Well, we've started our trip North. Admittedly only a couple of miles, but still! Grassy Key RV Park is a small park with a pool, on the Gulf side. We're here for Christmas and then will head to the Naples area on the 28th.
What have we been doing?
*Kayaking through a mangrove swamp at Curry Hammock. Very tight fit even with a kayak. Mangroves overhead--really dense growth. And big spiders--the body about the size of a loonie!
*Going through the Dolphin Research Center--they have a new baby dolphin that is only 2 weeks old. The Mom is attentive to the new one and they swim around the enclosure together--but the baby is getting independent and starting to swim away from the Mom.
*Going through the Turtle Rescue Hospital. Ocean pollution is causing fibrous growths on the turtles, which they laser off. Also, they eat plastic bags and other floating garbage which causes them to get sick and unable to dive for food. And they get hit by boats. They have an ambulance, operating room, "wards", both private and semi-private, the whole deal.
*Watching their Christmas Boat Parades at 2 sites. They decorate up their boats and drive around. One of the little ones was all made up as Santa's sleigh, and a big one had part of the High School Band playing on deck! There was a pirate one as well, complete with noisy bangs and loud "aarghs".
Its been hot here--they have been beating records just about every day by 2 and 3 degrees. Sunday was 89F, old record 87, normal 76--they are already talking about it being the warmest December on record. So that and the high humidity slows us down a bit--pool time is welcome as is the trailer air conditioning!
We have 2 little battery powered Christmas trees on the go, and the outdoor lights and a couple of LED candy canes as well. Christmas carols on the stereo too. But it is quite different being away from family and cold. We miss you.
bye for now
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Living the Snowbird Life in the Florida Keys
The trip from the Lion Safari was great. We decided to take the road less travelled and avoided freeways. It took us through part of the Everglades where we saw many people on motorcycles! Bet you thought I was going to say Alligators! Not a one.
Our campsite at Curry Hammock State Park is great. Just steps to the beach with nice showers and no distractions like TV or Internet. It has electricity and water so we can stay cool as is about 85 degrees with high humidity. We are planning some snorkel trips out to the coral reef as we got prescription masks so we will be able to see the fish. We tried them out at our beach and they were great!
After some deliberation we have decided to stay down here for a while so hope to find a site nearby. We are going looking today. We spent a day in Key West and enjoyed it but probably will not go back as it was enough. It is a party town and very hot and a bit crowded.
We will update this as soon as we find a campsite with WiFi.
Our campsite at Curry Hammock State Park is great. Just steps to the beach with nice showers and no distractions like TV or Internet. It has electricity and water so we can stay cool as is about 85 degrees with high humidity. We are planning some snorkel trips out to the coral reef as we got prescription masks so we will be able to see the fish. We tried them out at our beach and they were great!
After some deliberation we have decided to stay down here for a while so hope to find a site nearby. We are going looking today. We spent a day in Key West and enjoyed it but probably will not go back as it was enough. It is a party town and very hot and a bit crowded.
We will update this as soon as we find a campsite with WiFi.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Leaving Lion Safari
after a fascinating few days.
The Lion Safari is a drive-through African animal park--we went twice. The animals are outside your vehicle in their home--they have lots of space to run around. They give you a CD to play as you drive through the park which describes the animals. Some thoughts of note:
*Ostriches are big. We're sitting in the truck and looking up at the head of the ostrich.
*rhinos are big. From the truck, we're about level with their backs. And their horns are big too!
*We got to feed giraffes. They are big, graceful, gentle animals with long (30-40 cm) purple tongues and huge eyes. We fed them "crackers" and plum leaves. Their tongues wrap around the food and they have lots of saliva, so we washed our hands afterwards!
*The KOA is just outside the park, so we could hear the lions roar, especially in the night and early morning. Its quite a sound to wake you up at 4AM! You're glad of the fact that there is at least a few fences and the trailer shell between you and them--and you think about sleeping in the open on the Serengeti!
Tomorrow we head down to the Keys. We've been buying Christmas decorations and looking around for zero-gravity beach chairs so we can make the best of a Christmas away from loved ones. Not sure when we'll be able to update the blog because there is no Internet at Curry Hammock State Park, where we are booked for 2 weeks. But there will be hot spots somewhere...
The Lion Safari is a drive-through African animal park--we went twice. The animals are outside your vehicle in their home--they have lots of space to run around. They give you a CD to play as you drive through the park which describes the animals. Some thoughts of note:
*Ostriches are big. We're sitting in the truck and looking up at the head of the ostrich.
*rhinos are big. From the truck, we're about level with their backs. And their horns are big too!
*We got to feed giraffes. They are big, graceful, gentle animals with long (30-40 cm) purple tongues and huge eyes. We fed them "crackers" and plum leaves. Their tongues wrap around the food and they have lots of saliva, so we washed our hands afterwards!
*The KOA is just outside the park, so we could hear the lions roar, especially in the night and early morning. Its quite a sound to wake you up at 4AM! You're glad of the fact that there is at least a few fences and the trailer shell between you and them--and you think about sleeping in the open on the Serengeti!
Tomorrow we head down to the Keys. We've been buying Christmas decorations and looking around for zero-gravity beach chairs so we can make the best of a Christmas away from loved ones. Not sure when we'll be able to update the blog because there is no Internet at Curry Hammock State Park, where we are booked for 2 weeks. But there will be hot spots somewhere...
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Happy US Thanksgiving
from the Lion Safari KOA near West Palm Beach. It has been a week since the last posting, so here's a catch-up!
The stay near Titusville was a nice combination of R&R and sightseeing. The park itself was a bit too close to I-95 noise-wise, but otherwise very nice. At around 5:30 every evening--dusk--about 50 egrets came and landed in a few trees on the other side of the pond and slept there overnight. It was really neat to see all their white figures in the dark as we were walking Abby. We went for a swim in the pool--but only once because we were otherwise too occupied! And, of course, a couple of shopping days...
On one day we went to the Canaveral Seashore National Park and had a tailgate picnic watching the waves rolling in. We had Abby with us and dogs aren't allowed on the beach. It was superb. Another day we went to Merritt Island Wildlife Preserve--just north of and very close to the shuttle launch site. Lots of seacoast and waves there too--we left Abby at home that day so we took a walk along the beach with the shorebirds and the waves rolling in. Laurel got her pants wet by a wave--and reports that the water was *cold*.
We wanted to get a bit further south to cut the length of the trip to the Keys so we travelled yesterday to the above KOA--it was a drizzly day but just after we got set up, it really chucked it down. We have signed on for a Thanksgiving Dinner tonight at the KOA--turkey, etc.! And, because we are right beside/part of the Lion Safari, we can hear all sorts of strange animal noises--baboons, birds, noisy grunts of some description, etc. Wierd, noisy, and somewhat upsetting to Abby!--but better than the road noise at the last place.
We are here for 4 nights, then off on Sunday to Curry Hammock State Park, about half way down the Keys, near Marathon. We won't have internet in the park, so will have the BlackBerry data on. We're there for 13 nights, and will use that time to plan out our next move. It is right on the ocean with a beach, so guess where we will be!
By to all!
The stay near Titusville was a nice combination of R&R and sightseeing. The park itself was a bit too close to I-95 noise-wise, but otherwise very nice. At around 5:30 every evening--dusk--about 50 egrets came and landed in a few trees on the other side of the pond and slept there overnight. It was really neat to see all their white figures in the dark as we were walking Abby. We went for a swim in the pool--but only once because we were otherwise too occupied! And, of course, a couple of shopping days...
On one day we went to the Canaveral Seashore National Park and had a tailgate picnic watching the waves rolling in. We had Abby with us and dogs aren't allowed on the beach. It was superb. Another day we went to Merritt Island Wildlife Preserve--just north of and very close to the shuttle launch site. Lots of seacoast and waves there too--we left Abby at home that day so we took a walk along the beach with the shorebirds and the waves rolling in. Laurel got her pants wet by a wave--and reports that the water was *cold*.
We wanted to get a bit further south to cut the length of the trip to the Keys so we travelled yesterday to the above KOA--it was a drizzly day but just after we got set up, it really chucked it down. We have signed on for a Thanksgiving Dinner tonight at the KOA--turkey, etc.! And, because we are right beside/part of the Lion Safari, we can hear all sorts of strange animal noises--baboons, birds, noisy grunts of some description, etc. Wierd, noisy, and somewhat upsetting to Abby!--but better than the road noise at the last place.
We are here for 4 nights, then off on Sunday to Curry Hammock State Park, about half way down the Keys, near Marathon. We won't have internet in the park, so will have the BlackBerry data on. We're there for 13 nights, and will use that time to plan out our next move. It is right on the ocean with a beach, so guess where we will be!
By to all!
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Disney World to Space Coast Florida
We have been cut off Technology for longer than Mike can stand! Now on Internet for the week...He needs to keep up wiyh the Space Station and NASA. Seeing the Shuttle launch was SPECTACULAR!!! It is so different to seeing it on TV. The sound is the most unique part, it seems to move the air around you. All in all a most worthwhile experience. Mike was totally in his element and can check one more thing off his "bucket list".
Our time with Dena and Jason in Disney World was a blast....we were on the fun run for a week! Our accomodations in Camp Wilderness were very beautiful and relaxing. It truly is a wilderness, with a resident Armadillo, deer, rabbits, ducks, squirrels and the odd Gator! Jay slept in the tent near the lake...I think he had one ear open for any wild creatures. My favourite park this time was Epcot, the crowds were few and the attractions updated and some were most wonderful...the aquarium and Manatee habitat and the greenhouses were very cool.
Pirates of the Carribean is still my all time favourite ride...I loved it even befire Johnny Depp came along! The Magic Kingdom could use some more attractions, or less admissions. there are way too many people for the space. The sel, sell, sell was known to us as the "fleecers" and it worked...I bought our Florida Christmas tree there. It is fibre optic with Mickey ear decorations and is very pretty. We will enjoy it wthout snow.
We have booked into a nice little park near the Space Coast and will stay here for a week. Time to rest and explore the area. Abby is happy to sit in one place and there are some other dogs here for sniffing and greeting.
TTYS
Laurel and Michael
Our time with Dena and Jason in Disney World was a blast....we were on the fun run for a week! Our accomodations in Camp Wilderness were very beautiful and relaxing. It truly is a wilderness, with a resident Armadillo, deer, rabbits, ducks, squirrels and the odd Gator! Jay slept in the tent near the lake...I think he had one ear open for any wild creatures. My favourite park this time was Epcot, the crowds were few and the attractions updated and some were most wonderful...the aquarium and Manatee habitat and the greenhouses were very cool.
Pirates of the Carribean is still my all time favourite ride...I loved it even befire Johnny Depp came along! The Magic Kingdom could use some more attractions, or less admissions. there are way too many people for the space. The sel, sell, sell was known to us as the "fleecers" and it worked...I bought our Florida Christmas tree there. It is fibre optic with Mickey ear decorations and is very pretty. We will enjoy it wthout snow.
We have booked into a nice little park near the Space Coast and will stay here for a week. Time to rest and explore the area. Abby is happy to sit in one place and there are some other dogs here for sniffing and greeting.
TTYS
Laurel and Michael
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Walt Disney World!!!
Some delay in this posting because we didn't have easy internet access--and we still don't, so it will be a short post.
We headed south from Savannah to St. Augustine, FL. It started out as a Spanish settlement, and still has a stone fort. It is quite touristy, but there are Spanish influences everywhere. We stayed in a somewhat dated RV park just south of town, right on the Intracoastal Waterway.
Then, a drive south to Orlando and into WDW Wilderness Park--the RV resort. Nice site, full services including cable, but Internet is an extra $10/day, so we didn't. We have been texting.
Dena and Jason get here tonight. We are all well. May not post again for a week...
We headed south from Savannah to St. Augustine, FL. It started out as a Spanish settlement, and still has a stone fort. It is quite touristy, but there are Spanish influences everywhere. We stayed in a somewhat dated RV park just south of town, right on the Intracoastal Waterway.
Then, a drive south to Orlando and into WDW Wilderness Park--the RV resort. Nice site, full services including cable, but Internet is an extra $10/day, so we didn't. We have been texting.
Dena and Jason get here tonight. We are all well. May not post again for a week...
Friday, November 6, 2009
Savannah, Georgia
is about 2 hours down the road from Charleston. We had a lazy morning and didn't actually arrive here until 1:30. After setting up the trailer, we went downtown to the Visitor Center and picked up a hop-on-hop-off trolly tour of the historical center of Savannah. The city was founded with a geometrical pattern of 24 squares--small parks--of which 22 are left. So, the tour wove in and around the squares and the historical buildings surrounding them. In spite of the Civil War and a number of city-wide fires, there are still lots left, and they are quite impressive. And lots of stone work left near the historical port--the areas where they graded the cotton are still there, as are just about all the original stone buildings, but they have been renovated into shops and restaurants and the like. Very well done.
We hit a WalMart Supercenter on the way back to the trailer. We are parked at a KOA with alligators in the lake right beside us--although we haven't seen them yet. Maybe tomorrow morning!
Tomorrow--Florida, the St. Augustine area.
We hit a WalMart Supercenter on the way back to the trailer. We are parked at a KOA with alligators in the lake right beside us--although we haven't seen them yet. Maybe tomorrow morning!
Tomorrow--Florida, the St. Augustine area.
Charleston, South Carolina
Wow....This is a city of 100,000 people that gets over 5 million tourists every year. The architecture is very unique, with many houses called single houses. They are only one room wide and have outdoor porticos on every floor on the side to catch the prevaling winds. They can be as tall as 3 floors and run from simple to elaborate. We took a tour which took us to the most interesting places...we saw Fort Sumter where the Cival War started. Mike was very interested in the model of a submarine called the Hunley. It was a very ill fated thing...killed all 3 crews to ever sail in it.
Lunch was French...Croque Monsieur for Mike and Quiche for me at a really cool old place in the historical section of town. We went walking to see the sights (shops) and poked through the open air market....us and all the passengers from the Crown Princess which happened to be in port. Did a little shopping!
Off to Savannah today....
Lunch was French...Croque Monsieur for Mike and Quiche for me at a really cool old place in the historical section of town. We went walking to see the sights (shops) and poked through the open air market....us and all the passengers from the Crown Princess which happened to be in port. Did a little shopping!
Off to Savannah today....
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
KY to Charleston, SC
Well, no Internet access means a gap in the blog, which we will fill right now!
From Bowling Green Kentucky we crossed basically straight East to the Cumberland Gap. Remember Daniel Boone and the Wilderness Road of 1775--well, that is where he passed over the Appalachian Mountains. It is where 3 states meet--we took a tunnel out of Kentucky and left the tunnel in Tennessee, then made a left turn and camped in Virginia! A very nice campground.
Tuesday, we had a short day, driving south through Tennessee to the Great Smokey Mountains. Dollywood and Gatlinberg TN were like a tourist nightmare, complete, Dena, with an Upside Down House, just like in the Dells! (We didn't stop!) However, the National Park is a great place--we camped last night beside a rushing stream, at the 2000 foot level--so it was chilly.
Today, Wednesday, we drove out of the Park and started up the Blue Ridge Parkway from its southern end. Beautiful country, lots of up (6400 feet) and down and lots of curvy roads. Most of the leaves have fallen--October would be a better month to see it--but it was still stunning. Then, we basically did a straight run for the coast at Charleston, South Carolina. Which is where we will be staying tomorrow. Abby needs a rest from driving--it is making her crazy. And, we are less than 500 miles from Disney Wilderness Park with 5 days to go before our reservation. It was 23C here when we arrived, and there are Palm Trees! Tomorrow, we are going to wander around the historic part of downtown and generally see the place.
From Bowling Green Kentucky we crossed basically straight East to the Cumberland Gap. Remember Daniel Boone and the Wilderness Road of 1775--well, that is where he passed over the Appalachian Mountains. It is where 3 states meet--we took a tunnel out of Kentucky and left the tunnel in Tennessee, then made a left turn and camped in Virginia! A very nice campground.
Tuesday, we had a short day, driving south through Tennessee to the Great Smokey Mountains. Dollywood and Gatlinberg TN were like a tourist nightmare, complete, Dena, with an Upside Down House, just like in the Dells! (We didn't stop!) However, the National Park is a great place--we camped last night beside a rushing stream, at the 2000 foot level--so it was chilly.
Today, Wednesday, we drove out of the Park and started up the Blue Ridge Parkway from its southern end. Beautiful country, lots of up (6400 feet) and down and lots of curvy roads. Most of the leaves have fallen--October would be a better month to see it--but it was still stunning. Then, we basically did a straight run for the coast at Charleston, South Carolina. Which is where we will be staying tomorrow. Abby needs a rest from driving--it is making her crazy. And, we are less than 500 miles from Disney Wilderness Park with 5 days to go before our reservation. It was 23C here when we arrived, and there are Palm Trees! Tomorrow, we are going to wander around the historic part of downtown and generally see the place.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Bowling Green, Kentucky
Actually, its very up and down country; not flat at all. VERY green, though, even on Nov 1--although the deciduous tree leaves are about 1/2 gone, the rest are colourful, there are lots of green fir trees and the grass is bright green. Good drive, except for Abby, who was having a "scared time" most of the trip. Staying at the KOA. We're about 1400 miles from home with about 800 left to go to Orlando.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Michigan, Wisconsin and Illinois
Day 2 was driving, in the driving rain and gale-force winds. Lousy mileage. Ended up in a Super 8 in the Wisconsin Dells. Day 3 was driving--it started out rainy but not so windy and ended up being a great day. We are camped at Camp Lakewood in Effingham, Il. Our first camping night this trip--great. Just down the road from a WalMart SuperCenter, where we bought a bunch of groceries and a TV. The staff was all dressed up in Halloween costumes. Tomorrow, we are slowing down a bit and heading East.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
On the Road to Florida
Laurel, Michael, Abby, the trailer and the truck set out this morning from Winnipeg on the way to Florida! A gray, rainy, driving day, so nothing to report--which is good news in itself! We stopped in Fergus Falls, MN at a motel because the campgrounds are closed. We had a Mexican dinner that was authentic and delicious--El Taquilaria, if you're in the area. Abby settled into driving after a while--but she sure does not like the bumpy highway 59.
Bye for now
Bye for now
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Home!
Well, we got everything into our 4 bags and 3 carryons, made it through the Westjet weigh-in (although 1 bag was exactly 50 pounds!) and had 2 short, pleasant flights home. Mom, Dena and Jason met us at the airport and now we're home, safe and sound, tired but happy.
What a trip. Wow. It is hard to believe that we were really there--we'll have to look at the pictures to be sure! Some places and experiences we want to go back and do again, but others we'd avoid. People were friendly everywhere we went. Travel has meant so much to us--helped/made us grow. Now, on to plan the next trip!!!
What a trip. Wow. It is hard to believe that we were really there--we'll have to look at the pictures to be sure! Some places and experiences we want to go back and do again, but others we'd avoid. People were friendly everywhere we went. Travel has meant so much to us--helped/made us grow. Now, on to plan the next trip!!!
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Ketchikan
Ketchikan is a cityof 10,000 (14,000 in the summer) on the shore of the inside passage. It is only accessable by sea or air, has 26 miles of road and thousands of cars. 1 in 7 people has a pilot's license, everyone owns at least one boat and usually a quad or snowmobile.
We got off the ship this morning soon after it docked and I (Laurel) decided to take a float plane trip to Misty Fjords National Monument. It is a unique mountainous area that is awesomely beautiful. We flew over mountains, frozen lakes, and stunning scenery. We landed on the fjord and got a chance to see it up close by getting out and standing on the floats...took me back to my north country past for sure! Michael was a little reluctant but was as awed as the rest of us on the plane ( a DeHavilland Beaver, the safest plane in the world!) We were out for 2 1/2 hours and could easily have stayed for more. Earlier it rained so we were not sure how the visibility would be but the sun came out and it was beautiful. They get 13.5 FEET of rain per year so trees grow in logged out areas without reforestation. After our flight we walked around downtown and visited the Alaska Interpretive centre...very interesting and a timber frame, stunning building. We went to the old red light district, called Creek Street, which is now cute shops and pubs.
We are on our last sea day tomorrow so will be busy trying to fit everything into our suitcases.....may not be possible! Looking forward to be home and see everyone!!
Laurel and Michael
We got off the ship this morning soon after it docked and I (Laurel) decided to take a float plane trip to Misty Fjords National Monument. It is a unique mountainous area that is awesomely beautiful. We flew over mountains, frozen lakes, and stunning scenery. We landed on the fjord and got a chance to see it up close by getting out and standing on the floats...took me back to my north country past for sure! Michael was a little reluctant but was as awed as the rest of us on the plane ( a DeHavilland Beaver, the safest plane in the world!) We were out for 2 1/2 hours and could easily have stayed for more. Earlier it rained so we were not sure how the visibility would be but the sun came out and it was beautiful. They get 13.5 FEET of rain per year so trees grow in logged out areas without reforestation. After our flight we walked around downtown and visited the Alaska Interpretive centre...very interesting and a timber frame, stunning building. We went to the old red light district, called Creek Street, which is now cute shops and pubs.
We are on our last sea day tomorrow so will be busy trying to fit everything into our suitcases.....may not be possible! Looking forward to be home and see everyone!!
Laurel and Michael
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Juneau
We--well, Michael...--were a bit slower getting mobile today--so, onshore for about 9:30. We took the tram up the mountain beside Juneau for a really great view of the town and the ship channel and the airport and mountains in the far distance. The tram is a biggie--40 people-- that goes almost straight up for 4 minutes. The weather was again perfect--sunny, clear, a gentle breeze and warm.
After the tram, we walked to the Alaska Museum and had a good look around. Lots of coastal First Nations items, plus a good section on the Russians in Alaska. We went many repeat many! steps up the side of a hill to catch the end of the main street in Juneau, and then walked down to the ship, stopping and shopping along the way. We missed the Governor's House by a block, but some folks we talked with said that Sarah Palin was in the window waving at them. We did not feel a great sense of loss...
We're leaving now--4:15 local--on the way to Ketchikan, so will blog after that.
After the tram, we walked to the Alaska Museum and had a good look around. Lots of coastal First Nations items, plus a good section on the Russians in Alaska. We went many repeat many! steps up the side of a hill to catch the end of the main street in Juneau, and then walked down to the ship, stopping and shopping along the way. We missed the Governor's House by a block, but some folks we talked with said that Sarah Palin was in the window waving at them. We did not feel a great sense of loss...
We're leaving now--4:15 local--on the way to Ketchikan, so will blog after that.
Skagway
What a neat place!
We got off the ship and straight onto the White Pass and Yukon Railway train. Powered by a older diesel--they have 2 working steam engines, but they are only used for weekend trips--there were about a dozen old passenger cars. This is a 3 foot narrow guage railway, but we had lots of room. The trip is awesome. The average grade is 2.6%, but it is quite a bit steeper in spots! And, the track itself is built into the side of the cliffs with tremendous drops over the edges. There is only one wooden trestle left, but it is a high one--lots of good pictures. There were a couple of spots where we think we could see the "Trail of '98"--but it was covered in snow. And, at the top, there is a replica of the RNWMP post.
(There were 2 Gold Rush routes--from Dyea over the Chilcoot Trail (shorter, but tougher) and from Skagway over the White Pass (longer, but easier--they used pack horses). From what we could see, the White Pass route was still darned tough!)
Then, we wandered around Skagway. Although the roads are paved, the "sidewalks" are still boardwalks. The town has a very small winter population that doubles for the tourist season. We went to a few museums--one big one and a few smaller exhibits. And wandered the town just absorbing the sunshine and the place, and a beer, to be truthful!
Then, we went for a swim and a hottub in the outdoor pool--it was really nice weather.
We got off the ship and straight onto the White Pass and Yukon Railway train. Powered by a older diesel--they have 2 working steam engines, but they are only used for weekend trips--there were about a dozen old passenger cars. This is a 3 foot narrow guage railway, but we had lots of room. The trip is awesome. The average grade is 2.6%, but it is quite a bit steeper in spots! And, the track itself is built into the side of the cliffs with tremendous drops over the edges. There is only one wooden trestle left, but it is a high one--lots of good pictures. There were a couple of spots where we think we could see the "Trail of '98"--but it was covered in snow. And, at the top, there is a replica of the RNWMP post.
(There were 2 Gold Rush routes--from Dyea over the Chilcoot Trail (shorter, but tougher) and from Skagway over the White Pass (longer, but easier--they used pack horses). From what we could see, the White Pass route was still darned tough!)
Then, we wandered around Skagway. Although the roads are paved, the "sidewalks" are still boardwalks. The town has a very small winter population that doubles for the tourist season. We went to a few museums--one big one and a few smaller exhibits. And wandered the town just absorbing the sunshine and the place, and a beer, to be truthful!
Then, we went for a swim and a hottub in the outdoor pool--it was really nice weather.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Glacier Bay
Glacier Bay is a long--53mile--fjord-like National Park at the BC/Alaska border, just west of Skagway. We arrived at the entrance at about 8:30--we saw otters and many spouts, whales and orcas!!! After picking up the Park Rangers, we sailed along the Bay to the end, where Marjorie and Grand Pacific Glaciers meet the Bay. Marjorie advances 5 feet per day and so calves of lots of ice into the water. We saw a few pieces (size is hard to tell--the glacier front is 75 meters tall and 1 km wide, and we're about 600 meters away) fall off. You catch a glimpse of motion in the corner of your eye, hear a great crack--sort of like thunder--like when an ice cube explodes in your glass, times 200--and see the splash. Quite amazing. Grand Pacific Glacier comes down from Canada--the border is just a few hundred meters back in from the water. Its not moving as fast as Marjorie, and is black because of rocks and silt and the like. We were maybe 3/4 of a mile off the end of it--and saw a brown bear on the edge of the glacier.
We sailed back a bit to Lamplugh Glacier--the water off the end of the Glacier was just white with floating ice pieces--big and small. And in the background of all this are snow covered mountains--the Fairweather Range at 15,000 feet plus, the Saint Elias Range, the Alseks and the Takhinsha Mountains. Just beautiful--for the second day in a row, words fail. The weather is perfect--bright blue sky, about 5 C, only a breeze. We are very lucky!!!
We are sailing back down Glacier Bay towards the entrance now. There will be another hour or so of good whale watching later, so hopefully we will see more...
Tomorrow, Skagway and the White Pass and Yukon Railway trip, so we'll blog after that for sure.
We sailed back a bit to Lamplugh Glacier--the water off the end of the Glacier was just white with floating ice pieces--big and small. And in the background of all this are snow covered mountains--the Fairweather Range at 15,000 feet plus, the Saint Elias Range, the Alseks and the Takhinsha Mountains. Just beautiful--for the second day in a row, words fail. The weather is perfect--bright blue sky, about 5 C, only a breeze. We are very lucky!!!
We are sailing back down Glacier Bay towards the entrance now. There will be another hour or so of good whale watching later, so hopefully we will see more...
Tomorrow, Skagway and the White Pass and Yukon Railway trip, so we'll blog after that for sure.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Anchorage, Whittier and College Fjord
We awoke yesterday docked in Whittier, Alaska. Customs and Immigration were a breeze, and we picked up the Avis Rent-a-Car, and friends Willy and Cori, and headed off through the longest combined rail-traffic tunnel in North America--just over 2 miles. Neat! And on into Anchorage--a bit over an hour driving along the seashore--Turnagain Arm and Cook Inlet--with snowcapped mountains everywhere around. Gorgeous doesn't even begin to describe...
We dropped of Willy and Cori at the airport and went downtown. It was the first Farmer's Market of the year for Anchorage, so we did lots of wandering and some buying. Think big fleamarket with probably 200 booths selling whatever, and food tents too! Wandered through the downtown area and generally, were on LAND. This made Laurel very happy!!!! Didn't have to do anything, just not be on the ship. Back to Whittier and wandered around a bit--a small place--170 full-time residents--with the dock and some infrastructure built by Princess. Before the 1964 earthquake, there were some 1200 residents--it hasn't recovered from the military pulling out and the earthquake. But it is charming, nonetheless.
This morning was College Fjord, with its many glaciers, all named after colleges--Yale Glacier, Harvard Glacier, etc.. The weather was perfect and we got many pictures. Sadly, there is no way that they can capture the true beauty and grandeur of the location. Simply stupendous. Lots of "bergy bits" and "growlers" floating in the water, some sea otters swimming around, the glaciers and the mountains, the clear, cold air and warmpth of the sun--just filled your senses. Thumbs up for Captain Dino getting us there and the weather for cooperating.
Thats all for now. Will keep you posted!
We dropped of Willy and Cori at the airport and went downtown. It was the first Farmer's Market of the year for Anchorage, so we did lots of wandering and some buying. Think big fleamarket with probably 200 booths selling whatever, and food tents too! Wandered through the downtown area and generally, were on LAND. This made Laurel very happy!!!! Didn't have to do anything, just not be on the ship. Back to Whittier and wandered around a bit--a small place--170 full-time residents--with the dock and some infrastructure built by Princess. Before the 1964 earthquake, there were some 1200 residents--it hasn't recovered from the military pulling out and the earthquake. But it is charming, nonetheless.
This morning was College Fjord, with its many glaciers, all named after colleges--Yale Glacier, Harvard Glacier, etc.. The weather was perfect and we got many pictures. Sadly, there is no way that they can capture the true beauty and grandeur of the location. Simply stupendous. Lots of "bergy bits" and "growlers" floating in the water, some sea otters swimming around, the glaciers and the mountains, the clear, cold air and warmpth of the sun--just filled your senses. Thumbs up for Captain Dino getting us there and the weather for cooperating.
Thats all for now. Will keep you posted!
Friday, May 15, 2009
Sea Days, Whales, and North America
We are on the last of a series of SEVEN Sea days. I can not imagine the early explorers not setting foot on dry land for months at a time! We get fed, watered, entertained and have chocolates on the pillow at night.....and I am stir crazy. Mike, however could cheerfully wander the globe as long as he has his daily dose of Internet!
The Diamond Princess is a lovely ship. The dining rooms are all different and beautiful. We have met some very nice and friendly people, with whom we will probably keep in touch. Last night was formal night and we got all gussied up and had our picture taken (several times) and some even turned out! We have enjoyed having a window...hope to see even more duing the trip down the Inside Passage. Apparently there have been whales sighted, as well as puffins, albatross, and little birds called shearwaters.
Tonight we pick up our pilot at Seward and will be able to see glaciers...looking froward to that....Talk to you from Alaska, USA, NORTH AMERICA!
The Diamond Princess is a lovely ship. The dining rooms are all different and beautiful. We have met some very nice and friendly people, with whom we will probably keep in touch. Last night was formal night and we got all gussied up and had our picture taken (several times) and some even turned out! We have enjoyed having a window...hope to see even more duing the trip down the Inside Passage. Apparently there have been whales sighted, as well as puffins, albatross, and little birds called shearwaters.
Tonight we pick up our pilot at Seward and will be able to see glaciers...looking froward to that....Talk to you from Alaska, USA, NORTH AMERICA!
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Pictures OK!!!!
Although the onboard Photo people could not read our erased SD card, one of our fellow Cruise Critic members, Tom, had a photorescue program that was able to recover all 450 of them! Much happiness and relief... They are saved, burned to CD, and we are happy, happy, happy!
The International Date Line is behind us now, and we have the certificate to prove it! We are also just slightly north of Winnipeg, latitude wise, and south of the Aleutians, shipwise. Grey, cold, dismal and wavy day... We are all screwed up sleep-wise, because there has been an hour change one way or another every day for the last week, with a couple more to go. But, we are now 6 hours behind Winnipeg on the same day, and catching up...
We've been on a Galley tour (with champagne and Orange Juice), walked the deck (with toques and gloves!), rented a car for Whittier so we can drive to Anchorage, done laundry (joy!), read and ate...
Bye for now
The International Date Line is behind us now, and we have the certificate to prove it! We are also just slightly north of Winnipeg, latitude wise, and south of the Aleutians, shipwise. Grey, cold, dismal and wavy day... We are all screwed up sleep-wise, because there has been an hour change one way or another every day for the last week, with a couple more to go. But, we are now 6 hours behind Winnipeg on the same day, and catching up...
We've been on a Galley tour (with champagne and Orange Juice), walked the deck (with toques and gloves!), rented a car for Whittier so we can drive to Anchorage, done laundry (joy!), read and ate...
Bye for now
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Muroran
Today is a sea day, but yesterday was Muroran, on Hokkaido, the northernmost Japanese island.
There was the (sadly and frustratingly) usual customs and immigration and health scanning kerfuffles before we were able to get off the ship. The Japanese people are wonderful, but I regretfully report that their official procedures are not up to snuff.
The town had a circular shuttle bus laid on for the day, so we took it! The first stop was at the tourist center. Laurel was guided through arranging flowers and conducting a Japanese tea ceremony. There ceremony was exacting and the tea, well, it is an acquired taste--it is a green, frothy, seaweed tasting, thick, hot drink. They also had a bunch of schoolkids--the youngest about 3--who sang a few Japanese songs for us--very cute, and they did a great job. Then, we climbed up 289 steps to a Shinto shrine--which was exquisite. Peaceful, beautiful landscape with traditional buildings. Laurel got to pound on a traditional Taiko drum in the shrine.
We hopped on the bus and went to the next stop, which had a couple of department stores--so we wandered around. Then, we went into a shop selling Bento boxes--box lunches--got a couple and went to a park area beside a canal to eat them. No idea what some of the items were, but they were tasty! Got some Mothers Day flowers and walked around a bit.
Went to another stop along the way and got an example of Japanese calligraphy, done in front of us by an older gentleman. Wonderful.
A great ceremony by the townsfolk as we were leaving port.
Today, we had a DISASTER. Laurel was trying to view the little camera pictures on the Coby viewer when the viewer erased--without asking!--all the pictures on the SD card--about 400 or so. We have the card in the photo shop now in the hopes that they can recover them. And, they are making a DVD of the 1300 pictures on the big camera. We will know tomorrow if we have lost the pictures--we are keeping fingers crossed that they can recover them.
For the next few days, as we sail east, we lose an hour each night--and a day tomorrow! There will be Monday-1 and Monday-2 for us--but each one will only be 23 hours long. This will put us eventually on Alaska time, but it will make for strange sleeping and many adjustments of the watches and clocks. Although we have been over the International Date Line before, each time is a new and strange--incomprehensible?--experience.
Smooth sailing across the Pacific so far--the Captain has the throttle open so he can get a bit ahead of schedule in case the weather slows us down later on during the crossing. He has 3000 miles to cover over the week.
We're doing fine, and they assure us that the Internet will be available the whole crossing, so we will do email, but will probably only post on the blog if something interesting happens. A sea day is relaxing, with reading and lazing about and participating in shipboard events. So, they are great, but usually there is little to blog about. We will let you know about the pictures...
There was the (sadly and frustratingly) usual customs and immigration and health scanning kerfuffles before we were able to get off the ship. The Japanese people are wonderful, but I regretfully report that their official procedures are not up to snuff.
The town had a circular shuttle bus laid on for the day, so we took it! The first stop was at the tourist center. Laurel was guided through arranging flowers and conducting a Japanese tea ceremony. There ceremony was exacting and the tea, well, it is an acquired taste--it is a green, frothy, seaweed tasting, thick, hot drink. They also had a bunch of schoolkids--the youngest about 3--who sang a few Japanese songs for us--very cute, and they did a great job. Then, we climbed up 289 steps to a Shinto shrine--which was exquisite. Peaceful, beautiful landscape with traditional buildings. Laurel got to pound on a traditional Taiko drum in the shrine.
We hopped on the bus and went to the next stop, which had a couple of department stores--so we wandered around. Then, we went into a shop selling Bento boxes--box lunches--got a couple and went to a park area beside a canal to eat them. No idea what some of the items were, but they were tasty! Got some Mothers Day flowers and walked around a bit.
Went to another stop along the way and got an example of Japanese calligraphy, done in front of us by an older gentleman. Wonderful.
A great ceremony by the townsfolk as we were leaving port.
Today, we had a DISASTER. Laurel was trying to view the little camera pictures on the Coby viewer when the viewer erased--without asking!--all the pictures on the SD card--about 400 or so. We have the card in the photo shop now in the hopes that they can recover them. And, they are making a DVD of the 1300 pictures on the big camera. We will know tomorrow if we have lost the pictures--we are keeping fingers crossed that they can recover them.
For the next few days, as we sail east, we lose an hour each night--and a day tomorrow! There will be Monday-1 and Monday-2 for us--but each one will only be 23 hours long. This will put us eventually on Alaska time, but it will make for strange sleeping and many adjustments of the watches and clocks. Although we have been over the International Date Line before, each time is a new and strange--incomprehensible?--experience.
Smooth sailing across the Pacific so far--the Captain has the throttle open so he can get a bit ahead of schedule in case the weather slows us down later on during the crossing. He has 3000 miles to cover over the week.
We're doing fine, and they assure us that the Internet will be available the whole crossing, so we will do email, but will probably only post on the blog if something interesting happens. A sea day is relaxing, with reading and lazing about and participating in shipboard events. So, they are great, but usually there is little to blog about. We will let you know about the pictures...
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Vladivostok
Yesterday was a sea day, but today was Vladivostok, Russia!
We woke up berthed across from a couple of Russian navy ships, complete with big guns, missiles and radars--this is the home of the Pacific Fleet. We got off the ship and started our walking tour, led by Svetlana (a university language student with awesome English) by going past the city square, which had been taken over by the Pacific Fleet for a parade rehearsal. Think a couple of thousand sailors, jeeps, Personnel Carriers, missile carriers, trucks, etc. etc--not to mention the Admiral in Charge of the Pacific Fleet taking the salute. Quite amazing, and noisy--bands, a cannon, commands, etc.
We walked on past and stopped at the GUM "department" store. Full of strange items, some new, some used, all pretty out of date. The building itself was old, many stories, no elevator.
We walked all over, seeing hotels, apartments, a beach and a seafront park. We went into a museum with lots of historical--ancient to Stalin--items. All in Cryllic, so we really had no idea what was going on, but the models and pictures and artifacts were neat.
Chilly day today, not too much sun, but OK for walking around. The local people came out to watch the ship arrive and depart and took pictures and brought the kids. We got some of the little nesting dolls and Laurel got a Russian fur hat, complete with Naval insignia.
Dinner tonight with funny people. She's going to write a book..."I was married to a sea captain, one time..." or "close calls and near misses"!
Michael looked for the 1919 Royal Bank building -- no luck, or at least nothing conclusive. There was one possible, just up from the harbour--the stonework and windows looked right, but the roofing was wrong, and the front walk wasn't elevated like in the 1919 picture. Could have been renovations and street rebuilding, I suppose, but...
Tomorrow is a sea day, and then Muroran, Japan. (Remember that we don't have internet in Japanese waters) So, our next blog will likely be during the sea day out of Japan--3 days from now; Sunday.)
We woke up berthed across from a couple of Russian navy ships, complete with big guns, missiles and radars--this is the home of the Pacific Fleet. We got off the ship and started our walking tour, led by Svetlana (a university language student with awesome English) by going past the city square, which had been taken over by the Pacific Fleet for a parade rehearsal. Think a couple of thousand sailors, jeeps, Personnel Carriers, missile carriers, trucks, etc. etc--not to mention the Admiral in Charge of the Pacific Fleet taking the salute. Quite amazing, and noisy--bands, a cannon, commands, etc.
We walked on past and stopped at the GUM "department" store. Full of strange items, some new, some used, all pretty out of date. The building itself was old, many stories, no elevator.
We walked all over, seeing hotels, apartments, a beach and a seafront park. We went into a museum with lots of historical--ancient to Stalin--items. All in Cryllic, so we really had no idea what was going on, but the models and pictures and artifacts were neat.
Chilly day today, not too much sun, but OK for walking around. The local people came out to watch the ship arrive and depart and took pictures and brought the kids. We got some of the little nesting dolls and Laurel got a Russian fur hat, complete with Naval insignia.
Dinner tonight with funny people. She's going to write a book..."I was married to a sea captain, one time..." or "close calls and near misses"!
Michael looked for the 1919 Royal Bank building -- no luck, or at least nothing conclusive. There was one possible, just up from the harbour--the stonework and windows looked right, but the roofing was wrong, and the front walk wasn't elevated like in the 1919 picture. Could have been renovations and street rebuilding, I suppose, but...
Tomorrow is a sea day, and then Muroran, Japan. (Remember that we don't have internet in Japanese waters) So, our next blog will likely be during the sea day out of Japan--3 days from now; Sunday.)
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Pusan or Busan, Korea
Today we went shopping! Korea is a shopping Mecca so that is pretty much all we did. Our one foray into learning about the city took us to a museum in the downtown where we learned about the prot city. We saw the market area and had a great day just wandering around. The stalls sold everything from food to fish, to dried tree bark! We bought a few things...got a lovely silver necklace...not cheap but pretty! Mike got his first T shirt! He has been remarkably restrained.
In the afternoon we went for a swim as the day was so warm and beautiful...hope it stays that way for Siberia, where we visit Vladivostock tomorrow!
In the afternoon we went for a swim as the day was so warm and beautiful...hope it stays that way for Siberia, where we visit Vladivostock tomorrow!
Kagoshima
Sorry for the delay in this post--Japan does not allow ship-to-satellite communications in its waters, and we missed yesterday. So, Kagoshima:
There was a huge mess trying to get off the ship. Due to H1N1, they wanted an additional paper from everyone and they wanted to see and scan EVERYONE on the ship before they would let ANYBODY off. So, we were about 4 hours waiting!!! Ugh.
When we did get off the ship, the GAiGO kids were waiting for us. (Cruisecritic shore tour with English students as guides) Because we were late, bits of the tour had to be shortened or cut out, sadly. Anyway, the first thing we did was take a 15 minute ferry over to a volcanic island, where we got out and looked around the landscape. We also did a lot of chatting with "our" students. Then back to the mainland for a bit of a bus ride to a Japanese Garden. Absolutely gorgeous--we could have spent a lot more time there. We had box lunches in the Empresses Room--an honour--sitting on the floor. Then, a bit of a tour around the city of Kagoshima and back to the ship.
The kids were wonderful. They could speak excellent English, they were in guiding us around on a national holiday, and they were really friendly and obviously having fun.
When we got back to the ship, there was a performance of Taiko drumming. 10 drums--but the biggest was on its own trailer and was about 2 meters diameter drum surface. Boy did they play! Laurel's desire to join one of the Winnipeg groups was reinforced.
As we were leaving, the Sakurijima volcano let loose with a gas, smoke and ash eruption. Amazing to see the ash rolling down the mountain and just about over the place where we had earlier observed the volcano from. Lots of pictures.
There was a huge mess trying to get off the ship. Due to H1N1, they wanted an additional paper from everyone and they wanted to see and scan EVERYONE on the ship before they would let ANYBODY off. So, we were about 4 hours waiting!!! Ugh.
When we did get off the ship, the GAiGO kids were waiting for us. (Cruisecritic shore tour with English students as guides) Because we were late, bits of the tour had to be shortened or cut out, sadly. Anyway, the first thing we did was take a 15 minute ferry over to a volcanic island, where we got out and looked around the landscape. We also did a lot of chatting with "our" students. Then back to the mainland for a bit of a bus ride to a Japanese Garden. Absolutely gorgeous--we could have spent a lot more time there. We had box lunches in the Empresses Room--an honour--sitting on the floor. Then, a bit of a tour around the city of Kagoshima and back to the ship.
The kids were wonderful. They could speak excellent English, they were in guiding us around on a national holiday, and they were really friendly and obviously having fun.
When we got back to the ship, there was a performance of Taiko drumming. 10 drums--but the biggest was on its own trailer and was about 2 meters diameter drum surface. Boy did they play! Laurel's desire to join one of the Winnipeg groups was reinforced.
As we were leaving, the Sakurijima volcano let loose with a gas, smoke and ash eruption. Amazing to see the ash rolling down the mountain and just about over the place where we had earlier observed the volcano from. Lots of pictures.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Dalian
Yesterday was Dalian. The smog had blown away for the morning, and it was a beautiful, sunny day, and everyone in town was taking advantage of it. Its an interesting city--brand new beautiful buildings and some old ones, reflecting Chinese as well as Russian and Japanese architecture--the city has changed hands a few times in history. Big wide streets and beautiful big open squares or parks everywhere. When you think of modern China, think of many new buildings taller than the Richardson, with stunning architecture--none, literally, of the box stuff we North Americans are used to. The older buildings are still there, but are off the beaten track. Housing and apartments are equally newer, but there is much more of the 20-30 year old stuff. Think downtown shopping centers that are 4 stories underground with a park at street level on top. All this in Dalien--a city of over a million.
We did a walking tour and then went to a big park--a circle about a kilometer in diameter in the middle of the city, with lots of landscaping and statues--to fly kites. What a blast; just awesome. There were mostly delta kites, but a few outlandish shapes and one "kite" that consisted of about 100 small kites along a single string that went upwards a *long* way. Back to the ship for a swim--the smog was starting to blow back in--and then sailaway.
Sea day today--not much to report--and Kagoshima tomorrow, so we'll blog that one for sure. We have an adventure scheduled!!!
We did a walking tour and then went to a big park--a circle about a kilometer in diameter in the middle of the city, with lots of landscaping and statues--to fly kites. What a blast; just awesome. There were mostly delta kites, but a few outlandish shapes and one "kite" that consisted of about 100 small kites along a single string that went upwards a *long* way. Back to the ship for a swim--the smog was starting to blow back in--and then sailaway.
Sea day today--not much to report--and Kagoshima tomorrow, so we'll blog that one for sure. We have an adventure scheduled!!!
Friday, May 1, 2009
The Great Wall of China
After 2 sea days and a 3 hour bus trip, we made it!
The part of the wall that we saw was a reconstruction, as is the rest of the wall, but it is in the same place and built in the same way as the originals--earthquakes did them in. It is just like in the pictures--about 2 stories high, wide enough for 8 people to walk side by side, and very steep. It is either like a ramp on top, or with stairs that are either about 3 inches high or about 18 inches high--walking was not easy. There are water drains across the walking part every 30 feet or so as well that you have to avoid! There are towers placed for defence that are about 4 stories high, with a very steep--75 degrees or so--and narrow stairway to get up to the roof. Other towers were placed on higher peaks for signal smoke, messages about how many troops were coming from Mongolia. And they also had one of the major encampments built into the wall--sort of a walled-city-like place--complete with temples, a hotel (now!) and disgracefully, a ferris wheel (now!)
Lunch was sort of Chinese food, sanitized for westerners, including french fries and beer. Another 3 hour bus ride back to the ship.
Some of the roads were narrow and twisty, but the majority were 4 lane or more, with interchanges and the like. Just like being in California, road-wise and agriculture wise too--flat plains with canals and irrigated crops.
The smog here is terrible. We don't know how people stand it. This morning, you could see about 2000 feet before stuff just disappeared into browny-grey. (We know this, because there were 2 cruise ships parked, and you basically couldn't see the back end of the second one...) It smelled and tasted like chemical crap. Fortunately, there was some rain in the afternoon that washed some away, but it was still bad.
Tomorrow is Dalian, with the promise of some Chinese Kites if the weather is OK.
The part of the wall that we saw was a reconstruction, as is the rest of the wall, but it is in the same place and built in the same way as the originals--earthquakes did them in. It is just like in the pictures--about 2 stories high, wide enough for 8 people to walk side by side, and very steep. It is either like a ramp on top, or with stairs that are either about 3 inches high or about 18 inches high--walking was not easy. There are water drains across the walking part every 30 feet or so as well that you have to avoid! There are towers placed for defence that are about 4 stories high, with a very steep--75 degrees or so--and narrow stairway to get up to the roof. Other towers were placed on higher peaks for signal smoke, messages about how many troops were coming from Mongolia. And they also had one of the major encampments built into the wall--sort of a walled-city-like place--complete with temples, a hotel (now!) and disgracefully, a ferris wheel (now!)
Lunch was sort of Chinese food, sanitized for westerners, including french fries and beer. Another 3 hour bus ride back to the ship.
Some of the roads were narrow and twisty, but the majority were 4 lane or more, with interchanges and the like. Just like being in California, road-wise and agriculture wise too--flat plains with canals and irrigated crops.
The smog here is terrible. We don't know how people stand it. This morning, you could see about 2000 feet before stuff just disappeared into browny-grey. (We know this, because there were 2 cruise ships parked, and you basically couldn't see the back end of the second one...) It smelled and tasted like chemical crap. Fortunately, there was some rain in the afternoon that washed some away, but it was still bad.
Tomorrow is Dalian, with the promise of some Chinese Kites if the weather is OK.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Shanghai
Yesterday was a very nice sea day that ended "up" with a wonderful dinner shared with a Scottish couple and an English couple and much laughter then later on "down" with Laurel eventually being quarantined for 24 hours with Norovirus. She's OK now, just in quarantine in the cabin till tomorrow.
Michael hopped the shuttle bus to Shanghai and wandered around the main downtown shopping area and The Bund--an old European architectural area along the river that was the "International Concession" after the Opium wars and up to the 1930s. Quite neat. Across the river is the new business area of Shanghai, with huge modern--not to say strange--buildings--the "oriental pearl" TV tower (think Eiffel tower, but bigger and taller with 3 tubes at the bottom supporting one big ball, tubes up to a second big ball, one tube up to a third smaller ball then a TV tower on top of that) and a building known in English as "the bottle opener" because that is what it looks like--square hole at the top, 80 something stories high. Google if you're curious. Walking along The Bund is complicated by the fact that they are building a new subway line along there and everything is under construction.
Nothing much else to report. 2 sea days, then The Great Wall for us!
Michael hopped the shuttle bus to Shanghai and wandered around the main downtown shopping area and The Bund--an old European architectural area along the river that was the "International Concession" after the Opium wars and up to the 1930s. Quite neat. Across the river is the new business area of Shanghai, with huge modern--not to say strange--buildings--the "oriental pearl" TV tower (think Eiffel tower, but bigger and taller with 3 tubes at the bottom supporting one big ball, tubes up to a second big ball, one tube up to a third smaller ball then a TV tower on top of that) and a building known in English as "the bottle opener" because that is what it looks like--square hole at the top, 80 something stories high. Google if you're curious. Walking along The Bund is complicated by the fact that they are building a new subway line along there and everything is under construction.
Nothing much else to report. 2 sea days, then The Great Wall for us!
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Sayonara Okinawa/Naha
(Naha is what the Japanese call it)
Despite 10 foot waves and 40 knot winds we managed to dock in Okinawa--Yay Captain Dino! We boarded the elevated monorail mass transit system and went to the end of line, then walked a kilometer to Shujiro Castle. A 15th century castle--now a replica because it was destroyed in WWII. Wandered through the King's work area and home--Japanese screens and tatami mats and beautiful wood everywhere. It is 4 buildings with a square in the middle--the square (about the size of a football field) is made of coloured bricks arranged in rows, so that the bureaucrats and visitors (think thousands) could be properly arranged in rows. There was entertainment--Japanese opera and dancing and Geisha. Back on the monorail to the downtown area, where the main street was blocked to traffic for about 2KM for the Sunday afternoon. It was filled with street performers, kids and oldies and their dogs, vendors, and the like. It was wonderful and fun to walk down the street--even did window shopping and got Laurel's glasses fixed.
Back to the ship for dinner and then the Crew Talent Show. It is always excellent and we enjoy it very much. Last night's highlights were the Phillipino and Thai dancers.
(2 things: Satellite communications--Internet and phone and fax service is cut off while the ship is in Japanese waters, per their regulations. Wierd, can't think of a good technical reason, but there you go. And they have a very onerous and time consuming immigration screening. They started at 7AM and we weren't last and didn't get off the ship until about 2PM.)
Sea day today, will blog after Shanghai.
Is anybody reading this? Please comment or email us...
Thanks to Linda for your comment. Congrats to Ed on his winning at Pool!
Despite 10 foot waves and 40 knot winds we managed to dock in Okinawa--Yay Captain Dino! We boarded the elevated monorail mass transit system and went to the end of line, then walked a kilometer to Shujiro Castle. A 15th century castle--now a replica because it was destroyed in WWII. Wandered through the King's work area and home--Japanese screens and tatami mats and beautiful wood everywhere. It is 4 buildings with a square in the middle--the square (about the size of a football field) is made of coloured bricks arranged in rows, so that the bureaucrats and visitors (think thousands) could be properly arranged in rows. There was entertainment--Japanese opera and dancing and Geisha. Back on the monorail to the downtown area, where the main street was blocked to traffic for about 2KM for the Sunday afternoon. It was filled with street performers, kids and oldies and their dogs, vendors, and the like. It was wonderful and fun to walk down the street--even did window shopping and got Laurel's glasses fixed.
Back to the ship for dinner and then the Crew Talent Show. It is always excellent and we enjoy it very much. Last night's highlights were the Phillipino and Thai dancers.
(2 things: Satellite communications--Internet and phone and fax service is cut off while the ship is in Japanese waters, per their regulations. Wierd, can't think of a good technical reason, but there you go. And they have a very onerous and time consuming immigration screening. They started at 7AM and we weren't last and didn't get off the ship until about 2PM.)
Sea day today, will blog after Shanghai.
Is anybody reading this? Please comment or email us...
Thanks to Linda for your comment. Congrats to Ed on his winning at Pool!
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Taiwan
A sea day yesterday--nothing to report, and today, we are in Keelung, the port for Taipei. We took a ship's tour by bus into Taipei. We stopped at a temple and then at Chaing Kai Shek's Memorial Palace. It was an amazing place--Google it--and we watched the Changing of the Guard--only 2 Guards, so not much, but they did do some fancy footwork. A shopping stop and then a photo-op at the Taipei 101 building--now the tallest in the world. In the city's context, it is amazing because nothing else tops 30 stories, so it sticks out like a sore thumb. Quite an engineering feat, given that it sits on top of an active earthquake fault line, and in a typhoon zone. Back to the ship, where there were a bunch of Lion Dancers and Drum Players--kids from age 7 to 15--very talented--performing for the people on the pier area.
We have a half day in Okinawa tomorrow and will blog after that!
We have a half day in Okinawa tomorrow and will blog after that!
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Hong Kong Redux
After a very relaxing sea day, we spent yesterday and today in Hong Kong.
Initially, we were docked at the container port, so we were bussed to the Kowloon side downtown. We wandered about and tried to go to the Ladies Market, but we were early and it didn't open till noon--so we just wandered around and shopped in the open stores and stalls. We headed off to Taikoo Shing--Brian's area--for lunch and some more shopping, and to get our suitcases. At that point, we heard about Dad going to the hospital, so there were some phone calls to Canada and some anxious moments. Thank goodness everything turned out OK enough. We dragged our suitcases through the subway and back to the shuttle bus. Along the way, we rescued a poor Romanian fellow-Diamond-Princesser who was lost, could only speak about 4 words of English, and who was in full panic mode. She was mightily happy to get on the bus!
At 8PM local, the ship sailed through Hong Kong Harbour so that we could see the Light Show. About 40 buildings on both sides of the harbour synchronize their lights, special effects, lasers and the like, to music. Quite fantastic.
This morning we went by tender to Hong Kong Island for a brunch with Brian and Ernest at "The Flying Pan", a breakfast restaurant run by a woman from New York. Good eats. Then we said goodbye, after a super visit and unparalled hospitality which we can only hope to reciprocate some day.
Souvenier shopping, stocking up on wine and treats took up the rest of the day. We had a lovely dinner in The Savoy Dining Room, followed by music from a string quartet in the Atrium. Quite marvellous. Tonight is Island Night, but we're probably not going to be able to stay awake that long! Sea day tomorrow, then Taiwan.
Initially, we were docked at the container port, so we were bussed to the Kowloon side downtown. We wandered about and tried to go to the Ladies Market, but we were early and it didn't open till noon--so we just wandered around and shopped in the open stores and stalls. We headed off to Taikoo Shing--Brian's area--for lunch and some more shopping, and to get our suitcases. At that point, we heard about Dad going to the hospital, so there were some phone calls to Canada and some anxious moments. Thank goodness everything turned out OK enough. We dragged our suitcases through the subway and back to the shuttle bus. Along the way, we rescued a poor Romanian fellow-Diamond-Princesser who was lost, could only speak about 4 words of English, and who was in full panic mode. She was mightily happy to get on the bus!
At 8PM local, the ship sailed through Hong Kong Harbour so that we could see the Light Show. About 40 buildings on both sides of the harbour synchronize their lights, special effects, lasers and the like, to music. Quite fantastic.
This morning we went by tender to Hong Kong Island for a brunch with Brian and Ernest at "The Flying Pan", a breakfast restaurant run by a woman from New York. Good eats. Then we said goodbye, after a super visit and unparalled hospitality which we can only hope to reciprocate some day.
Souvenier shopping, stocking up on wine and treats took up the rest of the day. We had a lovely dinner in The Savoy Dining Room, followed by music from a string quartet in the Atrium. Quite marvellous. Tonight is Island Night, but we're probably not going to be able to stay awake that long! Sea day tomorrow, then Taiwan.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Farewell to Vietnam...
Before getting started on today, I forgot something from yesterday--the Vietnamese Water Puppets. So, you get a shallow swimming pool--maybe 2 feet, and you curtain off the back half and fill it with opaque water. Then, you get a bunch of fantastic puppets out front acting out stories--fire breathing and water spouting dragons, phoenixes, people, fish, leopards--and 5 live musicians providing music on traditional instruments and singing out the stories. It was just amazing!!!
Nha Trang today--and what a great day it was. Sunny, hot and humid, of course, but calm and except for the tender rides in and out, we were a lot closer to things today. Its a seaside community, with islands and mountains inland just a bit--and absolutely green and gorgeous. We were a Cruise Critic group of 12 on a private tour with a guide, driver and almost air conditioned van.
First stop was the Oceanographic Museum, which had a lot of live sea creatures and a special exhibit on Antarctica (!?!). Well done--who knew that Nemo had some black and white cousins? Then, to an embroidery place. That description doesn't do it justice--live music, people doing the work, and many examples. We bought one small piece for home, so you will be able to see the workmanship. Amazing, done by hand. Another stop was at a Buddist orphanage/children's home, where we saw the little kids eating. Another stop at a Vietnamese house that was old style--wonderful woodword--and we had some fruit there. Then, off to the river where we boarded a boat for a trip downriver.
We stopped for lunch at a riverbank shelter and had traditional Vietnamese foods, and beer. We were all wilting badly at that point so it was a good opportunity to get some energy back. Further on down river to a place with crocodiles and coconuts--we had some milk right out of a freshly chopped coconut--and an eel farm on the river just beside where we docked. Some more river time--it is interesting to see the land from the river. Just about at the mouth of the river we docked and climbed up the hill to a 1000 year old temple that was a Vietnamese-Hindu mix.
Then we shopped at the city market--the place where the Vietnamese shop. What a neat experience. Laurel's prize purchase was, well, we're going to make you wait, because words fail to describe it--but she will wear it on her head while riding, although maybe only once because it would be illegal anywhere in North America...if not any place other than Vietnam! Then, the best stop of the day--at the beach. Beautiful, gorgeous, wide, sandy beach with the warm South China Sea lapping against it. Laurel went for an impromptu swim--in her clothes!!--because it was so hot.
We're underway now--a sea day, then 2 days in Hong Kong. Bye for now!
Nha Trang today--and what a great day it was. Sunny, hot and humid, of course, but calm and except for the tender rides in and out, we were a lot closer to things today. Its a seaside community, with islands and mountains inland just a bit--and absolutely green and gorgeous. We were a Cruise Critic group of 12 on a private tour with a guide, driver and almost air conditioned van.
First stop was the Oceanographic Museum, which had a lot of live sea creatures and a special exhibit on Antarctica (!?!). Well done--who knew that Nemo had some black and white cousins? Then, to an embroidery place. That description doesn't do it justice--live music, people doing the work, and many examples. We bought one small piece for home, so you will be able to see the workmanship. Amazing, done by hand. Another stop was at a Buddist orphanage/children's home, where we saw the little kids eating. Another stop at a Vietnamese house that was old style--wonderful woodword--and we had some fruit there. Then, off to the river where we boarded a boat for a trip downriver.
We stopped for lunch at a riverbank shelter and had traditional Vietnamese foods, and beer. We were all wilting badly at that point so it was a good opportunity to get some energy back. Further on down river to a place with crocodiles and coconuts--we had some milk right out of a freshly chopped coconut--and an eel farm on the river just beside where we docked. Some more river time--it is interesting to see the land from the river. Just about at the mouth of the river we docked and climbed up the hill to a 1000 year old temple that was a Vietnamese-Hindu mix.
Then we shopped at the city market--the place where the Vietnamese shop. What a neat experience. Laurel's prize purchase was, well, we're going to make you wait, because words fail to describe it--but she will wear it on her head while riding, although maybe only once because it would be illegal anywhere in North America...if not any place other than Vietnam! Then, the best stop of the day--at the beach. Beautiful, gorgeous, wide, sandy beach with the warm South China Sea lapping against it. Laurel went for an impromptu swim--in her clothes!!--because it was so hot.
We're underway now--a sea day, then 2 days in Hong Kong. Bye for now!
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Good Morning Vietnam!
The port at Phu My (pronounced "foo me") was out our window this morning when we got up at 5:45 (ugh). Not much here--just a port. Brekkies and off the ship with our Cruise Critic group. Mr Hui, a 25 year old tourist guide/English student was waiting for us, as was Mr Driver--we never got his name--for the bus and off we went. Its a 2 hour trip from the port to Ho Chi Minh City--the first 5km into Phu My proper was over quite bumpy roads--even worse than Winnipeg's! The rest of the trip was over Winnipeg-spring-style 4 lane bumpy roads--but that was less of an issue than the traffic. Busses and trucks and about 250,000 50cc scooters, carrying families--Dad, Mom and a kid or 2, lots of single drivers, Laurel got a picture of 2 people on a scooter with 2 huge sack of live ducks, and a myriad of other examples of things you would not EVER see on the road in Winnipeg! The traffic flow itself was crazy too--As was said to us, keep moving--if you ever stop, they won't know where you are going. The traffic circles were beautifully landscaped in the middle and a horrendous puzzle of more or less randomly moving vehicles on the outside, coupled with much blowing of horns. (Fortunately, and amazingly, no accidents and just about every scooter occupant had a helmet on--although none of them would be DOT approved)
Our first stop in Ho Chi Minh City was the War Museum--weaponry, pictures from the French conflict as well as the "Vietnam War", stories and pictures of atrocities as told by the victor, the prisons, Agent Orange, etc.. All in all, depressing and sad. But, fortunately, the rest of the day was much better.
The second stop was the Reunification Hall--the wartime American embassy redone as the main governmental ceremonial building in HCM City. Beautiful furnishings.
A quick stop at 2 French-era buildings--a cathedral--think Notre Dame but smaller, and the Post Office--Huge, ornate, built in the 1800s and busy with both postal and telecommunications business.
Lunch at Pho24, a very good noodle shop for tourists, then off to the central market and the Tax Free shopping center for, guess what, shopping! Laurel got a formal Vietnamese Ladies outfit and we got a couple of other things. Then it was time to head back to the ship.
The landscape was pretty flat the whole way, but you could see mountains probably about 10km away. Green, green, green everywhere between the buildings. From Phu My into HCM City was pretty much solid buildings along the roadsides--mostly commercial but some residential...
The temperature was hot--over 30C and humid. The sun was burning down all day too. Thank goodness for the air conditioned bus and a few air conditioned shops and ample water. Will continue the story in tomorrow's post after we get back from Nha Trang.
Our first stop in Ho Chi Minh City was the War Museum--weaponry, pictures from the French conflict as well as the "Vietnam War", stories and pictures of atrocities as told by the victor, the prisons, Agent Orange, etc.. All in all, depressing and sad. But, fortunately, the rest of the day was much better.
The second stop was the Reunification Hall--the wartime American embassy redone as the main governmental ceremonial building in HCM City. Beautiful furnishings.
A quick stop at 2 French-era buildings--a cathedral--think Notre Dame but smaller, and the Post Office--Huge, ornate, built in the 1800s and busy with both postal and telecommunications business.
Lunch at Pho24, a very good noodle shop for tourists, then off to the central market and the Tax Free shopping center for, guess what, shopping! Laurel got a formal Vietnamese Ladies outfit and we got a couple of other things. Then it was time to head back to the ship.
The landscape was pretty flat the whole way, but you could see mountains probably about 10km away. Green, green, green everywhere between the buildings. From Phu My into HCM City was pretty much solid buildings along the roadsides--mostly commercial but some residential...
The temperature was hot--over 30C and humid. The sun was burning down all day too. Thank goodness for the air conditioned bus and a few air conditioned shops and ample water. Will continue the story in tomorrow's post after we get back from Nha Trang.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Lazy Laundry Sea Day
Today is another beautiful hot day on the South China Sea...many ships passing, sunny and puffy clouds. We had breakfast delivered at 8:30 and have plans to attend a talk about Vietnam, then a pub lunch, a little laundry,then swimming, Happy Hour and dinner. Cruising is one great vacation!
We are going ashore with a group of people from our cruise critic group, we hope being with a local guide and a small group will make our Vietnam experience more real.
Mike wants to say that we have seen many oil rigs out here in the South China Sea...did not get too close so did not see any people!
Off to the Princess Theatre...............
We are going ashore with a group of people from our cruise critic group, we hope being with a local guide and a small group will make our Vietnam experience more real.
Mike wants to say that we have seen many oil rigs out here in the South China Sea...did not get too close so did not see any people!
Off to the Princess Theatre...............
Singapore Slings
Yesterday was a sea day and we did just about nothing--the first nothing day in a long time, and we enjoyed it!
Today, we were in Singapore's harbour at about 8, but with the formalities, we didn't get downtown until about 10. We took the subway and a bus from the dropoff point to the Singapore Flyer--the 165 meter high observation wheel. A really great view of the city and harbour--lots of pictures. Then we went to Raffles Hotel and had Singapore slings--$C54, but worth every penny for the experience of having the drink where it was invented.
Singapore was hot and humid, but also green and very clean. The city is very pretty, beautiful in fact, with many parks and green areas even right downtown. Traffic was awful, but the subway was fast, efficient and cheap.
We had to come back to the ship for a swim. Tomorrow is a sea day as we travel to Vietnam.
Today, we were in Singapore's harbour at about 8, but with the formalities, we didn't get downtown until about 10. We took the subway and a bus from the dropoff point to the Singapore Flyer--the 165 meter high observation wheel. A really great view of the city and harbour--lots of pictures. Then we went to Raffles Hotel and had Singapore slings--$C54, but worth every penny for the experience of having the drink where it was invented.
Singapore was hot and humid, but also green and very clean. The city is very pretty, beautiful in fact, with many parks and green areas even right downtown. Traffic was awful, but the subway was fast, efficient and cheap.
We had to come back to the ship for a swim. Tomorrow is a sea day as we travel to Vietnam.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
All Aboard!!!
Quite an uneventful taxi ride down to Laem Chabang. Most of the trip was on 3 or 4 lane elevated expressway toll roads, so we got a good view of the "rural" areas south and east of Bangkok. Took just under 2 hours. Checkin was similarly uneventful and we were in our cabin in about 1/2 hour after we were dropped off.
Our cabin is larger than we've ever had before and of course, has a WINDOW. We look out over the top of a lifeboat (think 125 passenger enclosed and motorized, not a rowboat by any means!) and have a really good, open view of the sea, horizon and sky--only slightly obstructed.
We met with the Cruise Critic group for the sailaway, had a swim, supper and pretty much collapsed.
The ship--Diamond Princess--is beautiful and the Internet Cafe is terrific--even serves coffee--real stuff, not Princess Syrup.
We hope everyone is fine at home, as we are here. Hope the flood doesn't get worse.
TTYL
Our cabin is larger than we've ever had before and of course, has a WINDOW. We look out over the top of a lifeboat (think 125 passenger enclosed and motorized, not a rowboat by any means!) and have a really good, open view of the sea, horizon and sky--only slightly obstructed.
We met with the Cruise Critic group for the sailaway, had a swim, supper and pretty much collapsed.
The ship--Diamond Princess--is beautiful and the Internet Cafe is terrific--even serves coffee--real stuff, not Princess Syrup.
We hope everyone is fine at home, as we are here. Hope the flood doesn't get worse.
TTYL
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Shopping Day in Bangkok
Today was too hot and humid to do anything outdoors, so basically we ran around between air conditioned shopping malls, taxis and the SkyTrain, an elevated-above-ground "subway". It is 4:30 PM here now (430AM your time). We'll be going for a swim and a nap and then out for supper to a Vietnamese restaurant.
We saw one soldier on duty today, at one of the SkyTrain stations. (He looked thoroughly bored...) Laurel and I have not seen any other evidence of the situation, except what is on BBC and CNN. I'm totally sure that we will be safe tonight and on the ride to the ship tomorrow.
I do have to say that the populace here is heavily armed, though, with SuperSoakers and water pistols with backpack tank reservoirs, and buckets and at one place, an electric Pressure Washer no less. Songkran is well under way and just about everyone is having a blast.
Tomorrow morning we leave the hotel at 10AM for the taxi ride to Laem Chabang where we will board the ship. We'll do the next post from aboard the Diamond--not totally sure when; possibly not till after sailaway. Talk to you soon.
We saw one soldier on duty today, at one of the SkyTrain stations. (He looked thoroughly bored...) Laurel and I have not seen any other evidence of the situation, except what is on BBC and CNN. I'm totally sure that we will be safe tonight and on the ride to the ship tomorrow.
I do have to say that the populace here is heavily armed, though, with SuperSoakers and water pistols with backpack tank reservoirs, and buckets and at one place, an electric Pressure Washer no less. Songkran is well under way and just about everyone is having a blast.
Tomorrow morning we leave the hotel at 10AM for the taxi ride to Laem Chabang where we will board the ship. We'll do the next post from aboard the Diamond--not totally sure when; possibly not till after sailaway. Talk to you soon.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Happy New Year!!!
Today is the beginning of the Thai celebration of the New Year, Songkran. It is traditionally celebrated with water--spraying people with water pistols, buckets, hoses, water barrels in the back of half tons with people dipping and throwing the water as the truck goes down the street. Also, putting white flour paste on faces mostly, but clothes, hair, shoes, vehicles, etc. All is done with much laughter and smiling and FUN.
We did all kinds of Jim Thompson silk today. (he basically restarted the Thai silk industry after WWII) Started with the factory outlet--got 15 meters of awesome Thai silk fabric--warm up those sewing machines, people! Then, after a refuel at Starbucks, we went to the main Jim Thompson store, where they have scarves, clothing, accessories, etc. BeAuTiFuL. Then, we went to Jim Thompson's restaurant and had Thai food--some of our choices were *really* spicy--think breaking into sweat, turning beet red and needing water. Good food, though, and a very nice surrounding. (Tomorrow, we might go to his house, which has been turned into a museum)
An afternoon nap, which turned into a sleep, then we went out with Arthur and Hui, friends of Brian. Drinks at their beautiful apartment and then we walked to their favorite seafood restaurant for very interesting, and delicious, food. A good time was had by all. Arthur is Scottish and his party piece is the Address to the Haggis, which he does in Hong Kong for Robbie Burns Day.
Just a word for those who are worried about our safety--don't! The Red Shirts are basically confined to one area of the city and we aren't going near there. The only delays we have experienced are associated with water throwing parties. All is good.
We did all kinds of Jim Thompson silk today. (he basically restarted the Thai silk industry after WWII) Started with the factory outlet--got 15 meters of awesome Thai silk fabric--warm up those sewing machines, people! Then, after a refuel at Starbucks, we went to the main Jim Thompson store, where they have scarves, clothing, accessories, etc. BeAuTiFuL. Then, we went to Jim Thompson's restaurant and had Thai food--some of our choices were *really* spicy--think breaking into sweat, turning beet red and needing water. Good food, though, and a very nice surrounding. (Tomorrow, we might go to his house, which has been turned into a museum)
An afternoon nap, which turned into a sleep, then we went out with Arthur and Hui, friends of Brian. Drinks at their beautiful apartment and then we walked to their favorite seafood restaurant for very interesting, and delicious, food. A good time was had by all. Arthur is Scottish and his party piece is the Address to the Haggis, which he does in Hong Kong for Robbie Burns Day.
Just a word for those who are worried about our safety--don't! The Red Shirts are basically confined to one area of the city and we aren't going near there. The only delays we have experienced are associated with water throwing parties. All is good.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
What a GREAT day
Woke up way early in the morning, had a superb buffet breakfast and caught the 7AM van to get us to where the tour left. Then, we got a bus heading to the NorthEast, upriver, for about an hour, to the second traditional Thai capital--there are 4 in sequence, with Bangkok being #4.
The first temple we saw had been destroyed by the Burmese in the early 1700s. What we saw there was basically remains--walls that had been breached, Buddas with the heads (at least) removed as war trophies and partially ruined buildings. Still, very impressive.
Then, we went to one that was close by, and intact. We had to take off our shoes to go into the shrines. The first one had 2 smaller Buddas with a huge one in the back. All golden. We could take pictures, so you will see them--for now, just think ornate beyond belief. There was another shrine with a huge teak Budda and a monk beside it, collecting alms and giving away bracelets to protect children from bad spirits. Being children at heart, we each got one, a pink and a blue.
Then we went to a reclining Budda that was outside and huge. Apparently not the largest, but plenty big. It was not covered, so it was blackened by the elements, and no gold, except for little squares that the devout had placed--and there were thousands of those...
Then, to the King's Summer Palace. 42 acres, all gorgeous, with manmade pools and lakes and 20 or so buildings that were, (forgive me) fit for a King. The Palace area is still in use by the King, so there were soldiers and security and not all buildings were accessible. But the outside style was as ornate as you can imagine. The pictures you will see do not do it justice.
By this time, it was hot--well over 30 with about 98% humidity, so we were happy for the chilled wet wipes the driver was handing out.
After about a 30 minute bus ride, we boarded a riverboat for the 2 hour cruise downriver into Bangkok. The bus ride fortunately coincided with a downpour which just chucked it down for a short while then stopped. Apparently typical for this time of year. A buffet lunch was the first order of business, it being about 1:30. Downriver past temples, Thai capital #3, homes standing on posts in the river, lots of river traffic--barges and others. Fortunately, the riverboat was air conditioned or else we would have jumped ship for sure.
A quick van ride to the hotel followed by a swim in the rooftop pool. Thats the day so far, with Happy Hour and supper still to come...
Still nothing on the political front that we have seen, although apparently there are still significant tensions.
The first temple we saw had been destroyed by the Burmese in the early 1700s. What we saw there was basically remains--walls that had been breached, Buddas with the heads (at least) removed as war trophies and partially ruined buildings. Still, very impressive.
Then, we went to one that was close by, and intact. We had to take off our shoes to go into the shrines. The first one had 2 smaller Buddas with a huge one in the back. All golden. We could take pictures, so you will see them--for now, just think ornate beyond belief. There was another shrine with a huge teak Budda and a monk beside it, collecting alms and giving away bracelets to protect children from bad spirits. Being children at heart, we each got one, a pink and a blue.
Then we went to a reclining Budda that was outside and huge. Apparently not the largest, but plenty big. It was not covered, so it was blackened by the elements, and no gold, except for little squares that the devout had placed--and there were thousands of those...
Then, to the King's Summer Palace. 42 acres, all gorgeous, with manmade pools and lakes and 20 or so buildings that were, (forgive me) fit for a King. The Palace area is still in use by the King, so there were soldiers and security and not all buildings were accessible. But the outside style was as ornate as you can imagine. The pictures you will see do not do it justice.
By this time, it was hot--well over 30 with about 98% humidity, so we were happy for the chilled wet wipes the driver was handing out.
After about a 30 minute bus ride, we boarded a riverboat for the 2 hour cruise downriver into Bangkok. The bus ride fortunately coincided with a downpour which just chucked it down for a short while then stopped. Apparently typical for this time of year. A buffet lunch was the first order of business, it being about 1:30. Downriver past temples, Thai capital #3, homes standing on posts in the river, lots of river traffic--barges and others. Fortunately, the riverboat was air conditioned or else we would have jumped ship for sure.
A quick van ride to the hotel followed by a swim in the rooftop pool. Thats the day so far, with Happy Hour and supper still to come...
Still nothing on the political front that we have seen, although apparently there are still significant tensions.
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Saturday in Bangkok
Saturday at 5PM local time--5AM in Winnipeg!! (12 hours difference now)
Up and to the airport in lots of time. Had a coffee while we were waiting for boarding. An airbus 330 flight for 2h40m from Hong Kong along the Chinese coast, between the island of Hainan and the mainland, then down the NW coast of Hainan and basically straight across to Bangkok--overtop of Vietnam and Laos.
Passing over the Thai countryside inot Bangkok was neat--lots of flooded rice fields and little villages with red and blue roofs and many canals and roads and a couple of big rivers. The airport here is huge--we got off the plane, walked a bit, took a moving walkway and then passed a sign saying our destination was a further 760 meters down the way! Taxi ride into the Hotel--nice, with a rooftop pool. We're booked on a tour to Ayutthya tomorrow--the traditional capital.
We've seen no evidence so far of the political disruption...
Off to a bar and supper--we'll post tomorrow after we're back.
Up and to the airport in lots of time. Had a coffee while we were waiting for boarding. An airbus 330 flight for 2h40m from Hong Kong along the Chinese coast, between the island of Hainan and the mainland, then down the NW coast of Hainan and basically straight across to Bangkok--overtop of Vietnam and Laos.
Passing over the Thai countryside inot Bangkok was neat--lots of flooded rice fields and little villages with red and blue roofs and many canals and roads and a couple of big rivers. The airport here is huge--we got off the plane, walked a bit, took a moving walkway and then passed a sign saying our destination was a further 760 meters down the way! Taxi ride into the Hotel--nice, with a rooftop pool. We're booked on a tour to Ayutthya tomorrow--the traditional capital.
We've seen no evidence so far of the political disruption...
Off to a bar and supper--we'll post tomorrow after we're back.
Friday, April 10, 2009
Good Friday
Today we had a slow start on the day. We revved up and went to the mall next door for an amazing Dim Sum lunch. We talked about an expedition to the Museum of Coastal Defense but it seems destined to forever remain a mystery (much like the Mitchell Corn Palace). We proceeded to pack for our trip to Bangkok, and while packing it was clear a bottle or two of wine would make things more fun....which worked wonders and everything is now in suicases. Our van arrives at the crack of 8:30 and our flight leaves Hong Kong at 11:20 arriving Bangkok at 1:00 pm.
We are not sure when we will be able to update this blog as we will not be near a computer for a few days.
Goog night and good bye from Hong Kong. It has been fun and interesting....Mike even liked it!
We are not sure when we will be able to update this blog as we will not be near a computer for a few days.
Goog night and good bye from Hong Kong. It has been fun and interesting....Mike even liked it!
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Sai Wan Bay
On Thursday the 9th, we first went to Sai Wan Bay Military Cemetary on the east side of Hong Kong Island, where Canadians are commemorated. It is a peaceful and beautiful place, and very well kept up. There is a covered, walled area with the names of the 1939-45 Hong Kong military dead, from all the units. There is a visitor's book, which we signed, and there were many, recent Canadian addresses in the book. We left 2 poppies on the wall, Dad: one for AT "Red" Woods and Agnes: one for RC Maxwell. Where they know the names, or sometimes just the unit, the monuments are so inscribed, but there are many noted as just "a soldier". Most of the Canadians have such markers but, they are remembered.
After a bit of a wait for transportation, we carried on South to Stanley--again--for lunch and shopping.
Then, we took the double-decker bus from Repulse Bay up and over the Wong Nei Chong Gap. which is where the Winnipeg Grenadiers made their major stand. You have to see the terrain to believe it--everything is on steep slopes and up or down. It is now a populated area, but we passed by the Esso station and saw the Western Brigade HQ bunker, all cemented up. One of the historical Hong Kong walks goes down from Jardine's Lookout and ends there.
Back to Brian's and that was it for the day.
After a bit of a wait for transportation, we carried on South to Stanley--again--for lunch and shopping.
Then, we took the double-decker bus from Repulse Bay up and over the Wong Nei Chong Gap. which is where the Winnipeg Grenadiers made their major stand. You have to see the terrain to believe it--everything is on steep slopes and up or down. It is now a populated area, but we passed by the Esso station and saw the Western Brigade HQ bunker, all cemented up. One of the historical Hong Kong walks goes down from Jardine's Lookout and ends there.
Back to Brian's and that was it for the day.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Macau
This will be a 2-day post covering our trip to Macau...
Macau is a separate Special Administrative Region from Hong Kong, so you have to go through Immigration and Customs on both sides and both ways. So we did! The Jetfoil is a hydrofoil-type boat (not a hovercraft), carrying 228 people and going at 47 knots. You "fly" above the waves and it is quite smooth. It has a jet engine powering the propellers, so it sounds like one. Anyway, smooth, fast (about an hour), comfortable trips both ways.
The MGM Grand in Macau is, in fact, Grand. First ever ***** hotel we've stayed in. (We were there on a package deal--transportation, hotel, breakfast for $C312 all-in total--they must be feeling the turndown!) 16th floor looking South over water to the other Macau Island, plasma TV, motorized curtain covering plexiglass separating the bathroom from the rest of the suite, big bathtub, twin sinks, etc. etc.. Main lobby had a Chihouly (glass sculpture) hanging from the ceiling, many examples around and a Chihouly shop too--sadly, way, way, WAY above our means, but we took pictures. The atrium connecting the hotel to the casino was 3 or 4 stories high and decorated to look like Lisbon--one end was, according to a Scot we spoke with, exactly like the train station in Lisbon--and he's seen both. The casino was huge. We had a very late and expensive dim sum lunch and after donating some money to "the cause", we left!
And went to the Venetian, another casino, that was the biggest casino we've ever seen. And above it, a shopping mall--think 4 or 5 times the size of St Vital mall--with all the most expensive stores you can imagine all set in a Venetian theme. Real canals, with gondoliers singing and taking folks on trips. We had dinner in the food court--really good Vietnamese. After donating a bit there, we came back to the MGM Grand, walked around outside a bit, got some wine and nibblies and rested for the remains of the evening.
Breakfast--a superb buffet. Then, we took a taxi across the peninsula to the Maritime Museum and the A-Ma Temple. Fantastic models of ships, important maritime events and fishing from Macau's history. A-Ma is the Chinese Protector of Fishermen and the Temple is a must see. We hopped a local bus and took a ride to the shopping area and wandered around the tiny, crowded streets. Back to the MGM Grand to pick up our backpacks and then the Jetfoil back to Hong Kong and here we are!
A most wonderful 2 days.
Macau is a separate Special Administrative Region from Hong Kong, so you have to go through Immigration and Customs on both sides and both ways. So we did! The Jetfoil is a hydrofoil-type boat (not a hovercraft), carrying 228 people and going at 47 knots. You "fly" above the waves and it is quite smooth. It has a jet engine powering the propellers, so it sounds like one. Anyway, smooth, fast (about an hour), comfortable trips both ways.
The MGM Grand in Macau is, in fact, Grand. First ever ***** hotel we've stayed in. (We were there on a package deal--transportation, hotel, breakfast for $C312 all-in total--they must be feeling the turndown!) 16th floor looking South over water to the other Macau Island, plasma TV, motorized curtain covering plexiglass separating the bathroom from the rest of the suite, big bathtub, twin sinks, etc. etc.. Main lobby had a Chihouly (glass sculpture) hanging from the ceiling, many examples around and a Chihouly shop too--sadly, way, way, WAY above our means, but we took pictures. The atrium connecting the hotel to the casino was 3 or 4 stories high and decorated to look like Lisbon--one end was, according to a Scot we spoke with, exactly like the train station in Lisbon--and he's seen both. The casino was huge. We had a very late and expensive dim sum lunch and after donating some money to "the cause", we left!
And went to the Venetian, another casino, that was the biggest casino we've ever seen. And above it, a shopping mall--think 4 or 5 times the size of St Vital mall--with all the most expensive stores you can imagine all set in a Venetian theme. Real canals, with gondoliers singing and taking folks on trips. We had dinner in the food court--really good Vietnamese. After donating a bit there, we came back to the MGM Grand, walked around outside a bit, got some wine and nibblies and rested for the remains of the evening.
Breakfast--a superb buffet. Then, we took a taxi across the peninsula to the Maritime Museum and the A-Ma Temple. Fantastic models of ships, important maritime events and fishing from Macau's history. A-Ma is the Chinese Protector of Fishermen and the Temple is a must see. We hopped a local bus and took a ride to the shopping area and wandered around the tiny, crowded streets. Back to the MGM Grand to pick up our backpacks and then the Jetfoil back to Hong Kong and here we are!
A most wonderful 2 days.
Monday, April 6, 2009
The Big Buddah
We started off the day by taking our dirty clothes in to a Chinese Laundry ;->
Then, a couple of subway rides over to Lantau Island to take a cable car ride (5.5kms) over to Ngong Ping village, the Po Lin Monastery and "The Big" Tian Tan Buddah. The cable car climbs over 500 ear-popping meters up and gives an astonishing view of the International Airport. The village is a commercial enterprise more than anything else, but the Tian Tan Buddah is on the top of a hill and is simply huge. (Technically, its 23 meters high, bronze and weighs 202 tons). We didn't climb the 260 steps to get next to it--it was big enough from where we were looking. The Monestery is an amazingly peaceful place with no incense allowed inside and ornate beyond written description.
We came back to Taikoo Shing and found a grocery store to buy some foodstuffs for supper, picked up our lovely clean clothes and headed back to Brian's beautiful flat. We had dinner and fresh strawberries for a treat and made some plans for our trip to Bangkok. We are looking forward to travelling there with experienced Thailand travellers, who will be able to guide us to the best sights, shopping and especially eating!
We are off to Macau tomorrow to stay in the MGM Grand for quick visit. It will only be one night but we will get to see the highlights of Macau, do a little gambling and travel in a Jetfoil!
Blog later,
Laurel and Michael
Then, a couple of subway rides over to Lantau Island to take a cable car ride (5.5kms) over to Ngong Ping village, the Po Lin Monastery and "The Big" Tian Tan Buddah. The cable car climbs over 500 ear-popping meters up and gives an astonishing view of the International Airport. The village is a commercial enterprise more than anything else, but the Tian Tan Buddah is on the top of a hill and is simply huge. (Technically, its 23 meters high, bronze and weighs 202 tons). We didn't climb the 260 steps to get next to it--it was big enough from where we were looking. The Monestery is an amazingly peaceful place with no incense allowed inside and ornate beyond written description.
We came back to Taikoo Shing and found a grocery store to buy some foodstuffs for supper, picked up our lovely clean clothes and headed back to Brian's beautiful flat. We had dinner and fresh strawberries for a treat and made some plans for our trip to Bangkok. We are looking forward to travelling there with experienced Thailand travellers, who will be able to guide us to the best sights, shopping and especially eating!
We are off to Macau tomorrow to stay in the MGM Grand for quick visit. It will only be one night but we will get to see the highlights of Macau, do a little gambling and travel in a Jetfoil!
Blog later,
Laurel and Michael
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Jumbo for Brunch
Sunday brunch at the Jumbo floating restaurant in Aberdeen (on the south shore), champagne, seafood, desserts, WOW. Brian's friends Mhairi and Jean invited us to brunch. It was delicious and fun. Apparently it was noted for tourist tack and bad food in the past and most HK residents would not be caught dead there but it has been transformed into a very upscale destination and many ex-pat folks go there for a Sunday Brunch/family outing. We got there via cab-ride through the amazing Aberdeen Tunnel which goes under the mountains that are in the center of the island--just under 10 minutes at 70km. After brunch, the 3 of us went for a foot massage--lots of strong poking and prodding, but it felt nice--and the boys went back to Brian's. We all met up again for happy hour and supper at Brian's and lots of talk. Mhairi and Jean own a 6 acre chestnut ranch in New Zealand, to which they are going to retire--but being absentee landlords to a rental property has its challenges. They also had some quite positive health care experiences in HK--professional scientific treatments with healing helped along by the traditional post-operative therapeutic viewing of whatever bits were surgically removed (!?!?!). Anyway, a grand evening with friends.
Tomorrow, we are going to arrange an overnight to Macau. Thanks for the comments here and emails to our regular addresses--its great to hear the news from home.
Tomorrow, we are going to arrange an overnight to Macau. Thanks for the comments here and emails to our regular addresses--its great to hear the news from home.
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Stanley Market, Ching Ming and backstreet Hong Kong at night
Saturday...what great day. We set out on the crack of 10am and took the MTR to Chai Wan where it became evident that we were travelling with half of Hong Kong. The day to take care of ancestors graves (Ching Ming) is very important to the people and they travel to the cemetaries to clean up, place flowers and have picnics. The organization is amazing, many folks, including the polce, were directing traffic and the roads were very busy. We took a mini bus to Stanley Market, did a little shopping, and had a pub lunch. The pace is much more relaxed there and the main roads are blocked to traffic. We wandered over to a local beach andwatched people learning to sail and wind surf! The bus back to central took us past Repulse Bay, a beach area with some very posh homes.
After a little restorative nap we took a taxi to Central where we had drinks at the Fringe Club, a terrace on the roof surrounded by skyscrapers. We saw a little of the famous light show, then walked though the narrow lanes of real Hong Hong to a hole in the wall restaurant where we had the most delicious dinner. It is a unique place that employs wait staff that are too old or otherwise unable to find work in the mainstream food industry. We ended the enjoyable evening at Club 71, where one of the patrons was Long Hair, a local politician who is quite famous for taking on the establishment as a voice of the people.
All in all a great day!
Laurel and Michael
After a little restorative nap we took a taxi to Central where we had drinks at the Fringe Club, a terrace on the roof surrounded by skyscrapers. We saw a little of the famous light show, then walked though the narrow lanes of real Hong Hong to a hole in the wall restaurant where we had the most delicious dinner. It is a unique place that employs wait staff that are too old or otherwise unable to find work in the mainstream food industry. We ended the enjoyable evening at Club 71, where one of the patrons was Long Hair, a local politician who is quite famous for taking on the establishment as a voice of the people.
All in all a great day!
Laurel and Michael
Friday, April 3, 2009
Hong Kong, Peak Tram, Kowloon: April 2 and 3
Combining the stories of 2 days....Yesterday we took the tram (slow electric powered antique transport) from Tai Ko Shing to Central for an adventure up the Bank of China to the 44th floor...WOW. Smoggy but amazing views. Free ,too! Had a hamburger lunch at a Canadian fast food place and wandered through Hong Kong Park. It is quite near the Peak Tram and is an oasis in the middle of the insanity of Central HK. The park has a conservatory, kids play areas and the largest walk through aviary I have ever seen. It is massive with walkways at treetop level and 600 birds flying around. We took the Peak Tram to the top of Hong Kong Island, very steep but interesting ride. The top has a lot of shopping and restaurants and not too much else. Smoggy views so not much to see.
Today, April 3, we took the MTR (subway) over to Kowloon to see the Hong Kong Museum of History. What an amazing place....very well done with excellent displays of life in the city from ancient times to today. One of the best museums I have ever seen. We walked down Nathan road, looked at the Peninsula Hotel, refused copy Rolex's, custom suits, copy purses, etc, etc.
Thats all for now...plan to go shopping at Stanley Market tomorrow....need to restup!
Laurel and Michael
Today, April 3, we took the MTR (subway) over to Kowloon to see the Hong Kong Museum of History. What an amazing place....very well done with excellent displays of life in the city from ancient times to today. One of the best museums I have ever seen. We walked down Nathan road, looked at the Peninsula Hotel, refused copy Rolex's, custom suits, copy purses, etc, etc.
Thats all for now...plan to go shopping at Stanley Market tomorrow....need to restup!
Laurel and Michael
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
What Museum of Coastal Defence??
Sadly the Museum of Coastal Defence will remain a mystery as it was too far to walk with flip flops. We had a very slow day but got some groceries at the Wellcome Supermarket and some new shoes at the Marks and Spencer.
Today,however, we have plans to take the tram to Central and wander through Hong Kong Park and if the visability improves we will take the Peak Tram and walk back down.
Hong Kong is amazing....masses of people all rushing and talking on cell phones. Huge blocks of apartments all grouped together around central park like spaces. The shops are either small local vendors, or huge malls with Timberland, Colombia, Roots, etc. Brian says they are rapidly taking down much of the remaining green space. He has an area of trees across the street which may soon be used for apartments.
We are having a really good visit with Brian. On the weekend we are going to visit Stanley Market and have a brunch on a floating restaurant...Fun.
Hope the Winnipeg world is OK and the snow is not too bad!
Laurel and Michael
Today,however, we have plans to take the tram to Central and wander through Hong Kong Park and if the visability improves we will take the Peak Tram and walk back down.
Hong Kong is amazing....masses of people all rushing and talking on cell phones. Huge blocks of apartments all grouped together around central park like spaces. The shops are either small local vendors, or huge malls with Timberland, Colombia, Roots, etc. Brian says they are rapidly taking down much of the remaining green space. He has an area of trees across the street which may soon be used for apartments.
We are having a really good visit with Brian. On the weekend we are going to visit Stanley Market and have a brunch on a floating restaurant...Fun.
Hope the Winnipeg world is OK and the snow is not too bad!
Laurel and Michael
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
First Day in Hong Kong....WOW
After sleeping like the dead, we went with Brian to City University. A marvellous subway system ride from HK Island to the mainland. Had coffee with Brian and Ernest (he's an Instructor at City U too) and then off on our own to Wong Tai Sin temple for a short visit--because we were due back at City U for lunch with them. Lunch at the same restaurant we ate at on the first HK visit...no chicken feet this time! BUT great Dim Sum and Jasmine tea. After lunch, we struck out on our own to complete the circle back to Brian's. We took the subway, then the Star Ferry across the harbour to the island, then walked up to the tram for the trip back to Brian's. We ended up on the wrong tram, but decided to walk the rest of the way. We did fine (footsore!!) until we got to the shopping center that you have to pass through to get to Brians--everything looked the same, and we got quite lost inside the shopping center.
The air was quite polluted by our standards--visibility under 2km and a smell and taste in the air--but Mike is doing OK. Brians new aparment is on Hong Kong Island and very nice. It has a view of many other large apartments but is a very short walk to the harbour where there is a lovely park (not much grass and a sign that says NO Bicyling, NO Skateboards, No FUN basically!) The park is cobblestones and benches with several green areas with palm trees and flowers.
We plan to walk down there today to spend some time at the Museum of Coastal Defense...I am sure it will be very nice LOL! I (Laurel) plan some quality time shopping as we are next to the largest mall on the Island!
We are much more rested today and plan a very relaxing time. We are posting this at 1115 am April 1, which is 1015pm March31 in Wpg!
Blog to you soon!
L and M
The air was quite polluted by our standards--visibility under 2km and a smell and taste in the air--but Mike is doing OK. Brians new aparment is on Hong Kong Island and very nice. It has a view of many other large apartments but is a very short walk to the harbour where there is a lovely park (not much grass and a sign that says NO Bicyling, NO Skateboards, No FUN basically!) The park is cobblestones and benches with several green areas with palm trees and flowers.
We plan to walk down there today to spend some time at the Museum of Coastal Defense...I am sure it will be very nice LOL! I (Laurel) plan some quality time shopping as we are next to the largest mall on the Island!
We are much more rested today and plan a very relaxing time. We are posting this at 1115 am April 1, which is 1015pm March31 in Wpg!
Blog to you soon!
L and M
The Flights Over//Day 1
It was a very!!! long day, but a great one. This is a Michael posting--if you're not that interested in geography, pass over it!!!
Up at OOOOdark30, we did our final packing and house arranging. Alene and Nick were there at the appointed hour of 0515 and got us to the airport. Then they went home and went to bed!!! Thanks to you both for the "delivery". The 737 flight was 2 hours 40 minutes, passing just north of Regina and Lethbridge and was uneventful.
We had quite a bit of time in the Vancouver airport, so we started by collecting our bags and having a bite to eat at Tim's. We flaked out on some seats on the international side of the airport, checked in for our flight early and wandered about the departure lounge. Stopped and enjoyed a one-story-high wall-like aquarium filled with BC ocean species.
We boarded the 777 at about 2PM local time and started the 13 hour 25 minute flight to Hong Kong. The flightpath was up over the Queen Charlotte Islands out from the coastline. We passed just north of Kodiak Island and just south of Nunivak Island off the west coast of Alaska. We went almost parallel to the International Date Line where it makes a westward jut crossing it just before it angles eastward and then down along beside the Kamchatka Peninsula. We passed along the ocean side of the island string and south of Hokkaido then zigzagged down over the main Japanese islands and over Taiwan and then across and into Hong Kong. Not the Great Circle Route by any means, but I guess there must be airspace restrictions or something.
We had 3 meals during the flight and tried, mostly unsuccessfully, for some naps. Must say that Air Canada service and meals was good, but we were glad when we landed shortly after 7 local time!
The airport is marvellous, and huge. A subway train ride between the arrivals area and the Immigration/Customs/baggage areas! Brian was there waiting for us and we met Ernest Chan and his brother Ming, who used his van to transport us to Brian's place. A gin-and-tonic and talk took us through to collapse time.
Up at OOOOdark30, we did our final packing and house arranging. Alene and Nick were there at the appointed hour of 0515 and got us to the airport. Then they went home and went to bed!!! Thanks to you both for the "delivery". The 737 flight was 2 hours 40 minutes, passing just north of Regina and Lethbridge and was uneventful.
We had quite a bit of time in the Vancouver airport, so we started by collecting our bags and having a bite to eat at Tim's. We flaked out on some seats on the international side of the airport, checked in for our flight early and wandered about the departure lounge. Stopped and enjoyed a one-story-high wall-like aquarium filled with BC ocean species.
We boarded the 777 at about 2PM local time and started the 13 hour 25 minute flight to Hong Kong. The flightpath was up over the Queen Charlotte Islands out from the coastline. We passed just north of Kodiak Island and just south of Nunivak Island off the west coast of Alaska. We went almost parallel to the International Date Line where it makes a westward jut crossing it just before it angles eastward and then down along beside the Kamchatka Peninsula. We passed along the ocean side of the island string and south of Hokkaido then zigzagged down over the main Japanese islands and over Taiwan and then across and into Hong Kong. Not the Great Circle Route by any means, but I guess there must be airspace restrictions or something.
We had 3 meals during the flight and tried, mostly unsuccessfully, for some naps. Must say that Air Canada service and meals was good, but we were glad when we landed shortly after 7 local time!
The airport is marvellous, and huge. A subway train ride between the arrivals area and the Immigration/Customs/baggage areas! Brian was there waiting for us and we met Ernest Chan and his brother Ming, who used his van to transport us to Brian's place. A gin-and-tonic and talk took us through to collapse time.
Saturday, March 28, 2009
All My Bags Are Packed, I'm Ready to Go....
Leavin' on a Jet Plane, We are nearly ready...hope to be up and out of the house by 5:15am. The house is OK, plants are watered, Mike is having his pre-travel fuss and life is pretty good. Next post will be from Hong Kong!
Laurel
Laurel
Monday, March 23, 2009
Click on the map to enlarge.
This is a great map that Mike has customized for our trip. He put all our stops on it. We will be blogging as often as we can!
Laurel
Laurel
Sunday, March 22, 2009
One week to go.....
We have a week to get our S**T together for this journey. It is fun trying to pack for Bangkok and Hong Kong where we will be coping with heat and high humidity....to Alaska where it will be chilly and possibly wet! It is evident that 2 suitcases will be asolutely required to hold all that and my dress up sparklies for the cruise.
We have plans made for about 50% of the port stops; Vietnam will be neat as we are with a small group who will be together for the 2 days. We are taking a river tour so will be out in the rural areas to see how the people live. I can hardly wait!
My cousin Brian has plans for us in Hong Kong, where we will stay at his home for 10 days, and he will be travelling with us to Bangkok for a few days to be our personal tour guide. We are so fortunate as he has lived in Asia for many years and Bangkok is his favourite holiday destination.
I have to thank Mom and Dad for the title of this blog.....they stole it from Willy Nelson years ago when they were travelling full time in their various RVs around Canada and the US. I think it fits for this journey.
Later........Laurel and Michael
We have plans made for about 50% of the port stops; Vietnam will be neat as we are with a small group who will be together for the 2 days. We are taking a river tour so will be out in the rural areas to see how the people live. I can hardly wait!
My cousin Brian has plans for us in Hong Kong, where we will stay at his home for 10 days, and he will be travelling with us to Bangkok for a few days to be our personal tour guide. We are so fortunate as he has lived in Asia for many years and Bangkok is his favourite holiday destination.
I have to thank Mom and Dad for the title of this blog.....they stole it from Willy Nelson years ago when they were travelling full time in their various RVs around Canada and the US. I think it fits for this journey.
Later........Laurel and Michael
Friday, March 13, 2009
Preparations...
underway! We have our visas, we've ordered our HK$s, Bahts, Yens, Yuans, Wons and Rubles, we have taken our vaccination shots, and are starting to get excited. Well, except for the fact that we have to do our taxes before we go...
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Opener...
We're going to blog our Spring 2009 trip to see how this works, for us, and for you. Enjoy!
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