can be legendary, but to the relief of the driver, this was not a problem because we gave ourselves about 4 hours to reach the ship before sailing. Land and Sea travel allows time in your vacation to avoid these potentially stressful issues... The ride took us through some of the non-tourist areas of Rome and then through scenic valleys by olive orchards and fields until we reached the port at Civitavecchia . Now we will continue where we joined our ship in the port of Civitavecchia, west of Rome.

Boarding was uneventful and soon we were aboard the ship, exploring the location of everything. The Celebrity Reflection is not the largest ship but had a huge number of crew and passengers. The safety briefing requires Wi-Fi access and as with all ships, cannot set sail until that is completed by all passengers. Wi-Fi is purchased by the number of devices rather than by cabin but allows switching to a different device (which disconnects the other device). So, several times per day, we had to switch between laptop and cell phone, since a travel advisor’s work does not wait, and the ship's itinerary planner was on the cell phone app. We spent some time exploring the ship as we moved between ports.

Each evening, the main theater put on two shows that were all worth seeing and very professionally done. These shows included an acclaimed and very talented violinist, the Queens of Rhythm, an aerial show, and others. Performers changed from day to day and would be different on different cruises but were all very entertaining.

At Sea

Day 5 - 12 September 2023

Sailing slowly between the Italian mainland and Sicily.

Olympia (Katakalon), Greece

Day 6 - 13 September 2023 Docked 7:00AM to 4:00 PM

We arose as the ship arrived at dock in the quiet Greek town of Katakolon . One note, the pronunciation of words may be different than expected – ‘Ka’ is a common Greek word, and the town is called ka-tak-o-lon, not kat-a-colon… which got a good chuckle from one guide after he figured out what I was trying to say.

Rather than stay in the town, we opted for a walking tour of the site of the ancient Olympic games. Olympia hosts the stadium that is the Birthplace of the Olympic Games. The Olympic games were scheduled to occur in the summer with 2-month pauses in any fighting before and after the games. Since all fighting between Greek City-States and their regional allies took place in summer, this essentially prevented wars for a short period, but not so much so that Greek history is not dominated by such wars or by wars from many other enemies who have attacked Greece for thousands of years.

After walking through the ruins of temples, halls, and monuments, we stopped at a museum with Sculptures – including a famed statue of Dionysus showing the strength of Grecian artists and various other sculptures and raised relief frescos and carvings of figures from Greek mythology.

T he local economy is based on the olive tree in both olive oil production and canned or packaged olives for eating. This is to the point where families do not borrow money from banks to build their homes, but rather than risk losing the land and their olive trees to frequent national financial issues and many failed experiments by the world bank and would rather leave buildings half-completed and continue construction as money is earned from the trees.

We visited one such olive oil producer as a part of the tour of Olympia, with an informative presentation on the growing, harvesting, pressing, and bottling of the oil and on their varieties and each variety’s characteristics, including polyphenols. From there, we enjoyed an amazing meal with wine tasting and traditional Greek dancing around the tables.

From there, we returned to the ship, and we departed with a Sail Away Wine Party on the helipad for Distinctive Voyages guests. It was great to meet so many of the interesting people who we would share the experience of visiting some of the foundational sights of Western civilization. The party ended not for a lack of good conversation, but for the wind increasing as the ship picked up speed toward our next destination

Athens (Piraeus), Greece

Day 7 - 14 September 2023, Docked 8:00AM to 8:00 PM

Met the taxi ride to our walking tour of Athens from just outside the Port of Piraeus Security checkpoint. After a 15-20 minute ride, we were dropped at the entrance to the road to was down in the Metro at our tour meeting point under the clock. and walked from there.

Our first stop was the National Assembly and changing of the guards (they approach from an unexpected direction – make space because they will not stop. This is where our guide clarified something very important. These guards are not military members, but there may be military members marching around the palace grounds. Warning : In Greek law, it is an act of espionage and a felony to photograph military members and is also a felony to photograph school children – so don’t.

Walked to the Temple of Olympian Zeus , one of the sites being rebuilt from fragments, and this is where the explanation of the damage to these sites was made, earthquakes, lightning strikes, and pillaging of relics. Many of the relics are in foreign museums, where the facades were pried off of buildings or debris and many statues taken through conquests. Rome’s style was taken from Greece, as well as much of its art and even building materials. Additional damage has been incurred from those attempting to carve their names or initials into relics, so there is a 15,000 Euro fine for this, so don’t do it.

Then we passed by Hadrian’s Arch , placed by the Roman Emperor, and stopped for refreshment and to wait for the time for our tour to enter the Acropolis. The main street leading to the Acropolis has a lot of shops and eating opportunities and we chose Fresko, a yogurt and ice cream shop. We were surprised to find traditional Greek yogurt has 10% milkfat, not the 0% fat generally marketed in the US. The Greek way is to add honey or dried or fresh fruits to yogurt.

Our tour time began, and we entered the lower area of the Acropolis site , The ruins of the Temple of Dionysus are at the base of the Acropolis, but many of these ruins have been reduced to the foundations alone and some parts of the columns. As the culture changed, the sites were unintentionally protected when access to temples and sites such as the Acropolis was banned under penalty of death and after a hundred years or so, the more accessible sites along the base were looted for materials or used as dumps.

The views of the magnificent structures, such as the Parthenon erected by the ancient Greek civilization do not come without a price. The climb up to the Acropolis can be difficult for those with mobility or balance challenges as the trail is steep and uneven, with loose rocks and no guardrails. At the top, some rocks have been worn to a smooth finish and can be slippery with a fine layer of dust on shoes. There is work constantly occurring to rebuild from fragments. Aside from other disasters, weather, and looting, the Acropolis itself was shelled by artillery during one attack, further damaging the structures. What is left and has been restored is amazing in scale if not in the details lost to time and to collectors and work is constantly in progress to restore what can be recovered and identified. Greeks joke that if they want to see the original Temple, they visit the British Museum – so they’d like those missing parts back.

The Acropolis Museum has some of the damaged original works and a scale model of the fascia from the T emple of Zeus showing the missing pieces. Recently, the Egyptian Museum returned a fragment of the Temple, and the museum prominently displays a cast of this fragment for closer examination.

Mykonos, Greece

Day 8 - 15 September 2023 Docked 7:00AM to 4:00 PM

Today we docked at the new port on Mykonos, Greece and embarked on a bus tour of the island. So, you are not surprised, the bus was long, the streets are narrow with sharp turns, and the hills are steep, so it is not uncommon in some areas of the island to go just a little off the road to make the turn on the way to the Armenistis Lighthouse .

Armenistis Lighthouse has some historic significance due to its technology and was installed in response to a British ship sunk by running aground on rocks. Later, it served as an observation post during the German occupation in WWII. It is renowned for its sunset pictures and for the views over the narrows between Mykonos and the island of Tinos, but also because the German officers stationed there were captured. Many years later, one officer later found and credited his Greek captors with saving his life by sparing him from assignment to the Eastern Front in Russia and they struck up a life-long friendship.

We drove to various points on the island with views over the hills cascading into the sea, with plots of land demarcated by stone walls, even up very steep slopes. These slopes with only low vegetation, highlighted the white buildings and blue-hued doors and shutters in contrast with the sea.

For a break, we stopped in the small village of Ano Mera, and visited the small Monastery of Tourliani of the Greek Orthodox Church . The Monastery is topped with a red dome, bell tower in the Greek tradition, and hosts a collection of very early Christian art in addition to its ornate sanctuary.

We stopped at the sandy Kalafati Beach . The beach had only a few tourists since it was coming to the end of the season. Greece does have a full 4 seasons, and it can get quite cold at times of the year but was quite warm while we were there. Once the winds shift and become stronger in the winter, ships stop docking in unsheltered waters and the tourist season ends.

We weaved through the crowded narrow streets in the Little Venice section of town, past shops and restaurants along the waterfront. On exiting this section, we walked up a little hill to the famous Windmills of Mykonos. From there we continued down to the oldest continuously operating bakery (since the 1400’s) and enjoyed some cookies and Greek honey-soaked pastries and the tour ended.

I n our free time, we returned to the windmills and found a small church down on the water just over the hill and then returned through little Italy and back toward the old harbor, stopping to buy a dress at Zorba’s . During a later tour, the guide informed us that although Anthony Quinn was of Mexican and not Greek descent, his portrayals of Greeks were well thought of in Greece and both he and the roles he played are celebrated in various places, both officially and unofficially in place names.

The small, blue-domed church of Saint Nikolaos of Kadena Holy Orthodox Church sits at the pier at Mykonos Old Port . During the bus tour, the guide explained that the color of the dome changed depending on where the family or owner earned their living, where earning a living from the sea was blue and from the land was red. Back in the harbor, after a stop at a bakery founded in the 1400's, we stopped to enjoy gelato and tiramisu at Da Vinci just off the harbor and as we were leaving realized our guide had recommended the much larger restaurant next door. Oh well, we had a good stack, and the other restaurant will have to wait until the next time…

Since the road is quite narrow near the cruise ship dock, getting back to the ship requires the sea shuttle from the Mykonos Old Port (with stops at the shuttle bus stop, at one other docking point, or walking to the bus stop and catching a 50 cent Euro ride to the ship. We opted for the Sea Shuttle. There are other ships for tours on the same dock and there can be some difference between where the boat will dock and the description from the ticket office – and there are separate lines for the shuttle and the tours. Ask because it is 30 minutes between sea shuttles.

Rhodes, Greece

Day 9 - 16 September 2023 Docked 7:00AM to 4:00 PM

We arrived in Rhodes at dawn and joined a bus and walking tour from Project Expedition, Rhodes' Ancient Wonders: A Shore Excursion . The tour started with a drive around the Medieval City of Rhodes whose fortifications guard the city of Rhodes and its harbor.

We started with a drive through the city of Rhodes for familiarization with the area near the sea, passing by the entrance of the harbor, where a pair of columns with deer statues, the symbol of Rhodes, flank the entrance to the harbor where legend states the Colossus of Rhodes once stood with one foot on either side of entrance.

Our ride took us past miles and miles of beaches and resorts on the northwest coast of Rhodes after leaving the city before turning inland to pass to the east side of the island, stopping at an olive oil shop, Lindos Premium Olive Oil, and a separate pottery shop, Savvas Ceramics, where each item is a work of art. Among these is the Pythagorean cup, which holds wine when filled with a moderate amount, but drains out completely if overfilled as an illustration of loss from greed (or perhaps, overindulgence). After some shopping times, we continued to Lindos.

Lindos is a beach town filled with clothing, food, and souvenir shops and restaurants and the Lindos Acropolis towers above the town. The parts of town nearer to the Acropolis are not accessible to those with mobility difficulties since the steps are steep and there are no guardrails, even inside the Acropolis. However, when one considers that all Greek citizens must surrender their license to drive at a younger age than retirement, accessibility and the impacts of this limitation may not be a strong consideration. We shopped at several places as we walked back to the square along the main street to catch the shuttle to the top of the hill and to our waiting bus.

The next stop had us returning to the Medieval City of Rhodes where the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of St John, surrounded by a dry moat stands in strategic control of the harbor. The Knights had started as a medical order and with the relentless military pressures, became a military order out of necessity. During one siege of the fortifications, the Knights were forced to negotiate a departure of the city, which the attacking army wanted intact, and departed to Malta, which we would soon see. The tour continued with a wine tasting at Vasilis Restaurant . Walking back to our meeting point at the fountain in Hippocrates Square, we sat down in the shade and enjoyed ice cream decorated with fruit to look like a flower at Archipelagos restaurant. The group reassembled at the Fountain in Hippocrates Square and walked to the waiting bus and a quick ride across the harbor back to our ship.

The tour continued with a wine tasting at Vasilis Restaurant . Walking back to our meeting point at the Fountain in Hippocrates Square , we sat down in the shade and enjoyed ice cream decorated with fruit to look like a flower at Archipelagos restaurant. The group reassembled at the fountain and walked to the waiting bus and a quick ride across the harbor back to the ship.

Santorini, Greece

Day 10 - 17 September 2023, Tendered 8:00AM to 10:00 PM

T he crisp white buildings at the tops of the very steep hills looked like snow covered mountains as we cruised in to anchor in the channel by Santorini (a sentiment relayed by another passenger quite independently).

After taking a tender ashore, we opted for the cable car ride to the top (the alternative was to walk up the path shared with the donkey train. We had to take a few steps to meet our guide. Since this was “Intimate Santorini” with a smaller tour, we had a minibus that was more maneuverable bus than the giant 54 passenger models we shared on the twisting streets of Mykonos.

Our first stop was the highest point on the islands around Fira (the proper name of Santorini) , at the Prophet Elias Lookout Point , overlooking old quarries and homes perched on the side of the mountain. From this vantage point, the guide pointed out the circular shape of the islands and that the center, between the islands, was the center of a huge volcano that had exploded long ago, leaving the ring of islands, including Fira around it.

The tour continued to smaller town, Megalochori, where we stopped at a field with small grape vines growing close to the ground and our guide explained that these are the form of grape vines on the island. There is very little rain here, so by law, vines cannot be watered. Instead, the vines are watered by condensation of water from the sea mist on a basket woven around the base of the vines from dead materials pruned off the vines. Only during the planting of the vines are a few drops of water permitted for the first years of the vine to establish the root, and then it must survive off the condensation from the basket alone.

We continued through the town’s streets stopping to see the water collection methods using the roof and terraces channeling water into pools. When we entered the main square, near the bell tower and a blue-domed church, our guide explained the monuments with names (it is all in Greek after all) as being in remembrance of the names of the soldiers who had died in defending Greece in various wars in the 20th century, often traveling to other islands, such as to Crete in WWII.

Then we walked on to the waiting bus, which took us past a church in Fira before arriving for a wine-tasting at Avantis ANHYDROUS Cellar Door in the town of Kontochoriou, where the excellence of these rare wines from grapes grown on Santorini were on display (and sale).

From here, we drove to the north end of the island, to Oia , which is famous for its Blue Domed Churches, narrow streets, and spectacular views. The first thing you notice is the limited lines of sight – to get the best pictures, you have to walk down sometimes steep alleys between houses, hotels, cafes and restaurants, but you are rewarded for it, Walked all the way to the end of Oia, past many souvenir shops with incredible paintings of the blue-domed churches in vivid colors and found an overlook of a beach far below at the end of a wide winding path – the Oia Steps. As we walked back to one of the many restaurants on the main alley or path, or street, we visited several of the souvenir shops.

After the walk through the town, we stopped to eat desserts and have some refreshment at Neptune’s Restaurant on a patio overlooking the sea, as recommended by our guide, who was also eating there and took our picture. As we ate, the hustle and bustle of the tours walking through the town quieted down, returning to calm for those staying in the town in time for sunset. We were now on our way back to Fira, the main town, where we rode up the cable car. Seeing that the cable car was quite backed up, we opted to shop for a bit and see the sights of the town. As it was described, the usual wait in the high season to get a ride down the cable car is 2-3 hours in the summer and we waited in line for about 45 minutes before our ride. We could have taken the donkey path down, which takes about 30 minutes from those who did it (and said they would not do it again – particularly in sandals – since the donkeys use the path too).

Back aboard, the sun dropped behind the mountains of one of the neighboring islands and lit up the cliff in a golden orange glow.

At Sea

Day 11 - 18 September 2023

Relaxing cruise day enroute to our next destination.

Valetta, Malta

Day 12 - 19 September 2023 Docked 7:00AM to 4:00 PM

As we disembarked in Malta…Maltese Independence Day had been celebrated only two days prior, on 21SEP2023.

Valetta, the capitol of Malta, is a World Heritage site , with large city walls creating a fortress on a peninsula with commanding views over the more commercial Grand Harbor to the south and the more leisure Marsamxett Harbor to the north. Our ship had docked beside the older cities on the far side of the Grand Harbor from Valetta and required boarding a ferry to carry us to the city of Valetta and our waiting buses for the exclusive Distinctive Voyages tour. We would return on the ferry to the ship after the tour. After a brief pause, we started our tour with a drive through the capitol city of Valetta, bound first for a stop overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

Once we arrived at the Dingli Cliffs, we disembarked at a lighthouse and the small St Mary Magdalene Chapel on the highest point in the area, with a view down the cliff across a bay from an island that British defenders of the island used for target practice so extensively, that the island was now half its original size, A fruit and refreshment stand at the site supplies tourists with drinks, fruit, and souvenirs at a reasonable price. As we departed the site, we passed the remnants of old airfields at the Royal Air Force (RAF Krendi), one of the airbases used by the British in WWII to attack the Axis powers and for the defense of Malta, though the cities around Valetta were bombed heavily by Axis forces. Then we continued toward the fortress city of M’dina, on a section of highway that had once been a runway.

We entered the city fortress of M’dina at the main M’dina Gate (where else?) and stepped into the courtyard in front of the Palace Vilhena. On the cobblestones of the main street, the horse carriages have the right of way, and we had to frequently step to the side until we reached the Piazza of St Paul and St Paul’s Cathedral . Walked along the Belvedere overlook on the north side of the fortress, Lunch at Coogi’s Pizzaria and Bistro, which was, of course, ice cream. As we walked through the streets and allies to reach the Greek Gate and our waiting diver, we passed Piazza Mesquite, which has a few restaurants along the edges, but we were headed to a Maltese meal at out next destination.

As we approached the Mosta Rotunda, a picturesque Catholic Church , our guide explained that may of the wealthiest homes on the island look unimpressive on the outside, but open to huge courtyards. The culture of the island does not support displays of wealth for the practical reason that pirates just may have wanted to seize it. From the Mosta Rotunda, we walked across and down the street to enjoy a traditional meal at the Ta’ Marija Restaurant, known for several awards and its wonderful atmosphere. Following the meal, we returned to Valetta.

B ack in Valetta, we started the walking tour near the Independence Monument and passed the Christ the King statue and Triton Fountains before entering the Valetta city gate . Had we continued straight, we should have visited the new Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Malta (f ormerly the Knights of St John). Knights of Malta were the Knights of St. John relocated from Rhodes after it was surrendered. Malta has been conquered quite often and the language is a mix of Italian, Greek, and Arabic. So, like other islands with this risk or threat or war, many of the older towns have a design that prevents seeing where you are and have twists and turns.

Passing through the streets, we arrived at the Upper Barrakka Gardens , which have a commanding view of T he Grand Harbor and city beyond as well as one of the batteries used for ceremonial activities at 4Pm each day. Throughout the route are statues of influential and notable ancestors whose ideas and actions created modern Malta, such as I osephi Nicolai Zamitt , who wrote as Nicholas Zammit.

With that, we took the walk down from the top of the city of Valetta to the monument of the Royal Malta Artillery Memorial WWII to catch the bus back to the terminal and ferry across the Grand Harbor to the waiting ship. With the sunlight streaming down on Fort St Angelo on the south side of the Grand Harbor, we sailed out of Malta.

At Sea Cruising

Day 13 - 20 September 2023

Some relaxation while cruising to our disembarkation, and packing up.

Barcelona, Spain

Day 14 - Getting Home - 21 September 2023 Arrival 5:00 AM

Departure from the ship in Barcelona, Spain was quite early, and bags collected the night before were arranged by group in the terminal, making the movement to the airport quite simple, though the sun was only rising as we arrived at the airport Note, you pass through security to a food court with lots of choices, to go to gate requires passing through customs to the gates, where there are far fewer choices.

The entire region is filled with cultural gems and layers upon layers of archeological sites where the history of Western Civilization was written as it expanded, Rome, Greece, and Malta’s historical evidence in art, faith, science, and contributions to government have influenced all of the earth and left their mark in architecture, frescos, monuments, and countless other ways, including cuisine, any one of which should make this a definite destination to put on your travel bucket list.

We will be hosting another Distinctive Voyages sailing from South Hampton, England to Portugal, Spain and the Mediterranean on September 18, 2024. We would love for you to join us!

Bon Voyage!

CLICK HERE to check out more photos and videos of this trip.

Royal Caribbean Alaskan Cruise and Land Tour

info@prowebedit.com (Chad ) — Fri, 09 May 2025 00:27:40 GMT

Alaskan Cruise and Land Tour

Alaskan Cruise and Land Tour – May 2019

Land and Sea Travel small group Cruise and Land Tour with Royal Caribbean aboard the Radiance of the Seas Vancouver Northbound to Steward and continuing with a Land tour on the full length of the Alaskan Railroad Wilderness Explorer from Anchorage to Talkeetna to Denali National Park all the way through Fairbanks Alaska. (Cruisetour 8A).

Royal Caribbean Radiance of the Seas at Vancouver Port

There are pictures in this blog, but they cannot do justice to the scale of the scenery, usually in 360 degrees with vertical elevation changes. The air was crisp and clean and smells fresh and the weather is very dynamic. The environment changed constantly even if you were still, and it was a good thing someone else was driving as it is a lot to take in. You really do have to be here to experience the full effect.

Getting There

From Raleigh, we flew on Delta to Atlanta and through Seattle to Vancouver. Vancouver airport is a nice airport with beautiful wildlife and waterfall scenery on the stairs down to customs. One note, there are no bathrooms in the Vancouver airport until you clear customs. We were fortunate in arriving earlier and having to wait only 30 minutes, while those who arrived later reported waiting for 2-3 hours before clearing customs.

Vancouver – Arrival MAY 15

After settling in our room in the upscale Marriott in Richmond , located south of Vancouver, with an awesome view of the city below, the view beckoned us to take a walk.

We found ourselves at a beautiful community park called Minoru just about a block away. Beautiful trails, ponds, foliage throughout the park. The Marriott offers breakfast, lunch and dinner at the 75 West Coast Grill that had been recently renovated. We enjoyed our breakfast surrounded by a nice ambiance prior to our tour.

The first night after coming back from our outdoors adventures, we dined with some of those travelling with us at the Radisson Blu Vancouver Airport Hotel near the airport. We dined at a restaurant setting adjacent to the Pacific Gateway called The Deck at Radisson Blu Event Hall . A unique take on traditional West Coast classics from an expansive 7,000 square foot deck that overlooks the Fraser River, surrounded by nature and recently renovated, The Deck Kitchen & Bar is a hidden gem away from the bustle of Downtown.

Others in our group arrived the next day.

The 2nd da y, May 16 , we took a tour with Shore Trips ( www.shoretrips.com ) which I recommend for those who like smaller groups and different itineraries offered along with the cruise shore excursions as well. We started early with a drive to the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal in the town of Delta right by the US border, south west of Vancouver.

The Ferry docked at Swartz Bay on the North side of Vancouver Island . Surprisingly, the city of Vancouver is not on Vancouver Island, which is massive. A bus took us toward the south end of the island, to Victoria , the capital of British Columbia, where we had a brief bus tour to get oriented on the map before being dropped off at the harbor.

While others chose a high tea service at the Fairmont Empress , a walk through the Chinatown, and shopping, we opted to tour the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia . There are beautiful stained glass windows in the Legislature with sayings on industriousness, thrift, and other topics, and since the legislature was at lunch, we were able to get a clear picture into the chamber.

From there, we walked around the grounds and headed to the Streamship Grill and Bar to eat on the patio overlooking the harbor. Waiting to order and then to receive the meal, we had no shortage of activity – a dinner cruise ship was docked by us (reservations are required long in advance) and water taxis were moving all over. Floatplanes were landing and taking off across the harbor and a car ferry docked near enough to see, but not to hear. We had plenty of time to eat, and the food was great, but we had spent all of our time watching the harbor and getting in tune to the rhythm of life here.

As we slowly walked back, just below the street above the dock, we were suddenly aware that the time to meet the bus was upon us. We walked up the stairs and directly onto the bus with 30 seconds to go. Now here is a quick note, when the tour guide says there is a departure time, they mean it – the bus was running and getting ready to go – set an alarm. Have a copy of your itinerary so if you do miss a pickup, you can catch up – otherwise a floatplane would be needed to get back.

Next stop was the Butchart Gardens where a limestone quarry was exhausted and then converted to a garden, which grew and had additional areas reflecting regions in other parts of the world. We had a beautiful day here with even lighting from an overcast, but without rain. The grounds are immaculate and the scale of plantings is immense. There is a reason these gardens are famous for their beauty,

On departing, May 17 , our group took an arranged motorcoach tour of the city from the hotel through Vancouver and Richmond (just south of Vancouver) and stopped in Stanley Park in Vancouver then on to Granville Island , which has a vibrant combination of arts and crafts fabrication workshops, dining spaces, and stores. We had lunch at A Bread Affair , a sandwich shop with great food and awesome staff, where we ate outside with quite talented musician combining the musical themes of the First Nations with the sounds of nature.

Our final stop was the Vancouver Lookout , an observation tower just south of the cruise terminal overlooking the harbor. We saw our cruise ship below, the Radiance of the Seas , awaiting for us and getting ready to sail!

Our final stop was a drop off at the cruise terminal , which was quite convenient. We went upstairs and checked in, then back downstairs to clear US customs as our first stop was to be Ketchikan, Alaska.

Once on the deck, we enjoyed the comings and goings of the port of Vancouver - including the ever-present floatplanes.

Cruise

Radiance of the Seas is a beautiful mid-size ship that was designed for this destination with 3 football lengths of glass to view the mountains in most areas of the ship. I met a couple from Australia who just got off the newer and larger Ovation of the Seas and although she liked Ovation, she really liked the Radiance of the Seas because of the many activities offered onboard. But this comes down to personal preference and what you want to do on your vacation! (I can help you select the right cruise and itinerary for you). The Radiance of the Seas will be dry docked in 2020 and will be fully modernized, but I found this ship to be a beautiful way to experience Alaska!

Met a new friend at the pool located in the Solarium (adult only section – except a few hours a day they allow families to come into this area) who is a water aerobics instructor so I got my work out in almost every day with Mary! The pool is salt water and every place inside the solarium has views of the mountains on the side and a ceiling (tall mountains). It was wonderful! There is also a full gym with classes at the bow of the ship on deck 12 overlooking the ocean.

https://www.royalcaribbean.com/cruise-ships/radiance-of-the-seas

Ketchikan – Arrive 19 May

Ketchikan is picturesque, with the colors of the town and commercial fishing contrasting with those of nature. As a comedian during one show put it, “Why does a town of far fewer than 10,000 people need 33 jewelry stores?” Indeed. You can get packed and smoked salmon shipped anywhere from here.

Ketchikan is a fishing port, but is also a point where adventure tours start. Beyond the floatplanes, there is an airport with regular flights. This was the first stop on the cruise and after a few hours, it became obvious that the scene changes dramatically as the sun moves through the sky, as does the number of docked ships. If you have forgotten something, or need some gifts, there are plenty of places to shop and prices here are very reasonable – as an example ball caps for around $5, with some going up to $15. Jackets and raingear are also moderately priced. Some opted for the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show .

Later in the evening, we had the first of three specialty dining experiences, eating at the Chops Grill Specialty dining on board. This is a wonderful intimate dining experience with beautiful views. Great way to celebrate a special occasion (celebrated my birthday at this restaurant) and experience a culinary treat. Several of my clients have told me it was worth experiencing too.

Icy Strait Point – Arrive May 20

We woke and went up on deck as the ship docked at Icy Strait Point . The first thing that grabs you here is the isolation and scale of distance.

The 1 and 1/4th mile long Ziprider with 5 parallel ziplines can be seen from the dock and is an impressive. There is a big discount for buying tickets through the cruise. The end of the line is a spring, so you are not trying to run. They discourage bringing heavy cameras with you. Everyone arriving at the bottom is grinning.

We walked to Hoonah , the nearby town. You could also take a bus (buy a seat by the mini-donut stand). In town, the bus picks up at the marina. Buildings in town are not what you would expect for a tourist area, but they have to withstand harsh winters. As we neared the town, a fleet of kayaks passed by returning to the dock from an earlier tour. Kayaks are rented for the tour, but not apart from one. On the way back, we caught a ride with the bus at the marina where we learned from the bus driver that Frederick, a local brown bear, had been seen several times that day, but we missed him.

Now sitting down to eat, you get an idea of just how aggressive the wildlife can be here. Getting up from the table, you risk having a raven fly off with your lunch – they are big, ready, and waiting (right by you).

Yes, everything is better with Mini-donuts, everything. Or so the guy selling them says – having tested it, I can say it is better – then I tested it again.

Juneau – May 21

Juneau sits at the base of a mountain and has no way in or out by land. You can take a lift to the top of the ridge along the main street to get a view from the top (at $17 each). In the harbor, floatplanes take off and land constantly.

While in Juneau, we went whale watching and visited the Mendenhall Glacier . Everyone was bundled up as we boarded the bus for a ride to go whale watching . It was warm enough outside and we spent a lot of time up on deck. There were quite a few people on board and after the first sighting, it was apparent that once one was seen, everyone would rush to the closest point to the rail. You might only have a moment to capture a fluke, so you get to see more than you might catch on film. However, the whales are impressive and quiet, except when they breathe. There are several boats in the area and there are limits to how long and how close you can approach. The boat crew supplied binoculars but we used the small Bushnell 8×35 with the larger 12×50 going unused (just too heavy and rarely carried). Could have used a compromise of 10×42 (so long as the weight was reasonable).

The Mendenhall Glacier was accessible, but you had to walk straight to Nugget Falls and then the glacier to reach it and return before it was time to leave. We had a bus break down and two buses combined on the return – it definitely helped to know what bus is yours. It was resolved by the tour operator without any difficulty.

Back in Juneau, sitting on the dock and zooming in on the steep mountain in the distance, you could catch eagles flying (and paragliders off Mt. Roberts ). Here is where the optical zoom with camera made a big difference in being able to pull in the eagle high on the mountaintop a half mile away. Juneau was crowded up to 5pm and cleared out only as ships pulled away for their next port of call.

Tonight we dined at Giovanni’s Table , the Italian Specialty dining, which was outstanding. We were the second to last ship to cast off and caught setting sun as Juneau faded into the distance.

Skagway – MAY 22

With quite a few ships in port, Skagway was busy and loud, with people packing the sidewalks and shops off the main street. It looked like the kind of scene that might just as well have been right out of the Yukon gold rush .

Walking just off the main street on either side, near a museum, we found a quiet sculpture garden near the Skagway Museum on Spring Street between 7th and 8th Streets, with some great bronze pieces ($5 to walk around).

From here, we returned to the dock to board the White Pass Railroad for the trip to where th e US-Canada border met and prospectors, who were called “stampeders” had to prove to the Mounties that they had the 2,000lbs of required supplies to enter the Yukon to look for gold. Until the railroad was built, they mostly carried these loads in 100 pound increments up a steep trail for 33 miles, then returned for the next load. Of course, even then, the stampeders did have another choice, an even steeper trail. The railroad is built into the sides of mountains and the views are amazing. The experience of being seated inside and being on the platform at the end of the car was completely different. The ice in a lake at the top of the pass has the bluish tinge of color that you see in glacial ice, and some was under the water… Wild and mysterious place and totally worth experiencing!

As we returned to the ship, helicopter tours were landing and taking off in synchronized fashion. The winds did not seem to play any factor here as each pilot was very smooth in their maneuvers.

At Sea – 23 MAY

The Gulf of Alaska is a part of the Pacific Ocean and you can get some motion in the ocean. Our specialty dining this evening was in Samba’s, a Brazilian Steakhouse on the top deck in the aft – where you feel the movement more strongly than the lower decks. You do have to walk outside to reach it. Walking did require some careful consideration though, and the restroom was also accessed outside. They did serve on a sword and it was reassuring to see sure-footed gaucho put the tip in a ring on the table to cut the delicious meats.

Hubbard Glacier – 23 MAY

Entering the fjord where a part of the Hubbard Glacier is visible, the water is very still and greenish. The captain approached as far as it was safe, but could not approach too closely due to the amount of calving.

It’s hard to image the Glacier is as tall as it is or that there would be a native village near it, but the glacier is advancing, not retreating and has cut off Russell Fjord , so you can see less than half of the width of the glacier. The chunks of ice off the 300 foot high glacier have a mix of black coloration from grinding down the mountains as the dense ice advances. The ice is a pale blue with white snow covering, and as it calves you get the sound of rumbling, like thunder. In the water, the ice can be the color of the sea, so it is slow going on the path back to open ocean. This is an experience all would enjoy!

Disembarkation and Land Tour

Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines offers the same land director throughout your land vacation. Our tour director’s name was Mike or “Helge” and everyone loved him with all his stories and history. Most cruise lines do not offer the same tour director throughout the land excursions. You may experience several tour directors but we were blessed with our tour director.

You can see a video of Mike singing the Alaska Anthem aboard the Wilderness Explorer on my website at www.landandseatravel.com . There are several other travel blogs on other areas we traveled to as well.

Here are some interesting facts Mike told us…

Do you know what the State Bird is in Alaska? Unofficially, it is the mosquito – that’s right, these are large so make sure you bring your bug spray – it can take several attempts to bring one down! (By going in May, we missed their most active time from mid-June to the end of July.) Do you know the difference between horns and antlers? Horns are permanent and antlers fall off every year. Do you know the difference between a Caribou and a Reindeer? The Reindeer is domesticated. Just a few interesting facts for you … and along the way other Alaskans shared these facts as well.

Seward – Arrive 24 MAY

Departure time arrived quickly and those going onto the land tour were separated into two buses for disembarkation. In Steward, the mountains here on a clear day are very dramatic and close, but the transition between ship and bus occurred so quickly, we didn’t get a lot of pictures. There was no haze in the air and the sky was deep blue. It looked very much like it was painted with no blending of colors for shading. It was like an idealized version of a landscape and the few pictures from the bus did not do it justice.

On the bus ride to Anchorage, it was surprising to see a gathering of more than thirty eagles waiting for the fish in the tide. A few minutes later, the tide came rolling back into the river, with a sudden rise of a few inches and wave at the front.

Anchorage – Arrive 24 May and Depart 25 May

We arrived a little before the hotel check-in time and decided to go for lunch at the Hard Rock Café then browsed some stores on the way back to the bus pick up. From there, we went to the Native Cultural Center to see how people lived without modern conveniences in a place where temperatures and the wildlife can be a little on the more extreme side. It was surprising to find they used earth shelters and construction. It was also surprising to find that while the stone, jade, is associated with Asia, Alaska with all its other mineral wealth is a huge producer of jade as well.

The Marriott was a little different than other hotels – the corridors are wide and the rooms are quite large – with a great shower. Walked to a large central park visible from the room. The park had kids flying kites and a veteran’s memorial – Alaska has the highest percentage of veterans in the country. As we walked toward the water, it was amazing how hot it felt as the sun was so strong.

We rejoined some of our party and walked to eat, we found Ron Perry – Sled Dog Musher from the 1st Iditarod outside with books and a 2 furry friends – one with 4 legs. Talked with Ron a little as he pointed out the building in a book showing the starting line for the Iditarod. He has several books of his own as well. Then I joined the others in the party settling into Tequila 31 , a Mexican restaurant recommended by our local guide. They served fajitas in a tripod cast iron cauldron – guess it stays hot no matter what it’s doing outside. Then we tried for ice cream and the line was around the corner – found out that Alaska also leads the US in per-capita ice-cream consumption, suddenly realizing it was quite late, even though the sun was still high in the sky, we returned to the hotel to sleep.

Early in the morning we had a short bus ride from the Marriott to the Alaskan Railroad depot a short distance away. We enjoyed breakfast on the train in the restaurant in the lower part of the rail car – the food was excellent. As we passed by JBER – the military Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson the largest employer in Anchorage, we saw our first bear, a small one with a dark coat was running beside the train briefly.

Talkeetna – Arrive 25 May and Depart 26 MAY

By train, on a clear day, a view Denali suddenly appears through gaps in trees and as the train approaches Talkeetna, the view gets more and more clear, and breaks into the open with views at a bend in the track catch a reflection of the mountain on the river. Asking the local guide, he advised that he could not say that the views would be as clear when we arrived at the lodge because the weather can change so rapidly. But there was a spectacular view of Denali on as we pulled up next to the building, then departed for town. By now, the pattern was clear, we would get our bearings with a quick trip to the hotel and then get out into town, then return to check in to sleep.

Talkeetna seems to have a standing crafts fair in the tourist season and is also a base for climbers getting ready for the ascent of Denali – some hotels cater to the climbers and large packs and other gear can been seen everywhere around these. Now. Alaska is different, but you don’t expect to have to make way for a steamroller on a gravel street – but we did.

We found pie and ice cream here, but really liked the burgers. Returning to the lodge, we found the mountains was shrouded in clouds – weather really does change very quickly here – and a check of the weather confirmed it was actually snow falling (in May) on Denali and the top of the mountain was no longer visible. In Talkeetna, it was warm and comfortable.

The lodge was beautiful and the odd numbered rooms had direct views toward Denali. We enjoyed a meal in the Bistro and service was excellent even though our server changed twice.

At the lodge, you are in nature. A moose came out of the woods to nibble on trees and slowly wandered around giving time for lots of photos. Now, we had seen a couple running out of the woods and found later that they had surprised a moose and young ones and the moose had started pawing the ground. May is a time of newborns, so you do see more of them and their vigilant and protective moms; especially the Mama Bears!

Leaving Talkeetna, we were back in the Wilderness Explorer rail car in comfortable and roomy leather seating under the glass dome on the upper level enjoying the scenery, as the bartender took orders. For accessible/special needs travelers, the rail car has a lift both inside and outside, otherwise there is a narrow circular stairwell to come up to the upper level. I am a certified accessible/special needs travel advisor and enjoy helping everyone to travel and experience new horizons. You can get really great views and photos on the lower viewing platform outside. The best views are when you are on the last car. Check out my videos on my website. The dining section in the lower area is spacious with a large picture window to see the passing scenery and wildlife. Had a great Lunch on the train to Denali National Park.

Denali National Park – Arrive 26 and Depart 28 MAY

Just after arriving in Denali Park Station , a short bus ride later and after checking out our rooms in Denali Park Village , we boarded a local bus bound for the Sled Dogs with Jeff King a champion Iditarod musher and dog kennel operator along with his daughters. This was great. We can’t imagine not having gone to this experience. What was kind of shocking was the dogs themselves and Jeff King’s presentation of life in sled dog country and what a year-round Alaskan sees and experiences that others will miss (he will also help you remember the difference between horns and antlers). Warning – if you don’t have a dog – your spouse will inevitably begin bringing up the need for canine companionship (even if you have cats). You have been warned.

The next d ay was the Tundra Tour through Denali Park goes through the Polychrome Overlook , where the drop off in spots is more than 45 degrees. If you have an issue with heights, you might have an issue here. Buses pass each other on these mountainsides. But you can see quite a distance and we found Dall sheep on a promontory beside the road. What was surprising was the expectation that bears would be a dark brown – they are more of a blonde caramel color. The caribou are nearly the same shades as the bears with a lighter coat in some areas.

Dall Sheep on a rocky outcrop.

Cabin Night back at th e Denali Park Village entertained and engaged the audience and it was not possible to walk away hungry unless you did not like ribs, beans, biscuits, and some other sides and desert. The wait staff were also the entertainment and engaged audience members in acting out the tale of Dangerous Dan Magee.

Moose warnings were not expected, but moose are protective like the bears can be, but they stomp when they attack. So keep your distance – same holds true for bears and other wildlife, keep your distance.

The lodge is on a river and there are benches and some views here. Food in the lodge was excellent, and breakfast is great, but here is where you see higher prices for food. Buying gifts started with our first stop, but the lodge has some high quality items at a reasonable price but we had already purchased one large extra bag at one the Alaskan T-Shirt company in Juneau and it was completely full.

As we head ed to Fairbanks, we had dinner in the restaurant portion of the rail car (so we had breakfast, lunch, and dinner on different legs of the rail experience). Dinner did not disappoint – the Wilderness Express cars really did have great food and service. It was wonderful experience all different meals aboard the full length of the Wilderness Explorer.

Fairbanks – 28 & 29 & 30 May

We arrived in Fairbanks late, and walked over to a grocery store to pick up some snacks. In retrospect, eating in the hotel would have been better, but we had a light breakfast the next morning and shared it.

The next morning we had a bus ride into downtown Fairbanks, where we stopped and ate in town at the Fudge Pot restaurant just off the Golden Heart Plaza . Great place for sandwiches, soup and ice cream. Also walked over the Lend-Lease Monument, which commemorates the route and pilots who flew aircraft from the US to the Eastern Front in WWII to help defeat the Axis Powers. Then the bus picked us up for the drive back to Sophie Station Suites. The Suites were designed for oil company staff and are quite nice, with a kitchen and living room in each suite and a bar and restaurant. A Shuttle bus circulates to a few stopping points every half an hour or so.

The Alaskan Pipeline at Mile Marker 450 (on the pipeline) has a point where you can see the size of the pipeline some details about its operation. The pipeline is engineered to survive a 9.0 earthquakes and supports above ground are cooled so permafrost under the supports does not melt and cause the pipeline to sink and break. Some of the discussion during the tour showed how permafrost melting from buildings warming the ground underneath had shifted foundations and caused houses to suffer damage. We had seen some of that in Denali at The Bake restaurant where floor heights vary more than a foot. Alaskans look at the types of trees growing in an area to determine if there is permafrost or rock suitable for building under a given area.

Later we stopped at the Museum of the North . Art and history as well as wildlife and fossil record. Surprised to learn that during the Japanese invasions of Alaska during WWII, they would capture villages and put the inhabitants into prison ships. The US Navy evacuated many islands to prevent this, but not everyone saw this as protection. One special exhibit covered major Alaskan earthquakes including a seismograph measuring the motion caused by your steps.

Next up was a Riverboat Discovery Cruise to an Athabaskan village. Blueberry donuts are free on the way upstream and they offered free salmon on the way back. As we headed out from the dock, a local pilot demonstrated the short takeoff and landing of a float plane.

A little later, we passed a sled dog kennel now run by the family of Susan Butcher , 4-time winner of the Iditarod race. Her husband now runs the kennel with his daughters, who are all involved in training the dogs and racing, and they engaged in a presentation over the speakers on the boat about Susan’s accomplishments and her dogs and the sled dog training they now do the as we sat slightly off the riverbank. Later, one of the daughters would host a question and answer session at an Athabaskan village tour. Had the opportunity to meet her husband, David Monson, who was signing books. Had David sign the book for our grandson Myles and received a free soft stuffed sled dog too.

There are a number of different peoples in the region and each had a territory. These are now formed into Corporations as part of the Alaskan Native Settlement Act , and much of the land under buildings is leased from these corporations. The Athabascan village stop shows some of the food, clothing, and shelter used traditionally.

This river is also used for recreation and being a warm day, we were sharing it with a lot of other means of transportation.After the river cruise, we returned to Downtown Fairbanks for dinner, and finding the Fudge Pot closed, walked around the block to El Dorado Mexican restaurant.

Getting Home

Got to sleep and waited at the hotel talking about the trip the following morning. The return on Delta through Seattle and Atlanta is overnight, as another flight return through Minneapolis, which departed 6 hours later and arrived at nearly the same time we did. We know because I saw one of our friends from our small group at the airport!

In General

Some of the best pictures are during the earlier hours when the ship is arriving or passing through mountains. At this time of the year, it is bright very early and gets dark very late. If you are light sensitive when sleeping – bring a mask. You can get excellent landscapes with many cell phones, however, for this trip, due to the scale, we brought along a Canon SX70 with a circular polarization filter (need to take this off to get good photos on the train or bus or the windows will give you rainbow effects). With some practice, zooming in on an eagle or floatplane could be accomplished, where with a cell phone, the picture would just not be worthwhile because of the distance. At one point, the sheer scale of the views just causes you to drop the camera and take in the scenery and breathe in the experience of the Last Frontier .

The Ultimate San Antonio Travel Guide: Top Attractions, Dining, and Tips

Eileen@myLandandSea.com — Fri, 10 Jan 2025 03:56:08 GMT

Exploring San Antonio: A Travel Guide by Land and Sea Travel

San Antonio, Texas, is a city rich in history, culture, and vibrant experiences. Whether you're visiting for the iconic Alamo, the scenic Riverwalk, or the city's unique blend of Spanish and Texan heritage, there's something for everyone to enjoy. This guide provides an in-depth look at where to stay, what to do, and how to make the most of your San Antonio adventure.

Getting to San Antonio

San Antonio is easily accessible from Dallas and other major Texas cities by car. For those traveling from further destinations, flights into San Antonio International Airport (SAT) or Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) are convenient options. From Austin, a short drive of approximately 80 miles will bring you into the heart of San Antonio.

Where to Stay: Embassy Suites on the Riverwalk

For an upscale stay with easy access to San Antonio’s top attractions, the Embassy Suites on the Riverwalk is an excellent choice.

Location: Situated directly on the Riverwalk , the hotel provides a scenic and convenient base for exploring the city.
Accommodations: Our 9th-floor suite included a spacious living area, a kitchenette with a microwave and refrigerator, and separate closets for added convenience.
Dining: The hotel houses The Range Restaurant , which offers a multi-level dining experience overlooking the Riverwalk. While we didn’t dine there, we heard great reviews from fellow travelers.
Amenities: Guests enjoy complimentary breakfast with buffet and made-to-order options, plus evening drinks and light snacks in the lobby.
Parking: The hotel offers valet parking at $50/night ; nearby public parking is available but not significantly cheaper.

Exploring the Riverwalk

San Antonio’s Riverwalk is the heart of the city's entertainment district. Lined with restaurants, museums, and boutique shops , this vibrant area offers a mix of relaxation and adventure. Key highlights include:

Dining: Expect longer wait times at peak hours, but the variety of Tex-Mex, BBQ, and upscale dining options make it worthwhile.
Shopping: Look up! Many establishments are on multiple levels, including Paciugo Gelato , a perfect spot for coffee, pastries, and authentic Italian gelato.
River Cruises: Book a Go RIO tour to enjoy a narrated boat ride through the scenic canals, which are especially beautiful when illuminated at night.

The Alamo: A Texas Icon

No visit to San Antonio is complete without experiencing The Alamo. As the site of the legendary 1836 battle, it remains a powerful symbol of Texas' fight for independence.

Tours: Opting for a guided tour provided deeper insight into the historic fortifications and key figures of the battle.
The Ralston Family Collection Center: This on-site museum showcases historic artifacts, including items from the personal collection of musician Phil Collins.
Nearby Landmarks: Right next to the Alamo, The Emily Morgan Hotel, named after the "Yellow Rose of Texas," is another piece of history worth exploring.

Other Must-Visit Attractions

San Fernando Cathedral: A historic church with a significant connection to the Texas Revolution. At night, its facade becomes the screen for “ The Saga ”, a mesmerizing light and sound show.
T he Spanish Governor’s Palace: A fascinating look into Texas' colonial past.
The Navarro House: The home of José Antonio Navarro , a key figure in Texas’ independence, showcases early San Antonio life.
The Buckhorn Museum & Texas Ranger Museum: A must-visit for history buffs, featuring exhibits on famous outlaws and Texas Rangers.

Best Places to Eat

San Antonio is famous for its BBQ and Tex-Mex, and we sampled some fantastic options:

Pinkerton’s BBQ : Just a short walk from the Embassy Suites, this spot is known for its brisket, mac-n-cheese, and live music.
The County Line : Located on the Riverwalk, this BBQ joint serves up authentic Texas flavors.
Rita’s on the River : A go-to for Tex-Mex , their steak and chicken fajitas were a highlight.

The County Line

Rita's on the River

The Ice Cream and Gelato options are not to be missed!

Things We Missed (But You Shouldn’t!)

While our trip was packed with adventure, a few places remain on our list for a future visit:

Six Flags Fiesta Texas and SeaWorld San Antonio for theme park enthusiasts.
Historic dance halls outside the city for live country music and two-stepping.
The Fort Sam Houston Museum , which was unfortunately closed during our visit.

Final Thoughts & Travel Tips

San Antonio is a city that blends history, culture, and modern attractions seamlessly.

Pro Tips:

Book dining reservations in advance , especially for Riverwalk restaurants.
Use a guided tour for The Alamo to gain deeper historical insights.
Stop at Buc-ee’s on your way home for great food and spotless restrooms.

Ready to experience the best of San Antonio? Let Land and Sea Travel help plan your trip! Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a historical deep dive, we’ll create the perfect itinerary for you.

✨ Contact us today to start planning your San Antonio adventure! ✨

Secrets Tides: The New Adults-Only All-Inclusive 5-Star Punta Cana Resort, Dominican Republic

Sun, 01 Dec 2024 21:18:56 GMT

Secrets Tides:

The New Adults-Only All-Inclusive 5-Star Punta Cana Resort, Dominican Republic

Opened January 2024

Welcome to Secrets Tides Resort & Spa, a luxurious adults-only paradise located in the breathtaking Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Whether you're planning a romantic escape or a getaway with friends, Secrets Tides offers an exceptional experience with vibrant pools, stunning beaches, and unmatched service. Let us guide you through everything you need to know to make your trip unforgettable.

Check out a video of our stay HERE .

Weather and Packing Tips

The Dominican Republic boasts warm tropical weather year-round, but tropical showers can surprise you. Pack light, breathable clothing—think tropical prints, but make sure the fabric is lightweight. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, a wide-brim hat, and water-resistant sandals for your beach adventures.

Getting There

Your journey begins with a flight leaving Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) to Charlotte (CLT), and then onward to Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ). Be prepared for a long walk to the baggage carousel upon arrival. We highly recommend hiring a bag carrier for around $10 USD—it saved us time and helped us navigate the airport to find Amstar , which provided our transfer service.

Airport to Resort Transfer

A private transfer from the airport to Secrets Tides Resort takes about 45 minutes to an hour. The drive is an experience in itself—watch for mopeds weaving through traffic, narrow roads, and an abundance of new construction showcasing Punta Cana’s rapid development.

Secrets – Tides is all-inclusive, however at the airport, baggage handlers often work for tips alone, helping you navigate with ease. Drivers who get you safely to the resort or excursions, and the friendly staff on your sightseeing adventures, will also value your kindness. A thoughtful tip is always appreciated by those who go the extra mile to make your trip smooth and enjoyable. Refer to our tipping guide for suggestions at Land and Sea Travel General Tipping Guide

Secrets Tides Resort Overview

This brand-new resort centers around a series of beautifully designed pools that stretch from the entrance to the beachfront. Surrounding the pools are four-story guest buildings, with one building offering breathtaking oceanfront views. Despite the resort being fully booked, it never felt crowded. The layout is designed with plenty of private seating and cozy nooks from the lobby to the beach, making it perfect for couples and groups alike.

 Pools & Lounging Spaces:

For pool lovers, Secrets Tides is a dream destination.

Secrets Tides offers a poolside paradise designed to meet every guest's idea of the perfect day in the sun. Surrounded by lush tropical landscaping, the resort’s pools are lined with ample recliners, in-water loungers, and private cabanas, creating the ultimate relaxation experience.

Infinity Pool: Overlooking the beach, this pool is a social hub with its swim-up bar and plenty of spots to soak up the sun or relax in the water.
Lap Swimming: Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the large main pool that is perfect for swimming laps early in the morning or opt for a swim-out suite with a shorter pool suitable for lap swimming.
Preferred Club Pool: Reserved exclusively for Preferred Club guests, offering enhanced privacy and service.

All pools have both a swim-up bar and a convenient dry-land bar on the side, so you’re never far from your favorite cocktail no matter where you choose to relax poolside.

Our favorite spot was the infinity pool overlooking the beach near the Sugar Reef Swim-Up Bar , where we even practiced a little dancing in the water. During a short rain shower, we ducked under the bar’s roof, where we met a lively couple from New Mexico - proof that Secrets Tides is great for both quiet moments and meeting like-minded travelers.

The Beach

Secrets Tides’ beach is a sandy paradise along the Atlantic Ocean, with a nearby reef that keeps the waves manageable. The surf is active but relaxing, offering a serene backdrop for sunbathing or beach walks. We opted for a stroll and loved the abundance of thatched-roof umbrellas providing shade. Volleyball enthusiasts can enjoy the court, or you can simply unwind and soak in the tranquil vibes.

Rooms

Secrets Tides offers various accommodations, each with thoughtful design and luxurious touches.

Waves and Tides Buildings – Preferred Rooms
Upgrade to these premium rooms for access to exclusive amenities, including:

Personalized check-in and check-out
Afternoon hors d’oeuvres, premium liquors, and exquisite desserts
A private Preferred Club lounge and pool
Daily continental breakfast
These rooms boast upscale tiled interiors, ample closet space, and even a special delivery space for room service items.

Standard Rooms

While we didn’t stay in standard room, these offer lovely accommodations for those looking for a more budget-friendly option.

Restaurants: Dining Experiences to Savor

Secrets Tides offers an impressive array of dining options to satisfy every palate, from casual bites to fine dining. Here's a closer look:

Oceana – Located on the beach, this Preferred Club-exclusive restaurant serves a fresh seafood-focused menu in the evenings.
Seaside Grill – A shared lunch menu with Oceana, offering a shaded atmosphere. Dinner menus diverge with unique specialties.
Barefoot Grill – Enjoy casual, beachside eats like burgers, pizza, and more.
Meraki – A Mediterranean-Asian fusion with everything from sushi and eggrolls to octopus and beef kabobs. Reservations required.
Portofino – Classic Italian cuisine, including a standout lasagna. Reservations required.
Market Center – A breakfast favorite with extensive buffet lines featuring diverse food stations and mouthwatering desserts.
Patio – Mexican-inspired dishes, perfect for kicking off your vacation.
Tierra – A Brazilian steakhouse with South American-inspired dishes.
CoCo – Coffee shop offering ice cream, pastries, and your favorite hot beverages. This cozy spot was our go-to for a midday pick-me-up or an indulgent treat.

 Larger Special Events

Secrets Tides is an ideal destination for weddings, corporate gatherings, and special events, offering three spacious venues that combine elegance with tropical charm. Catering is provided by the resort’s top-tier restaurants, ensuring every meal is as memorable as the occasion itself.

Even at full capacity, the resort’s thoughtful design creates a tranquil and intimate atmosphere, allowing your event to feel both exclusive and seamless. Whether you’re hosting a dream beachfront wedding or a productive company retreat, Secrets Tides delivers a setting that balances celebration and relaxation perfectly.

Services and Amenities: Relaxation and Adventure Await

Secrets Tides provides a mix of luxurious amenities and exciting activities to make your stay unforgettable:

Spa & Beauty Salon – Rejuvenate with massages, facials, and hot tub sessions.

Wedding Center – A dedicated coordinator assists with planning weddings, honeymoons, and vow renewals.

Fitness Center – A two-story facility featuring Life Cycle equipment, cardio machines, free weights, and a yoga/stretching area. Personal best, anyone?

Daily Activities – Join in for Spanish lessons, hat painting, pool aerobics, games by the pool, and more.

Watersports – Explore the ocean with catamaran cruises, scuba diving, and other water activities, including beginner scuba lessons in the pool.

Desires Sports Bar – Watch the big game, play foosball, or dance to live DJ sets.

Amstar – Onsite staff coordinate transportation and excursions, ensuring a seamless experience.

Concierge Services – From dining on the beach to arranging private transportation, the concierge team has you covered.

Onsite Shops

Forgot something? Secrets have you covered:

Gift Shop – Find swimwear, T-shirts, hats, and keepsakes.
Beach Shop – Stock up on sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and beach essentials.

Explore Neighboring Resorts

Secrets Tides guests enjoy exchange privileges with nearby resorts, expanding your vacation options. During our stay, we toured both resorts and captured stunning photos to help you envision your next vacation:

Breathless Punta Cana Resort – A vibrant, adults-only resort featuring a casino, energetic pool parties, and a quieter exclusive area. Don’t miss the French restaurant—accessible via a complimentary shuttle.

 Dreams Onyx Resort & Spa – Perfect for families, with a large waterpark, lazy river, and kid-friendly activities. This is also accessed with the complimentary shuttle.

 Off-Site Excursions

Looking to explore? Secrets Tides partners with Amstar to offer curated excursions (Pro tip: factor in transfer times when planning your day.):

Catamaran Adventure – Departing from Cap Cana’s harbor, this short cruise offers scenic views and tropical vibes. This provided snorkeling, wading on a sandbar, beverages, and a shopping opportunity.

Off-Road Adventures – For thrill-seekers, explore rugged terrain and embrace the mud!

Wildlife and Nature Tours – Relax with exotic animals and serene landscapes.

Departure: A Relaxing Goodbye

Our checkout was at noon, but our transfer to Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) wasn’t until 3 PM. We spent the extra time enjoying lunch and a final visit to CoCo’s for a latte and ice cream. The private transfer, arranged by Amstar, was smooth and shared with another couple. With sunny skies, a breeze, and low humidity, it was the perfect end to a rejuvenating trip.

Plan Your Dream Escape!

Secrets Tides Punta Cana offers the perfect blend of luxury, relaxation, and adventure. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, a lively group vacation, or a peaceful retreat, this all-inclusive resort delivers.

Ready to book your trip? Contact Land and Sea Travel today for personalized planning and exclusive perks!

Check out a video of our stay HERE .

Exploring the Mariner of the Seas: A Voyage from Galveston, Texas

Eileen@myLandandSea.com — Mon, 08 Jul 2024 19:47:39 GMT

Exploring the Mariner of the Seas: A Voyage from Galveston, Texas

Introduction

Welcome aboard the Mariner of the Seas, one of Royal Caribbean's magnificent cruise ships, as this ship was getting ready to sail from Galveston, Texas, on May 18, 2024. This professional blog aims to provide an insightful inspection and review of this remarkable vessel, highlighting its features, amenities, and the overall cruising experience.

CLICK HERE to see more photos and videos in our YouTube Video.

Ship Overview

The Mariner of the Seas, part of Royal Caribbean's Voyager-class ships, offers an impressive array of activities and amenities to cater to a diverse range of passengers. From families seeking adventure to couples looking for relaxation, this ship promises an unforgettable journey.

Itinerary and Destinations

Our journey begins in Galveston, a vibrant port city known for its historical charm and coastal beauty. The cruise itinerary includes stops at various captivating destinations, providing ample opportunities for exploration and adventure.

Accommodations

The Mariner of the Seas boasts a variety of staterooms and suites designed to provide comfort and relaxation throughout your voyage. From cozy interior cabins to spacious suites with ocean views, there's an option to suit every preference and budget.

CLICK HERE to see all accommodation photos and videos in our YouTube Video.

Dining Options

Dining aboard the Mariner of the Seas is a culinary delight, with a diverse range of restaurants and eateries offering something to satisfy every palate. Whether you crave gourmet cuisine, casual dining, or international flavors, you'll find it all onboard.

CLICK HERE to see all dining photos and videos in our YouTube Video.

Entertainment and Activities

Prepare to be entertained! The Mariner of the Seas features an impressive lineup of entertainment options, including Broadway-style shows, live music performances, and exhilarating activities such as rock climbing, ice skating, and surfing on the FlowRider.

CLICK HERE to see all entertainment photos and videos in our YouTube Video.

CLICK HERE to see all outdoor activities photos and videos in our YouTube Video.

Onboard Facilities

In addition to its entertainment offerings, the Mariner of the Seas boasts a wealth of onboard facilities. From relaxing spa treatments and fitness centers to vibrant nightlife and shopping boutiques, there's no shortage of things to see and do.

CLICK HERE to see all amenities photos and videos in our YouTube Video.

Conclusion

As we conclude our inspection of the Mariner of the Seas, it's clear that this ship offers a truly exceptional cruising experience. Whether you're embarking on a family vacation, romantic getaway, or solo adventure, you're sure to create lasting memories aboard this impressive vessel.

CLICK HERE to see more photos and videos in our YouTube Video.

Inspection of Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines Harmony of the Seas on May 19, 2024, Galveston, Texas.

Eileen@myLandandSea.com — Mon, 08 Jul 2024 19:14:28 GMT

Inspection of Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines Harmony of the Seas on May 19, 2024, Galveston, Texas.

On May 19, 2024, I had the privilege of inspecting the Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines' Harmony of the Seas , one of several of the largest and most innovative cruise ships in the fleet. This ship, known for its grandeur and innovation, promised an experience beyond the ordinary. As a professional Master Cruise Counsellor with the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), I embarked on this journey with high expectations and a critical eye for detail. I made particular note of accessibility, being a certified accessible travel advisor for special abilities, dietary concerns and ambulatory or mobility travelers.

CLICK HERE to see more photos and videos in our YouTube Video.

First Impressions

Upon boarding the Harmony of the Seas, it became immediately clear why this vessel holds such acclaim. The sheer size and modern design were awe-inspiring. The embarkation process was smooth and efficient, setting a positive tone for the rest of the inspection.

Accommodations

The staterooms on Harmony of the Seas were nothing short of impressive. From cozy interior cabins to expansive suites with ocean views, each accommodation option exuded comfort and style. The attention to detail in the décor and amenities was commendable, ensuring that passengers experienced luxury while meeting their needs and wants when onboard.

CLICK HERE to see all accommodation photos and videos in our YouTube Video.

Dining Experience

Dining aboard the Harmony of the Seas offered a culinary journey around the world. The ship boasts a variety of restaurants, ranging from casual eateries to gourmet dining venues. I had the pleasure of sampling dishes that catered to every palate, prepared by talented chefs who prioritize quality and creativity.

CLICK HERE to see all dining photos and videos in our YouTube Video.

Entertainment and Activities

Royal Caribbean is renowned for its onboard entertainment, and Harmony of the Seas did not disappoint. From Broadway-style shows to high-energy musical performances, there was something for everyone. The ship also features a range of activities, including water slides, zip lines, and even an onboard surfing simulator, ensuring that guests of all ages stay entertained throughout the voyage.

CLICK HERE to see all entertainment photos and videos in our YouTube Video.

CLICK HERE to see all outdoor activities photos and videos in our YouTube Video.

Facilities and Amenities

The amenities on Harmony of the Seas are designed to enhance the guest experience. The spa and fitness center offered state-of-the-art equipment and rejuvenating treatments, while the pools and lounges provided ample space for relaxation and socializing. The size of the fitness center was impressive with many choices of equipment to choose from. The ship's design seamlessly integrates luxury with practicality, catering to the needs of modern travelers.

CLICK HERE to see all amenities photos and videos in our YouTube Video.

Conclusion

My inspection of Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines' Harmony of the Seas on May 19, 2024, left a lasting impression. The ship not only lives up to its reputation but exceeds expectations in every aspect. From world-class accommodations to diverse dining options and exciting entertainment, Harmony of the Seas sets a new standard for luxury cruising. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first cruise, this vessel promises an unforgettable experience.

For anyone considering a cruise on Harmony of the Seas, rest assured that Royal Caribbean continues to deliver excellence in hospitality and innovation. I look forward to seeing how this remarkable ship continues to impress travelers from around the globe.

This blog encapsulates my firsthand experience and professional assessment of Harmony of the Seas, providing travelers with insights into what makes this cruise ship a standout choice in the industry.

CLICK HERE to see more photos and videos in our YouTube Video.

Embracing the Elements: Our Icelandic Honeymoon Adventure

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 18:28:53 GMT

Embracing the Elements: Our Icelandic Honeymoon Adventure

The story of a honeymoon with erupting volcanoes, snow storms, and 70 mph winds. Yep, you heard that right. My husband (Chad) and I got many shocking reactions like that when we explained to family and friends that we were going to the land of fire and ice for our dream vacation, Iceland. And a dream it was.

Iceland is not your traditional relaxing honeymoon stay, but Chad and I wanted to experience a true adventure of the world and Eileen with Land and Sea Travel gave us just that. As I said, Iceland is known for being, “The Land of Fire and Ice”, and we quickly learned the power and beauty that came with that.

CLICK HERE to see more photos in our Client Experience Video.

Day 1: Monday, March 18th, 2024

Chad and I got married on Saturday, March 16th, 2024. We found out that Sundhnúkagígar carter row had erupted outside of Grindavík that same day! (That had to be some form of good luck for weddings, right?!) However, we did not let this eruption discourage us. Eileen kept communication with our guides in Iceland and assured us that the country was still safe and we were good to go! Monday was a travel day. We flew out from DFW to Boston (3.5 hours), and then went from Boston to Reykjavik (7 hours).

Day 2: Tuesday, March 19th, 2024

Our flights landed in Reykjavik around 7:00am Tuesday morning. The travel exhaustion was creeping in, but Eileen had prepared Fly Bus vouchers for us that made traveling from the airport to the city very easy. We arrived at our hotel, The Alda Hotel, later that morning. Thankfully, Alda Hotel offered us early check-in, so we were able to get right to our room for a power nap.

Tuesday, our activity that day, besides resting from the trip, was a Northern Lights Tour. However, on our first day in Iceland, this tour got canceled due to a cloudy forecast. This cancellation bummed me out, but I was not too stressed about it as we were able to reschedule it for later in our stay.

Instead of the Northern Lights Tour, Chad and I ventured out into the city for dinner. We went to Reykjavik Kitchen for dinner. After dinner we went for drinks at an ice sculpture bar, Magic Ice, and got a quick dessert of greek donuts from Loo.Koo.Mas.

Day 3: Wednesday, March 20th, 2024

Wednesday we were scheduled to go to the Blue Lagoon, Reykjavik Food Lovers Tour, and our Northern Lights Tour reschedule. I woke up Wednesday morning super excited for the Blue Lagoon! Chad and I arrived at our bus stop on-time and waited.. And waited.. And waited.. About 30 minutes went by when I finally checked my phone and saw that our Blue Lagoon tour had been canceled. The volcano that had erupted on our wedding day was still flowing lava which was located near the Blue Lagoon. This news devastated me, but Chad assured me it was all going to work out.

Before we knew it, our Food Lovers Tour was next. We walked 10 minutes down to the heart of Reykjavik through wind and rain. I was so worried this tour was going to get canceled too. However, I was very pleased to finally meet up with our tour guide, Your Friend in Reykjavik. (I cannot remember his name, but that was what the company called him.) Our tour guide was amazing! He said as long as we were okay with walking through the strong wind and rain, then he was okay to continue the tour! We stopped at various different restaurants trying traditional Icelandic dishes. I definitely went out of my comfort zone here, but several of the dishes were surprisingly good. We tried: Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur Lamb/Beef Hot Dog, Fiskisupa (Fish Soup) & Fermented Herring, Kjötsúpa (Lamb Soup), Fresh Cod, Skyr Cake, and the dreaded fermented shark. Throughout the tour, our guide told us stories of his family, we talked about different Icelandic music, and truly had a blast!

Our Northern Lights tour ended up getting canceled Wednesday due to the same rain storm, but we again rescheduled and figured out plans for our evening. Wednesday afternoon we walked to the Perlan museum. The Perlan museum featured a virtual planetarium show of the northern lights, which we thought would be funny since our northern lights tour kept getting canceled! Overall it was another relaxing and successful day.

Day 4: Thursday, March 21st, 2024

Thursday was the day I was most excited for. It was finally the day we would be able to leave the city! Day 4 we had booked the Golden Circle and Snowmobiling Tour. We headed out that morning with Reykjavik Excursions. The tour was larger than I had expected. We loaded up on tour buses with probably 50 other tourists. The Golden Circle was amazing! We finally had some good weather and were able to stop at each spot for about 20-30 minutes. We visited Thingvellir National Park where the tectonic plates are moving, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and the Gullfoss waterfall!

After the Golden Circle, the same group left the Gullfoss waterfall to head up the Langjökull glacier for snowmobiling. And of course, then the weather came back! We were greeted on the glacier with a snow storm! We had almost no visibility and were surrounded by just pure white. This sure did make snowmobiling kind of scary. But, Day 4 was still one of my favorites!

And yet again, the Northern Lights Tour was canceled due to the snow storm.

Day 5: Friday, March 22nd, 2024

Now we come to Friday. Day 5 of this trip absolutely MADE this trip for me and it was not at all in our itinerary! As we reached the last full day in Iceland, in all honesty, I was filled with a million emotions. Along our trip in Iceland, the majority of our excursions were getting canceled due to the active volcano & bad weather conditions. These tours included the Blue Lagoon, Northern Lights, & Ice Cave Hiking. I was getting very bummed out because we spent the first half of our week in the city fighting the rain & wind yet still finding stuff to do! Our one tour that actually stayed was the snowmobiling, which resulted in a snow storm/white out! We got to our last full day of our trip & we felt like we hadn’t truly SEEN the beauty of Iceland.

Friday morning our final excursion was canceled due to over 70 mph winds. I was able to find one tour company that was still running that day, East West. I called them at 8:15am asking to go on any tour that day & they told me they had one South Coast tour available that left at 8:30am! Chad & I never got ready so fast, skipped breakfast, & made it to the pickup location with 2 minutes to spare.

When I say this tour made my whole trip, our tour guide took us to places that weren’t on the itinerary to avoid the strong winds AND other tourists!! We went to 6 different locations that were so surreal & spent up to an hour hiking around each of them vs the standard “you have 20 minutes” at the other touring companies.

Lastly, it’s very rare you get to see an active volcano! Our final stop of the night, we went to the evacuation line of Sundhnúkagígar Carter Row outside of Grindavík. This is the active volcano that has been flowing throughout our stay.

I could not thank East West (and Simone) enough for accepting us at the last minute & showing us everything that Iceland has to offer! God’s timing is amazing. He canceled one tour & opened another door to something a million times more incredible. Extremely grateful & blessed to have had the trip of a lifetime with my husband.

Conclusion:

With all that being said, our trip to Iceland was definitely not as it was planned. We had several excursions get canceled, but every day had an even better outcome. The Blue Lagoon may have gotten canceled, but I honestly probably wouldn't have enjoyed it as much as I thought with how many tourists visit Iceland (and the smell of hot springs stink!!). The Ice Cave may have gotten canceled, but we got to go on another tour that was a MILLION times better than just going to a glacier again. Plus, we can go inside an Ice Cave and watch the Northern Lights somewhere else in the world. What we did get to do on our trip to Iceland is something we will never get to see anywhere else! Through this trip, I have learned so much about traveling to Iceland and can give the following advice.

Excursions / Tour Groups:

Most of our trips were booked with Reykjavik Excursions. As they were labeled as a “small group”, they were truly not. When booking tours, I would suggest really figuring out what that company considers small group. Our last tour with East West had about 13 people on the tour which was the perfect amount! This allows more time for additional adventure and not having limited time at each location your visit. A smaller group also allows you to connect more with the people in your group which makes the tour overall more fun!

In addition, there are so many more tourists than I expected! And also to my surprise, many were not American! Thankfully, English is the common language between all countries, but the amount of people around the bus stops, restaurants, city, and more was very shocking to me.

Bus Stops / Transportation:

Before coming to Iceland, the bus / transportation system made me nervous because I did not know how difficult it would be. However, the bus transportation was a breeze! The bus drivers actually have a list of names for who they need to pick up, so they are sure to not leave you behind. The hardest part is just fighting the crowd of other tourists when your company’s bus arrives. For some reason, a lot of the tourists will just swarm the bus drivers even though they call peoples names out. Just hangout, be patient, as the buses are not always on time!

The other side of transportation is rental cars, which is very common. We personally did not rent a car and I don't think I ever would if I was to go back. On our last day, the winds were so strong that we saw several rental cars flipped over on the side of the highway simply because tourists do not know how to drive in Iceland’s weather. The locals don't love tourists driving either which is for sure! The saying in Iceland is, “If you don't like the weather, just wait, it'll change in 15 minutes.” Which is very true when driving as well. One second you are cruising on a nice open road, then you're crossing a glacier through snow, or scaling a windy mountain with strong winds. If you plan to drive a rental car, just be prepared for harsh weather, and stay safe on the changing road conditions!

Cost:

Another surprise I was not prepared for is the cost of things when you are in Iceland! Each meal or dessert easily cost us around $100 U.S. dollars for two people. We spent over $1,000 easily just on food throughout our trip. The same went for gift shops, etc. Easily $70 for a sweatshirt and $40 for a t-shirt for example. I would suggest getting any generic souvenirs, like the famous salt, mugs, hats, etc, from the airport gift shop. The airport is much cheaper than stores in the city.

Weather / Clothes:

Throughout our trip, weather was the biggest challenge we faced. We had volcanoes, snow, rain, and wind. It is very true that the weather in Iceland is constantly changing, but one thing that definitely stuck around was the wind!

I would suggest bringing waterproof pants/jackets that are also windproof. I ended up having to buy windproof puffy pants while we were there, because my ski pants were not doing the trick. In addition, wear layers! My staple outfit every day that kept me perfectly warm were my thermals, a pullover on top, a Sitka down jacket, the puffy pants I bought, a neck gaiter (a must have that most forget!), gloves, and a beanie. Wearing layers made acclimating to changing weather conditions very easy.

Hotels:

I could not suggest the Alda Hotel more. The hotel was very nice, and offered free breakfast (which was so good and saved us a lot of money), and it had an excellent location. From our hotel, most restaurants and our bus stop was about a five to 10 minute walk into the city. This allowed for the area outside our hotel to be very quiet and relaxing, but we still had easy access to the city life in the heart of Reykjavik.

CLICK HERE to see more photos in our Client Experience Video.

Client's Amazing Rhine River Cruise

Sun, 05 Nov 2023 23:27:57 GMT

Rhine River Client Experience

The trip was AMAZING. I love Germany! Pictures we have do not do it justice. AMA Waterways was great too. I am really happy we chose the cruise we did, with Eileen’s help from Land and Sea Travel. I seriously would go back every season if I could!

Thank you for all you did, and I have already handed off your number to a few random neighbors who asked after seeing my pictures. It will be some time for us to get away again, but I will be calling you when we do!

Marie and Alan

Ireland Client's Story

Sat, 26 Aug 2023 19:37:07 GMT

Ireland a Client's Story

Ann & I returned from our ten-day trip to Ireland last Monday. This was our second tour that Eileen at Land and Sea Travel, LLC planned for us with Trafalgar Tours within the past year. In September 2022, we toured the Southwest which included Denver, Canyonlands, Arches, Mesa Verde, Monument Valley, Grand Canyon and Las Vegas. See our other blog at https://www.landandseatravel.com/southwest-adventure

In a word, our trip to Ireland was spectacular! The trip was expertly planned so that visitors to the Emerald Isle came away with an excellent overview of the country. It is hard to imagine that we could have had a better tour guide (Liam Hogan) and driver Sala. Liam’s knowledge of the history of Ireland (and Northern Ireland) is second to none. He speaks four languages, including Irish. The roads in Ireland are in good shape, but narrow! Sala was not only an excellent driver, but a gentleman who engaged with all the guests. Due to the value of tourism in Ireland, the country really caters to coaches, of which there are many, as it is an excellent way to see Ireland. The local experts at the various venues were all very knowledge and friendly.

We also had frequent stops which averaged about every 1 1/2 hours. The only negative was that there were 48 guests on our tour, which became a bit unwieldy at times.

The hotel accommodations and meals were all good and we were able to get a good feel for the culture and cuisine.

With respect to the overall organization of the trip, we appreciated having the air fare included in the total cost, as it was one less thing that we had to worry about.

Although the rain did not disrupt any of our plans, it is always a good idea to be prepared for rain in Ireland!

Paul and Ann Sola

Cruise Trade Event - Allure of the Seas - Galveston

Sun, 27 Nov 2022 22:23:25 GMT

Allure of the Seas First sailing out of Galveston!

The Allure of the Seas

Itinerary: Galveston to Cozumel Round Trip

Royal Caribbean ha s started a new regularly scheduled 7-night round-trip sailing on the beautiful Allure of the Seas out of Texas’ Port of Galveston to Cozumel (Mexico), Puerto Costa Maya (Mexico), and Routan (Honduras). This is the largest ship to have a regular sailing out of the Port of Galveston and this sailing coincides with the opening of the brand-new cruise terminal in Galveston.

This was a unique Cruise Travel Event for travel advisors and media and with some non-travel industry attendance for the inaugural sailing of the Allure of the Seas from Galveston. There were daily briefings by Royal Caribbean and activities to learn about the ship, the new terminal in Galveston, future plans, and to hold other discussions such as working with Royal Caribbean. One key difference from the regular itinerary is that this was a 4-night cruise with a short stop in Cozumel (Mexico) rather than also docking in Roatan (Honduras) and Puerto Costa Maya (Mexico).

Essentials

Getting There – From Dallas, the drive to Galveston Island near Houston is around 5 hours. Or as an alternative, travelers can fly into the George Bush International Airport and catch a direct shuttle to the terminal or to their pre-night arrangements.

Food - Dining or Buffet – In the Main Dining Room, there are two scheduled seatings, at 6PM and 8PM, and while there are opportunities for seating for two, we preferred to eat with a group, each group had a great dynamic and we would have enjoyed continued extended conversions, The Windjammer Café offers a great buffet with a variety of foods for those who prefer to dine casually with a great view.

Clothing – It is warm in Mexico and the sun is strong – shorts, hats, sunscreen, and glasses are totally appropriate. On the return, a cold front had moved into Texas, and with a little bus ride over to the cars, you’ll want at least a jacket available.

Pre-Night (November 8th)

Galveston Island Hilton – Located right across from the beach and next to the convention center. For those who may have forgotten something, Kroger store is located on the other side of the convention and easy walking distance. Many restaurants to choose from and the Rain Forest Café is located next door and great for families. There is also an amusement park on Pleasure pier about a mile down the road. This hotel is nice and nicely decorated. The room, bedding and cleanliness was very good, and their room service and food were great.

Day 1 (November 9th)

The New Cruise Terminal

Parking and Shuttles – as this was not an announced sailing, hotels were caught a little unaware and were scrambling to get shuttles going – these run regularly for announced sailings. We had driven so it was not an issue for us, however, something to be aware of for those special event sailings.

The new terminal is located off 14th street and has a North lot (next to the ship), a South lot, and the 14th Street parking (on a pier). Shuttle buses run to the drop off along the ship. You have the option of checking your bags and waiting for them to be delivered to your room or carrying them. We carried them on with some long passageways, this is a big ship, it might have been more convenient to wait a little while for them. So we dragged the bags and got through security to find a country music duo serenading us through photo opportunities. Very nice and colorful terminal with many helpful crew members along the way.

The Cabin

We were located on the 14th floor in a balcony stateroom. It was nice being on the port side to see Cozumel as we approached and took some great photos. This stateroom was a very short walk to the elevator and stairs which is nice when going from one deck to another for all the activities onboard. Because of the position, we had nearly direct access to Main Dining, the Café, the Schooner Bar, Boardwalk, the Aqua Theatre, the Sports Deck, and could walk into the Grans Promenade with a few steps and an elevator ride. We found other ways to make up the steps for a little exercise.

The App

The Royal Caribbean app is very helpful for embarking and disembarking and is also used for your safety briefing required of all passengers before the ship can leave the terminal. It was a little different watching the safety briefing on video on the Boardwalk next to the Tequila Bar rather than a live demonstration down on Deck 5 with the boats. It was convenient to use this app to arrange our day for shows and events – both to find activities and add them to your personal schedule. Hint: Make sure you are the ONLY person in the picture for your ID – it must match your face and the cropping function will select a face in the picture, not necessarily yours.

Out to Sea – sendoff from Galveston

Entertainment

Show – Ice Dancing is a must to see.

Show - Aria – diving, acrobatics, and a little drama, comedy and ballet in the Aqua Theatre

Show - Earl Turner - Singer in the Main Stage– Walking out into the crowd

Day 2 (November 10th) At Sea

Workout space – was large with a variety of cardio equipment looking out to sea and many different weight machines and free weights to stay in shape. Several classes are available from yoga to stretch and core to aerobics. Whatever floats your boat.

Walking Track – there are stairs through the exercise facility on deck 6 down to the running/walking track on deck 5. The exercise facility is also connected to the Vitality Spa for many different treatments or stop by to the juice bar for a healthy snack or protein drink.

Stateroom Tour – As part of the familiarization tour, we visited many staterooms from interior to Royal Suites. So many different staterooms available for those traveling with families and for couples who would like a quiet location or solo travelers. They can also head over to the adults only area located in the Solarium.

Central Park – Restaurants – Central Park has several specialty dining, such as Giovanni’s Table. We enjoyed the Central Park café with fresh salad, meat for sandwiches and many desserts.

Windjammer Café – great place to dine casually in a buffet style with ocean views surrounding you. The food was very good and loved the variety for breakfast and lunch.

Show - Momma Mia – Nothing like seeing a Broadway play aboard the Allure of the Seas. Wonderful play with several new songs to sing along! A good seat in all locations.

Late Night Golf - on the Sports Deck – if you were keeping score – Eileen won with some amazing hole-in-ones - and one hole where Mike took around 10 swings.

Day 3 (Nov ember 11th)

Cozumel, Mexico

Shore Excursion to Playa Mia for Salsa (Making salsa and dancing the Salsa) – meeting the group at the dock – stay together with the other wristbands for your group – about a 15 minutes’ drive and to the open-air market for a tomato, onion, and pepper – which the Guide buys (ask about which pepper – they have one in mind) – Brings back memories of the open-air markets of Cadiz, Spain where farmers and fishermen brought fresh groceries for sale.

This is in the shade near the pool, where the Salsa is made, and tequila or pina colada or other drinks with or without alcohol added were available.

Making the Salsa – 3 types one using– pico de guillo – a salsa using grilled ingredients, and guacamole. We were given a link to have the recipes for future salsa.

Dancing the Salsa. 3 different steps front to back, side to side, and step back right or left. More practice is required and on the ship, there is an opportunity at Bolero’s. And it’s you’re audible, you may recognize the tune and find yourself moving to the beat - with a little salt and pepper.

Beach - Sand – Iguana, Pedal Trike – it looks like fun, but steering a pedal trike with waves is a more of a loose suggestion than a command if you are on the slow side, Rented a locker by the pool at the white shack to the rear of the pink building for $5 US with a $5 deposit) and returned to get a sit-on-top kayak and found that without a back pad the hip flexors get quite a workout. It was just as well – we had time for a quick ice cream and were walking to the bus but had to wait for 4 more of our party to show to get back to the ship. There were opportunities to lounge on the beach or pool and a few other options like renting a jet-ski or eating.

Return to the ship

This was an unusual trip, so the departure time was quite early. Pickup – Cozumel uses Eastern Time, but the ship’s clock is set to Galveston, which uses Central Time, so 1pm on the ship will show as 2pm on a local clock in Cozumel. Before getting off the ship, the reminder was to always use the ship’s clock for the return time (it matters if your phone, watch, or device does not update correctly – which it seems when I travel across time zones, my phone never uses the right time zone). Use the earliest time given –ship departures might overlap, and it gets a little busy to clear security.

Pay attention to the direction you have to go to get to the ship on the return – depending on where you are dropped off, the path to the ship may snake through shops on the way to the security checkpoint and then exits to the dock. We h some rain on the return

Veterans Day Celebration on the Promenade

This is a regular celebration on the Allure of the Seas, though in this case, it actually was Veterans Day in the US with a ceremony, that included a brief reading, then a Taps Trumpet solo as all were silent to show appreciation for those who served and paid the ultimate price to protect our country. This ceremony ended with a rousing singing of the first verse of the National Anthem performed by a few cast member from Mama Mia, with all of the Veterans, families, and other participants singing out, it was actually very good.

Day 4 (November 12th) At Sea

After a morning workout in the fitness area and walk the track on deck 5, continued on with Stateroom tours and visits to the common areas around the ship. Visited the Adventure Camp Activity where the kids (with parents nearby) made bubbling volcanos. Movies were on every day at the Aqua Theatre , including Top Gun 2, and dual rock climbing walls flanked either side of the Boardwalk overlooking the Aqua Theatre. The Sports Deck, with Golf, Two Wave-Riders, and a zipline over Boardwalk, was a little less active as we moved closer to Galveston, where a cold front had dropped temps a little.

In the early afternoon, the crew put on the show, Ship Ahoy Parade, on the Grand Promenade – with representations of navies from various regions throughout time.

Show - Mo5aic – an amazing acapello vocal group – no instruments

Show - Comedians

Show - Ships band tribute to Earth, Wind, and Fire, and the Tower of Power

Show - Tribute to Journey – very good, but a little too loud for us

With that, we returned to our cabin to pack up for the morning's debarkation.

Day 5 (November 12th)

Docking (cold weather) Disembark to a colder day however many shuttles to take those who parked at the terminal.

It’s the people you meet that add spice to the trip – from the awesome and friendly crew to some great people we met for dinner. Great memories and friendships made on the Allure of the Seas!

Five Caribbean All-Inclusive Resorts Ideal for Adults

Sat, 08 Oct 2022 14:28:30 GMT

Five Caribbean All-Inclusive Resorts Ideal for Adults

The Caribbean offers the best beaches and all-inclusive hotel and resort experiences with international-class services and cuisine, specially designed for adult guests. Here are five of the best all-inclusive resorts for adults to be found in the fabulous Caribbean region.

Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana

Set on more than 700 yards of white sandy beach, and surrounded by palm trees, Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana offers adults a seaside escape for romance, relaxation, and unlimited luxury, in which everything is included in gourmet restaurants and top-shelf drinks.

This resort features Junior and Master Suite rooms with private pools, marble floors, and hot tubs, plus the Preferred Club with a pool bar that connects to an amazing infinity pool. In addition, in the Secrets Spa by Pevonia, guests can relax with massages, rejuvenating facial treatments with Pevonia skincare products, and soothing hydrotherapy.

It features 10 bars with unlimited high-quality drinks, as well as seven dining options including five à la carte restaurants and the new El Patio serving gourmet Mexican food. For those looking for relaxation on the seafront, a butler service is offered on the beach, a massage, and a menu of drinks, as well as breakfast and lunch. In addition, Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana has tennis courts, non-motorized water sports, beach volleyball, diving, fishing, and snorkeling, among other experiences.

The Caves Hotel, Jamaica

This extraordinary resort located in Negril, Jamaica, combines the natural beauty of this Caribbean gem with world-class guest service. Every room at The Caves is located atop some of the most spectacular sea caves in the world. There are one and two-bedroom cottages overlooking the garden or the sea, lower and upper ocean-view suites, a romantic Blue Hole View suite, as well as Clandestino, where guests have the option of fully inclusive or accommodation-only rates.

The Caves restaurants serve a variety of dishes made with fresh local produce, from Jamaican barbecues to five-course menus. The choice of restaurants is diverse. Bamboo Terrace offers great drinks, The Gazebo features an excellent breakfast menu, Moonbeam and Seastar with a five-course menu in a private setting, The Sands, a cool place with a great ocean view, and the Blackwell Rum Bar, located in a secret cave.

Cocos Hotel Antigua

Located between two coral beaches on the southwest coast of the island of Antigua, Cocos Hotel Antigua offers breathtaking sea views from almost any locale. Its beaches are calm with crystal clear waters where guests can swim all day and then enjoy the most spectacular sunsets in the Caribbean.

Among Cocos Hotel's accommodations, the Sunset Pool cottages, which occupy front-row seats to the Caribbean Sea and overlook the pristine beach of Valley Church, guests enjoy cliff-side locations with 180-degree unobstructed sea views and spectacular sunset views. It also features a private infinity pool and a large terrace.

Another accommodation is Beach Front Pool Cottage which is the only unit with a prime, on-the-beach location and the most direct and easy access to Valley Church Beach. While being only footsteps away from the beach and from the Sunset Beach Bar it is also the furthest distance from the Restaurant and Front Desk. Others are the Bay View Pool Cottages, where guests enjoy cliffside locations overlooking Jolly Beach with beautiful views of the bay at the Northern end of the resort. Another option for accommodation is the Sunset View Cottages in which guests require uphill hiking to get the best views. These cottages are the best positioned for occupants to enjoy both beaches on the property.

Other options are the Premium view Cottages with beautiful sea views located closest to the Restaurant and Main Bar and th e Beach on the northern side of the property. Others are the Standard View Cottages, located on the lowest level of the hillside and closest to Jolly Beach at the northern end of the resort. These units are the closest to Reception and a short distance from the Restaurant.

Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa

Located on the exclusive Pink Gin Beach, Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa has private swimming pools, waterfalls, and the finest nature. It offers its guests 10 gourmet restaurants, unlimited Premium Liquors, six bars including swim-up bars, Unlimited Robert Mondavi Twin Oaks wines, among others, as well as experiences such as snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaks, beach volleyball, tennis, fitness centers, and much more.

Among its wide range of roo ms and suites are worth mentioning the luxurious Love Nest Suites with private access to a private pool, as well as a spacious room with full furniture including a sofa, writing desk, smart tv, and a fully stocked wet bar featuring premium liquors, among others. Among the experiences offered, we can mention diving in the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, in which guests tour the reef systems and the first gallery of underwater sculptures in the world. Sandals offer one of the most comprehensive diving programs anywhere, as well as water sports with equipment and professional instruction such as kayak, windsurfing, snorkeling, Hobie cats, and paddle boards.

Hotel Riu Palace Antillas, Aruba

Located on the edge of Palm Beach, on the island of Aruba, this hotel is surrounded by the most amazing Caribbean nature. The hotel is the ideal place to relax, with a free gym and a spa, beauty salon, and hairdresser offering a range of treatments.

For those looking to rest under the sun, the hotel offers deckchairs, sunshades, and towels free of charge both in its beautiful swimming pool and on Palm Beach itself. The Hotel Riu Palace Antillas offers Junior Suite rooms with a sea view that include spacious living areas with a sofa, king-size bed or two not-so-large beds, WiFi, satellite TV, minibar, drink dispensers, coffee machine, and balcony or terrace with a sea view.

In addition, a full entertainment program offers the possibility to carry out the most diverse water sports such as windsurfing, sailing, snorkeling and kayaking, and even a diving test in the pool. In the surrounding area guests also can find a golf course, bike rental, hiking trails, banana boating, and parasailing.

In its buffet restaurant, guests enjoy Caribbean cuisine for lunch and dinner and international recipes. The repertoire of restaurants of Hotel Riu Palace Antillas includes Atlantis, Krystal, Rimini, Palm Beach, Malmok, Lounge 24, Capuchino bakery, and its bars Wayaka, Carnaval, Chiquito, Aqua, and Chill Out. In addition, the hotel offers evening shows, a nightclub and casino games.

Southwest Adventure!

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 00:47:41 GMT

This Pictures are Great but being There is so much B etter!

When my wife and I decided to visit the southwest, we debated driving ourselves and taking a coach tour. We decided on the one-week coach tour, and we are very happy that we did. We are happy that you suggested going with Trafalgar, as they are a class act. The itinerary was very well thought out and the guide, driver, and safety person were all very pleasant and accommodating. A special shout out to Donard O'Neill, our guide, who was very knowledgeable about all the places that we drove through and visited. He also kept us on a tight schedule, which we appreciated. We were told up front that the tour would provide a "snapshot" of the sites visited. As it turned out, this was very true because we covered a large area in a relatively short time.

The coach was comfortable, and we had frequent bathroom/rest stops. The accommodations were nice and clean, and we did not have to worry about the transport of our luggage. The meals were fine and we did have some down time to help recharge our batteries.

The scenery was spectacular, and pictures/movies don't do the sites justice. All in all, we had a great time, and I would definitely recommend a coach tour for relaxing while taking in the sites.

Thanks again, Eileen!

Paul & Ann Sola

Enjoy Paul & Ann's pictures below

Alaskan Interior Land Adventure

Sat, 06 Aug 2022 21:22:48 GMT

Alaskan Interior Land Adventure

CLICK HERE to see more photos in our Client Experience Video.

This marks 40 for my wife Teresia and me. Every 10, we plan out an epic trip worthy of the wait. Though it’s not until November, we’re celebrating all year long.

We’re semi-retired and have traveled widely. Covid only slowed that down, it didn’t stop us in part because I am a veteran DIY travel planner. We’ve done a lot of the US, Greece, Costa Rica, and more. The world’s our oyster, so where should we head for our 40th?

On our bucket list remained Alaska . Step one, fire up Google. Before long, it dawned on me this would be more challenging to plan. Alaska is huge! Its land mass 3% covered in glaciers and 15% the size of the continental US. Alaska has more shoreline than the lower 48, combined. Timing matters, we know that, but not because of steering clear of snow and artic freeze, but more so because of daylight. The three summer months never see darkness and the rest never see the light of day.

So many ways to plan this out! Not to worry though, I have a friend who can shed some light – your friend too, Eileen Murphy at Land and Sea Travel, LLC. For weeks we exchanged Q&As about one city vs another, routes, trains, planes, automobiles, hotels, sights, just about everything. Then it hit me, why not just let Eileen plan it out? What we wanted was something that hit key highlights and did not involve big crowds.

After a couple of calls with both of us, Eileen sent her proposal. We tuned it and booked it.

Day 1 put us in Anchorage , a day prior to when our Ultimate Adventurer tour with https://alaskantour.com was to begin. Over the next 12 days we’d visit Denali (aka Mt. McKinley), Homer, Seward, Talkeetna , and more. We’d see wildlife from at road stops, while on the train, and when hiking and biking around. Our itinerary had us spend a couple of more nights in Anchorage, after. We really enjoyed walking through the neighborhoods there and in fact, never needed a rental car.

You may not know but Alaska is a foodie state. They serve farm raised versions of what we had seen running wild… we ate well. If you’re into craft breweries or quilting, then Alaska is for you. There is one or two each in most every town and village.

We were impressed at the stories from Vern Halter and Cindy Abbot with Dream-a-Dream Dog Iditarod sled dog mission . https://dreamsleddogtours.com . He used to be a judge in the county known for the TV series Deadliest Catch, and she opted to summit Mt. Everest when diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder. (When asked which was harder, she said the Iditarod was because of the effort involved in caring for the sled dogs.)

We were amazed at the scenery. If you’ve ever been to Oregon’s Crater Lake, you know the sense of wonder at the 360 degree view. Alaska is like that, except for countless miles in all directions.

We loved seeing God’s creation as well as the creatures big and small, furry or scaly, just about everywhere we went. Our tour had extra excursions but opted out since I’m vulnerable to sea sickness. One couple flew in and landed on a glacier atop Mt. Denali , and another flew in and landed in a field surrounded by Grizzlies! A huge bear walked within feet of their sitting position. Only in Alaska!

We had a problem with one hotel. I informed Eileen. She replied: “This will be all taken care of so enjoy your vacation and I will get this corrected for you.” That immediately put us at ease. I can’t put a price on that.

I hope you enjoy our pics, along with those from other group members.

https://filmsbytim.pixieset.com/alaska2022/

It was a trip we’ll never forget, nor will we ever forget our trip planner.

Take it from us. See Alaska in June. Plan with Eileen and look forward to your trip.

www.landandseatravel.com

Tim & Teresia Arthur

FilmsbyTim.com

It's All Greek to Me!

Sat, 25 Jun 2022 22:05:20 GMT

Best Things to See in Athens and the Greek Islands

CLICK HERE to see more photos in our Client Experience Video.

Athens! Crowds of people, tourists abound, activity, lights, historical ruins, ancient buildings, modern skyscrapers, Greek Orthodox Churches, church bells ringing, Greek flags, graffiti everywhere, crazy cab drivers, traffic, horns blaring, orange trees lining the boulevard, beautiful azure waters, delicious Mediterranean food, Greek statues, shops and more shops, outdoor restaurants, gypsies playing music on street corners, multiple stray cats wandering among the ruins and throughout the city, the Acropolis!

How did we get here? With the help of Eileen Murphy with Land and Sea Travel. She has over 20+ years of cruise experience under her belt and it really shows! She is extremely detail-oriented, and answered all our questions and then some. Eileen stayed on top of everything throughout the process; from selecting the Greek islands cruise that was right for us, to booking discounted international flights and beautiful hotels in Athens. She also coordinated transportation to and from the Athens airport and Piraeus Port. Everything went off without a hitch and I can’t say enough nice things about our experience with Eileen. The icing on the cake is that she was also able to get us $400 cruise credit which we used for fine dining and spa treatments aboard the ship. Nice!

After two days in the city, my friend and I were more than ready for our 7-day cruise to the Greek Islands. One of our first stops is Patmos, an Aegean island noted as a significant Christian pilgrimage site. It’s Cave of the Apocalypse is where St. John, the Theologian is said to have penned the Book of Revelations. We tour the cave and a monastery sitting on the peak of the hill; it’s a great workout for our legs!

Onto Rhodes, known for the Colossus of Rhodes; one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Such history! Our tour bus takes us to a small, cramped one-room home (about 450 square feet) with outdoor plumbing, and beds divided by simple curtains. The guide explains that this is how low to middle-class families lived in Rhodes as recently as the 1970’s! The floors were their pride and joy, featuring beautiful designs made of pebbles that appear to be rugs at first glance. Our next stop is a pottery shop, where we watch the craftsmen making beautiful Greek pottery, and of course, pick up a couple of pieces to take home. Rhodes is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, so be sure to put it on your list.

Hello Mykonos -- my personal favorite – we opted for a walking tour through the picturesque village on the sea with winding, cobblestone lanes, whitewashed buildings with blue doors and shutters, magenta bougainvillea climbing the walls and old windmills that once milled wheat, majestically looking down from the hill tops. (Check these out on Air B&B for a unique hotel experience.) We also briefly stopped at “Little Venice”, as it is known to locals. The neighborhood is made up of old houses (from the 13th to mid-18th century) situated precariously on the edge of the sea…scary! It is impossible not to fall in love with this charming village of 10,000 residents. (Which grows to 50,000 with tourists during the summer!)

Kefalonia - Tourists alighting at Argostoli (the main town) will discover many Kodak moments --- blue seas, sandy beaches and a chance to explore one or two of the many eel-filled caves (ewwww!) by boat. Their claim to fame? This is where “Captain Corelli’s Mandolin” with Nicolas Cage and Penelope Cruz was filmed in 2000. (A great love story where a Greek fisherman leaves the island to fight with the Greek army during WWII, and his fiancée falls in love with a local Italian Commander…a must-see for romantics!)

Corfu…a Greek island in the Ionian Sea is one of the most popular destinations in the Greek islands. It’s easily accessible by ferry from the mainland. Many expats from England, Germany and Russia inhabit the island along with 32,000 local residents. Corfu is a lush, tropical island which offers historical temples, forts, and Medieval castles. Take a leisurely horse and buggy ride through Corfu town, then wine, dine and shop; it’s a shopper’s paradise. Be sure to pick up some donkey milk products; we were told they are even better than goat’s milk and quite popular here.

Finally, Santorini, a member of Greece’s Cyclades islands, and the most famous chain in the Aegean Sea. You will experience whitewashed, cubiform houses that cling to the cliffs above an underwater crater, churches with domed roofs, and beaches made up of black, red and white lava pebbles. Known for their white wines, (there are many vineyards on the island, but no trellises for the grape vines, as the winds are too strong.) Mediterranean cuisine, and the volcano that created the caldera and its unique landscape. Ride the mules up the mountain, if you dare (Note: the cruise line suggested we avoid the mules, as they are mistreated.) and take the cable cars down. Either way, the views are breathtaking. It’s a must-see island.

Survival Spanish Phrases for Your Trip

Tue, 31 May 2022 20:10:19 GMT

Survival Spanish Phrases for Your Trip

Picture this: your tickets have been booked and confirmation numbers have come through your email inbox. You’re dreaming about packing outfits and seeing the sights at any of the number of Spanish-speaking countries in the world.

…But what if I were to tell you that there’s one more thing you need to pack?

Using these questions as a guide, you’ll be able to get around safely and comfortably in Spanish – no matter where you are.

The Basics:

These are the basic words that anyone should learn when they go to a different country or location:

· Where’s the bathroom? ¿Dónde está el baño?

· Yes / No Sí / No

· Do you speak English? ¿Usted habla inglés?

· I don’t speak Spanish. No hablo español.

· I only speak a little Spanish. Hablo sólo un poco español.

· I need help! ¡Socorro!

· Police! ¡Policía!

· Stop, thief! ¡Para, ladrón!

Also, be sure you have any emergency numbers memorized. Some countries have different numbers for Police, Ambulance, and Fire services. Though you may never need these phone numbers, they can be handy for you or someone in your group to know.

Conversational Basics:

· Hello, I’m (___) Hola, soy (___)

· I’m from (___) Soy de (___)

· Where is (___)? ¿Dónde está (___)?

· I’m waiting for a friend. Espero por un amigo / una amiga.

· I’m waiting for someone. Estoy esperando a alguien.

· Coffee, please. Café, por favor.

· Water, please. Agua, por favor.

· Check, please. La cuenta, por favor.

· Goodbye! ¡Adiós!

· See you later! ¡Hasta luego!

Some slang and other common words are also good to keep in your arsenal, especially if you’re anxious about fitting into another culture. The words above are listed in order of priority: everyone should know basic phrases to get around and communicate your needs. Conversational phrases come next, and those are good to practice with a native speaker, via YouTube, an app, or a language coach like myself.

Knowing even the basics can make a really big difference in your comfort levels while travelling, especially if you’re doing a solo or group trip. I remember disembarking from the plane in Morocco, and everything was in Arabic (duh)… though my rational brain knew that I was with a group that would shuttle us around the western coast of that magnificent country, seeing script instead of letters threw me for a bit of a loop. We learned the customary greetings via our guide, and were able to practice with her to make sure no cultural norms were broken during our trip. We even met some locals who wanted to practice English, and it was an amazing feeling to go back to basics in connecting with people on a human-to-human scale. I fell back on a few French words and phrases I knew, and it was pretty cool to do a linguistic dance, complete with an Arabic greeting, stumbling into conversational French, better conversation in Spanish, and goodbyes in Arabic.

As much as you focus on packing your suitcase, also be sure to pack your brain with a few phrases and words: not only does it show your guides and fellow travelers some respect and effort, but it also will serve you later as you feel more comfortable exploring your destination!

Download your very own Spanish-language Packing List here.

https://www.aprovecharlanguagesolutions.com/everything-but-the-kitchen-sink

For More information:

Contact Megan Miller

https://www.aprovecharlanguagessolutions.com

Travel Advisor's Insider Tips - Hotel on the Mexican Rivera

Eileen@myLandandSea.com — Sat, 28 May 2022 20:25:23 GMT

Travel Advisor Insider Tips - resorts along the Mexican Rivera

Secrets Moxche Playa del Carmen, by AMR™ Collection Riviera Maya

Newly opened only a couple of short months ago, this resort has been dominating springtime opening buzz.

Master Chefs
As the first hotel in the AMR™ Collection portfolio to have master chefs create and develop custom menus for the resort, it’s worth it to step out of your culinary comfort zone here. The dishes must first pass muster through a gastronomy board comprised of professional chefs and food experts who taste test recipes well ahead of you to ensure every bite is extraordinary.
Wine
If you thought Secrets The Vine had it right, you’ll want to get to this new property ASAP. With a wine cellar and wine boutique, both available for individual and group tastings, oenophiles will find this resort a vintner’s delight. A team of two sommeliers and a mixologist stand by to guide guests through the experience.
Plant-Based
Vegetarians and vegans deserve to eat well, too, and their programs aren’t just an afterthought here. Bamboo restaurant —an all-new concept to the AMR™ Collection—has a plant-based menu, and gives their ingredients their due with Southeast Asian preparations. For those who may not be strict about their preference or just want to enjoy a more veggie-forward option, another secret is that you can add protein if you desire. Just ask for it.

Secrets Impression Moxche, by AMR™ Collection, Riviera Maya

A resort within the greater Secrets Moxche property, this soon-to-open super-exclusive upgrade will take guests beyond even AMR™ Collection’s esteemed Preferred Club for luxury.

Teodoro
Commonly referred to in travel as “author’s cuisine,” this restaurant has a Chef’s Table-style menu that changes every day—well worth the additional cost, which is discounted for Impression guests. It’s named after an ancestor of a Mayan king who was captured by Spaniards during their invasion of the region. He was then educated and granted rights of ownership of the land now known as Playa del Carmen.
Rooftop
The room count may be more intimate at 198 suites, but the rooftop? Well, it’s one of the largest in all of Playa del Carmen, boasting a full bar, restaurant, and a luxurious pool. The Observatory is open only to Moxche Preferred Club and Impression guests only for a truly exclusive, VIP feel.
Presidential Villa
Double dating doesn’t get any better than sharing the Presidential Villa at Secrets Impression Moxche, where a large dining room and living room separate private accommodations suitable for two couples. By offering a shared gathering space and privacy enough for each pair to enjoy their own romantic moments, it’s the ideal BFF or siblings-and-spouse getaway. Plus, with butler service included and 6,100 square feet, you can be assured that no toes will be stepped on—just covered in the white sands beyond the villa.
Impression Privileges

Obviously, this elite experience means you get free-flow access to the whole Moxche grounds, plus access to Sip, Savor & See at other nearby resorts. But that’s only one way, because only Impression guests have access to their three designated restaurants, beach club, Luxury Lounge, a manager’s cocktail party, thrice daily housekeeping, in-room continental breakfast, and daily tea time. Plus, you’ll also get one complimentary hydrotherapy session per stay.

Breathless Cancun Soul Resort & Spa, by AMR™ Collection, Cancun

Since its grand opening this winter, true to their name, they hit the ground running so fast that they left guests of ALG Vacations’® recent Executive Advisor Retreat—you guessed it!—breathless.

Pelican’s Eye View
The Skyline Tower at this all-suites resort is one of the tallest high-rise buildings on the Cancun strip, making for an unspoiled, panoramic perspective that will be hard to (literally) top. From a point of view even higher than the pelicans that soar over the Hotel Zone, you’ll have a chance to dine on Asian food at the Silk City pan-Asian restaurant. Xhale club members get the added bonus of automatic invites to sunset parties, too.
Ocean Everywhere
Water, water is certainly everywhere, particularly at the dining venues here! Every single restaurant offers an ocean view, so no matter what’s on the menu, the shoreline is served up with every meal. There are ten chic, social spots to choose from, so the only question is, from what angle would you like to see the sea?
Live Big Suite
The convivial vibe of the Breathless resorts and spas make them ideal for small group gatherings like bachelor/ette parties, but even better still is booking a Live Big suite for it. You’ll get extra space and amenities like an in-room bar, extra mirrors for getting ready, and a wall between the living room and bedroom if privacy is needed.
Spa Party
Another great idea for a bachelorette or hen parties is to book the party suite at the on-site world-class spa. Up to six relaxing revelers can be accommodated here at the same time, with a variety of treatments and beauty services served up in sync.

Riu Latino, Costa Mujeres, Cancun

This stunning, bright white new build isn’t even yet open yet, so we don’t have too much to share about it yet. However, here’s one as an appetizer.

Oceanfront Water Park
This new build is adults only, but that no reason not to include a water park on the premises! Their on-site Splash Water World park is oceanfront, which means unobstructed, spectacular views at the top of every slide … and on your way down! Obviously, these rides are well worth scaling the stairs for, even beyond the usual thrill.

La Casa de la Playa, Riviera Maya

A new, ultra-luxe, wellness-focused premium brand from Grupo Xcaret, the inclusions—like these below—for this resort are miles beyond the expected.

Callejoneada Xcaret
Xcaret Park comes to musical, magical, joyful life at night with this “xclusive” night tour accompanied by a rondalla—a string instrument ensemble—as you tour the park’s most important locations. The experience ends with a wine and cheese tasting in the cellar. Make sure to stay on a Tuesday to take part, and make your reservations early for the 9:30 PM pickup as capacity is maxed out at just eight.
Cenote Private Dinner
Cenotes are fabled and enchanting as they are in the light of day, but a private dinner at the cusp of one? Once in a lifetime. This extraordinary experience takes place in the Rio Azul cenote of Xcaret Park and is made even more romantic by the strains of jazz in the breeze, played by live performers. Pickup for dinner is at 7:30 and reserved for just four, so snag yours as early as possible if you happen to stay on a Monday or Wednesday.
Sacred Ritual
As part of the holistic wellness emphasis of this resort, guests can book a sacred ritual called Light, the Path to the Purification of Your Being at Xel Há. Reservations are open for Wednesdays and Fridays with a 3:15 PM pick-up for up to eight participants, who will together experience a spiritual harmony with nature, their senses, and their inner selves in hidden, wondrous corners of this park.
Xpeleo
No one but guests of Casa de la Playa get this Xplor park option of a tour through virgin caverns, including portions of total darkness. Therein waits a dynamic of relaxation and connection, before ending with getting back to the excitement of the everyday with the park’s regular activities. Available every day except Sunday for up to six people, this is great for early risers who want to pack the most into their vacation, as pickup is at 7:15 AM.

Explorean Cozumel Discovery Resort, Cozumel

With a name like this, it’s no surprise that there are bonus inclusions that let you explore the island the resort is located on. We touch on some here , and add on below.

Snorkeling Adventure
Included with stays here are access to the Mesoamerican Reef and the gear and transportation you need to experience it at its finest. The resort includes a 20-minute boat ride to one of the most colorful parts of the second largest reef in the world, where 26 species of coral, 500 varieties of fish, sea turtles, lobsters, and crab wait to meet you.
Screen Freedom
For anyone looking to unplug and reconnect, this nature-driven resort is perfect. There aren’t even any TVs in the rooms, which is intentional for relaxation and to encourage guests to go out and explore nature after a lovely hand-delivered continental breakfast had at leisure with your travelmate.

Planet Hollywood Cancun, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort, Costa Mujeres

This resort took their fantastic Costa Rican concept and made it an even bigger superstar in Cancun … which means even more fun insider perks to know about.

STAR Class™ Suites
This elite level is comes with a long, long rider of upgrades and special features, including a Personal Agent, private pool, private fitness center, a special bar and grill, and complimentary access to the FlowRider® machine. To make it even more glam, book the Producer or Director Suites. These come in one- to two-bedroom configurations and some of the best views in the resort. And life doesn’t get better than the Three-Bedroom Producer’s Suite, whose 4,187 square feet accommodates 12 guests, a fully stocked bar, billiards table, and hyper-glam seating area for partying all night and day.
Star Kids Club
Nearly every kid dreams of being a star, and they get to live this out at no extra charge at this resort. Diverse Talent Managers offer opportunities to act, dance, sing, design costumes and sets, shoot scenes, direct a show, edit video, write songs, and more. Not only are classes available, there are also social events like Movie Night Under the Stars, Walk of Fame Scavenger Hunt, and Stars Kids Club Hall of Fame Parties to look forward to.
PH Attractions
There are a lot of them, from mini-golf to movies in the theater to a lazy river that will take you where you want to go. Jurassic Splash Park and Shipwreck cove are immensely popular and well known, but don’t forget to check out the trampoline zone, too, and the giant green hedge labyrinth. For additional cost, take a ride on the surf simulator or hang in the arcade, Planet Play, where guests’ high scores will keep their name in lights until their next visit.

El Dorado Seaside Suites, by Karisma, Riviera Maya

Set between Akumal and Puerto Aventuras, this adults-only, all-suite, all oceanview resort blends traditional Riviera Maya luxury with contemporary chic, thanks to an innovative expansion.

Balcony Pools
There aren’t many resorts that can offer the novelty of a swim-up pool right on your balcony … but when they do, they’re Karisma properties. The newer section of the resort offers rooms that trade terraces for elevated swim-up, and for an upgrade that’ll have you feeling on top of the world. Order the floating breakfast tray (additional cost) to enjoy in your swim-up for ultra-premium aqueous vibes.
Party Hard
The Mexican Fiesta is a hot ticket at this resort, where they celebrate the authentic spirit of Mexico through live mariachi, exquisite food, and libations. Don’t skip the carne asada, is our pro-tip. Keep an eye out also for foam parties at the main pool. Bubbles, entertainment, and music make it a must.
Taco Station
Head to guest favorite Driftwood restaurant for something extra special, simple, yet still Gourmet Inclusive®! Look for a taco cart station there, where visitors can try a variety of fixings and fillings in real Mexican tradition, in terms of flavor and an oceanfront view. Live music and poolside service make this a must for lunch.The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

Traveling Solo

Thu, 19 May 2022 18:16:47 GMT

Travel Solo - Know Before You Go

T raveling solo can be a thrilling experience that pushes the boundaries of your comfort zone. However, you want to make sure you prepare before venturing off! Here are some “know before you go” on solo travel.

Leave Your Contact Info with Someone at Home

When traveling, especially overseas where communication might be trickier, it’s important to let someone know your travel plans. Let them know where you’re going, where you’ll be staying, and the travel dates. This will keep your loved ones at home in the loop just in case they need to get ahold of you.

Keep Copies of Important Documents

Always keep copies of your important documents, such as your passport, social security card, and other necessary paperwork. These copies can come in handy in case you misplace one during your travels!

Network

Talk to your contacts about where you’ll be traveling to, they may have connections in those places and could connect you with other people in their network. This is great for solo traveling because it can help give you more insight from locals into where you’re going and, if you feel so inclined, you can meet up!

Bring a Book and a Journal

You may face some long travel days, and since you’ll be traveling solo, having a book to read can help entertain you. Journaling is another excellent way to keep yourself entertained; it’s also great to have so you can document your journey! Trust us on this! It’s fun and special to find your travel journals and read back and recall those travel moments later in life.

Learn How to be Alone

T raveling solo means spending time alone. Depending on your personality, this might be the most challenging part of traveling solo. Being with yourself alone in another country is a big deal but learning to slow down can create a lot of growth, and you can learn more about who you are.

You May Never Feel 100% Ready

This one speaks for itself. It’s hard to find the time and energy to commit to traveling internationally with our busy lives. But is there ever really a “perfect” time to go? You might also be thinking that you aren’t ready to travel solo yet, but again, is there really going to be a “perfect” time? If you’re considering traveling alone, take the leap!

Things Will Go Wrong... That's Okay

No matter if you’re traveling alone or with others, something will go wrong. If you’re traveling solo and something goes wrong, it might be stressful in the moment, but it’s going to make great stores to tell and will help you learn to be more flexible. Roll with it!

Keep Emergency Contact Info on You

It’s crucial that you give someone at home your information on where you’ll be traveling, but it's also essential to keep their information on you as well. Ideally, it’s great to keep this information in multiple places, such as your mobile device and your journal. This is important just in case your phone is out of battery or misplaced and you need to call home.

Understand The Cultures You’re Entering

When entering new countries, we highly recommend learning more about the local cultures before visiting. This can help prepare you for anything you might face, such as clothing restrictions or norms and understanding mannerisms.

Stay Someplace Where You’ll Meet Others

One of the coolest parts about traveling solo is the people you meet. Staying at a place like a hostel, situates you perfectly to meet like-minded individuals who might be traveling solo as well. And who knows, the people you meet on your solo adventure might turn into life-long friends!

Know Where You’re Going

It’s always a good idea to create some kind of plan before your travels. This will help give you an idea of any transportation you might need to take and how to visit each place on your list effectively.

Ask Locals for Recommendations

Talking to locals is a wonderful way to learn about the place you’re visiting. They can tell you the best places to visit that you might miss if you’re just going to the tourist attractions, and as an added bonus, they’re likely to be much less busy!

Try Not to Overpack

When traveling solo, you’re in charge of all your bags. Make sure you’re able to carry all your items before you leave and have room left for any souvenirs you might be bringing back with you.

Try to Act Confidently in Public

Acting confident is key, especially if you’re not sure where you are or where you’re going. When you show confidence, it’s less likely someone will try and take advantage of you. We’d like to believe that most people you meet wouldn’t do this, but you can never be too cautious.

Traveling solo is truly an adventure of a lifetime, and we believe it can add so much value to your life. It can be a scary one, but well worth it!

Furward Momentum: Celebrating Pet-Friendly Travel

Sun, 27 Mar 2022 19:07:15 GMT

Furward Momentum: Celebrating Pet-Friendly Travel

Road trip season may last well into fall this year, so if you have travelers looking to hit the road with the whole family – pets included! – we’ve gathered tips, guidance and a whole lot of pet-friendly hotels and resorts around the U.S. to make you into a well-heeled pet-friendly travel advisor.

Before They Go

Before booking that pet-friendly trip, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recommends travelers make sure their pet:

Is comfortable and physically able to travel
Has up-to-date ID tags and microchip
Is allowed in the accommodations you’ve booked
Has a portable kennel to stay in if you need to leave them in the accommodations unattended

Pet Travel Checklist

Packing for a pet is a bit different than packing for yourself! Here are a few items the AVMA wants to make sure are on every
pet’s packing list.

The basics like a collar, leash, portable kennel/crate, bed, blankets, toys, food and water bowls and any medications they’re taking
Up-to-date medical records
Your vet’s contact info
First-aid kit for your pet
A list of vets and emergency vet hospitals along your route and near your destination
Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (health certificate) and acclimation certificate, if needed by the state you’re visiting
Up-to-date ID info, plus a recent photo of your pet

Flying with Pets

If you have travelers who want to fly with their pet, it’s very important to check with the airline first, as many have breed and size restrictions, plus more rules to follow and documentation requirements. We’ve gathered links below to some airlines’ pet policies.

Pet-Friendly Digs

Let’s talk about the hotels and resorts that welcome pets in popular road-trip destinations.

Orlando

SeaWorld Partner Hotels

Universal Hotels

Find even more pet-friendly hotels in Orlando!

Atlanta

Nashville

Las Vegas

Find even more pet-friendly hotels in Las Vegas!

Phoenix

Jacksonville

Destin

New Orleans

Denver

Ft. Lauderdale

Palm Springs

The Plaza Resort and Spa

19 Caribbean All-Inclusive Resorts with the Finest Dining

Sat, 05 Mar 2022 20:41:54 GMT

19 Caribbean All-Inclusive Resorts with the Finest Dining

While all-inclusive resorts are known for offering exceptional value, they tend to get a bad rap when it comes to their culinary options. This is mainly due to the fact most all-inclusive resorts have at least one buffet, and because some of the value resort brands are known for skimping on food quality to save some cash.

Yet, this isn't the case with every all-inclusive property at all, and many resorts and hotel brands are known for offering fine dining options and gourmet culinary experiences. You do typically have to pay more for an all-inclusive stay that includes fine dining, but the cost can be well worth it if you're a foodie who wants to enjoy upscale meals prepared with fresh, local ingredients by expertly-trained chefs.

Which Caribbean all-inclusive resorts are known for their culinary prowess? There are actually quite a few, with some of the top including Sandals resorts, Karisma properties, and TRS adults-only all-inclusive resorts. If you're ready to enjoy an all-inclusive vacation but you only want the best when it comes to dining, read on to learn more.

La Casa de la Playa, México

Recently opened in late 2021, La Casa de la Playa is one of the newest all-inclusive boutique resorts in the country of México. Guests here can dine at sever al high-end eateries run by celebrity chefs, including their Mexican restaurants, Tuch De Luna, Centril, and Lumbre. ESTERO, which features cuisine from Mexico and Peru, has a stellar menu created by Virgilio Martínez, whose restaurant Central in Peru was named among the “Greatest Restaurant in Latin America 2013-2021” in The World’s 50 Best Restaurants ranking.

Garza Blanca Resort & Spa Cancun, México

Garza Blanca Cancun is one of the newest all-inclusive luxury resorts in all of México, and it's already known for its high-e nd dining options. Like other Garza Blanca properties in Puerto Vallarta and Los Cabos, this beachfront resort has several gourmet restaurants with chef-prepared steaks and seafood and premium spirits. Guests staying at Garza Blanca Cancun also have access to six additional restaurants at its sister resort, Villa del Palmar Cancun.

Azul Beach Resort Negril, Jamaica

Negril's Azul Beach Resort is a Karisma property, so resort guests get the benefit of this hotel brand's "gourmet-inclusive" offerings. This particular all-inclusive luxury resort boasts six upscale eateries that serve everything from Caribbean cuisines to Italian and Thai cuisine, as well as premium cocktails and wines at seven different bars.

UNICO Riviera Maya, México

As a luxury all-inclusive resort that's only for adults, UNICO Riviera Maya offers an array of cuisine options featuring locally-sourced ingredients and a diverse mix of international flavors. Fine dining selections include a Mediterranean restaurant, a high-end Mexican eatery and an Asian restaurant with Japanese cuisine-teppanyaki, yakitori and sushi.

Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana, Dominican Republic

Recently opened in November of 2021, Margarita Island Reserve Cap Cana offers deluxe cuisine in the most laid back at mosphere you could ever hope for. All kinds of fresh foods are on offer, ranging from beach burgers and fries to upgraded seafood and steaks. This Karisma property, which also boasts a gourmet-inclusive experience, even has its own brewery and gastropub.

Iberostar Selection Cancun Coral Level, México

Iberostar Selection Cancun Coral Level is an adults-only "resort within a resort" that is known for its excellent customer service and surprisingly refined dining options. Cuisine on offer includes Japanese hibachi, Mexican food, It alian fare and a high-end steakhouse. A renowned American bistro even serves Kentucky fried chicken, New Orleans salmon and BBQ ribs for a taste from home.

Sandals Royal Barbados, Barbados

Sandals Resorts are known for offering fine dining options to their adults-only guests, and the Sandals Royal Barbados property is no exception. Food-lovers who choose this oceanfront all-inclusive resort can select from 20 different dining options including Caribbean fare, regional Italian, Indian, a French-style patisserie, sushi and a New York-style steakhouse. In the meantime, five-star premium spirits are available 24 hours a day.

Spice Island Beach Resort, Grenada

Travelers heading to the "Spice Island" of Grenada will love the dining options at Spice Island Beach Resort , a black-owned lux ury resort with a spectacular location on Grand Anse Beach. The all-inclusive hotel boasts several award-winning restaurants that serve food for a range of tastes, from its Caribbean-meets-Creole eatery to its "Sea and Surf" oceanfront bar and grill. Note that this property is the only resort in Grenada to receive the coveted AAA Five Diamond award for quality.

TRS Coral, México

TRS Coral, which recently hosted the new season of "Love is Blind" on Netflix , is an adults-only all-inclusive resort that sits directly on the beach of Costa Mujeres in the Mexican Caribbean. The property offers four intern ational a-la-carte restaurants and an Ibiza-style beach club. Dining options include Argentinian eatery El Gaucho, which serves up traditional Argentinian barbecue, chorizos, empanadas, milanesas, fine wines and desserts, and La Bohème, which specializes in classic recipes like steak tartare, French onion soup, foie gras and crepes.

Grand Velas Riviera Maya, México

Grand Velas Riviera Maya is one of the most elegant all-inclusive resorts in all of México, but it's also a hot spot for foodies. Guests who visit find the most varied and fresh food and beverage program in the region with 15 different dining options to choose from. Culinary options include Mexican fine dining, gourmet French cuisine, upscale Asian dining and Northern Italian cuisine, and guests can enjoy premium liquor brands and custom cocktails across the entire venue.

Curtain Bluff, Antigua

Antigua's Curtain Bluff is an iconic all-inclusive five-star sanctuary that boasts unbelievable ocean views and renowned fine dining options. Guests return to this Antigua landmark again and again to dine at The Sea Grape, an open-air eatery that features inventive Italian and Antiguan takes on dishes like yellowtail tuna carpaccio and beetroot gnocchi. Another fan favorite is their Tamarind Restaurant, which focuses on offering a rotating five-course menu with salads, seafood and outstanding meat courses every evening.

Serenity at Coconut Bay, Saint Lucia

Serenity at Coconut Bay is a couples-only all-inclusive resort that is known for its high-end dining options. Guests can visit The G reathouse, the resort's fine dining restaurant, to experience cuisine built around Saint Lucia’s fresh, farm-to-table ingredients as well as delicious vegan selections. Menu highlights include sesame ginger tuna, rack of lamb, coconut cream pie and vegan beef shepherds' pie, just to name a few.

Le Blanc Spa Resort Cancun, México

Romantic couples seeking great food in an adults-only setting should check out Le Blanc Cancun Spa Resort . Not only do you get 24 -hour room service, but you can choose from six different restaurants serving everything from Italian fare to Asian fusion. Several on-site bars also offer unique cocktails made with premium ingredients and liquor.

Sandals Royal Bahamian, The Bahamas

Sandals Royal Bahamian is one of the best all-inclusive resorts in Nassau, Bahamas, but it's also popular with picky eaters. There are 10 different gourmet restaurants at this resort, and cuisine on offer ranges from French to fresh Italian and seafood. Guests here can also enjoy premium liquors, Robert Mondavi Twin Oaks wines and Jamaica Blue Mountain coffee.

TRS Cap Cana, Dominican Republic

Located in the most exclusive part of Punta Cana , the Dominican Republic's TRS Cap Cana offers numerous fine dining exper iences. Options include their Izakaya restaurant, which features the unique textures and flavors of Japanese street food in a relaxed and calm atmosphere. Meanwhile, the resort's beachfront restaurant Helios serves fresh seafood and sushi, delicious sandwiches and refreshing cocktails.

Sonesta Ocean Point Resort, St. Maarten

St. Maarten's Sonesta Ocean Point Resort makes it possible to enjoy an adults-only, all-inclusive vacation experience with breathtak ing views over Maho Bay. While exemplary foods are offered throughout the property, the cliffside and oceanfront Azul Restaurant serves authentic specialties by Executive Chef Francisco Almonte. Every meal is carefully created using seasonal ingredients and fresh vegetables — enhanced by the restaurant’s international wine list.

Colony Club by Elegant Hotels, Barbados

At the prestigious Colony Club by Elegant Hotels , guests can try something new at the island's first-of-its-kind Rum Vault. This vault features 150 rums from all over the world, and guests can enjoy personalized rum tastings, sweet rum-and-chocolate pairings and an intimate rum-paired multi-course dinner created by Chef Wayne Maynard.

Sleeping Giant Rainforest Lodge, Belize

Sleeping Giant Rainforest Lodge is located in the lush jungles of Belize, and guests can book an array of all-inclusive vacation packages t hat pair stays with other properties in The Belize Collection. This hotel features stunning views in a natural setting, along with fine dining options at The Grove House, which was named Restaurant of the Year in 2018 and 2019 by the Belize Tourism Board. Popular dishes include BBQ pig tail, carne asada, and butcher's cup rib chops, to name a few delicacies you can enjoy.

Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall, Jamaica

Consider booking a trip to the Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall on the laid-back island of Jamaica if you're looking for a fun, adults-only vacation experience. Guests who visit this all-inclusive paradise can enjoy seven different restaurants and bars where they can try French-style cuisine and Jamaican beachfront dining with local specialties like curry seafood and marinated shrimp salad.

Making family travel accessible for everyone

Tue, 01 Feb 2022 21:59:39 GMT

Making family travel accessible for everyone

Travel suppliers know that family travel is growing. In order to meet the needs of family travelers, airlines, cruise lines, theme parks, hotels and resorts have stepped up their game and are now offering more comprehensive services and amenities to ensure everyone has what they want and need.

Discovery Cove offers visitors specially-designed outdoor wheelchairs with oversized tires for easy maneuvering on the beach. They are now a Certified Autism Center as well, which makes them the first all-inclusive day resort and animal interaction park in the U.S. to earn this designation.

Sesame Place is the first theme park designated as a Certified Autism Center.

Aquatica® Orlando is the first water park in the world to be a certified autism center.

Hotels and Resorts

Hotels, motels, inns and other places of lodging built after January 26, 1993 must be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act and certain regulations published by the Justice Department. This means that these places need to be accessible and useable by persons with disabilities. Unfortunately, despite the ADA requirements, a quick search online can tell you that travelers with disabilities still have difficulty finding a reliable place to stay. So we’ve compiled a list of some options that have a solid reputation for their excellent service and accommodations to those with disabilities.

Aria Resort & Casino – This 5-star hotel on the Vegas strip has 120 accessible rooms, all with roll-in showers. It also has rooms equipped with lifts and additional equipment is available upon request. There are accessible penthouse suites, too!

Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancun – All rooms at this Mexican resort have roll-in showers, plus many ramps around the resort for easy access. The one drawback, however, is that the beach is not wheelchair accessible and they do not offer beach wheelchairs. But the resort is located right on the beach, so visitors with limited accessibility can still enjoy beautiful beachside views and sunsets.

Sandals and Beaches Resorts — Sandals and Beaches Resorts make it a priority to accommodate those with disabilities by providing accessibility guides to help travelers determine which resorts will meet their needs. Both Sandals and Beaches have accessibility guides with information for their all-inclusive luxury vacations. Beaches’ accessibility guide provides information about their resorts and their comprehensive special needs program for children.

The Royal Playa del Carmen — Reviews from TripAdvisor consistently recommend The Royal Playa del Carmen as one of the top places for travelers with disabilities. Although this is an adults-only resort, there are a variety of ADA-approved rooms, ramps and elevators located throughout the resort and the location is close to downtown.

Marriott International in Hawai’i — The Marriott International in Hawai’i not only has excellent reviews on TripAdvisor, but there are plenty of ADA-approved rooms to meet the needs of families and they have an exceptional reputation for their service to those with disabilities.

Compass 4/9/2019

These are just a few of many resorts that offer accommodations for you and your family. We here at Land and Sea Travel strive to eliminate stress so you can spend less time worrying and more time making memories with your family!

Building Relationships At The Dinner Table

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 16:10:10 GMT

Create new memories at the table during family reunions or holidays

Conversation Starters during Holidays and Family get-togethers

It hit me that with the holidays and various family get-togethers, it might be fun to have some conversation starters in our hip pocket. If you’re like me, family is really important and I can recall quite vividly the various family reunions/meals enjoyed over the years. The purpose of the guide is to help more families enjoy their time together and build new memories.

Meals Together Conversation Starters Tired of dreading another table talk about politics or the latest culture war? Have fun with these ideas, instead!

We recommend printing this out and then cutting each idea onto its own strip of paper. Then, place them folded into a cup. Pass the cup around the table and enjoy the conversation! Don’t worry, if every single person doesn’t answer every single question, that’s ok. Enjoy the journey, together!

1. Tell us about your sense of humor.

2. Where is your favorite place you’ve been?

3. What was your most favorite place that you lived?

4. When you were a kid, what did you like to collect?

5. Tell us about your first boyfriend or girlfriend. How old were you?

6. Name four people that had the best influence on your life.

7. Who was your favorite cartoon character and why?

8. Has anyone ever told you that you look like someone else?

9. Tell us something wise.

10. What’s your favorite ethnic food and why?

11. You’re told you have to wear a uniform for the next month. Which one would you pick?

12. Describe for us one of your favorite holiday traditions.

13. Tell us about your first pet.

14. What was your favorite pet? Why?

15. What would you like to be remembered for?

16. What’s your favorite song and band?

17. Describe your personality in one word.

18. Favorite board or card game?

19. You are offered a chance to fly in orbit for 1 lap around Earth or fly on a fighter jet for 1 hour. Pick.

20. Complete this sentence. I was given a million dollars and told to distribute it to charities, so it’s going to: __

Author Tim Arthur 10/18/2021

OurLegacyArchives.com

Tips: Smart travelers are also savvier travelers as they are better prepared for their trips. Check out better Travel Insurance protection as you travel further.

Serving Travelers with Disabilities

Tue, 31 Aug 2021 02:28:06 GMT

Love to help people who think they are unable to travel to show them they can experience the world with our help!

Serving Travelers with Disabilities

After traveling many years with our son Adam, I wanted to help serve those who are often overlooked and underserved who love to travel like Adam. This is why I dedicated my business to Adam when he passed away after our Disneyworld vacation. See Adam's dedication under About Us on our website. Along with being a mom of a special needs son, I am also a certified Special Needs Advocate to help All to travel.

I thought you would to see the below article from The Compass:

A practical guide to making your clients’ trips seamless and unforgettable.

Jamie Santillo has been traveling with her family since she was a kid. But living with muscular dystrophy has meant that her vacations have always looked different—and required planning for things such as how to transfer from her wheelchair to an amusement park ride or airplane seat, logistics that able-bodied folks need never consider.

Over the years, there have been soaring highs — Disney World cast members “rolling out the red carpet” during her weeklong birthday celebration at the Orlando park, for example, she says — and some real lows.

Santillo says her worst experience was at another theme park, where she found a staff member joyriding in her wheelchair while she waited to disembark from her ride. When she complained to the manager, they did nothing. It happened 20 years ago, but she still remembers how she felt.

“It made me feel like I didn't matter, that, you know, I was just another number to them,” says Santillo, owner of Adventures by Jamie , a travel agency specializing in accessibility.

The World Health Organization estimates that 1 billion people around the world live with a disability — and, of course, many travel. In 2018 and 2019, adult travelers with disabilities took 81 million trips and accounted for nearly $59 billion in air travel, according to Open Doors Organization , a Chicago nonprofit focused on making transportation and hospitality more inclusive.

Despite these figures, around the world “disabled people still comprise the most underserved segment within tourism,” according to NextBillion , a social entrepreneurship site affiliated with the University of Michigan.

This level of research and planning for accessible travel takes time, but Santillo doesn’t charge a consultation fee. Instead, Santillo, who has a master’s degree in management and 20 years of experience in marketing, focuses on adding value and serving clients. She recognizes that delivering a spectacular vacation to one client will likely lead to referrals.

And her approach is working. Santillo left her host agency to found Adventures with Jamie in September of last year. In that short time, it has grown to a full-service agency with 27 employees, in the midst of the global pandemic.

Many members of her team have direct experience with disability -- their own or a family member’s -- and everyone is certified through Special Needs Group, giving them additional insights about how to best serve clients. Ultimately, it’s about delivering great service and making travel dreams come true, Santillo says.

“I've made some long-lasting relationships with my clients,” she points out. “And I'm just so, so thankful to be able to provide a service for them.”

Originally appeared in the summer 2021 issue of The Compass Magazine.

Travel advisors have an opportunity to curate meaningful travel experiences for this largely overlooked group of travelers, but getting it right is crucial. For this demographic, missing the mark may not just lead to a lackluster vacation—it could jeopardize your client’s physical and mental wellbeing.

Accessible Travel Is More Than You Think

First, you need to know which disabilities and conditions can impact travel—and there are more than you think.

“A lot of times when people think about disability, they think [about] somebody in a wheelchair, somebody that you can actively see has a vision impairment or something of that nature,” says Santillo. “They forget about disabilities that are not visible.”

Truly accessible travel addresses the needs of “people with disabilities, but also access for people with temporary disabilities, families with young children and the increasing aging population,” through physical infrastructure and universal design, says Wheelchairtraveller.org , referencing a UN World Tourism Organization report.

In our interview, Santillo uses “special needs” to refer to the array of conditions that may require accommodation during the travel experience. Even pregnancy and food allergies fall into this category, says Santillo, something that she discovered while completing her accessible travel advocate certification through Special Needs Group .

Neurodiversity , a broad term that describes mental illness, spectrum disorders, learning disabilities and other brain function variations, should also be on your radar.

Traveling can trigger panic and anxiety because there are so many variables outside of our control. CN Traveler reports that, according to the Anxiety & Depression Association of America , 40 million people in the United States have anxiety, making it the nation’s most prevalent mental illness. “Even more people — about 25 percent of the population — are specifically anxious about travel. And those are pre-pandemic numbers,” the story says.

Careful planning by travel advisors and clients can help people with a range of disabilities, including spectrum disorders such as autism, have rich travel experiences.

“Different people have different triggers and needs,” explains Alexandra Wisotsky, a travel advisor for Polka Dot Bow Adventures, referring to clients with autism. “Knowing what to expect is very helpful for families to navigate their vacations best.”

Wisotsky lets “families guide me as to what they need,” but shows up ready with an array of options, including destinations where staff are “trained to work with children on the autism spectrum.”

“I make sure that families know about all of the options available to them that will make their vacation easier and more enjoyable,” says Wisotsky.

Asking the Right Questions

But to find out exactly what your client needs, you have to know what—and how—to ask.

“Just like a reporter, you have to ask really good questions and then, of course, listen to what your clients are saying,” says Lynn Clark, a travel agent affiliated with Travel Leaders. “You have to understand the impact of the person’s disability to be able to help them.”

Don’t be shy about these conversations, says Santillo. Your client is an expert and will tell you what they need—but you have to be “comfortable getting very personal,” she points out.

“When planning an amazing holiday for clients with disabilities it is important to remember that they are driving the ship,” says Kayti Behrends, an advisor at Adventures by Jamie. “They live a life that you and I may not have any insight into, and it is crucial to take the time to listen to their wants and needs.”

These needs can be extremely individual and specific. For example, Behrends’ close family member with Down syndrome “is very sensitive to certain situations and triggered by certain weather,” she says.

Harli McCullough, an Adventures by Jamie agent whose son has nonverbal autism, says, “[N]ot all accommodations are necessarily physical. My son needs a ‘cool down area’ or a quiet place to regulate his emotions.”

Behrends, McCullough and their colleague Wendy Truckenbrod suggest the following questions that fellow travel advisors can use to get specifics about clients’ needs:

· What does a typical day look like for you or your family member? Are your days very active or are they more laid back?

· Do you find yourself wanting or needing frequent breaks throughout the day?

· Are there any "triggers" or situations that need to be avoided for you or your family member, including sounds, visuals, foods, etc.?

· What kind of weather best suits you, your interests or comfort level? Are there certain times of year or weather conditions—high humidity, cold temperatures—that we should avoid?

· Has there ever been a situation of shock for you or your family member? If so, what were the circumstances?

· Are there specific things you consider "comforts"? Where are you most comfortable?

· What does the perfect day look like for you or your family member?

· What makes you or your family member smile the most?

· What are your goals for this specific vacation?

· Are there any trip requirements that are non-negotiable?

Santillo also advises asking about what trips your clients have taken before and what specific actions from service providers made them feel supported—and situations that have missed the mark. Santillo, for example, loves cruising and spends a lot of time at Disney because of the resort’s accessibility and experienced, well-trained staff.

Finally, when putting together any travel package, avoid making assumptions about your client’s preferences or what they may be comfortable doing based on your understanding of their disability or limitations. Santillo’s own recent trips have included skydiving, a hot-air balloon ride and zip-lining over alligators at GatorLand.

"After the excursion has happened, I'll call my family and be like, ‘Guess what I just did?’” she says. “I don't [want to] give them a heart attack beforehand.”

On the other hand, just because someone can do something doesn’t mean they want to do it on their vacation, Santillo notes.

“I always remind others that you can never put one wheelchair user and another wheelchair user in the same box,” says Santillo. “We are not all created equal. Our needs are different when it comes to daily life and travel, of course.”

Santillo has clients watch YouTube videos (like hers) by travelers with similar ability levels and then asks follow-up questions to gauge their comfort level with specific activities. She also recommends that travel advisors sift through reviews of hotels and service providers and check out Brett Approved , an accessible travel site that she likens to the popular review site Angie’s List.

Leveling Up Your Logistics Game

The most challenging part of accessible travel planning for many travel advisors is likely logistics.

“If you don't live this life, or if you don't know somebody that does, you just don't think about it because you don't have to,” says Santillo, referring to accessibility and accommodations.

When Clark planned a bespoke Virginia Woolf-themed trip to England for a client with vertigo, she walked through every step of the trip with vendors, hammering out details like “the porter will literally meet her at the curb, walk her into the train station, get her into the car and then leave,” she says. “You know, just really pushing for the details of what the client can expect. What it comes down to is that you're their advocate.”

Travel advisors should also consider certification. Special Needs at Sea offers an accessible travel advocate certification for advisors. And Wisotsky completed her autism training and certification through IBCCES .

“I wanted to do my due diligence to help everybody check off those bucket-list travel items. And so I made sure that our agency was special-needs certified,” says Santillo. “I'd say even if special-needs travel is not your specialty, it is a wonderful certification to have in your wheelhouse.”

Other recommendations include:

· Ask around in Facebook travel agent groups for on-the-ground information for destinations you’re unfamiliar with

· Seek out trusted vendors like Special Needs at Sea for resources such as wheelchair rental or oxygen tanks

· Get to know the people in charge of ADA compliance at destinations and hotels, who can answer questions about special-needs accommodations.

· Research travel insurance. In most cases, it should cover pre-existing conditions, but policies can be confusing, so make sure both you and your client are clear on what is covered. (Know that travel insurance doesn’t necessarily cover things such as wheelchair or prosthetics replacement).

“I've made some long-lasting relationships with my clients,” she points out. “And I'm just so, so thankful to be able to provide a service for them.”

Originally appeared in the summer 2021 issue of The Compass Magazine.

Tips: Smart travelers are also savvier travelers as they are better prepared for their trips. Check out better Travel Insurance protection as you travel further.

Dallas, Texas

Sun, 25 Jul 2021 19:26:57 GMT

The sights of Dallas, Fort Worth and Waco, Texas

Land and Sea Travel team had an adventure in Texas while we were training in Irving, Texas a suburb of Dallas with our host agency Nexion. We stayed at the Marriott Springhill Suites about 4 minutes away from our “Boot Camp” training. This accommodations offered more space for the three of us.

We were in training from 9 to 5 but we made the most of it in the evening! We had rented a car and explored the area. We had our travel report that we offer to our clients before their trips with suggestions and the do and don’ts with unbiased reviews.

So the first night we decided to head to Dallas and see The Reunion Tower with the best view of downtown Dallas . This tower revolves around offering specular views below. There are two levels to view; one level is inside where dining or drinks are provided; this night they had trivia. The other level is outside the tower with telescopes to see a closer view.

Travel Report Review of Reunion Tower:

Views of the flashy downtown skyline from Reunion Tower ; The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza; the hip Victory Park, home to the American Airlines Center and the W Hotel; the white steel Margaret Hunt Hill suspension bridge; Fair Park with the country's largest collection of art-deco architecture; the Bishop Arts District in Oak Cliff, a Bohemian shopping and dining mecca in a historic neighborhood. Travel-42

The restaurant was not open so we drove down the street to the Owner’s Box to have dinner. We saw on the travel report that the best time to get the best view was at 7:30 pm so we took our time eating and headed back. Enjoyed the view on the outside and inside with history and interactive info to see along with the view. The tower lights up different colors among the Dallas skyline with other buildings in bright colors.

The following night we went to Fort Worth, about a 20 minute drive from Irving. It was totally worth the drive. One of the travel advisors seated near us in training who was from Texas mentioned visiting the Stockyards and eating at the Cattleman’s Restaurant located at the Fort Worth Stockyards . The food was great along with the atmosphere. Right around the corner, it was like walking right on the set of a western movie. There were so many shops with the Stockyard hotel and a live rodeo. Even saw a man jump on a cow and ride it down the street! Check out the pictures and video. Of course, we did some shopping too.

Travel Report Review:

Stockyards National Historic District

This historic area encompasses 125 acres/50 hectares of cattle pens and refurbished buildings once used during Fort Worth's cattle-boom era. Much of the original complex remains, and you'll still occasionally see horses tied to the hitching posts that line Exchange Avenue. You'll also catch glimpses of the Fort Worth Police Department's Mounted Patrol and, on weekends, a live longhorn steer that poses for photos. The 10-block district is crammed with galleries, restaurants, saloons and western shops. The Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame showcases history's top cowboys and cowgirls. Visitors can also get a taste of the past when a herd of legendary longhorns—descendants of cattle Christopher Columbus brought over from Spain—is driven through each day at 11:30 am and 4 pm, weather permitting. Horseback and carriage rides are available. Travel-42

Our last night we decided to take an adventure to Waco, Texas to see the Magnolia Gardens . I love my Magnolia dining table and Chip and Joanne Gaines Home improvement show and always wanted to visit this area. It was worth driving the 1 ½ hour drive to this wonderful location.

“Each one of our six shops has been curated by Jo with a specific style and theme in mind—ranging from bath + body, men’s provisions, bags + jewelry, women’s clothing, books + paper, and kids + baby. While the Market will continue to host our more robust home decor and kitchen selection, the Shops at the Silos offer a more intimate shopping experience and product selection”. www.Magnolia.com

The focal point is the old church located in the center with the silos in the background. This church was constructed using elements preserved from an abandoned church across town. There is beautiful landscaping throughout the property with a Magnolia Seed & Supply and a garden to visit. Of course, there is the Magnolia Homes to see their furniture too.

Since it was night when we arrive, the shops and food trucks were not available. Yes, that means we did not get to sample the cupcakes…however there was the Under Summer Skies music concert with the band Infinity Song performing a live concert that night. We decided we would go look for food and the security officer told us to walk down the street about 5 minutes to Union Square . There were so many choices of all different types of food and of course we walked around to look all the choices. We took our meals back to the Magnolia Gardens to listen to band while we ate and the food was great!

Next time you travel for training or visiting family, check out the area you are visiting and make it a mini-vacation. You will be surprise what you find and it is a great way to explore a new destination.

Exotic Animals at the Lazy 5 Ranch in NC!

Sun, 20 Jun 2021 21:55:25 GMT

Lazy 5 Ranch

We had the pleasure of taking a day trip with our grandson to the Lazy 5 Ranch located in Mooresville, NC. We decided to take this trip on Labor Day weekend and of course everyone and their grandma (me being one of them) decided to come to the ranch but it was totally worth the wait and visit!

For nearly 30 years, the Lazy 5 Ranch is home to over 750 animals from 6 different continents. Still run by the Hampton Family, the Lazy 5 Ranch is also known nationally as breeders of top-notch show goats and sheep.

The staff were so friendly and accommodating. After arriving we realized we did not have enough cash and of course I changed my purse where my checkbook was but one of the staff gave us a dollar and told us to say “Anthony said to go ahead”! Well, upon our return I sent them a nice thank you card with the money we were short and a tip for their hospitality. Also thought it would be nice to write a blog about our experience at the Lazy 5 Ranch so everyone can experience this awesome exotic animal ranch.New Paragraph

As we drove into the park, we were greeted with large Ostriches’ and our grandson was able to feed them. Along came the zebras and the cute pot belly pigs strolling by. One sign that stood out was “Do Not Feed the Zebras”! As we went along, we saw water buffaloes walking along side of our car and different type of cows that we could feed. Did not want to feed the water buffalos or Texas Long horn Cattle for sure but we liked feeding the llamas and alpacas.

What really stood out throughout our drive on the ranch was how so many different exotic animals are just hanging out together; such an amazing event to see! Never have seen an antelope, buffalo or zebra and cattle so close. It is such a different experience then going to a zoo! New Paragraph

Normally you should allow two hours to drive through the ranch but on holidays you might have to double the time. The good news is the ranch is open most days so you have plenty of days you can arrange to come when less crowded. At this time, the playground, snacks area and walking portions for the exotic birds was not opened but we saw some of these birds on our way out of the ranch. Hang a left turn out of the ranch, head to the Patterson Farm that offers local foods, products and homemade ice-cream. Being a Sunday, they were closed early so we headed into Salisbury for a nice dinner at the Olive Garden on our way home.New Paragraph

Hope you can come out for an unusual encounter with these exotic animals!

See more information about the Lazy 5 Ranch New Paragraph

The Beauty of Grand Cayman Island

Sun, 20 Jun 2021 21:14:23 GMT

Grand Cayman Island

Where are the Cayman Islands?

The Cayman Islands are three separate islands just south of Cuba, to the west of Jamaica. Grand Cayman, where we stayed is the largest of the three and is furthest to the West. It has coral reefs around the island that help break up waves and are home rays and aquatic life of all types.

What brought you to the Cayman Islands?

We had the opportunity to vacation with our friends.

How did you get there?

Flight out of Raleigh-Durham (RDU) to Atlanta and then on to Grand Cayman Island on Delta Airlines. Southwest also has flights into the island with no baggage charges for 2 pieces of checked baggage less than 50 pounds.

Where did you stay and what was the best feature or benefit you liked about this hotel?

We were staying with friends in a 5th floor 3 bedroom condo at the Morritt’s Resort on the east side of the island facing the sea to the northeast. The reef was around 200 yards offshore and had a current that ran inside the reef, past the dock and bar and grill. The condo had a full kitchen, and there was a small grocery store about 150 yards away. Prices at the grocery store were higher for most items, except for fruit. The best feature was the ocean view from the kitchen/dining area, living room, and balcony.

Being on the side with the prevailing winds, there were few mosquitos compared to other areas that were more sheltered – this made the stay much more enjoyable.

Favorite meals?

The Lighthouse Restaurant was incredible. The outside is not impressive, but once inside it was amazing, from uniformed serving staff to the decorations and the materials, with an outstanding view of the sea and waves and appetizers and food that will please.

One of our friends cooked up many amazing meals with thick-cut bacon and vegetables.

Most unexpected surprise?

So many large iguanas walking around, with smaller ones scampering across the road, and climbing on buildings. They were like little dinosaurs.

What were the people like and what did you find interesting?

Really nice. Very few people we met were actually from the Cayman Islands but we met a few. Very low crime in the area and felt safe walking and driving around – did not have locals or anyone approaching to sell items.

How do you get around?

Being on the East Side of the Island, far from the commercial areas on the West Side, we rented a vehicle rather than catching a bus or taxi. Just say that a full-size in Cayman is a mid-size in the US. Gas was around $4.29/Gallon CI (Cayman Island Currency), but even driving from one end of the island to the other nearly every day in a rented minivan, the total cost in gas was only around $85 US. For the rental we needed local insurance since our insurance policy did not cover liability or damage in the Cayman Islands. All said, it was around $60/day for the vehicle. Parking is sometimes difficult to find in some places and being a right-hand steering column, sometimes a 10-point turn was needed to get into a spot, backing into one was a lot easier (for Mike). Driving is on the left side of the road but we adapted well after a day of driving. The limited are posted in MPH, but they don’t list the units, so there are cars at all speeds (and bicycles) on the road. Someone else may be even less used to driving on the left than you are – so be aware of that (even the turn signal is on the right side of the steering column – and the wipers are on the left – so when wipers are on, someone may be turning). Most roads have arrows painted in the lanes to show the direction of travel, but some don’t and parking lots are where most of our (Mike’s) directional challenges occurred. There are a lot of roundabouts as you drive across the island but it is a small island and you can go from the east side to the west side in about an hour’s time.

Grand Cayman also has a public bus system that is relatively inexpensive if you want to get out of your resort to see the sites.

The experience from a cruise is different. Tours are arranged beforehand and buses can take you to the top destinations on the island.

What sites did you see and which did you like best?

Pedro St. James is located on the south side of the island. Take the guided tour, it’s not much more, but you will be standing on what amounts to the original location of Cayman Island’s Constitution Hall, Congress, and the site of their own Emancipation Proclamation, as well as their Supreme Court. The guides took our pictures and were quite engaging. We learned so much about the island and that you should never cut down a mahogany tree on Grand Cayman or you will be fined very heavily or jailed! This is because the mahogany tree grows very slowly and was nearly extinct on the island. – After the tour you can do a tasting of rum or wine for $5 per person. With the rocks, waves, and both large and small event sites, this can be a destination for Weddings– and other types of events.

Cayman Turtle Center is located on the Northwest corner of the island, and has a unique claim on interaction with turtles. Along with this is a short nature trail with names of the trees you’ll see all over the island and an aviary that is interesting in its own right.

Dolphin Discovery is right across the street from the Turtle Center, where you can swim with the Dolphins.

Hell is a rock formation that resembles what we imagine it might be like. The owner of the Hell Gift Store is a good man who plays up the name in conversation. It’s on the way to the Turtle and Dolphin Centers so make the stop if you can.

The downtown area – runs along Church Street about a half mile to the north and quarter mile to the south of the cruise ship terminals (and south of 7-Mile beach) has gift shops, eating establishments, such as Rum Cakes and Margaritaville, with a ton of jewelry stores. There is also a small church that has remained standing through many hurricanes.

Bayshore Mall , just south of the cruise ship terminals has premium shipping experiences (and free parking behind for anyone with a validated ticket (free parking on the weekend). It is only a 1-2 minute walk to Margaritaville as well.

Calico Jacks Bar & Grill is a great spot for a cold beverage on the north side of 7-mile beach, next to the Public Beach. They have volleyball, covered eating areas, tables on the sand (under a canopy or umbrellas), and there is usually a jet-ski or so to offer rides or a jet-ski tow for a banana-bus inflatable ride out into the sea.

Diving spots surround the island, so Divers have a number of interesting sites to visit and some are also accessible to snorkelers including a few wrecks, depending on the weather. The dive shops are really helpful with this.

What sights did you not see that you would have like to visit?

I would have liked to see the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park which is one of the only places to see the blue iguana found only on Grand Cayman. One thing you have to know is that rain shuts down a lot of the tourist areas but usually the rain does not last long. We just happened to get more weather due to tropical storm Nate. This can be expected since we were traveling in Hurricane season but rates are great at this time of the year.

The Cayman Crystal Caves were closed the days after rain started and re-opened Sunday. This was recommended by a local so it was a little disappointing.

Some downtown souvenir shops only open when there is a cruise ship in port, ferrying passengers to one of two adjacent ports of departure. It’s pretty empty when there is not one. There were two large Carnival ships in port when we first walked downtown. The following day two more Carnival Ships were coming to port along with MSC and Regatta at the end of the week – so it is unusual not to have a lot of activity downtown.

We arrived on Sunday and by Tuesday, the passing of Hurricane Nate churned up the sea but showers were only sporadic. By Wednesday the intensity increased to 6-7 foot waves on the south end of the island and 2-3 foot waves on the North, snorkeling was out of the question on those days – it calmed on Saturday and was perfect on Sunday, when we departed. So our diver friends got only one real opportunity to go under the sea – which is unusual.

Suggestions for those traveling to the Cayman Islands

Bring shorts, t-shirts, swimming attire, walking shoes and sandals (or footwear that breathes). Men should bring at least one collared shirt –the dining required dressy casual. Ladies should bring light dresses, a wrap for swimming areas If you have fins and a snorkel, definitely take them along – but if not, it will be around $75 US to get them at one of the many dive shops on the island. Bring a hat and wear sunscreen if (since) when you’re outdoors – it is hot and the sun is very intense from 11-2PM, but it is very comfortable in the morning and evening. It is an island in the Caribbean, it can be humid, but dressing appropriately prevents that from being a problem (most of the time).

US currency is accepted everywhere, but as a couple, you are limited to bringing back $800 in goods with personal tax exemptions, but don’t bring back opened food.

Remember that TSA rules are based on the size of the container, not what is left in the bottle. So if a lotion (or your bug spray) is in a 6 oz container, even if there is only 1 oz left, it’s got to go in your checked bags or it will be left at security.

Tip: All of the bug sprays we found on the island’s grocery stores use DEET, so we did not buy it. If that is a concern to you, the best option is to bring a small 3 oz. bottle of bug spray in your carry –on or put it in checked baggage.

Would you recommend the Cayman Islands for a vacation?

Yes, the people are very nice and welcoming, the area is low in crime so one feels safe, the views and water is beautiful, and there are many things to see or just relax.

See the Wonders of God at the Creation Museums and the Ark Encounter

Sun, 20 Jun 2021 18:56:15 GMT

The Ark Encounter

After hearing of Ken Ham’s Creation Museum and the Ark Encounter in Kentucky several years ago, I wanted to visit and bring our grandson to experience the wonders there. So we finally planned our visit on June 18 ^th 2020. We stayed at the Marriott Residence Inn which is 30 minutes from the Ark and about 15 minutes to the Creation Museum. Both sites are about 45 minutes apart from each other in Northern Kentucky, not far from Cincinnati, OH, and North of Lexington, KY.

The Ark itself is life-size, designed as a ship and built in the dimensions written in Genesis of Noah’s ark in Genesis 6:14. The idea of the ark came to Ken Ham in 2004 and was completed on July 7, 2016. When you visit the Ark Encounter and the Creation Museum you will see the message of God’s word to the world on the authority of scripture and to declare the word of God is true and can be trusted.

“What would it have been like to watch Noah build the ark, see the animals arrive as guided by God’s divine command, or experience the first drops of water as the flood began? Well, you can travel through time and experience it for yourself with our virtual reality experience, Truth Traveler, coming to the Ark Encounter by mid-July”. (Ken Ham)

Answers in Genesis is an apologetics (i.e., Christianity-defending) ministry, dedicated to enabling Christians to defend their faith and to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ effectively. We focus particularly on providing answers to questions surrounding the book of Genesis, as it is the most-attacked book of the Bible. We also desire to train others to develop a biblical worldview, and seek to expose the bankruptcy of evolutionary ideas, and its bedfellow, a “millions of years old” earth (and even older universe). www.answersingenesis.com

The trip was planned so that we would be able to see Ken Ham speak and so we got to see him speak on the biblical foundation of race = people groups. Our grandson really liked hearing him speak as well as Buddy Davis who sings and talks with Ken Ham about Dinosaurs and their existence on our world.

Day One

Arrived at Residence Inn Marriott Located in Erlanger, Kentucky, near the Cincinnati Airport, after a 10 hour drive from North Carolina. After unpacking we headed to the Chick-Fil-A for dinner. Due to COVID-19, they offered drive thru only so we picked up our food and brought it back to the hotel. All hotels abided by the requirements for COVID-19 by offering limited reservations with 2 days in between use to totally disinfect the rooms and letting them sit for one day before another guest accommodates the room. The Marriott offered grab & bag breakfast like most hotels at this time. Pool and gyms are closed at hotels as well.

In Kentucky there were several restaurants that offered sit down meals so we enjoyed stopping during our travels to have lunch at Chili’s and one time at the Outback. Overall, we felt very safe at the hotel and restaurants. Driving from Erlanger to Florence we all see a water tower that said, “Florence Y’All” and our grandson had fun telling us where we were by shouting “Florence Y’All”! There was also a baseball stadium for the local team, also called the “Florence Y’All’s”.

Day Two – The Ark Encounter – The highlight was seeing the Ark which stands so tall it is no wonder how a giraffe or elephant could board with no issues. Planned to arrive on this day since Ken Ham would be speaking today. He spoke on One Race One Blood. Our grandson was so impressed he ask to buy the children’s version. Later we saw Ken Ham speak with Buddy Davis who sang songs about the dinosaurs and of course he wanted Ken Ham’s book on Dinosaurs. There are many books and resources for families and teachers available in the gift shops at both locations. Of course, we bought several books along with other memorable items.

Day Three – The Creation Museum

Last November, the Stargazer Planetarium at the Creation Museum, had undergone a complete renovation. The Planetarium installed all-new, super-comfortable seats and replaced the original dome with a technologically advanced one that is even tilted to give a better and more relaxed view from every seat. We all so enjoyed the Created Cosmos show as we tilted our seats back to enjoy the show!

Starting later this summer, the Creation Museum will be offering a Pro-Life Ministry, Fearfully & Wonderfully Made. This stunning, high-tech display features striking 3D models to show the development of a child in the womb and presents the fascinating research from Answers in Genesis anatomist Dr. David Menton. As with all the museum’s exhibits, the pro—life message will be presented powerfully, beautifully, and with grace, concluding with the gospel message (Answers Insider). There are scientists such as Dr. Terry Mortenson that spoke on Noah’s Flood: Washing Away Millions of Years and showing there is no conflict with science and creation.

Day Four – The Ark Encounter – We returned to the Ark again to visit the zoo and have our grandson ride a camel. He also wanted to visit the wonderful playground with two different zip lines for children and other really nice playground equipment. There are nice picnic tables right near the ice cream store so of course we went visited the ice cream store again (and then again). We so liked the Restaurant Emzara’s we returned for dinner. Sitting outside viewing the ark was wonderful along with good food.

Both the Ark Encounter and Creation Museum offer zip line experiences for those over 8 years and 75 pounds and over (with a few other restrictions) booked through Screaming Eagle. Both over different levels and have awesome views as one zooms overhead.

Day Five – Back on the road again for our trip home. We stopped at lunch and took several breaks along the way. Totally worth the drive to see these two incredible parks and we will return again!

You can see more information about these sites at:

www.ArkEncounter.com

www.CreationMuseium.org

Answers in Genesis Mission Statement (more on website - More in depth information on Ken Ham’s Ministry can be seen on https://answersingenesis.org/ also a membership subscription available at https://www.answers.tv/ New Paragraph

Mississippi River Cruise

info@prowebedit.com (Chad ) — Wed, 10 Mar 2021 22:22:09 GMT

We had a recent opportunity for a familiarization cruise with American Cruise Lines ’ newest ship, the American Song on a cruise from New Orleans ( Cruise ) up the Mississippi River to Vicksburg, then returning to New Orleans.

Ports of Call

New Orleans, LA
Houmas House, LA (Oak Alley)
Baton Rouge, LA
St. Francisville, LA
Natchez, MS
Vicksburg, MS
Houmas House, LA
New Orleans, LA

Day 0 – 30NOV2018 (Friday)

Flights from RDU were short for us today from Raleigh-Durham (RDU) through Nashville to New Orleans (MSY). Both flights were just over an hour and the Nashville and New Orleans airports are easy to get where you need to go. In New Orleans, we were greeted by a Jazz band in the baggage claim area – and as it turns out, there are three live venues for musicians in the airport!

Upon arriving, we took a taxi to the pre-night hotel the Intercontinental New Orleans . The ride was $36.00, which was lower than taking a shuttle at $48.00. Every cab driver in New Orleans has a different perspective on food and entertainment. It only took about 20 minutes to arrive at our hotel. The Intercontinental is only 1 block from the west side of the French Quarter and only 4 blocks from the World War II (WWII) Museum. Walking to the WWII Museum passes Lafayette Park with a Monument to both Lafayette and to the US Ambassador to France, Benjamin Franklin.

World War II Museum

The National WWII Museum is the second most highly rated museum in the world so we knew this was a must see. It was totally worth seeing and it takes about 4 hours or longer to see everything. The Museum is expanding quite a bit, so this time estimate will increase.

Seeing the movie, Beyond all Boundaries, with Tom Hanks prior to seeing the museum is recommended. This has an additional cost but enhances the whole experience in the rest of the museum! Note that this movie is quite intense with sudden and startling noises and images and is in 4D (you will have to experience it to know what the 4th dimension is, so be prepared for it). There is an informative presentation on the Merchant Marine just over the bridge from the main entry building to the theater building, “Solomon Islands”, where the movie is presented. After the movie, we went over to the American Sector restaurant located next to the movie theater, which has a very nice atmosphere and the food was very good and reasonable. Then we moved through the Road to Berlin and Road to Tokyo Experiences in the next building. Nothing in this Museum feels static, like a typical artifact warehouse, this is a dynamic and moving experience with some tools, gear, and maps displayed and active presentations running. New friends we met on the cruise returned to the museum and were thoroughly impressed with the presentations and material.

https://www.tripplo.com/articles/the-worlds-best-world-war-ii-museums-and-historical-sites

After the museum, we returned to the hotel to complete check-in. Rooms are well decorated and the walk-in shower was welcome. There are two restaurants in the hotel and a buffet area for larger crowds in the morning. However, we were set on having dinner in the French Quarter, and the concierge recommended having dinner at Irene’s , a fine Italian restaurant. It was tucked away along Bienville Street very close to the Intercontinental and did not stand out at night. It was very nicely designed and the food was delicious. Liked that we had a piano player near us while we ate. Walking back to our hotel we could hear Jazz music playing at the Marriott Hotel. This is a very festive city and since we are traveling in December all the stores are decorated for Christmas – New Orleans really knows how to celebrate with lights and sounds!

Day 1 – 01DEC2018 (Saturday)

Before we left the Intercontinental Hotel, we struck up a conversation with a pair of couples based on a mutual interest and found we had a lot in common. Before long, we were talking like old friends and shared each other’s company through the cruise and on tours. That is one huge benefit to small ship cruising, you get an opportunity to meet some amazing people, if you are so inclined. This really made a difference in our experience on the cruise – to the point where we booked another one on the same ship, and so did they!

Practical Matters

Then we boarded the bus and headed out to the ship docked, well… on the Mississippi River (good place for it to be). We headed for the Welcome Reception, had a mandatory safety briefing, and headed to the Dining Salon on Deck 1 aft. As we ate, we departed New Orleans headed upriver. You do sign up for shore excursions on the first day and most are included, with a few having an additional cost. Suggest taking a picture of this sign-up sheet as it helps with the day’s events and serves as a reminder of where you have been and are going. Same is true for the itinerary – it can be much more convenient looking at your phone than trying to find a piece of paper.

On the River

Each day we had an opportunity to learn from the “River Historian” Bill Weimuth and later he and Laura Sable, his wife, would usually perform a show focused on some aspect of music of the region. Before Dinner, Bill provided an introduction to the role of the Mississippi River and its economic and cultural significance to America. Tonight’s show was “Music of the Rivers”. Pulled in that night off the banks of the Mississippi across from Houmas House , a Plantation we would return to visit on the way back down to New Orleans.

Day 2 – 02DEC2018 (Sunday)

Oak Alley Plantation

Started the day with a tour of Oak Alley Plantation . This plantation is known for a quarter mile arched covering of Virginia Live Oaks at the entry and for the owner’s political and economic power in the State. Beautiful example of a Sugar Cane Plantation House and slave cottages and life. The tour started with a short walk up over the levee and down to buses. Golf cart rides between the ship and buses were also available at each stop. There are levees all along the river and these are most visible near populated areas. Some levees are vertical concrete walls and others are rounded mounds of earth covered in grass sloping off to the sides, looking like the world’s longest and most difficult golf fairway.

On the River

In the afternoon, our River Historian, Bill, covered the events surrounding the Louisiana Purchase, which set the stage for much of what we were to learn about the role and influence of the Mississippi River on Commerce, Food, Music, and History and its continuing importance to the country.

The weather cooperated and we had a beautiful day on the river, playing golf and croquet on the upper deck, and sitting with new friends and watching the river and scenery flow by as we meandered upstream.

The ship pulled into Baton Rouge as night fell. The wharf and the buildings lining the river, as well as the fantastic sunsets combined to provide a memorable experience.

Entertainment in the evening was provided by Bill, sharing the cheating secrets of Riverboat gamblers and presenting a little magic on the side. After Dinner, Tom Hook, a noted New Orleans Jazz Musician entertained us all.

Day 3 – 03DEC2018 (Monday)

Baton Rouge

Baton Rouge is the capital of Louisiana, so there are a number of historic government buildings and educational opportunities, dominated by LSU. This is the last point on the Mississippi where ocean-going vessels can reach – so cargo is transferred to barges to head upriver or from barges into ships, though that transfer can be anywhere between New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Today you could go on one of two tours. One option was the Atchafalaya Basin Tour to see an alligator invested swamp on a covered and enclosed airboat. We opted to start the day with a self-guided tour of the USS Kidd docked next to the American Song.

USS Kidd and Louisiana Veterans Museum

The tour starts in the Louisiana Veterans Museum, which has a section on the USS Kidd, and is dedicated to veterans from Louisiana, such as General Claire Lee Chennault, of the Flying Tigers, and other notable veterans. The destroyer USS Kidd (DD-661) , also known as the “Pirate of the Pacific”, deployed in WWII, and had a storied tour in that theater. It even survived a hit by a kamikaze aircraft near Okinawa in 1945 but with the loss of 38 men. After exploring the many small passageways and confined spaces that sailors called home, we were walking on deck and ran into the maintenance manager for the ship, who still had access to one of the maintenance chiefs who served on the ship and recommended reading, “ The Last Stand of the Tin Can Sailors ” for historic context and to understand the role these smaller ships played. Following the tour, we walked back to the ship for lunch.

City Tour

In the afternoon, we boarded a bus for a guided tour through historic areas in Baton Rouge. Near the State Capitol Building, we stopped at the Louisiana State Museum, for an hour and a half to explore the political, economic, and cultural history. The tour continued through Louisiana State University (LSU) and its Tiger Stadium , known to college sports fans as “Death Valley”. Football here draws an incredible number of fans, with as many people tailgating and in the stands as live in the entire city of Baton Rouge.

Bill’s history lesson today related the story of the Great Steamboat Race in 1870. By now it became apparent that when Bill was finishing a pre-dinner story, he would end with the declaration “and now,… the bar is open”, to a hearty round of applause. Beverages are complimentary and use premium labels, and alternatives such as bottled fruit juices, tea, coffee, and water as well as snack bars are kept stocked in the main common activity areas. Wine is also served with dinner if you choose.

The evening’s entertainment was provided by comedienne Judy Davis, whose Southern humor and incredible vocal talents put the audience at ease, laughing uncontrollably, and in appreciation, sometimes all at once.

Day 4 – 04DEC2018 (Tuesday)

Starting the day still docked in Baton Rouge with an early breakfast for the bus tour departure to St. Francisville, LA.

Rosedown Plantation

This planation is known for its gardens and size, but at this time of the year, you see more the structure of the gardens, and the more hardy bushes and trees, as it was a little too cool for delicate flowers. The family who purchased and built Rosedown was at one time considered one of the richest in the country. The home itself is a model of efficient layout, with no wasted corners. Even spaces beside the fireplaces have storage, as this was a functional farm, not a palace, though social functions were held here and in the glass conservatory.

St. Francisville, LA

After visiting Rosedown, the tour continued through St. Francisville, stopping at Grandmother’s Buttons, a boutique for some unique finds that incorporate buttons into the design of products. It is an opportunity to find gifts or some clothing for the cruise (I found a blouse). Diagonal across the street from Grandmother’s Buttons is a monument to the Republic of West Florida and beside it is the Spanish Courthouse from that era. St. Francisville was the capital of the short-lived Republic of West Florida, which was formed by a revolt against Spanish rule after the Louisiana Purchase. In one of his stories, Bill revealed that Spain and France had made many deals to exchange this land many times to keep ownership or raise money, and some of these deals were made in secret. So, although under Spanish control prior to the revolt, the United States declared the land transferred with the Louisiana Purchase and sent troops to the then independent constitutional republic to claim this former Spanish territory.

Back on the River

Upon return to the ship, we departed Baton Rouge and the ship held a gingerbread decorating contest in the River Lounge on the 2nd deck in early afternoon. Aboard ship are separate common areas, with plenty of room on every deck. We spent much more time in the Magnolia Lounge on the 4th deck forward, and less time in the Sky Lounge on the 4th deck aft. When the temperature permitted, the top deck and its expansive views gave the feeling of being connected to the river. It was quite impressive how large the common areas were on the ship, creating a feeling of spacious luxury. There was a little mystery as to who kept turning a cute little dog statue to the side by the center stairs and elevators…

Before dinner, our River Historian Bill covered the “The Anaconda Plan” used by the Union to end the war with the Confederacy. Again, his insights and storytelling skills were both informative and entertaining. This was followed up after dinner with Laura singing a medley of “The Great Ladies of Song” with accompaniment by Bill on the piano, as we were continued upriver to our next destination.

Dusk and Dawn.

Day 5 – 05DEC2018 (Wednesday)

We started the day in Natchez, MS, where we explored until sunset.

Frogmore Plantation

There were two optional tours, one to Frogmore Plantation , on the other side of the river in Louisiana, where you can see the life, activities, and equipment of a cotton plantation from its settlement and founding in a wilderness through the Civil War and up to today.

J.N. Stone House and Concert

The other tour was to the J.N. Stone House and Concert , where we experienced a short classical concert in a home completed just prior to the Civil War. After the concert the owner had his little dog precious come out and greet us. Afterwards, there was complimentary Champagne, egg nog, or a pecan liquor.New Paragraph

Natchez

After the event, we took a quick bus tour around town, ending in the downtown shopping area, where we explored on foot for a bit. Natchez was a significant city along the Mississippi, with sweeping views up and down the river. St.Mary Basilica was the center of the Roman Catholic Church in Mississippi. The cemetery here was moved, but one marker remains for “Colonel” John Willis, who was in the North Carolina Militia during the Revolutionary War. Walking through Natchez, along the streets filled with very old houses and history, we passed Magnolia House, the in-town home of a wealthy planter, which is in the process of being restored after use as a school. Then we continued back to main street, then down to the bluff, finding a marker for the “Natchez Trace” which is a trail leading up to Nashville, Tennessee, We followed the road down to the ship, and enjoyed lunch.

Then we re turned with a tour to the Longwood Plantation , a huge unfinished octagonal home, interrupted in construction, like so many things, by the Civil War. It would never be finished beyond the shell and the first floor. Passing back through town, we opted to jump off the bus at the time of the bluff and to walk down again to the ship below; taking in the views, restaurants and quaint stores along the way.

On the River

Bill told the story of the “Journey of the Steamboat “New Orleans”, the First steamboat down the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers, and later he and Laura performed a Magic, Music& Mayhem variety show. Later that night, we pulled back from the shore and headed upriver toward Vicksburg.

Day 6 – 06DEC2018 (Thursday)

Vicksburg

Woke up docked in Vicksburg off a branch of the Mississippi from the Yazoo River. After the Civil War, the Mississippi re-routed past Vicksburg and the Army Corps of Engineers, which manages the river, re-established the flow from the Yazoo.

This was the only place where cabin numbers were used, where deck 2 and half of deck 3 toured the battlefield in the morning and the other half of deck 3 and deck 4 toured in the afternoon. Being in the latter group with our friends, in the morning, we took a shuttle to Main Street, which is accessible up the bluffs by walking. Walking around town, you pass the massive red brick structure that is the Army Corps of Engineers center for all Mississippi River maintenance and monitoring activity, as well as a Museum for the 1st Coke-Cola Bottling factory in the world and a number of monuments and historic locations for the Civil War battles and siege of Vicksburg.

Here we learned that many of the riverboat gambling ships had been required to be in the water on the Mississippi, but due to the rise and fall of the Mississippi, which can be up to 40 feet in a year, and some natural disasters, these have been allowed to move to land.

Pilot House Tour

Traveling by boat up the Mississippi River is a job for river pilots. Modern navigation equipment makes that must less complex and tracks all traffic on the river, as well as water levels, underwater obstacles, and surface radar. The propulsion and steering controls of a modern ship are also quite different than they used to be, giving the pilot much greater control then was possible not that long ago.

Vicksburg Military Park and Battlefield Tour

The Military Park Tour is by bus, with very brief stops at the visitor’s center, passing through the battlefield, and then through town to the USS Cairo (pronounced “K-Row”).

There is a channel dedicated to the National Park Service aboard ship that shows a movie on Vicksburg and other topics. Viewing this movie prior to the tour is advised, unless you are already familiar with the battle and siege. Brochures from the National Park Service are also available near the office – on the 1st deck beside the stairs and elevators.

During the battlefield tour, the guides make you aware that many markers outside the park are found in neighborhoods in town. While on the bus, you see markers and cannons and get a very general sense of what the troops here saw from their relative positions. What is striking is the terrain. These are not gradual changes in elevation, the geography itself if a formidable obstacle, particularly for an army trying to move another army out of the way. The bus pauses frequently for photos, but usually one side has a better view than the other – it appeared to benefit the left side slightly more.

Back on th e River

While we pulled away from Vicksburg headed for Houmas House, River Historian Bill taught the story behind the Tragedy of the Steamboat Sultana at the end of the Civil War. And later, Laura performed the songs of country music legend Patsy Cline accompanied by Bill.

Day 7 – 07DEC2018 (Friday)

River Historian Bill discussed the role of the Mississippi River in shaping Mark Twain’s life, career, and writings as we made our way downriver on the way toward New Orleans.

Houmas House

Also known as the “Sugar Palace”, Houmas House is a restored antebellum plantation in Darrow, Louisiana with a huge gift shop, extensive manicured gardens and three restaurants. Everywhere you look is picturesque and there are many stone sculptures and metal and wood decorative elements than highlight the brick and stucco exteriors, ornamental plants, and huge trees. You could spend all day here and the site is expanding, but time did not permit this and we made the short walk back to the ship.

Back on the River

Later that evening we docked back in New Orleans and packed for the return. Actually, we had found it easier to just leave most things packed and put the bags on the bed to dress in the morning, so this was not all that difficult.

The show tonight was “Laura and Bill’s Spectacular Spectacular” featuring a sing-along, variety show, and a salute to Veterans on Pearl Harbor Day. With that, we went to complete our packing for departure.

Last Day 08DEC2018 (Departure)

We woke to rain and a brief city tour on the way to the airport. Passed by St, Mary's Cathedral on the South end of the French Quarter.

On leaving, it was a “big easy” decision that visiting New Orleans would be back in the travel plans.

Tips and References:

Food

Some of the menu items might have unique names for items that bear a strong resemblance to other foods. This might lead to some unexpected selections. For example, the Mississippi River Bourbon Pie is very similar to a pecan pie with bourbon flavoring, so ask what something might be similar when making choices. In all, food was excellent, and if you are not used to eating often or in larger portions, ½ sizes can be selected. The menus for lunch and dinner are presented at breakfast, to minimize waste. You can request alternate choices if there is nothing on the menu that will work and there is a separate option on the 3rd deck aft in the Crow’s Nest, with personal pizzas, hamburgers, and hot dogs (as a personal note the hamburger and hot dogs are excellent), with other options such as fruit. You will not lack for options or quantity.

Celebrations

American Cruise Lines celebrates your special occasion with style. We enjoyed celebrating our 21st wedding anniversary onboard!New Paragraph

Entertainment

Bill Wiemuth and Laura Sable, his wife, provided entertainment onboard, except where noted. Bill is an amazing storyteller and “River Historian”. If Mark Twain were on the Mississippi River today, he would be a storyteller of the caliber that Bill Wiemuth is. Laura is a very talented singer and together with Bill on the piano, and with some banter between songs, they make beautiful music.

Bill provided a Recommended Reading List with clickable links that take you the books listed for sale on Amazon.com for further exploration into the great stories from river history and wrote and narrated a River History Series of audiobooks that explore our past and tell many more amazing stories. Although these stories are particularly enjoyable as you cruise on a river where the history was made and listen to Bill tell them in person, for those who could not be there, they really are entertaining gifts.

www.HistoryHighlights.com

The Crew on American Cruise Lines

The crews was very personal and attended to all our needs. They even went out of their way to get a special drink for us that was not onboard! Always friendly and always available to address questions or need.

Flying:

TSA Pre-check is the best way to travel by air. Not only do you get through the lines quicker but you do not have to take your shoes, belt, etc. off.

On October 1, 2020, Real ID is required to board a plane – a passport will also work. But it would be best to take care of this before the deadline. Your State must meet guidelines to qualify as a REAL ID. At last count, 9 States do not have a process to create valid identification for this purpose and must present a passport, Military ID, or another document from a very small list to fly.

Looking forward to helping you experience the Mississippi River and New Orleans!

Land and Sea Travel, LLC Blog

MSC Seascape – Cruising out of Galveston, TX

MSC Seascape

- Cruising out of Galveston, TX

The Ship: MSC Seascape

Itineraries

Cabins and Suites

Shows & Entertainment

Dining Options

Shopping

Bars & Lounges

Desserts, Snacks & Coffee ﻿

Gathering & Novel Spaces

Personal Care, Spa & Fitness ﻿

Pools & Activities Aboard

Kids’ Amenities & Spaces

The Yacht Club

Pre- or Post-Cruise Stay

Galveston Island

Galveston Beach and the Seawall District

USS Texas (BB-35) and Texas Independence

Historic Landmarks & Architecture

Family Attractions & Indoor Experiences

Science & Space

Ports of Call

Costa Maya, Mexico

Isla de Roatán, Honduras

Cozumel, Mexico

Planning and Booking

Make it a Great Day!

Eileen

Land and Sea Travel ® LLC

Universal Studios Florida and Co-Nexion 30th Conference

Universal Studios Florida & Co-Nexion Conference 2025

Getting There

The Hotel and Convention Center

Co-Nexion Travel Convention and Training

CityWalk – Gateway to Exploring the Parks

Universal Islands of Adventure

Universal Studios - Daytime

Universal Studios - Private After-Hours Event

Other Universal Park Experiences in Orlando

Orlando and other Regional Activities

In Summary

Call Out

New York Stay and Princess Cruise: New York, Bermuda, and Caribbean (almost)…

New York Stay and Princess Cruise: New York, Bermuda, and Caribbean (almost)…

Getting There…

To New York…

New York, New York

The Thompson Central Park - Hotel in New York

New York Subway

St Paul’s Chapel

9/11 Memorial

Dining by the Hotel

Getting on Board our Ship in Brookland (Redhook Cruise Terminal)

Cab from the Hotel to the Cruise Ship

The Island Princess

Welcome Aboard - Change of Itinerary

Hurricane Erin

Staying in New York

New York - Times Square and tickets to a Broadway Show

Times Square

﻿ Buying Show Tickets (by the Statue of Father Duffy)

A bite to eat at Carve before the Show

Broadway Play (The Golden Theater – Operation Mincemeat)

Bus Pickup to Return to the Ship

Princess Shipboard for the Evening ﻿

﻿ Wall Street Ferry - Midtown 5 th Avenue - Notable Buildings - Staten Island Ferry

Ferry to Wall Street Ferry Terminal (Redhook pickup at the end)

Midtown 5 th Avenue (Trump Tower, Churches, St Patrick’s Cathedral)

Rockefeller Center, Subway to the South Ferry Terminal

South Ferry Terminal – Staten Island Ferry

Return to South Ferry Terminal (with nearly everyone else)

Wall Street, Trinity Church, Federal Hall, New York Stock Exchange, Trinity Church

Ferry back to the Ship

Princess Shipboard for the Evening

Leaving New York Harbor

﻿ The Island Princess - the "Love Boat"

Our Cabin

Desserts, Snacks & Coffee

Personal Care, Spa & Fitness

Buying Show Tickets (by the Statue of Father Duffy)

Princess Shipboard for the Evening

Wall Street Ferry - Midtown 5 ^th Avenue - Notable Buildings - Staten Island Ferry

Midtown 5 ^th Avenue (Trump Tower, Churches, St Patrick’s Cathedral)

The Island Princess - the "Love Boat"

New York to Bermuda - Two days at sea

Night Aboard the Ship

Bermuda Government

Bermuda Homes

Bermuda to New York - Two days at sea

A great destination to celebrate a special occasion, and this is exactly what we did for our 25 ^th wedding anniversary!

Day 6 – December 10, 2022