Saturday, March 23, 2013 ~ Disembarkation
Our flight was not scheduled until 5:00pm so we were in absolutely no rush to get off our ship. We awoke around 7am and headed to the dining room for breakfast. Breakfast on the last day of a cruise is always different, the waiters have either gotten their tips...or not...so they have zero incentive to be at their best...and they are not. We were seated at a table that already had 6 people, making it 8 with us with two more vacant seats.
They tried to squeeze another couple into those vacant seats and the gentleman said he sat at this table for dinner and they normally have 8 seats....meaning they squeezed in two people on the end. The result being that they have 1/2 a place setting with no room to eat their meal....They demanded other seats and were soon moved. I couldn't blame them.
The food was actually better than our previous experience on debarkation.
We took a quick trip up to the upper decks so I could take a few pictures of NY port and then headed down to our room to clean up and pickup our things so they could clean.
We are platinum and were given priority debarkation numbers so we found a comfortable sofa on the promenade deck to wait. Around 10am we made our way off the ship to look for our luggage. There were only 3 or 5 numbered areas with luggage so ours were fairly easy to locate. We headed to the line for customs and were finished in less than 15 minutes.
We were disappointed that Carnival didn't offer a tour ending at the airport so we bought 2 transfers. The bus was comfortable and bus driver was VERY nice. By time we were deposited with our luggage at the airport it was around Noon. We checked our luggage at the curb and headed into the concourse. Since we were early, we had a couple burgers before finding the concourse number for our flight.
The airport was very crowded with spring breakers headed to Orlando/Disney. Once those flights were gone it was fairly empty. We had direct flights in arrived in New Orleans 15 minutes early. It felt soooo good to be home!
Follow us as we travel this plant called Earth.
Saturday, March 23, 2013
Thursday, March 21, 2013
SeaDay 27
Thursday, March 21, 2013 - SeaDay 27
We started the morning with breakfast on the Lido deck and then headed to the hot tub. We were not in it very long before the skies opened and it poured rain. We did not get out right away.....until it started lightening..
We spent the rest of the morning exploring the ship and visiting with everyone. After lunch we took time to sort our souvenirs and filling laundry bags to send to cleaning. Having complimentary laundry has been very nice but we have to be careful what we send, they use far too much heat on clothing.
Dinner tonight was Chilean Sea Bass and a duck dish, dessert was delicious carrot cake.
The seas have become very rough today due to some cold fronts. We watched throughout the night as waves/water splashed over our OV cabin window.
We are very ready to go home now :)
We started the morning with breakfast on the Lido deck and then headed to the hot tub. We were not in it very long before the skies opened and it poured rain. We did not get out right away.....until it started lightening..
We spent the rest of the morning exploring the ship and visiting with everyone. After lunch we took time to sort our souvenirs and filling laundry bags to send to cleaning. Having complimentary laundry has been very nice but we have to be careful what we send, they use far too much heat on clothing.
Dinner tonight was Chilean Sea Bass and a duck dish, dessert was delicious carrot cake.
The seas have become very rough today due to some cold fronts. We watched throughout the night as waves/water splashed over our OV cabin window.
We are very ready to go home now :)
Wednesday, March 20, 2013
Sea Day 26/9
Wednesday, March 20, 2013 - Sea Day 26/9
Today was a wonderfully relaxing day. We have begun to really savor these last couple of days on ship. No cleaning, no cooking, no grocery shopping, no laundry.... That is not to say we don't miss our life and our home, we do. We really miss all our kids and grandkids.
This morning we had delicious omelets and fruit for breakfast. Next, we put on our swimsuits and headed for the hot tub. It didn't feel as warm as usual, I guess the ocean waters are cooling as we head north. We enjoyed a cooler breeze as we relaxed on the deck, really refreshing.
During the afternoon we enjoyed some trivia with our friends from NJ, Hubby really liked to sports trivia. Dinner was Chateaubriand with delicious crunch string beans and asparagus. Dessert was chocolate cake. The show tonight was called Vroom, it was a repeat but we like the 70's-80's music.
We watched a seminar on some upcoming transatlantic cruises and they have begun to talk about disembarkation and our arrival in NYC.
Today was a wonderfully relaxing day. We have begun to really savor these last couple of days on ship. No cleaning, no cooking, no grocery shopping, no laundry.... That is not to say we don't miss our life and our home, we do. We really miss all our kids and grandkids.
This morning we had delicious omelets and fruit for breakfast. Next, we put on our swimsuits and headed for the hot tub. It didn't feel as warm as usual, I guess the ocean waters are cooling as we head north. We enjoyed a cooler breeze as we relaxed on the deck, really refreshing.
During the afternoon we enjoyed some trivia with our friends from NJ, Hubby really liked to sports trivia. Dinner was Chateaubriand with delicious crunch string beans and asparagus. Dessert was chocolate cake. The show tonight was called Vroom, it was a repeat but we like the 70's-80's music.
We watched a seminar on some upcoming transatlantic cruises and they have begun to talk about disembarkation and our arrival in NYC.
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
St. John Antigua
Tuesday, March 19, 2013 - St. John Antigua
We arrived around 9am to the most amazing blue waters! As the ship cruised into the cove to dock we were in awe at the breathtaking views. We took photos and then ate a quick breakfast of cereal and fruit. There was an English Navy supply boat in port along side of us and we waved back n forth in greetings.
We decided on another beach day for our final port. We originally wanted to snorkeling at Prickly Pear Island offered but the taxi driver said that tour was only offered through the ship. If we come to this island again, i will either book the ship tour or try to reserve a tour on our own online...in advance. Since the Island was out...We shared a cab with friends Peggy & Jim and headed out for some swimming/snorkeling at a beach which was said to be the best snorkeling spot, 2nd only to the island snorkeling. It cost $9 each couple one way for the taxi and both drivers were very friendly and offered advice and suggestions along the way. When we arrived at Long Bay beach we were greeted with a gorgeous beach. We paid $15 for 2 chairs & umbrella in the shade. The beach had a bar/restaurant that offered restrooms/drinks/snack foods. There was a couple people selling but their items were too high. There is little or no room for bartering here. On the way back to the ship the taxi driver stopped at devil's bridge so we could take some photos, we got some great photos of the angry ocean sprays. He also offered to stop for a piece of sugar cane from a vendor but we declined because we did not think it would be allowed on the ship or through customs.
Let me say that we found the shopkeepers to be the rudest and most unwelcoming bunch that we have come across on this trip. If you dared to offer less than their asking price you were insulted and shoo'd away. We did not buy anything from the locals here. We did however buy jewelry from a ship guaranteed shop.
We had an awesome visit here. Dinner was mouthwatering Ribeyes and fresh green beans and asparagus. Dessert was banana splits! YUM
The other locals we met were friendly and sincere., We enjoyed a wonderful day in St. John
We felt a little tug at my heart as we sailed away from the last of our 22 ports on this trip of a lifetime. The time seems to have flown by. Each port was amazing and our experiences have been rewarding. We will never forget this trip as we sail back to the United States (NYC)
We arrived around 9am to the most amazing blue waters! As the ship cruised into the cove to dock we were in awe at the breathtaking views. We took photos and then ate a quick breakfast of cereal and fruit. There was an English Navy supply boat in port along side of us and we waved back n forth in greetings.
We decided on another beach day for our final port. We originally wanted to snorkeling at Prickly Pear Island offered but the taxi driver said that tour was only offered through the ship. If we come to this island again, i will either book the ship tour or try to reserve a tour on our own online...in advance. Since the Island was out...We shared a cab with friends Peggy & Jim and headed out for some swimming/snorkeling at a beach which was said to be the best snorkeling spot, 2nd only to the island snorkeling. It cost $9 each couple one way for the taxi and both drivers were very friendly and offered advice and suggestions along the way. When we arrived at Long Bay beach we were greeted with a gorgeous beach. We paid $15 for 2 chairs & umbrella in the shade. The beach had a bar/restaurant that offered restrooms/drinks/snack foods. There was a couple people selling but their items were too high. There is little or no room for bartering here. On the way back to the ship the taxi driver stopped at devil's bridge so we could take some photos, we got some great photos of the angry ocean sprays. He also offered to stop for a piece of sugar cane from a vendor but we declined because we did not think it would be allowed on the ship or through customs.
Let me say that we found the shopkeepers to be the rudest and most unwelcoming bunch that we have come across on this trip. If you dared to offer less than their asking price you were insulted and shoo'd away. We did not buy anything from the locals here. We did however buy jewelry from a ship guaranteed shop.
We had an awesome visit here. Dinner was mouthwatering Ribeyes and fresh green beans and asparagus. Dessert was banana splits! YUM
The other locals we met were friendly and sincere., We enjoyed a wonderful day in St. John
We felt a little tug at my heart as we sailed away from the last of our 22 ports on this trip of a lifetime. The time seems to have flown by. Each port was amazing and our experiences have been rewarding. We will never forget this trip as we sail back to the United States (NYC)
Monday, March 18, 2013
Barbados
Monday, March 18, 2013 - Barbados
We arrived in port earlier than schedule (around 6am). I took some beautiful sunrise pictures over the island. We were greeted with beautiful weather. We had a cruise critic tour to a nearby beach called Carlisle Bay. $5 pp taxi each way was a bargain. We were dropped off at a place called Harbor Lights, a restaurant/bar/beach spot. We walked right through to the beach, rented 2 beach chairs and an umbrella for $15. OMG the water was crystal clear and beautiful shades of sapphire/emerald blues..just beautiful. We enjoyed a glorious 3 hours in the water. When we were ready to head back they even got us a cab.
We spent an hour or so shopping in some boutique stores before boarding the ship....it was a wonderful day.
Dinner was meatloaf and mashed potatoes. The show was a new guy who sang motown hits, he was good, not great..but good :)
We arrived in port earlier than schedule (around 6am). I took some beautiful sunrise pictures over the island. We were greeted with beautiful weather. We had a cruise critic tour to a nearby beach called Carlisle Bay. $5 pp taxi each way was a bargain. We were dropped off at a place called Harbor Lights, a restaurant/bar/beach spot. We walked right through to the beach, rented 2 beach chairs and an umbrella for $15. OMG the water was crystal clear and beautiful shades of sapphire/emerald blues..just beautiful. We enjoyed a glorious 3 hours in the water. When we were ready to head back they even got us a cab.
We spent an hour or so shopping in some boutique stores before boarding the ship....it was a wonderful day.
Dinner was meatloaf and mashed potatoes. The show was a new guy who sang motown hits, he was good, not great..but good :)
Sunday, March 17, 2013
Sea Day 25/8
Sunday, March 17, 2013 - Sea Day 25/8
We started today with our typical routine. Hot Tubbin then relax on deck chairs. It is noticeably cooler and there was a pleasant breeze on the deck. Beyond noon there was not much going on. No good movies at night, there was another hypnotist show in the theatre which we declined but later heard it was funny. Ya never know I guess. Dinner was unusually quick. I had beef stroganoff which was tasty but they make it with spaghetti noodles instead of the typical wide egg noodles.
We started today with our typical routine. Hot Tubbin then relax on deck chairs. It is noticeably cooler and there was a pleasant breeze on the deck. Beyond noon there was not much going on. No good movies at night, there was another hypnotist show in the theatre which we declined but later heard it was funny. Ya never know I guess. Dinner was unusually quick. I had beef stroganoff which was tasty but they make it with spaghetti noodles instead of the typical wide egg noodles.
Saturday, March 16, 2013
Sea Day 21/7
Saturday, March 16, 2013 - Sea Day 21/7
Today was a rainy day. We had omelets for breakfast in the Lido deck. Afterwards we played trivia and name that tune with some of our newfound friends onboard. We also received our passports today and we were thrilled to discover stamps from all the South American countries, so kewl :)
Tonight we were treated to dinner at the exclusive Pinnacle Steakhouse. OMG it was the most delicious meal we have had on our entire 40+ days onboard. Worth every penny. I had filet mignon, it was tender and mouthwatering. Hubby had NY strip, it was huge and he said it was also quite delicious. Others at our table had the lobster and they said it was perfectly steamed.
The Captain announced today that we would not be going to Grand Turk due to an outbreak of GI...instead we will be docking in Antigua. We have been to Antigua but cannot remember what we did, we planned a beach day in Grand Turk so we will probably do the same in Antigua.
Today was a rainy day. We had omelets for breakfast in the Lido deck. Afterwards we played trivia and name that tune with some of our newfound friends onboard. We also received our passports today and we were thrilled to discover stamps from all the South American countries, so kewl :)
Tonight we were treated to dinner at the exclusive Pinnacle Steakhouse. OMG it was the most delicious meal we have had on our entire 40+ days onboard. Worth every penny. I had filet mignon, it was tender and mouthwatering. Hubby had NY strip, it was huge and he said it was also quite delicious. Others at our table had the lobster and they said it was perfectly steamed.
The Captain announced today that we would not be going to Grand Turk due to an outbreak of GI...instead we will be docking in Antigua. We have been to Antigua but cannot remember what we did, we planned a beach day in Grand Turk so we will probably do the same in Antigua.
Friday, March 15, 2013
Sea Day 21/7
Friday, March 15, 2013 - Sea Day 21/7
We awoke to cloudy skies today, I guess we can't complain since we had such beautiful weather our entire trip around South America. We had a wonderful brunch today, filet mignon & bloody marys. It was very good. After breakfast we followed our morning routine.....hot tubbin then suntannin. It was very relaxing, we didn't try the pool today since the overcast skies made the water seem cooler.
We went back to our room, showered and then roamed the ship the rest of the day. Did a little casino, a little window shopping and had ice cream cones for lunch..YUM!
Nothing on the dinner menu appealed to us so we ate dinner on the Lido deck. We had tasty BBQ pork chops, mashed potatoes and some type of chocolate pudding dessert.
No show tonight, I read a book while hubby played poker in the casino. Looks like we will be getting into Barbados a day early...not sure what the captain is planning, guess we will know when we know :) They took everyone's passports at embarkation in Long Beach and held them throughout our cruise in South America...today they are finally returning them saying that the Caribbean ports will not check them. I expect the typical chaotic lines.
We awoke to cloudy skies today, I guess we can't complain since we had such beautiful weather our entire trip around South America. We had a wonderful brunch today, filet mignon & bloody marys. It was very good. After breakfast we followed our morning routine.....hot tubbin then suntannin. It was very relaxing, we didn't try the pool today since the overcast skies made the water seem cooler.
We went back to our room, showered and then roamed the ship the rest of the day. Did a little casino, a little window shopping and had ice cream cones for lunch..YUM!
Nothing on the dinner menu appealed to us so we ate dinner on the Lido deck. We had tasty BBQ pork chops, mashed potatoes and some type of chocolate pudding dessert.
No show tonight, I read a book while hubby played poker in the casino. Looks like we will be getting into Barbados a day early...not sure what the captain is planning, guess we will know when we know :) They took everyone's passports at embarkation in Long Beach and held them throughout our cruise in South America...today they are finally returning them saying that the Caribbean ports will not check them. I expect the typical chaotic lines.
Thursday, March 14, 2013
Fortaleza Brazil
Thursday, March 14, 2013 - Fortaleza Brazil
Carnival cancelled our day at this port due to high winds and rough seas. The ship had difficulty when one of the ropes used to tie another cruise ship down, snapped and injured a crewman. Carnival decided not to risk our safety and we sailed away.....so sad. I was really looking forward to this port :(
Carnival cancelled our day at this port due to high winds and rough seas. The ship had difficulty when one of the ropes used to tie another cruise ship down, snapped and injured a crewman. Carnival decided not to risk our safety and we sailed away.....so sad. I was really looking forward to this port :(
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Sea Day 19/5
Wednesday, March 13, 2013 - SeaDay 19/5
As is our normal sea day routine....We enjoyed coffee in our cabin delivered by room service. After Hubby finished his morning walk in the hot sun....we dressed for breakfast. Today was cereal and fruit. After breakfast we relaxed and the hot tub and then enjoyed a cool swim in the saltwater pool. Around Noon we headed back to our cabin to shower. We spent a little time in the casino playing penny machines. Afterwards Hubby played poker while I read on my kindle.
Tonight's entertainment is a hypnotist named David Knight who also joined the ship in Recife. He was just ok, I don't particularly care for hypnotist acts....their so fake :(
As is our normal sea day routine....We enjoyed coffee in our cabin delivered by room service. After Hubby finished his morning walk in the hot sun....we dressed for breakfast. Today was cereal and fruit. After breakfast we relaxed and the hot tub and then enjoyed a cool swim in the saltwater pool. Around Noon we headed back to our cabin to shower. We spent a little time in the casino playing penny machines. Afterwards Hubby played poker while I read on my kindle.
Tonight's entertainment is a hypnotist named David Knight who also joined the ship in Recife. He was just ok, I don't particularly care for hypnotist acts....their so fake :(
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Recife, Brazil
Tuesday, March 12, 2013 - Recife, Brazil
Recife is one of the largest and most important cities on the NE coast of Brazil. The city was originally founded by the Dutch. Their population is nearly 4 million. I was saddened to discover that their beaches are polluted and the water was not safe to swim.
The port is industrial and we had to be bussed from the ship to downtown. When we departed the bus we noticed the towns waterway to be disgusting and full of sewerage. We immediately negotiated a cab ride for $30 to the small town of Olinda (15 mins away). We spent two hours taking pictures and browsing the craft shops before returning back to the ship.
We were back on the ship by Noon, we could have gladly skipped this port!
After dinner we headed to the theatre. We were entertained by Petrina Johnson, a Vocalist & Impressionist from England. Apparently, Carnival flew her into Recife and she had just boarded the ship around 3pm. She was a wonderful singer and we truly enjoyed her show.
Recife is one of the largest and most important cities on the NE coast of Brazil. The city was originally founded by the Dutch. Their population is nearly 4 million. I was saddened to discover that their beaches are polluted and the water was not safe to swim.
The port is industrial and we had to be bussed from the ship to downtown. When we departed the bus we noticed the towns waterway to be disgusting and full of sewerage. We immediately negotiated a cab ride for $30 to the small town of Olinda (15 mins away). We spent two hours taking pictures and browsing the craft shops before returning back to the ship.
We were back on the ship by Noon, we could have gladly skipped this port!
After dinner we headed to the theatre. We were entertained by Petrina Johnson, a Vocalist & Impressionist from England. Apparently, Carnival flew her into Recife and she had just boarded the ship around 3pm. She was a wonderful singer and we truly enjoyed her show.
Monday, March 11, 2013
Free Laundry yippee!
Monday, March 11, 2013 - Sea Day 18/4
We became platinum on this leg of the cruise which mean free laundry for life.. How kewl is that? No more washing clothes on cruises. Today was another wonderfully relaxing seaday.
We had cereal and fruit for breakfast on the lido followed by a nice relaxing hour in the hot tub. The hot tubs are not really hot, more like not-cold. Afterwards we were barely able to lay in the soon an hour before we had to leave. The sun is so scorching hot this close to the equator!
We didn't go to the show today since we had already seen it. We decided to enjoy a nice movie under the stars, the name was In The Blue. I don't remember seeing it before, maybe we didn't? It was filmed in Bahamas i think, it was about some locals looking for pirate treasure for long ago, it was a good show
We became platinum on this leg of the cruise which mean free laundry for life.. How kewl is that? No more washing clothes on cruises. Today was another wonderfully relaxing seaday.
We had cereal and fruit for breakfast on the lido followed by a nice relaxing hour in the hot tub. The hot tubs are not really hot, more like not-cold. Afterwards we were barely able to lay in the soon an hour before we had to leave. The sun is so scorching hot this close to the equator!
We didn't go to the show today since we had already seen it. We decided to enjoy a nice movie under the stars, the name was In The Blue. I don't remember seeing it before, maybe we didn't? It was filmed in Bahamas i think, it was about some locals looking for pirate treasure for long ago, it was a good show
Sunday, March 10, 2013
Salvador Brazil
Sunday, March 10, 2013 ~ Salvador Brazil
I didn't expect much in Salvador because I knew beforehand that it was a poor area. We were forewarned by the ship not to venture off very far alone. Violence and pickpockets were everywhere. As we pulled into the dock the water was filled with trash. Simply put, it is a dirty-stinky city. I was not planning to even get off the ship but decided at the last minute to visit a small market about 4 blocks from the port.
The market had 2 levels and was filled with various vendors selling mostly linens. We bought Brazilian soccer shirts for the kids and a hat for Hubby. I also bought a handmade crochet top that I think Chastity will like. We returned to the ship around lunch time. It was nice to be able to eat the Lido without all the crowds. After lunch we decided to use the hot tub a bit and then took a long afternoon nap.
We are getting closer to the equator with each passing day. It is daylight at 5:00am now...sunset is around 5:30. The heat and humidity are so much worse than at home,. I took some wonderful pictures of the sunset before dinner.
I didn't expect much in Salvador because I knew beforehand that it was a poor area. We were forewarned by the ship not to venture off very far alone. Violence and pickpockets were everywhere. As we pulled into the dock the water was filled with trash. Simply put, it is a dirty-stinky city. I was not planning to even get off the ship but decided at the last minute to visit a small market about 4 blocks from the port.
The market had 2 levels and was filled with various vendors selling mostly linens. We bought Brazilian soccer shirts for the kids and a hat for Hubby. I also bought a handmade crochet top that I think Chastity will like. We returned to the ship around lunch time. It was nice to be able to eat the Lido without all the crowds. After lunch we decided to use the hot tub a bit and then took a long afternoon nap.
We are getting closer to the equator with each passing day. It is daylight at 5:00am now...sunset is around 5:30. The heat and humidity are so much worse than at home,. I took some wonderful pictures of the sunset before dinner.
Saturday, March 9, 2013
Sea Day 17/3
Saturday, March 9, 2013 ~ Sea Day 17/3
Today we spent an hour soaking up some rays and enjoying a pina colada on deck. Then it was karaoke & a little casino time. Tonight is the Captains party with free drinks for the entire ship as well as formal dining night with lobster. Hubby ordered 2 lobster because they are small.
After dinner we saw a singer/tapper from England named Joe West. He came onboard in Rio and was very entertaining. He played the sax, clarinet & flute. He sang and also did tap dancer, he really gave a fabulous performance and received a standing ovation.
Today we spent an hour soaking up some rays and enjoying a pina colada on deck. Then it was karaoke & a little casino time. Tonight is the Captains party with free drinks for the entire ship as well as formal dining night with lobster. Hubby ordered 2 lobster because they are small.
After dinner we saw a singer/tapper from England named Joe West. He came onboard in Rio and was very entertaining. He played the sax, clarinet & flute. He sang and also did tap dancer, he really gave a fabulous performance and received a standing ovation.
Friday, March 8, 2013
Rio de Janero baby
Friday, March 8, 2013 - Rio de Janero baby!
Rio is a huge bustling city. There were 3 ships in port including ours while we were here so traffic was heavy everywhere. Today we joined a tour that would include the Sugar Loaf mountain and Christ Redeemer statue. Our first stop of the day was sugarloaf. We took two different trams to reach the top. The views were magnificent. We took photos of Copacabana Beach, the harbors, even a couple of the statue in the distance. We were allowed about 30 minutes which was more than enough to get our photos.
Afterwards we were treated to lunch at a local Brazilian buffet. I could not tell you the names of anything we tasted but after eating the same foods on the ship for over a month....it was great to get different. My favorite was a fried banana that was with a cinnamon coating.
Next, we headed for the statue. It took two vans to reach the top. The driver was crazy. I felt like I was on a rollercoaster that was out of control. On the way down I kept my eyes closed lol.
When we reached the statue on the top it was covered in haze. We soon realized that if we were patient and waited for the wind to blow a little it would clear the statue for a fraction of second to take pictures. It was an awe inspiring experience. Afterwards we bought a tiny statue and a cheap silver pendant of the statue.
We were dropped off by the ship terminal around 5pm. I was a little disappointed that our tour guide did not let us get out at the beach to take pictures for a few minutes. I would have loved some photos of the sand sculptures while Hubby wanted bikini pics lol
The wall of humidity that met us upon arrival in Rio was just let Nawlins and we felt right at home ;)
Rio is a huge bustling city. There were 3 ships in port including ours while we were here so traffic was heavy everywhere. Today we joined a tour that would include the Sugar Loaf mountain and Christ Redeemer statue. Our first stop of the day was sugarloaf. We took two different trams to reach the top. The views were magnificent. We took photos of Copacabana Beach, the harbors, even a couple of the statue in the distance. We were allowed about 30 minutes which was more than enough to get our photos.
Afterwards we were treated to lunch at a local Brazilian buffet. I could not tell you the names of anything we tasted but after eating the same foods on the ship for over a month....it was great to get different. My favorite was a fried banana that was with a cinnamon coating.
Next, we headed for the statue. It took two vans to reach the top. The driver was crazy. I felt like I was on a rollercoaster that was out of control. On the way down I kept my eyes closed lol.
When we reached the statue on the top it was covered in haze. We soon realized that if we were patient and waited for the wind to blow a little it would clear the statue for a fraction of second to take pictures. It was an awe inspiring experience. Afterwards we bought a tiny statue and a cheap silver pendant of the statue.
We were dropped off by the ship terminal around 5pm. I was a little disappointed that our tour guide did not let us get out at the beach to take pictures for a few minutes. I would have loved some photos of the sand sculptures while Hubby wanted bikini pics lol
The wall of humidity that met us upon arrival in Rio was just let Nawlins and we felt right at home ;)
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
Buenos Aires Argentina
Tuesday, March 5, 2013 - Buenos Aires Argentina.
Today marks the end of the 2nd leg and beginning of our 3rd and final leg of this journey. We have a full day walking tour scheduled with Alan at buenostours.com. Alan is a 31yr old Englishman who originally came to Buenos Aires to become fluent in Spanish but liked the area so much that he stayed.
My first impression of the Buenos as we began our tour in the area known as San Telmo is that it reminded me of the French quarter with its balconies. Here there are many street fairs on Sundays at night there are tango performances. Alan explained that tango dancing is popular in the small bars here. Single men will search for the best tango dancer among the ladies over the best looking. Locals take their tango dancing art very seriously. We also passed several brothels along the way. Brothels are legal here. I was disappointed that we didn't get to attend a tango show :(
We visited the Plaza de Mayo are which included the Metropolitan Cathedral and state buildings. We took photos in from of the balcony in The Casa Rosada (the pink palace) where Evita Peron spoke to her adoring crowds. It was also the spot where Madonna sang "Don't cry for me Argentina" in the movie about Evita. It was interesting to note that the Argentine government and its people did not want foreigners to enter. The dictator at the time considered himself the ladies man and liked to be seen with Celebrities. He struck a deal that Madonna would have a private dinner with him in exchange for her being allowed to sing from the balcony. She then had to be secretly allowed in during the early morning hours so as not to cause a demonstration.
The last area we visited known as the Recoleta, is home to the wealthiest of the city. Most of the designer shops who were here have been forced to close due to strict import taxes imposed. Argentina wants its people to buy items made locally over those imports so they tax imports so heavily that no one wants to buy. Sounds like something the US should adhere to! This area is also home to the cemetary of the wealthy which is where Evita Peron's body is now buried. This is the last place she would have wanted to be buried, Evita loved her middleclass and would have never like being with the wealthy.
Due to time restraints we didn't do lunch as planned. Instead we had a quick coffee/lunch break in one of the oldest cafe's in Buenos Aires. The interior was lovely. Works from local artists hung along the walls. Alan said it was a great honor to be displayed in the cafe. There was a very old but polished wood bar with an antique cash register still being used. In the back was beautifully decorated rooms celebrating the Buenos Aires laid back, relaxed attitudes. We enjoyed a delicious cone of Gelato brought to Buenos Aires by its Italian Immigrants.
We thoroughly enjoyed our tour!
Today marks the end of the 2nd leg and beginning of our 3rd and final leg of this journey. We have a full day walking tour scheduled with Alan at buenostours.com. Alan is a 31yr old Englishman who originally came to Buenos Aires to become fluent in Spanish but liked the area so much that he stayed.
My first impression of the Buenos as we began our tour in the area known as San Telmo is that it reminded me of the French quarter with its balconies. Here there are many street fairs on Sundays at night there are tango performances. Alan explained that tango dancing is popular in the small bars here. Single men will search for the best tango dancer among the ladies over the best looking. Locals take their tango dancing art very seriously. We also passed several brothels along the way. Brothels are legal here. I was disappointed that we didn't get to attend a tango show :(
We visited the Plaza de Mayo are which included the Metropolitan Cathedral and state buildings. We took photos in from of the balcony in The Casa Rosada (the pink palace) where Evita Peron spoke to her adoring crowds. It was also the spot where Madonna sang "Don't cry for me Argentina" in the movie about Evita. It was interesting to note that the Argentine government and its people did not want foreigners to enter. The dictator at the time considered himself the ladies man and liked to be seen with Celebrities. He struck a deal that Madonna would have a private dinner with him in exchange for her being allowed to sing from the balcony. She then had to be secretly allowed in during the early morning hours so as not to cause a demonstration.
The last area we visited known as the Recoleta, is home to the wealthiest of the city. Most of the designer shops who were here have been forced to close due to strict import taxes imposed. Argentina wants its people to buy items made locally over those imports so they tax imports so heavily that no one wants to buy. Sounds like something the US should adhere to! This area is also home to the cemetary of the wealthy which is where Evita Peron's body is now buried. This is the last place she would have wanted to be buried, Evita loved her middleclass and would have never like being with the wealthy.
Due to time restraints we didn't do lunch as planned. Instead we had a quick coffee/lunch break in one of the oldest cafe's in Buenos Aires. The interior was lovely. Works from local artists hung along the walls. Alan said it was a great honor to be displayed in the cafe. There was a very old but polished wood bar with an antique cash register still being used. In the back was beautifully decorated rooms celebrating the Buenos Aires laid back, relaxed attitudes. We enjoyed a delicious cone of Gelato brought to Buenos Aires by its Italian Immigrants.
We thoroughly enjoyed our tour!
Monday, March 4, 2013
MONTEVIDEO URUGUAY
Monday, March 4, 2013 ~ Montevideo Uruguay
Montevideo was a busy small town and is the southernmost CAPITAL city in South America. They hold the "El Gringo" surfing and body boarding championships here every year. Waters are very rough around the shores as strong winds blew most of the day.
We have a 3.5 hour walking tour scheduled with other cruise critic members. We met our guide at the gate and off we went. He was a friendly guy how offered us a wealth of history and genuinely loved his city. We visited the theatre and a beautiful historic church. We also visited a moment where the ashes of Jose' Gervasio Artigas, hero of the Uruguayan Independence is kept, the building contains his urn and two honor guards keeping watch.
Most fascinating part of this city was a huge building house various restaurants with huge firepits where they cook huge amounts of various meets on an open flame (bbq). This area has huge agricultural farming with cattle. Beef is their main food staple, they eat a lot of red meat. These restaurants offered opening seating areas where you find a chair and a waiter takes your order. it was amazing.
We also visited craft markets that offered soccer shirts, hats and various other items.
Montevideo was a busy small town and is the southernmost CAPITAL city in South America. They hold the "El Gringo" surfing and body boarding championships here every year. Waters are very rough around the shores as strong winds blew most of the day.
We have a 3.5 hour walking tour scheduled with other cruise critic members. We met our guide at the gate and off we went. He was a friendly guy how offered us a wealth of history and genuinely loved his city. We visited the theatre and a beautiful historic church. We also visited a moment where the ashes of Jose' Gervasio Artigas, hero of the Uruguayan Independence is kept, the building contains his urn and two honor guards keeping watch.
Most fascinating part of this city was a huge building house various restaurants with huge firepits where they cook huge amounts of various meets on an open flame (bbq). This area has huge agricultural farming with cattle. Beef is their main food staple, they eat a lot of red meat. These restaurants offered opening seating areas where you find a chair and a waiter takes your order. it was amazing.
We also visited craft markets that offered soccer shirts, hats and various other items.
Sunday, March 3, 2013
Happy Birthday Brooke!
Sunday, March 3, 2013 - Seaday 14/4
Wow, wonderfully rough seas today! I slept like a baby last night due to the rocking of our ship. I personally LOVE rough seas, I am fortunate not to be affected by rough seas like some and I find rough seas exhilarating.
This morning was a yummy Sunday Brunch. Salmon eggs benedict and mimosa for me and Filet Mignon for Hubby, Isn't it great to have a world class chef at your call?
I sit here sipping my Chilean wine, watching the seas as the swells grow higher than our window...LOVE, LOVE LOVE IT!
Today our exceptional room steward came by with plenty ice to keep our wine chilled and he kindly offered to make me another hanging monkey since my older one fell apart :)
Today will be the last fun day at sea for this 2nd leg of our 3 leg adventure cruise. I am still surprised that 2 legs of our journey are coming to an end, time certainly has gone by quickly.
I missed my beautiful granddaughters birthday this weekend and vowed to be more careful in selecting cruises in the future so we will not miss any more special family moments.
Wow, wonderfully rough seas today! I slept like a baby last night due to the rocking of our ship. I personally LOVE rough seas, I am fortunate not to be affected by rough seas like some and I find rough seas exhilarating.
This morning was a yummy Sunday Brunch. Salmon eggs benedict and mimosa for me and Filet Mignon for Hubby, Isn't it great to have a world class chef at your call?
I sit here sipping my Chilean wine, watching the seas as the swells grow higher than our window...LOVE, LOVE LOVE IT!
Today our exceptional room steward came by with plenty ice to keep our wine chilled and he kindly offered to make me another hanging monkey since my older one fell apart :)
Today will be the last fun day at sea for this 2nd leg of our 3 leg adventure cruise. I am still surprised that 2 legs of our journey are coming to an end, time certainly has gone by quickly.
I missed my beautiful granddaughters birthday this weekend and vowed to be more careful in selecting cruises in the future so we will not miss any more special family moments.
Saturday, March 2, 2013
PUERTO MADRYN ARGENTINA
Saturday, March 2, 2013 ~ Puerto Madryn Argentina
Puerto Madryn is a very small port. It is also the last port on our journey to offer tours to Penguin habitats. Puerto Madryn is one of the world biggest wildlife sanctuaries. Depending on the season, you can visit Penguin, sea lions or elephant seals.
Since we have already visited penguins on the two previous ports, we decided not to plan any tours this time.
There is only about 73,000 people living in this area. They speak Spanish, but most we encountered also spoke very good english. Puerto Madryn was settled by the Welsh in 1865. The port area is easily accessible. We walked through the streets with ease. While it was a Saturday morning, most of the businesses were just opening.
We didn't see any large stores. Mostly just souvenier type store, small mom & pop corner convenience stores and dollar store type clothing stores.
We purchased penguin earrings for our granddaughters. A penguin for Paige and bracelets for the older girlies. I also bought a penguin made of Argentina stone which I found at a much lower price than in other ports.
After spending the morning shopping we headed back to ship for lunch. We were going to send postcards but their postoffice was closed :(
Tonight is formal night in the dining room so we took a little longer dressing. There was filet mignon & redfish as main entrees. I am actually getting tired of filet mignon...can't believe I'm saying that.
After dinner we saw a magician in the Theatre. We was pretty good, certainly fooled me. We both thought the show to be entertaining and were pleased that we decided to attend. He did some great card and mindreading tricks. Very cool.
Puerto Madryn is a very small port. It is also the last port on our journey to offer tours to Penguin habitats. Puerto Madryn is one of the world biggest wildlife sanctuaries. Depending on the season, you can visit Penguin, sea lions or elephant seals.
Since we have already visited penguins on the two previous ports, we decided not to plan any tours this time.
There is only about 73,000 people living in this area. They speak Spanish, but most we encountered also spoke very good english. Puerto Madryn was settled by the Welsh in 1865. The port area is easily accessible. We walked through the streets with ease. While it was a Saturday morning, most of the businesses were just opening.
We didn't see any large stores. Mostly just souvenier type store, small mom & pop corner convenience stores and dollar store type clothing stores.
We purchased penguin earrings for our granddaughters. A penguin for Paige and bracelets for the older girlies. I also bought a penguin made of Argentina stone which I found at a much lower price than in other ports.
After spending the morning shopping we headed back to ship for lunch. We were going to send postcards but their postoffice was closed :(
Tonight is formal night in the dining room so we took a little longer dressing. There was filet mignon & redfish as main entrees. I am actually getting tired of filet mignon...can't believe I'm saying that.
After dinner we saw a magician in the Theatre. We was pretty good, certainly fooled me. We both thought the show to be entertaining and were pleased that we decided to attend. He did some great card and mindreading tricks. Very cool.
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