We were in dread of the US Customs to get of the boat, what with the finger printing and photos for everyone we thought we may be stretching our luck to get checked in on the plane in the time we had. What a joke. We we walked off the boat, found our luggage straight away and got through customs in about 2 minutes, and most of that was walking off the boat. We actually managed to get off the boat at about 8.30 and we caught a cab to the airport – not knowing just how busy the airort would be. The cab ocst us $45US plus $5 for a bridge toll. One cabbie talked to me as we crossed the road from the boat terminal and said that he could get us there for $90 and the extra charge was because of heavy traffic. We declined his invitation as well as another from another driver for a $60 ride.
Anyway,we had checked in and were rid of our bags in record time and had some lunch with some friends we usually had our dinner with. They arrived just after we had managed to check-in.
The plane was delayed arriving from Rome so initially it was delayed 35 minutes.
After boarding, they had a problem with the fuel gauge, then another delay because Obama was flying in for the UN meeting, then the weather in central US was foul and we had to wait on the taxiway for another hour.
We finally departed, 3 hours late and by the time Colleen and Kevin picked us up we were very tired.
Friday, September 24, 2010
Tuesday 21st September
As we had cleared Immigration in Boston it was a quick escape for a day in New York.
We walked up to Times Square and looked around the place then caught a hop-on-hop-off bus for a tour of up town and down town.
The tour guide was a typical New Yorker and was obviously very proud of the town, as everything was the biggest, largest, most expensive etc.
The second guy was just as good but his jokes were very dry and almost Australian sence of humour even though he came from “Joisey”.We ended up getting back to the ship at 6pm. It was a great day.
We had a couple of thought about our expectations of NewYork.
Firstly, there wasn't as many people walking around the streets as we thought there would be. Secondly, the same could be said of the traffic as it wasn't as bad as we had expected, but then we weren't driving in it either, except for the bus and that was fine.
Lastly the city is not wall to wall skyscrapers as I expected. There were plenty of 5 and 6 storey buildings all over the place and somw even smaller than that.
We walked up to Times Square and looked around the place then caught a hop-on-hop-off bus for a tour of up town and down town.
The tour guide was a typical New Yorker and was obviously very proud of the town, as everything was the biggest, largest, most expensive etc.
The second guy was just as good but his jokes were very dry and almost Australian sence of humour even though he came from “Joisey”.We ended up getting back to the ship at 6pm. It was a great day.
We had a couple of thought about our expectations of NewYork.
Firstly, there wasn't as many people walking around the streets as we thought there would be. Secondly, the same could be said of the traffic as it wasn't as bad as we had expected, but then we weren't driving in it either, except for the bus and that was fine.
Lastly the city is not wall to wall skyscrapers as I expected. There were plenty of 5 and 6 storey buildings all over the place and somw even smaller than that.
Sunday 19th September
We escaped the ship at about 9.15 and declined the cruise ships offer of a shuttle bus (too expensive) and shared a “limo” (a 19 seater “Ozmeister” bus) to Harvard for $7US each. A pretty drive along the water and once again many different styles of building.
Harvard is a beautiful place. The driver tried to drop us on the wrong side of the river which would have meant a very long walk. I [Fay] requested nicely that he drop us at the square! No tip for him. Wonderful buildings and grounds which also had mini religious services taking place on the lawns around one of the squares. One fellow was playing a saxophone which we could have stopped and listened to for hours. The buildings are all quite different in their architecture and very imposing. It is much smaller that what we expected but very lovely. Once again we had fantastic weather. We caught the public bus back to town - $2.50 for two.
We could have caught the subway but we thought we would see more this way. We had a lovely time wandering around. We had lunch in a sports bar at the second attempt. We tried one but they didn’t serve lunch till 2 o’clock, 12.30 at the time. The successful one was quite nice so we had Boston Clam chowder in a bowl with some crackers and some soda (coke and lemonade).
Harvard is a beautiful place. The driver tried to drop us on the wrong side of the river which would have meant a very long walk. I [Fay] requested nicely that he drop us at the square! No tip for him. Wonderful buildings and grounds which also had mini religious services taking place on the lawns around one of the squares. One fellow was playing a saxophone which we could have stopped and listened to for hours. The buildings are all quite different in their architecture and very imposing. It is much smaller that what we expected but very lovely. Once again we had fantastic weather. We caught the public bus back to town - $2.50 for two.
We could have caught the subway but we thought we would see more this way. We had a lovely time wandering around. We had lunch in a sports bar at the second attempt. We tried one but they didn’t serve lunch till 2 o’clock, 12.30 at the time. The successful one was quite nice so we had Boston Clam chowder in a bowl with some crackers and some soda (coke and lemonade).
Monday 20th September
We sailed at 7am and made our way to New York. The last leg was a little rough. We ended up playing cards morning and afternoon and had the last of the gala dinners that night.
Saturday 18th September
We had to clear US customs before we could go ashore in Boston. Strangely it seemed to work well. Our floor was one of the first to be called. No photos or finger prints were taken, which amazed us. We were ashore by 1pm and shared a cab with another couple to Quincy Markets in the old part of Boston town. There were lots of people and activity, stalls and entertainment. Lots of fun to be amongst. I could have bought $ 5 t-shirts. They went up to $10 on Sunday night. We just wandered all through the markets (bought nothing) and eventually found or way to Little Italy.
We discovered Catholic churches in the space of 100 metres, one being the church where JFK’s mother was baptised and was buried from. We also saw the school she attended. The church had had 3 different Christian denominations practicing in it over last couple of hundred years. A “Bulfinch” church, named after the designer, it was VERY plain but beautiful just the same, photos to prove. We eventually went back to the church at 4.30 for vigil mass. After Mass we caught a cab back to the ship. We saw a graveyard in our travels. All the headstones were much the same height and they took on a misty look in certain lights - quite eerie. We saw Paul Revere’s church and followed part of the Freedom Trail which is mostly marked by a red line.
On Boston Common today we missed the pot festival! Apparently thousands of people crowded into the common and puffed away happily. The Common was ringed by police and if you stepped off the common you could be fined. Plenty of ambulances on standby. Apparently pot is decriminalised but you can still be find. We had afternoon tea with Boston Cream pie. Basically sponge cake with cream and Chocolate icing. I don’t think we had the best example as it was a little disappointing.
We discovered Catholic churches in the space of 100 metres, one being the church where JFK’s mother was baptised and was buried from. We also saw the school she attended. The church had had 3 different Christian denominations practicing in it over last couple of hundred years. A “Bulfinch” church, named after the designer, it was VERY plain but beautiful just the same, photos to prove. We eventually went back to the church at 4.30 for vigil mass. After Mass we caught a cab back to the ship. We saw a graveyard in our travels. All the headstones were much the same height and they took on a misty look in certain lights - quite eerie. We saw Paul Revere’s church and followed part of the Freedom Trail which is mostly marked by a red line.
On Boston Common today we missed the pot festival! Apparently thousands of people crowded into the common and puffed away happily. The Common was ringed by police and if you stepped off the common you could be fined. Plenty of ambulances on standby. Apparently pot is decriminalised but you can still be find. We had afternoon tea with Boston Cream pie. Basically sponge cake with cream and Chocolate icing. I don’t think we had the best example as it was a little disappointing.
Friday 17th September
At sea – and it was pretty rough but the stabilizers were working a treat. We have had rougher weather in the South Pacific. We played cards yet again. Not much sunbathing
Looks a like it was a good decision to avoid Bermuda.
Looks a like it was a good decision to avoid Bermuda.
Thursday 16th September
Another day at see and Boston is getting closer. The forecast for Bermuda for Sunday was winds in excess of 100 knots with another hurricane close behind Igor.
The decision appears to have been a prudent one – but who are we to question the captain.
Another day of eating playing cards, sun baking, dress up night for dinner and another late night movie on the deck. I wonder why they can’t show the movie in the theatre so everyone doesn’t have to brave the winds and the mist that rolls in occasionally – yet another little question to ask the cruise director. Adrian has such a limited sense of adventure! A
The cruise people are advertising a shuttle to New York airport for when we get there. They will charge € 35 per person which would be $105 Australian. The cab will charge about $55 Australian. All the cabs have written on the side a flat rate of $45 to JFK airport
Someone said yesterday that the Oz dollar is about 94 cents to the American – a good time as shopping approaches.
We are unsure what we will do in Boston but Harvard is about 15minutes from town and the hop-on- hop-off buses may be running for us. We will wait and see.
The decision appears to have been a prudent one – but who are we to question the captain.
Another day of eating playing cards, sun baking, dress up night for dinner and another late night movie on the deck. I wonder why they can’t show the movie in the theatre so everyone doesn’t have to brave the winds and the mist that rolls in occasionally – yet another little question to ask the cruise director. Adrian has such a limited sense of adventure! A
The cruise people are advertising a shuttle to New York airport for when we get there. They will charge € 35 per person which would be $105 Australian. The cab will charge about $55 Australian. All the cabs have written on the side a flat rate of $45 to JFK airport
Someone said yesterday that the Oz dollar is about 94 cents to the American – a good time as shopping approaches.
We are unsure what we will do in Boston but Harvard is about 15minutes from town and the hop-on- hop-off buses may be running for us. We will wait and see.
Wednesday 15th - At Sea
Another glorious day. Hard to believe it is the North Atlantic and not the South Pacific. Played cards, went in spa, read and sun baked. The library is very short on English books so many people have set up their own swapping system. Adrian was reading the Atlas one day. We met a lovely lady who shares her time between Albany in WA and Hervey Bay in QLD. She told us about a fort in Albany. More places for us to visit!! I have not been using sunscreen but do not get burnt. The sun just does not seem to have the same intensity. The Europeans on board sun bake in any weather even if we think it a bit cool. People are much less inhibited about their body shapes and all shapes, sizes and ages wear bikinis.
I (Fay) have won cards two days in a row!!! I have to record this as I don’t beat Adrian often (is everything a competition - of course). Adrian lost (????) the score sheets. Therefore there is no proof! One of the ladies we play with is battling seasickness so the cards are a distraction for her.
Today is when it was decided to divert to Boston because of the hurricane. We have never been to Boston and look forward to a couple of days there and a tea party
I spoke to a couple in the spa and they were looking forward to scuba diving in Bermuda but it was not meant to be.
We watched a movie outdoors on the big screen at last. It was fun but a little cool. We will take a jacket tonight.
TV is abysmal with limited English stations. They need to put a little more thought in if they want to attract English speaking tourists.
We are glad to heading in the direction of home! We miss you all and can’t wait to see you all. Kath, we have seen so many wedding dresses at great prices. Perhaps a trip to check them out would be in order??????
I (Fay) have won cards two days in a row!!! I have to record this as I don’t beat Adrian often (is everything a competition - of course). Adrian lost (????) the score sheets. Therefore there is no proof! One of the ladies we play with is battling seasickness so the cards are a distraction for her.
Today is when it was decided to divert to Boston because of the hurricane. We have never been to Boston and look forward to a couple of days there and a tea party
I spoke to a couple in the spa and they were looking forward to scuba diving in Bermuda but it was not meant to be.
We watched a movie outdoors on the big screen at last. It was fun but a little cool. We will take a jacket tonight.
TV is abysmal with limited English stations. They need to put a little more thought in if they want to attract English speaking tourists.
We are glad to heading in the direction of home! We miss you all and can’t wait to see you all. Kath, we have seen so many wedding dresses at great prices. Perhaps a trip to check them out would be in order??????
Tuesday 14th September – A Day at Sea.
This is the first of a four day sail from the Azores to Bermuda. We headed almost directly West at 20 knots all day and night.
The days at sea are starting to take a pattern, as we play rickety Kate with Hobbo, Vicky, Sally and Ian, who are workmates and partners from AIS. The rest of the day is spent in the sun or reading, interspersed with tea, coffee and dinner.
The days at sea are starting to take a pattern, as we play rickety Kate with Hobbo, Vicky, Sally and Ian, who are workmates and partners from AIS. The rest of the day is spent in the sun or reading, interspersed with tea, coffee and dinner.
Monday 13th September
The Azores are a beautiful set of islands. We had booked a tour, the first for us on the cruise. The tour didn’t start till 12.15 so we set off to explore the main shopping area to try and find an internet café and get the lay of the land. The internet café was eventually found and we just checked for the important emails if any, and then got out for a walk back to the ship for the tour.
The tour was a 2½ hour bus drive up to the mountains to see the crater lakes. The mountain is 2000 feet (660 metres) high. The views really were magnificent and the picture probably will not do justice. On the way back we managed to stop on a part of the mountain range where you could see both the north and south sides of the island from the same point. The Island is wide but not very deep. The sights from the mountain stop looked just like you were looking down the south coast of Australia near Gerringong.
Beautiful blue sea, rich green verdant mountain sides and narrow roads.
The last stop on the way was a pineapple plantation but the difference being that it was in hot houses. I can’t see how they made too much money as pineapples take three years till you get a single fruit from them then you have to start again. There were about 12 or 15 hothouses with about 900 plants in each. The most pineapples you could sell each year would be about 4000, so there couldn’t be much of a living but it would depend how much you got for each.
We then wandered through the shopping area again and back to the boat in time for afternoon tea.
The food is improving. We are blessed with intelligent and entertaining dinner companions. One lady, who has travelled extensively has a very retentive memory and gives us lots of details of her travels. One of the men used to be a headmaster but dad is coping as he is very funny. Two of the ladies have been involved in the travel industry. One lady worked for Thai airline and still has travel benefits. Most people are lovely and we have seen a minimal of the ugly Australian. We found out that that Germans have a different and much more generous drink package then the Australians. You can imagine how the Australians like this.
One of the couples are ’ten pound poms’ Young people talk to old people for explanation. They are lovely and friends with the headmaster and his wife. He does not eat any vegetables that are green. He comes from Northen Island and loves his taties in any shape or form.
Good news about the Raiders! Hope they can win on Friday. We arrive home on Grand final day. Hope someone can meet us!
The tour was a 2½ hour bus drive up to the mountains to see the crater lakes. The mountain is 2000 feet (660 metres) high. The views really were magnificent and the picture probably will not do justice. On the way back we managed to stop on a part of the mountain range where you could see both the north and south sides of the island from the same point. The Island is wide but not very deep. The sights from the mountain stop looked just like you were looking down the south coast of Australia near Gerringong.
Beautiful blue sea, rich green verdant mountain sides and narrow roads.
The last stop on the way was a pineapple plantation but the difference being that it was in hot houses. I can’t see how they made too much money as pineapples take three years till you get a single fruit from them then you have to start again. There were about 12 or 15 hothouses with about 900 plants in each. The most pineapples you could sell each year would be about 4000, so there couldn’t be much of a living but it would depend how much you got for each.
We then wandered through the shopping area again and back to the boat in time for afternoon tea.
The food is improving. We are blessed with intelligent and entertaining dinner companions. One lady, who has travelled extensively has a very retentive memory and gives us lots of details of her travels. One of the men used to be a headmaster but dad is coping as he is very funny. Two of the ladies have been involved in the travel industry. One lady worked for Thai airline and still has travel benefits. Most people are lovely and we have seen a minimal of the ugly Australian. We found out that that Germans have a different and much more generous drink package then the Australians. You can imagine how the Australians like this.
One of the couples are ’ten pound poms’ Young people talk to old people for explanation. They are lovely and friends with the headmaster and his wife. He does not eat any vegetables that are green. He comes from Northen Island and loves his taties in any shape or form.
Good news about the Raiders! Hope they can win on Friday. We arrive home on Grand final day. Hope someone can meet us!
Sunday 12th September
A day at sea between Lisboa and the Azores. The Azores are about 400 nautical miles west of Lisboa in the Atlantic Ocean.
An 11 o’clock card game for 2 hours filled our morning and a lazy afternoon filled our day. Dinner was a highlight of the day – it’s tough!!!!
An 11 o’clock card game for 2 hours filled our morning and a lazy afternoon filled our day. Dinner was a highlight of the day – it’s tough!!!!
Saturday 11th September
Lisboa or Lisbon to the uninitiated is the capital of Portugal. A bright sunny day greeted us as we disembarked and caught the shuttle bus into town – about a ten minute journey.
We walked through the old town, up and down and across and back for about 3 hours or so with a brief stop for coffee and some lunch.
Shoe shops abound here and the prices are very good and even the clothes shops weren’t bad prices. The old city is a great place to walk around with the old buildings still in use and the restaurants set up on the sides of all the cobbled roads.
We then caught a hop on hop off bus for a guided tour through the city. Unfortunately the commentary gave out after a couple of sightseeing places so we just watched the passing parade of possibly historic buildings and got off when we got back to the ship.
We walked through the old town, up and down and across and back for about 3 hours or so with a brief stop for coffee and some lunch.
Shoe shops abound here and the prices are very good and even the clothes shops weren’t bad prices. The old city is a great place to walk around with the old buildings still in use and the restaurants set up on the sides of all the cobbled roads.
We then caught a hop on hop off bus for a guided tour through the city. Unfortunately the commentary gave out after a couple of sightseeing places so we just watched the passing parade of possibly historic buildings and got off when we got back to the ship.
Friday 10th September
Our first (and last day) in Spain at the port of Vigo. As we have to be back on board by 3.30, we had an early breakfast and on Spanish soil by 9am.
We got directions and a map to the old area of the city. How come the old areas are always up hills and away from the port area?
Either way, it wasn’t too bad a walk and we had to stop for cappuccinos on the way, just to refresh ourselves and confirm with the locals that we were heading in the right direction.
Our navigation was spot on and after the break we headed up hill again and got to the fort at the top of the mountain.
The way back was all down hill, but we went sideways at times to see more of the city.
The streets were narrower than a lot of the streets we have seen. Cars were not banned from any streets and you had to be aware of the traffic everywhere.
A beautiful city! We are back on board now and I type this while Fay catches some “rays” on deck. I will go off the ship to an area in the dock where they have free wifi. Unfortunately the free wifi didn’t work so I will send this when we get a chance, which will probably be the Azores on Monday.
We got directions and a map to the old area of the city. How come the old areas are always up hills and away from the port area?
Either way, it wasn’t too bad a walk and we had to stop for cappuccinos on the way, just to refresh ourselves and confirm with the locals that we were heading in the right direction.
Our navigation was spot on and after the break we headed up hill again and got to the fort at the top of the mountain.
The way back was all down hill, but we went sideways at times to see more of the city.
The streets were narrower than a lot of the streets we have seen. Cars were not banned from any streets and you had to be aware of the traffic everywhere.
A beautiful city! We are back on board now and I type this while Fay catches some “rays” on deck. I will go off the ship to an area in the dock where they have free wifi. Unfortunately the free wifi didn’t work so I will send this when we get a chance, which will probably be the Azores on Monday.
Thursday 9th September
A day at sea. A late wake up and breakfast at 9am. After breakfast we had organized a game of cards with Vicky, Hobbo, Ian and Sally – our friends from work. We discovered a bar at the back of the boat, the disco in fact, but there are plenty of card tables and the music is not overpowering. We played Rickety Kate till 1pm and had a leisurely lunch. A quiet afternoon, then tea and the show which was a ventriloquist act. We have just discovered that the toilet is not functioning – que sera sera.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Wednesday 8th September
Leharve, on the Seine River about 120KM from Paris, was the next stop. We cruised all night and arrived about 8am.
We had a bit of a sleep in, and after breakfast we got off the ship and decided to walk into the city. We found out by accident that there was a shuttle bus, and even though the weather was threatening, we walked about 15 minutes to the city centre. We roamed around for a while and made our way up the church for a visit and a look. The appeared to have lots of plain, clear glass on the outside but on the inside it was all coloured. The spire from the inside looked like a scene from one of the Star Wars films that has Luke and Darth Vader fighting on top of a giant column. These are the things that we notice! A charming town, prettier then Southhampton or Portsmouth. By the time we had finished in the church, the rain had set in, so we donned the wet weather gear and took off to find a café for a coffee. The French allow dogs in their cafes. A lady walked in with a little dog in a special dog bag. He was very cute, a bit like Charlie but when he put his head on the table we decided we wouldn’t eat food there.
By the time the coffee had been consumed, the rain had really set in. As the boat was due to depart at 3.30, we decided that we would either walk back or catch a taxi. Numerous taxis drove past us, either on a break or going to pick someone up. We went into a pharmacy to phone for a cab, unsuccessfully, and the pharmacist offered us a ride to the ship - very kind. We accidentally found the shuttle bus and boarded it for a free return trip to the boat. The bus took us all around Lehavre and we saw The Hanging Gardens of Lehavre. Very pretty. Apparently they represent the FIVE continents. We are not sure where that leaves us.
We had a bit of a sleep in, and after breakfast we got off the ship and decided to walk into the city. We found out by accident that there was a shuttle bus, and even though the weather was threatening, we walked about 15 minutes to the city centre. We roamed around for a while and made our way up the church for a visit and a look. The appeared to have lots of plain, clear glass on the outside but on the inside it was all coloured. The spire from the inside looked like a scene from one of the Star Wars films that has Luke and Darth Vader fighting on top of a giant column. These are the things that we notice! A charming town, prettier then Southhampton or Portsmouth. By the time we had finished in the church, the rain had set in, so we donned the wet weather gear and took off to find a café for a coffee. The French allow dogs in their cafes. A lady walked in with a little dog in a special dog bag. He was very cute, a bit like Charlie but when he put his head on the table we decided we wouldn’t eat food there.
By the time the coffee had been consumed, the rain had really set in. As the boat was due to depart at 3.30, we decided that we would either walk back or catch a taxi. Numerous taxis drove past us, either on a break or going to pick someone up. We went into a pharmacy to phone for a cab, unsuccessfully, and the pharmacist offered us a ride to the ship - very kind. We accidentally found the shuttle bus and boarded it for a free return trip to the boat. The bus took us all around Lehavre and we saw The Hanging Gardens of Lehavre. Very pretty. Apparently they represent the FIVE continents. We are not sure where that leaves us.
Tuesday 7th September
Walked into Southampton and caught a local Greyhound bus to Portsmouth – senior discount for Adrian 2pound fifty return.
We walked through the town for a while then we had to have the usual holiday by the sea lunch of fish and chips. They were enormous servings and very nice fish as well.
After the repast we wandered into the Naval historical area, the home of HMS Victory and the Mary Rose. Victory was the flag ship of Lord Nelson when the English defeated the Spanish Armada around 1802. The ship is still a serving ship of the UK navy and has a Captain and crew assigned to it even though it never leaves the dry dock. The tour of the ship started at 4pm, which was too late for us.
The Mary Rose was built for Henry VIII and sank in the Thames about 30 years after it was commissioned. It has lain at the bottom of the Thames for 450 years and the salvage and restoration was commenced in the late eighties. A new museum is scheduled to open in 2012. Unfortunately, that too was not opened for visitors. The complete tour was 40 pounds, but as we couldn’t see either the Mary Rose or do a tour of Victory, we declined the invitation and just wandered around the area. We did get photos of the Victory and walked around the outside. We couldn’t believe the amount of rope that the ship needed to be operational. The anchor required 250 men to raise from the bottom. One of the men serving on the Victory at Trafalgar (Armada battle) was a Christopher Dixon, a relation perhaps?
After a nice Cappuccino at the local café we caught the bus back to the ship. We had a little time before the bus and we espied a Marks and Spencer’s. It was part of a giant outlet shopping complex! Oh joy! Luckily we only had a little time to do much damage to the VISA.
We walked through the town for a while then we had to have the usual holiday by the sea lunch of fish and chips. They were enormous servings and very nice fish as well.
After the repast we wandered into the Naval historical area, the home of HMS Victory and the Mary Rose. Victory was the flag ship of Lord Nelson when the English defeated the Spanish Armada around 1802. The ship is still a serving ship of the UK navy and has a Captain and crew assigned to it even though it never leaves the dry dock. The tour of the ship started at 4pm, which was too late for us.
The Mary Rose was built for Henry VIII and sank in the Thames about 30 years after it was commissioned. It has lain at the bottom of the Thames for 450 years and the salvage and restoration was commenced in the late eighties. A new museum is scheduled to open in 2012. Unfortunately, that too was not opened for visitors. The complete tour was 40 pounds, but as we couldn’t see either the Mary Rose or do a tour of Victory, we declined the invitation and just wandered around the area. We did get photos of the Victory and walked around the outside. We couldn’t believe the amount of rope that the ship needed to be operational. The anchor required 250 men to raise from the bottom. One of the men serving on the Victory at Trafalgar (Armada battle) was a Christopher Dixon, a relation perhaps?
After a nice Cappuccino at the local café we caught the bus back to the ship. We had a little time before the bus and we espied a Marks and Spencer’s. It was part of a giant outlet shopping complex! Oh joy! Luckily we only had a little time to do much damage to the VISA.
Monday 6th September
A full day at sea. We found the Gym and Fay biked and I walked on the machines. We managed to play a game on bingo (no luck) but @ 20 Euros per game, we are not sure we will be back. The Casino is a full on smoking area, so we may not gamble again on the boat – we’ll save our money for other things. (Duty free smokes $3 Australian a pack … … … I stocked up).
Today was the first day of formal dining at night and after a delayed delivery on my suit which had to be ironed, and a cold shower (hot water problems – since fixed) we wandered down and enjoyed a formal meal. The food was excellent and I may be forced to re think the food situation. I have not been exactly enthusiastic about the food and the service during meals has been abysmally slow. We are starting to wonder whether this is regarded as a training run to get the waiters ready for the USA cruises where the service would have to be a lot better. We are seated with Australians from Sydney for dinner. One is a retired school principal so once again Adrian cannot escape from teachers. There are 1752 Australians on the cruise and that is the market they are targeting. They will need to lift their game for favorable reports. People are allowed to smoke inside parts of the ship which means there are some parts I can’t go too. This alone would stop me from cruising with MSC again.
Today was the first day of formal dining at night and after a delayed delivery on my suit which had to be ironed, and a cold shower (hot water problems – since fixed) we wandered down and enjoyed a formal meal. The food was excellent and I may be forced to re think the food situation. I have not been exactly enthusiastic about the food and the service during meals has been abysmally slow. We are starting to wonder whether this is regarded as a training run to get the waiters ready for the USA cruises where the service would have to be a lot better. We are seated with Australians from Sydney for dinner. One is a retired school principal so once again Adrian cannot escape from teachers. There are 1752 Australians on the cruise and that is the market they are targeting. They will need to lift their game for favorable reports. People are allowed to smoke inside parts of the ship which means there are some parts I can’t go too. This alone would stop me from cruising with MSC again.
Sunday 5th September
Early morning arrival in Copenhagen but we were in no hurry to do tours as we had decide to wander around town on our own.
Got off the boat and we saw a hop on hop off bus so we tried to catch that. They would accept Visa so I went back on the boat to get it. When I got back they decided that they do not accept visa. But I had left 40 Euros in the cabin when I went for the visa an only had 20 in my pocket. Someone told us about the free train to town, so we caught that and wandered through the town. A pretty town with the look of Copenhagen, with lots on bikes on the roads and trains. The military were in town celebrating withdrawing from Afghanistan. At the palace there were army people and bands. No high-rise in the town and nothing over 5 stories. We spoke to a local who said that Sweden has a very high building and Copenhagen is thinking of doing the same. They are very used to cruise ships here as we followed the thin blue line all the way to the train station. Down by the waterfront, we just wandering through the streets enjoying the first hot day with clear skies since forever. Two 5 euro cups of coffee and we were off again and we wandered up to the Kings Gardens. I thought we had been swindled with the coffee but we met someone and they said they had paid 10 for a coffee – Denmark, like Sweden and Finland, are not cheap places to live or visit.
We really enjoyed wandering through the town. We did this a lot in Europe on the bus trip and we still enjoy it.
Got off the boat and we saw a hop on hop off bus so we tried to catch that. They would accept Visa so I went back on the boat to get it. When I got back they decided that they do not accept visa. But I had left 40 Euros in the cabin when I went for the visa an only had 20 in my pocket. Someone told us about the free train to town, so we caught that and wandered through the town. A pretty town with the look of Copenhagen, with lots on bikes on the roads and trains. The military were in town celebrating withdrawing from Afghanistan. At the palace there were army people and bands. No high-rise in the town and nothing over 5 stories. We spoke to a local who said that Sweden has a very high building and Copenhagen is thinking of doing the same. They are very used to cruise ships here as we followed the thin blue line all the way to the train station. Down by the waterfront, we just wandering through the streets enjoying the first hot day with clear skies since forever. Two 5 euro cups of coffee and we were off again and we wandered up to the Kings Gardens. I thought we had been swindled with the coffee but we met someone and they said they had paid 10 for a coffee – Denmark, like Sweden and Finland, are not cheap places to live or visit.
We really enjoyed wandering through the town. We did this a lot in Europe on the bus trip and we still enjoy it.
Saturday 4th September
Had breakfast and decided to try to catch the shuttle bus to the port, but no luck so we got a taxi. We were a little early so we left the luggage at the check in and we were told to come back at 1.30. When we did we got through very quickly and we on the boat by 2pm. No luggage till later but at least we were on the boat.
Our cabin is at the front of the ship and on level 14.
We eventually got the luggage and for the first time in 4 weeks we could unpack the clothes and put the bags under the bed – settled in at last.
Went to tea and after a long delay (more to come) we managed to have tea. The ship cast off and we are on our way to Copenhagen.
Our cabin is at the front of the ship and on level 14.
We eventually got the luggage and for the first time in 4 weeks we could unpack the clothes and put the bags under the bed – settled in at last.
Went to tea and after a long delay (more to come) we managed to have tea. The ship cast off and we are on our way to Copenhagen.
Friday 3rd September
We had a coffee by lake. Got the early “slow” train to Kiel
Taxi to hotel – 200 metres to hotel. Found out we were on 3rd floor - 25 steps per floor and no lift. We managed to change to a first floor room.Wandered around the town and went down to the port to see the boat but not there. Tea at Italian German restaurant – limited English.
Taxi to hotel – 200 metres to hotel. Found out we were on 3rd floor - 25 steps per floor and no lift. We managed to change to a first floor room.Wandered around the town and went down to the port to see the boat but not there. Tea at Italian German restaurant – limited English.
Thursday 2nd Sept.
Found another cheap café for brekky and headed into town on foot armed with our map. We ran into Australians from the bus tour who are also headed for the cruise. Their fast train had reached speeds of 240km/h! Not that it’s a competition! They, like us just want to be on the cruise.
Adrian and I spent about 4 hours wandering around Hamburg. We went down to the docks and kept walking over lots of bridges as there are little islands. Some of it had a bit of a look of Amsterdam about it.
We found The Rathaus [The Townhall] in the middle of the square. Not as pretty as many we have seen but busy. We were near the water and there seemed to be setting up for a festival. Lots of food and drink stalls and stages for entertainment. We continued walking all around the water to make our way back to the hotel we passed some schools. The school day appears to finish at 2.00pm. Not sure what time they start. They even organized a fireworks display for us. Part of a four day festival and we had a good view from our room on the 15th floor.
Adrian and I spent about 4 hours wandering around Hamburg. We went down to the docks and kept walking over lots of bridges as there are little islands. Some of it had a bit of a look of Amsterdam about it.
We found The Rathaus [The Townhall] in the middle of the square. Not as pretty as many we have seen but busy. We were near the water and there seemed to be setting up for a festival. Lots of food and drink stalls and stages for entertainment. We continued walking all around the water to make our way back to the hotel we passed some schools. The school day appears to finish at 2.00pm. Not sure what time they start. They even organized a fireworks display for us. Part of a four day festival and we had a good view from our room on the 15th floor.
Wednesday 1st September
Today we found a Laundromat [washeri]! Very exciting. After our brekky at the café next door, run by the Turkish lady [so much food we had leftovers for lunch] we headed off to the laundromat. A bit further then we originally thought but we arrived. Who should we meet there but fellow Aussies from Forbes and Central coast. People from Forbes know Sharon Dixon’s sister from Forbes. It’s a small world! They were travelling all over Europe by train enjoying themselves very much.
We had just enough time to check out of the hotel and catch a taxi to the train station. Worked out much the same price as two trains.
There were TV cameras and reporters all over the place. When we figured out that they weren’t there for us we caught an earlier train to Hamburg.
Train again was exciting as we were travelling at 230km/h. doesn’t feel like you are going that fast. Only thing you can’t read is station name as you whizz through, very comfortable. No going through airports and security!! The stations show exactly where your carriage will be at the platform, very easy to do. Announcements in many languages.
Arrived at Hamburg at 4.00. Very busy. School appears to have gone back and people everywhere. We walked to our hotel through the red light district. Very unpleasant and dirty. It was as though we had arrived in a different country. People dressed very differently to those in Berlin. Found our hotel about ten minute walk from station. Very comfortable. Walked a different way and found dinner. We appear to be in the university area.
For the first time we are in a high rise on the 15th floor. We have a real bird’s eye view over Hamburg and too much of a view of the hotel next door with people who do not pull their curtains across when they should!
We had just enough time to check out of the hotel and catch a taxi to the train station. Worked out much the same price as two trains.
There were TV cameras and reporters all over the place. When we figured out that they weren’t there for us we caught an earlier train to Hamburg.
Train again was exciting as we were travelling at 230km/h. doesn’t feel like you are going that fast. Only thing you can’t read is station name as you whizz through, very comfortable. No going through airports and security!! The stations show exactly where your carriage will be at the platform, very easy to do. Announcements in many languages.
Arrived at Hamburg at 4.00. Very busy. School appears to have gone back and people everywhere. We walked to our hotel through the red light district. Very unpleasant and dirty. It was as though we had arrived in a different country. People dressed very differently to those in Berlin. Found our hotel about ten minute walk from station. Very comfortable. Walked a different way and found dinner. We appear to be in the university area.
For the first time we are in a high rise on the 15th floor. We have a real bird’s eye view over Hamburg and too much of a view of the hotel next door with people who do not pull their curtains across when they should!
Friday, September 3, 2010
Thursday 2nd Sept.
Found another cheap café for brekky and headed into town on foot armed with our map. We ran into Australians from the bus tour who are also headed for the cruise. Their fast train had reached speeds of 240km/h! Not that it’s a competition! They, like us just want to be on the cruise.
Adrian and I spent about 4 hours wandering around Hamburg. We went down to the docks and kept walking over lots of bridges as there are little islands. Some of it had a bit of a look of Amsterdam about it.
We found The Rathaus [The Townhall ] in the middle of the square. Not as pretty as many we have seen but busy. We were near the water and there seemed to be setting up for a festival. Lots of food and drink stalls and stages for entertainment. We continued walking all around the water to make our way back to the hotel We passed some schools. The school day appears to finish at 2.00pm. Not sure what time they start.
Adrian and I spent about 4 hours wandering around Hamburg. We went down to the docks and kept walking over lots of bridges as there are little islands. Some of it had a bit of a look of Amsterdam about it.
We found The Rathaus [The Townhall ] in the middle of the square. Not as pretty as many we have seen but busy. We were near the water and there seemed to be setting up for a festival. Lots of food and drink stalls and stages for entertainment. We continued walking all around the water to make our way back to the hotel We passed some schools. The school day appears to finish at 2.00pm. Not sure what time they start.
Wednesday 1st September
Today we found a Laundromat [washeri ]! Very exciting. After our brekky at the café next door , run by the Turkish lady [so much food we had leftovers for lunch] we headed off to the laundromat. A bit further then we originally thought but we arrived. Who should we meet there but fellow Aussies from Forbes and Central coast. People from Forbes know Sharron Dixon’s sister from Forbes. It’s a small world! They were travelling all over Europe by train enjoying themselves very much.
We had just enough time to check out of the hotel and catch a taxi to the train station. Worked out much the same price as two trains.
There were tv cameras and reporters all over the place. When we figured out that they weren’t there for us we caught an earlier train to Hamburg.
Train again was exciting as we were travelling at 230km/h. Doesn’t feel like you are going that fast. Only thing you can’t read is station name as you whizz through, very comfortable. No going through airports and security!! The stations show exactly where your carriage will be at the platform, very easy to do. Announcements in many languages.
Arrived at Hamburg at 4.00. Very busy. School appears to have gone back and people everywhere. We walked to our hotel through the red light district. Very unpleasant and dirty. It was as though we had arrived in a different country. People dressed very differently to those in Berlin. Found our hotel about ten minute walk from station. Very comfortable. Walked a different way and found dinner. We appear to be in the university area.
For the first time we are in a high rise on the 15th floor. We have a real bird’s eye view over Hamburg and too much of a view of the hotel next door with people who do not pull their curtains across when they should!
We had just enough time to check out of the hotel and catch a taxi to the train station. Worked out much the same price as two trains.
There were tv cameras and reporters all over the place. When we figured out that they weren’t there for us we caught an earlier train to Hamburg.
Train again was exciting as we were travelling at 230km/h. Doesn’t feel like you are going that fast. Only thing you can’t read is station name as you whizz through, very comfortable. No going through airports and security!! The stations show exactly where your carriage will be at the platform, very easy to do. Announcements in many languages.
Arrived at Hamburg at 4.00. Very busy. School appears to have gone back and people everywhere. We walked to our hotel through the red light district. Very unpleasant and dirty. It was as though we had arrived in a different country. People dressed very differently to those in Berlin. Found our hotel about ten minute walk from station. Very comfortable. Walked a different way and found dinner. We appear to be in the university area.
For the first time we are in a high rise on the 15th floor. We have a real bird’s eye view over Hamburg and too much of a view of the hotel next door with people who do not pull their curtains across when they should!
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Tuesday 31st August
We were both wrecked by the past two weeks and we slept in till 7.30. Up the road to a small café for breakfast. There was enough breakfast (rolls, cold meats, boiled egg, and cheese) that we also made a couple of rolls up and we had them for lunch.
We caught the bus into town (10 minutes) and wandered around then took a hop on hop off bus for a 2 hours ride around the city. We had seen all of the places before but it was nice to seen them again.
We have been off the bus trip for a few days now and when we were wandering around Berlin, who should we see driving a tourist bus but Slavik, the driver we had driving our trip bus. Incidentally, 21 years ago, Slavik was Poland’s goalkeeper for the national soccer team.
We caught the bus back to or hotel and explored the area around us. We have dinner planned at a local restaurant. We will catch a cab to the station tomorrow as it will cost about the same as a bus and train ride and we don’t have to worry about making the right connections. Tomorrow is Hamburg.
We caught the bus into town (10 minutes) and wandered around then took a hop on hop off bus for a 2 hours ride around the city. We had seen all of the places before but it was nice to seen them again.
We have been off the bus trip for a few days now and when we were wandering around Berlin, who should we see driving a tourist bus but Slavik, the driver we had driving our trip bus. Incidentally, 21 years ago, Slavik was Poland’s goalkeeper for the national soccer team.
We caught the bus back to or hotel and explored the area around us. We have dinner planned at a local restaurant. We will catch a cab to the station tomorrow as it will cost about the same as a bus and train ride and we don’t have to worry about making the right connections. Tomorrow is Hamburg.
Monday 30th August
We didn’t make the Tiergartens. I (Adrian) have developed a bit of a chest infection so we went to the doctors. All went well and we proceeded to the apothakerie to have the scripts filled. We gave the scripts to the lady at the computer desk and she checked to ensure that they had all the drugs required. When she was sure they did, she hit the return key and they all popped out a chute near the computer. The whole thing – doctors and chemists cost less than it would have cost in Oz. It also poured with rain for most of the day and after the doctors we didn’t leave our room at the hotel till nearly 12. We left our large bags there and wandered through the town in the intermittent rain. We wandered through shops and visited various Koffee places.
We eventually went to the station and caught the correct train (not the train to Castro Valley – see earlier blog entries). This train unfortunately does not have wifi like the last train so will post it tomorrow if I can. We managed to the train up to 199 kph. The birthday girl had a number of calls and text messages and she started celebrating yesterday (as it was her birthday in OZ. She advises that she will continue celebrating tomorrow as it will be her birthday in the USA).Thanks for all the birthday calls. I had a lovely day. We had to have coffees and pastries and other yummy food.
We eventually went to the station and caught the correct train (not the train to Castro Valley – see earlier blog entries). This train unfortunately does not have wifi like the last train so will post it tomorrow if I can. We managed to the train up to 199 kph. The birthday girl had a number of calls and text messages and she started celebrating yesterday (as it was her birthday in OZ. She advises that she will continue celebrating tomorrow as it will be her birthday in the USA).Thanks for all the birthday calls. I had a lovely day. We had to have coffees and pastries and other yummy food.
Sunday 29th August
We were up at 6 o’clock, as usual. We had to be at the local railway station (bad Homburg) to catch the 8.08 am train to the main station in Frankfurt. We had walked the night before so we knew where we were going.
The first train ticket machine was not functioning and we had to go to the other side of the station to get our ticket. This meant going down the steps with our bags which are a bit heavier than when we started out then up the other set of steps. Eventually we got there and we managed to get the tickets and caught the train to Frankfurt main station.
We validated our tickets and, after a coffee, the train arrived on time and we boarded and departed on the ICE (Inter City Express). Very smooth – very fast - up to 187KPH. It may get faster on other trips.
Unlike the bus, we do not have to wait 2 hours for comfort stop. There is a WC on the train! Unfortunately both in our carriage were not working. All over Europe there are signs for the WC and dragon ladies to pay money to for the use of them. One of the girls fro Canada said she had not budgeted for toilets! We are actually on the train typing this. And now we aren’t – it is now 5.30pm.
We arrived at a bout twelve and found our hotel 100metres from the station. We couldn’t check in yet but we left or bags and went for a walk. Adrian could not have booked a better place in the city.
The hotel is in the old part of the city, a part untouched by the war. Heaps and heaps of churches, squares and old and new buildings with a variety of shops. Being Sunday, only the take-aways and restaurants were open.
Being a Catholic country, no shops are open on Sunday. Strangely enough, all the museums are closed on Monday. This being the case, we are not going to be able to see any of the museums, but we will be going to the Tiergartens to walk through the park. Had yummy dinner with veggies! These seem to have been a bit light on. But that is tomorrow.
The first train ticket machine was not functioning and we had to go to the other side of the station to get our ticket. This meant going down the steps with our bags which are a bit heavier than when we started out then up the other set of steps. Eventually we got there and we managed to get the tickets and caught the train to Frankfurt main station.
We validated our tickets and, after a coffee, the train arrived on time and we boarded and departed on the ICE (Inter City Express). Very smooth – very fast - up to 187KPH. It may get faster on other trips.
Unlike the bus, we do not have to wait 2 hours for comfort stop. There is a WC on the train! Unfortunately both in our carriage were not working. All over Europe there are signs for the WC and dragon ladies to pay money to for the use of them. One of the girls fro Canada said she had not budgeted for toilets! We are actually on the train typing this. And now we aren’t – it is now 5.30pm.
We arrived at a bout twelve and found our hotel 100metres from the station. We couldn’t check in yet but we left or bags and went for a walk. Adrian could not have booked a better place in the city.
The hotel is in the old part of the city, a part untouched by the war. Heaps and heaps of churches, squares and old and new buildings with a variety of shops. Being Sunday, only the take-aways and restaurants were open.
Being a Catholic country, no shops are open on Sunday. Strangely enough, all the museums are closed on Monday. This being the case, we are not going to be able to see any of the museums, but we will be going to the Tiergartens to walk through the park. Had yummy dinner with veggies! These seem to have been a bit light on. But that is tomorrow.
Saturday 28th August
Munich to Frankfurt via the romantic road:
Not so romantic but certainly great views. Lots of farming land and beautiful villages (“willages” as Linda our tour guide from Slovakia- would say) all along the way. Linda played lots of romantic songs for us. A 3 and a half hour drive, punctuated by a 45 minute break for morning tea, took us to Rothenberg (would I lie to you about a German town name?)
You can ride your bike along the romantic road as it is not the autobahn, more like a country road but still quite wide and reasonably flat. The scenery was really exceptional and the area is the start of the wine area in the south of Germany
Some of the buildings go back to 1352 – an apothecary building (chemist). The buildings were what you would expect to see in the German country side. The town square was one of the best kept we have seen. The city was not damaged by the war. No graffiti unlike Prague which was plagued by graffiti.
We had a 3hr stay there to lunch up, buy souvenir (which we did. Most other places we have just bought postcards) and take numerous photos. It was a lovely place with lots of woodcarvings, cuckoo clocks and also Birkenstock shops. Also on the hour under the town clock a window would open and two mechanical men would have their beers. It doesn’t take a lot to entertain us!
The last two hours into Frankfurt were a bit of a drag as it meant the end of the bus trip. The final group meal was on at night and we all said our goodbyes (some goodbyes more than once). The group was great and we made particular friends with three different couples from Canada so we have lots of people to visit and places to stay. May be a little while before we do this as we have a wedding to organize and enjoy!
Not so romantic but certainly great views. Lots of farming land and beautiful villages (“willages” as Linda our tour guide from Slovakia- would say) all along the way. Linda played lots of romantic songs for us. A 3 and a half hour drive, punctuated by a 45 minute break for morning tea, took us to Rothenberg (would I lie to you about a German town name?)
You can ride your bike along the romantic road as it is not the autobahn, more like a country road but still quite wide and reasonably flat. The scenery was really exceptional and the area is the start of the wine area in the south of Germany
Some of the buildings go back to 1352 – an apothecary building (chemist). The buildings were what you would expect to see in the German country side. The town square was one of the best kept we have seen. The city was not damaged by the war. No graffiti unlike Prague which was plagued by graffiti.
We had a 3hr stay there to lunch up, buy souvenir (which we did. Most other places we have just bought postcards) and take numerous photos. It was a lovely place with lots of woodcarvings, cuckoo clocks and also Birkenstock shops. Also on the hour under the town clock a window would open and two mechanical men would have their beers. It doesn’t take a lot to entertain us!
The last two hours into Frankfurt were a bit of a drag as it meant the end of the bus trip. The final group meal was on at night and we all said our goodbyes (some goodbyes more than once). The group was great and we made particular friends with three different couples from Canada so we have lots of people to visit and places to stay. May be a little while before we do this as we have a wedding to organize and enjoy!
Friday 27th August
The next day was Prague to Munich via an old town called Nordlingen, a walled city from the 13th century which was untouched during the war. We had a wander through the town, then on to Munich. Munich is town of old and new. Another glockenspiel! Some of the young ones headed to town for a drink and a meal at the Hofhaus. We were boring and went with a group to the local pub. The waiter was lovely and very patient with crazy tourists who have no idea about German menus. We had a great evening once again with our Canadian friends. Most Europeans speak English and put us to shame. We drove past the spot where they are setting up for this year’s Oktoberfest. Lots of beer tents already erected. Some quite old buildings and BMW and Mercedes are trying to outdo each other by constructing amazing buildings.
Thursday 26th August
Prague. We skipped the optional tour of the palace (palaced out) and wandered through the town. We crossed over Charles Bridge which spans the Danube, (lots of bridges here) this bridge is hundreds of years old and has statues all along it. One was of the crucifixion of Christ. Prague seemed poorer then some cities we have visited. There was lots of graffiti and many of the buildings needed cleaning and then a sealant applied but we think lack of money is the reason this has not happened. Once again in Prague we saw brides at the town hall. This was early in the day. They had photos taken under the Astronomical clack. An amazing clock which had a glockenspiel (spelling?) play on the hour. We took photos like all the other mad tourists. I am taking note of all the European wedding fashions Kath so you can be right up there with them. There are a few weirs across the river here and they make for good photos. We also found the church with original statue of the Infant of Prague. As children we only ever saw the statue with red clothing. Like the Black Madonna the statue has many outfits. That night we had a great meal with Czech food and entertainment. Adrian reinjured his knee (first time at the buck’s day cricket match) doing the Mazurka (a dance).
The food and entertainment was great. The red wine was a bit suss. When the waiter poured it from about a metre from the glass, a little bit was spilt and it turned the table cloth blue/grey. The taste was a bit like that also so I stuck to the beer. Speaking of beer, I haven’t found a beer in Europe that I haven’t liked. I stick to pilsner and they have been very good.
The food and entertainment was great. The red wine was a bit suss. When the waiter poured it from about a metre from the glass, a little bit was spilt and it turned the table cloth blue/grey. The taste was a bit like that also so I stuck to the beer. Speaking of beer, I haven’t found a beer in Europe that I haven’t liked. I stick to pilsner and they have been very good.
Wednesday 25th August
An early morning departure for the trip from Vienna to Prague. We arrived after lunch and did a tour through the city. We even found a hundred year old statue of Darth Vader. (See photo). Once again these cities are all beautiful; you just have to wander by yourselves. The town square as always was beautiful. This square did not suffer much damaged in the war but it was the site of battles over the years.
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