I am going to be well known by the Bridge officers, as my uber-sensitive fire/smoke alarm went off on the Bridge again this morning even though my water was room temperature and I left the bathroom door open as was suggested by several folks who had similar situations! I knew I was in trouble when the phone rang as I was rinsing off...I grabbed a towel and ran to the phone...muttering under my breath not nice things. I immediately said, "Oh, no, not the alarm again!" And he laughed and asked if I was OK. I said, "Yes, I'm fine, but my water was almost cold, I don't understand why it went off again!" He said that it must be very sensitive and then asked if I was showering with the bathroom door open or closed. I said that I was told to leave it open. He laughed and said, in his charming British accent, that someone was funning with me. I then asked what I could do to stop it from happening again and he said I could try keeping the door closed, but that the fire brigade will still be ready because it could happen then anyhow! I think I'm doomed in this room! It might be a past ghost or bad karma...ideas anyone?
The best thing about today? It is day five of eight sea days and we are over the hump! AND, Jeff and I got a perfect score on Music Trivia tonight! We disqualified ourselves and allowed two other teams to win, as Jeff really is an expert on music and being staff, he technically shouldn't play. But knowing we won was nice anyhow. It's the only trivia we feel secure about.
Tomorrow brings Jeff's first Improv Class which I'm thinking about...and one performance of his
Country Jam show. Oh, tonight we also saw The Avengers in the Movies Under the Stars outdoor venue above the swimming pools. It was a perfect night, a very calm night with a gentle breeze...the showers were earlier in the day.
We are having great difficulty staying connected to the Internet and its very frustrating. I've kept writing but can't get it published because I get disconnected too quickly. The other thing is I've had queries from our hotel in Rome and I can't get that response note to go out. I'll try again tomorrow, but I don't have much hope. We do have a computer expert aboard and perhaps I'll see him. I think we are just in a place where there is nothing. We passed a few islands today but they did not look to be inhabited at all. We are in Indonesian waters and tomorrow will pass between the islands of Medang and Gosong Sakunci headed toward the Java Sea...I've never heard of any of those!
I received a nice gift today...a couple of "coffee cards" which sell for $30 each and each card is good for 15 servings of Espressos, Macchiatos, Cappuccinos, Lattes, Iced Coffees or other specialty coffees...and free hot chocolate for Jeff.
I'm just about off sugar! And white foods too! Except for rice. Lots of rice is served. Usually three kinds of rice at every meal...sticky rice, curry rice and a rice with veggies. Having said that I weighed myself yesterday and haven't lost an ounce, but haven't gained anything either. Jeff says that's really good, because everyone gains. So, we went to the gym yesterday. It's always very crowded and he can only go after 6:00 PM so, we are limited. We are going to try to go every couple of days as time permits. We are busy!
One more tidbit about food. Today I tried for a taste of home...a tiny piece of something called "Pecan Cake" which looked like a bite sized square piece of pecan pie...except there were no pecans! It was made with ALMONDS! So, of course, it wasn't a taste of home at all...a forgery!
That's it for today...and here's another quote:
"I never travel without my diary. One should always have something sensational to read."...Oscar Wilde
Monday, May 27, 2013
Friday, May 24, 2013
Saturday, May 25, 2013. SEA DAY Three of Eight...sigh...& Sunday, May 26, Sea Day 4/8
After Jeff's two shows last evening, we grabbed a quick bite to eat at the buffet, then headed back to our cabin, where we started watching the series (there are six seasons on J's hard drive) of The Big Bang Theory. Watched three half hours' worth and hung it up for the night.
Both of us slept well, one of us without sleep aids, and that wouldn't be me. I can't always pray, talk or think myself out of that awful claustrophobic feeling. But, neither of us had to get up during the night and as a result neither gazed out of the portholes for minutes on end.
As of this afternoon, nothing has been sorted out, but there is a glimmer on the horizon. At lunch in the midst of the Great Barrier Reef, our Captain informed us that he had stopped the ship and the process of removing a passenger and spouse with medical attendants to a pilot ship was commencing. Shortly after, Jeff was notified that we hadn't been forgotten, but that various passengers had various complaints about their cabins and were being moved around...hah! At least they have cabins! They should not complain! We will need to wait a few more days. Hmmmm. OK. We will wait...and I. Will. Have fun. And not complain.
One other little thing to remember when traveling with Australians. Keep to the left. After a lifetime of walking and driving to the right, it's tricky navigating the other way...and a bit dangerous too. The Aussies also have a different sense of personal space when in a lift or just "around"...Americans are more liberal with space, allowing others more of it than what we are allotted. Just an observation...
Well, almost no time passed writing the last paragraph when J Michael received a call telling him a cabin had been allocated to me! That's good news. The location? On Deck 12. That's good news. Directly across from Captain Kent. Don't think that's good news, particularly. However as long as it is quiet and I remain a quiet crew member at all hours I'll be fine...so I'm told...by Jeff.
So, Sunday morning, after a restful night of sleep in a larger than twin bed, I headed to the shower. First problem...water was scalding hot and didn't adjust according to the markings on the dial. Second problem, the shower drain was partially, um, mostly blocked and in no time, had filled up the shower stall threatening to overflow. Third problem, the phone started ringing while I was in it ( In the shower that is...).Twice. Then a knock on the door. Then another phone call...by then I was out, but dripping. Seems the steam from my overheating shower caused my smoke alarm to register a fire situation on the bridge, which requires an officer to investigate! Another asterisk is by my name, I guess! And cold showers from now on. My, my, what a day this has been...
The rest of Saturday and Sunday was spent packing, moving, doing laundry, dodging raindrops, eating and chatting, and unpacking. Weather for the next few days includes rain, heat, and high humidity.
Quote for today: "Traveling may be...an experience we shall always remember, or an experience which, alas, we shall never forget." - J. Gordon in YOUR SENSE OF HUMOR, 1930
Both of us slept well, one of us without sleep aids, and that wouldn't be me. I can't always pray, talk or think myself out of that awful claustrophobic feeling. But, neither of us had to get up during the night and as a result neither gazed out of the portholes for minutes on end.
As of this afternoon, nothing has been sorted out, but there is a glimmer on the horizon. At lunch in the midst of the Great Barrier Reef, our Captain informed us that he had stopped the ship and the process of removing a passenger and spouse with medical attendants to a pilot ship was commencing. Shortly after, Jeff was notified that we hadn't been forgotten, but that various passengers had various complaints about their cabins and were being moved around...hah! At least they have cabins! They should not complain! We will need to wait a few more days. Hmmmm. OK. We will wait...and I. Will. Have fun. And not complain.
One other little thing to remember when traveling with Australians. Keep to the left. After a lifetime of walking and driving to the right, it's tricky navigating the other way...and a bit dangerous too. The Aussies also have a different sense of personal space when in a lift or just "around"...Americans are more liberal with space, allowing others more of it than what we are allotted. Just an observation...
Well, almost no time passed writing the last paragraph when J Michael received a call telling him a cabin had been allocated to me! That's good news. The location? On Deck 12. That's good news. Directly across from Captain Kent. Don't think that's good news, particularly. However as long as it is quiet and I remain a quiet crew member at all hours I'll be fine...so I'm told...by Jeff.
So, Sunday morning, after a restful night of sleep in a larger than twin bed, I headed to the shower. First problem...water was scalding hot and didn't adjust according to the markings on the dial. Second problem, the shower drain was partially, um, mostly blocked and in no time, had filled up the shower stall threatening to overflow. Third problem, the phone started ringing while I was in it ( In the shower that is...).Twice. Then a knock on the door. Then another phone call...by then I was out, but dripping. Seems the steam from my overheating shower caused my smoke alarm to register a fire situation on the bridge, which requires an officer to investigate! Another asterisk is by my name, I guess! And cold showers from now on. My, my, what a day this has been...
The rest of Saturday and Sunday was spent packing, moving, doing laundry, dodging raindrops, eating and chatting, and unpacking. Weather for the next few days includes rain, heat, and high humidity.
Quote for today: "Traveling may be...an experience we shall always remember, or an experience which, alas, we shall never forget." - J. Gordon in YOUR SENSE OF HUMOR, 1930
Thursday, May 23, 2013
Friday, May 24 AT SEA
Oh boy. These sea days are very long. There don't seem to be as many activity choices during these days and they are even longer when there aren't available friends to wander with or to spend time talking to, or to play cards with...sigh. We are missing Jeanne, Belinda and Mick who companioned us through the islands. And this is only sea day number two...
I did sleep better last night and I think Jeff did too. And, the cruise director called in this morning saying he would sort things out for us...wonder how that will work out. I could end up in a dinghy off the port bow!
Today we are sailing with a falling barometer. We are off the coast of Eastern Australia, having passed the Whitsundays, but still transiting the Great Barrier Reef...we should pass by Cairns and Cooktown as we head toward Cape Flattery. It's very cloudy, but mild in the 70s. By tomorrow we should be back in the more tropical mid 80's.
If you've never been on a cruise ship for a sea journey or if it's been a long while you can forget the little things that come into play on a daily basis onboard. For instance, there's a dress code. Formal Nights are designated during spans of sea days and they are taken seriously. After six o'clock only formally dressed people should be seen in public areas. And that means only closed- toed shoes for ladies. I, however, did not bring any such shoes. I brought sandals, casual and slightly dressier. So last night was a formal night and we were invited to a birthday dinner at 8:00 pm in the Italian Bistro for a cast member. Jeff poked through my shoes to find the right ones. I told him I didn't have any, and didn't have any for the last cruise either. I just wore a pair of grey linen slacks with a black lacy shell and a salmon colored linen jacket...shoes? Black strappy sandals and freshly hued toes to match the jacket. Not really formal attire, but very decent for a tropical night onboard. I suggested that we find an out of the way place to scan the elite passengers dressed for the festivities...so we did. On the way I saw only a couple pair of women's feet NOT in sandals!
As we watched the parade of people headed to and from the champagne fountain and the Captain's Welcome Speech, I would say about every third couple or single was dressed for hunting in the outback, fishing on the coast, or wandering homeless in Smalltown, Anywhere.
Sad to say that formal rule was broken often. I can safely say my ship wardrobe will do nicely, thank you very much. Check.
There are other rules too. Like the one about not peeking under the ladies restroom doors to see if any are unoccupied when all the doors are closed. Hah. You must guess, then try a door, hoping if anyone IS in there, that she locked the door properly. Of course the door you pick to try isn't locked, is in use, and both you and the occupant are embarrassed along with the other ladies waiting impatiently. Oi!
And, no one is supposed to go into the dining room for lunch wearing shorts. Come on! This is the tropics!
Sorting out tipping is tricky too. If you are a passenger you are automatically charged about eleven dollars a day for gratuities which you assume are shared by all the service staff. But what about the hairdresser who cut your hair and you didn't tip, but found out later perhaps you should have tipped...and now you run into her everywhere it seems...I think she's going to get a late make up tip!
Yes, you can become overly compulsive about these oddities, but I refuse. I simply state them for you to consider. I've gotten them off my chest so they won't bother me anymore!
I'm looking forward to tonight...Jeff has two shows to perform so my evening is taken and will be fun. Moments to Remember is this one. And, it's not formal, it's Smart Casual, whatever that is...probably what I wore last night!
The daily newsletter has taken to posting a quote and I offer their choice for today: "One's destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things." - Henry Miller
I did sleep better last night and I think Jeff did too. And, the cruise director called in this morning saying he would sort things out for us...wonder how that will work out. I could end up in a dinghy off the port bow!
Today we are sailing with a falling barometer. We are off the coast of Eastern Australia, having passed the Whitsundays, but still transiting the Great Barrier Reef...we should pass by Cairns and Cooktown as we head toward Cape Flattery. It's very cloudy, but mild in the 70s. By tomorrow we should be back in the more tropical mid 80's.
If you've never been on a cruise ship for a sea journey or if it's been a long while you can forget the little things that come into play on a daily basis onboard. For instance, there's a dress code. Formal Nights are designated during spans of sea days and they are taken seriously. After six o'clock only formally dressed people should be seen in public areas. And that means only closed- toed shoes for ladies. I, however, did not bring any such shoes. I brought sandals, casual and slightly dressier. So last night was a formal night and we were invited to a birthday dinner at 8:00 pm in the Italian Bistro for a cast member. Jeff poked through my shoes to find the right ones. I told him I didn't have any, and didn't have any for the last cruise either. I just wore a pair of grey linen slacks with a black lacy shell and a salmon colored linen jacket...shoes? Black strappy sandals and freshly hued toes to match the jacket. Not really formal attire, but very decent for a tropical night onboard. I suggested that we find an out of the way place to scan the elite passengers dressed for the festivities...so we did. On the way I saw only a couple pair of women's feet NOT in sandals!
As we watched the parade of people headed to and from the champagne fountain and the Captain's Welcome Speech, I would say about every third couple or single was dressed for hunting in the outback, fishing on the coast, or wandering homeless in Smalltown, Anywhere.
Sad to say that formal rule was broken often. I can safely say my ship wardrobe will do nicely, thank you very much. Check.
There are other rules too. Like the one about not peeking under the ladies restroom doors to see if any are unoccupied when all the doors are closed. Hah. You must guess, then try a door, hoping if anyone IS in there, that she locked the door properly. Of course the door you pick to try isn't locked, is in use, and both you and the occupant are embarrassed along with the other ladies waiting impatiently. Oi!
And, no one is supposed to go into the dining room for lunch wearing shorts. Come on! This is the tropics!
Sorting out tipping is tricky too. If you are a passenger you are automatically charged about eleven dollars a day for gratuities which you assume are shared by all the service staff. But what about the hairdresser who cut your hair and you didn't tip, but found out later perhaps you should have tipped...and now you run into her everywhere it seems...I think she's going to get a late make up tip!
Yes, you can become overly compulsive about these oddities, but I refuse. I simply state them for you to consider. I've gotten them off my chest so they won't bother me anymore!
I'm looking forward to tonight...Jeff has two shows to perform so my evening is taken and will be fun. Moments to Remember is this one. And, it's not formal, it's Smart Casual, whatever that is...probably what I wore last night!
The daily newsletter has taken to posting a quote and I offer their choice for today: "One's destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things." - Henry Miller
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
Wednesday, May 22, 2013. Brisbane, Australia and Thursday, May 23... Sea Day, One of EIGHT
We were up very early this morning; Jeff, to get his two large boxes examined by Customs officials before mailing them home and me, to move out of my Tenth Baja Deck cabin to Jeff's fourth deck cabin. Once we sail later today I should be assigned a new cabin which will be mine until Dubai, when we do the whole pack n' move thing again.
After we cleared the ship we walked and Jeff carried those two heavy boxes about a mile to catch a CAT boat. After a forty minute ride he settled me in a nice spot in the public library which features free WiFi!, while he took those boxes another mile down the road to the post office.
Today is the ideal day to be in this part of Brisbane, because there is a Wednesday Market Festival each week. There are about fifty vendors outside selling yummy things like kettle corn, French pastries, dim sum, dumplings, fruits and vegetables as well as craft items. This is located at the bridge/river end of Queen Street. Queen Street itself is a high end shopping street and goes on forever it seems. We will only have about two hours to shop and have some lunch, visit the ATM and buy and write postcards...we have to be back onboard by around 3:00 and we have to allow an hour for the trip back by boat and feet!
Just a quick note on the changeover for this next cruise, which is divided into segments. This first segment is from Sydney/Brisbane to Dubai. Most of the passengers carry elite Princess status which means they have traveled more than a couple hundred nights on Princess ships in the past. Many of these are returning around-the-world trippers. These first few days have changed the personality of the ship in subtle but noticeable ways. It's more uncomfortable because it doesn't feel friendly as folks try to figure out the ship and how things are organized and scheduled. And there are more unsettled people wandering about moving very very slowly, due to too much anti seasickness medication perhaps. It's kind of like the zombies thing. It will probably settle down in a few more days, but it's not too much fun right now.
I can't remember if I mentioned our lunch yesterday in the dining room with two of the entertainers. We closed down the place after a very funny time. And last night, the other entertainment was The Aussie Boys, three young men singers who did a short program of all Australian songs of which I knew two and liked both of them...songs that is, not the men. I would rate their program fair because it was so short and a little cheesy too.
THURSDAY, MAY 23
So, that part about sorting out the room was a falsehood and fiasco as apparently I don't exist onboard right now and because of a changeover in front desk folks no one knows what to do with me. As a result I spent the night in Jeff's cabin, and neither of us slept well. A quick stop at the front desk yet again this morning (Thursday, May 23) gives us the following info, " There are no vacant cabins." We know this isn't true because 200 people got on in Sydney and 300 people got off in Brisbane. But, somewhat officially, I exist again, and am officially in Jeff's cabin which is good and notsogood. Good? I pay nothing for the days I'm in his cabin. NOTSOGOOD? Everything else...we can't sleep well...I purr, Jeff sleeps very lightly. I'm somewhat claustrophobic and the lower bunk is difficult at best...I guess I thought he would have two twins side by side. I spent part of the night standing by the portholes, cooling off (it was very warm), and talking myself into getting back in the close quartered bed. Also, Crew rooms do not include hair dryers...a small problem for me as I didn't bring one along and passenger rooms have them.
Tonight is a formal night so I've got to dig out something to iron, then wear. Bonus is that I can use the crew iron and won't have to fight with the grumpy laundry ladies. Our entertainment for the night will be seeing Donna Campbell, who does a show featuring all Dolly Parton songs and stories. Jeff said she's very good, so we will go to see her.
After we cleared the ship we walked and Jeff carried those two heavy boxes about a mile to catch a CAT boat. After a forty minute ride he settled me in a nice spot in the public library which features free WiFi!, while he took those boxes another mile down the road to the post office.
Today is the ideal day to be in this part of Brisbane, because there is a Wednesday Market Festival each week. There are about fifty vendors outside selling yummy things like kettle corn, French pastries, dim sum, dumplings, fruits and vegetables as well as craft items. This is located at the bridge/river end of Queen Street. Queen Street itself is a high end shopping street and goes on forever it seems. We will only have about two hours to shop and have some lunch, visit the ATM and buy and write postcards...we have to be back onboard by around 3:00 and we have to allow an hour for the trip back by boat and feet!
Just a quick note on the changeover for this next cruise, which is divided into segments. This first segment is from Sydney/Brisbane to Dubai. Most of the passengers carry elite Princess status which means they have traveled more than a couple hundred nights on Princess ships in the past. Many of these are returning around-the-world trippers. These first few days have changed the personality of the ship in subtle but noticeable ways. It's more uncomfortable because it doesn't feel friendly as folks try to figure out the ship and how things are organized and scheduled. And there are more unsettled people wandering about moving very very slowly, due to too much anti seasickness medication perhaps. It's kind of like the zombies thing. It will probably settle down in a few more days, but it's not too much fun right now.
I can't remember if I mentioned our lunch yesterday in the dining room with two of the entertainers. We closed down the place after a very funny time. And last night, the other entertainment was The Aussie Boys, three young men singers who did a short program of all Australian songs of which I knew two and liked both of them...songs that is, not the men. I would rate their program fair because it was so short and a little cheesy too.
THURSDAY, MAY 23
So, that part about sorting out the room was a falsehood and fiasco as apparently I don't exist onboard right now and because of a changeover in front desk folks no one knows what to do with me. As a result I spent the night in Jeff's cabin, and neither of us slept well. A quick stop at the front desk yet again this morning (Thursday, May 23) gives us the following info, " There are no vacant cabins." We know this isn't true because 200 people got on in Sydney and 300 people got off in Brisbane. But, somewhat officially, I exist again, and am officially in Jeff's cabin which is good and notsogood. Good? I pay nothing for the days I'm in his cabin. NOTSOGOOD? Everything else...we can't sleep well...I purr, Jeff sleeps very lightly. I'm somewhat claustrophobic and the lower bunk is difficult at best...I guess I thought he would have two twins side by side. I spent part of the night standing by the portholes, cooling off (it was very warm), and talking myself into getting back in the close quartered bed. Also, Crew rooms do not include hair dryers...a small problem for me as I didn't bring one along and passenger rooms have them.
Tonight is a formal night so I've got to dig out something to iron, then wear. Bonus is that I can use the crew iron and won't have to fight with the grumpy laundry ladies. Our entertainment for the night will be seeing Donna Campbell, who does a show featuring all Dolly Parton songs and stories. Jeff said she's very good, so we will go to see her.
Tuesday, May 21, 2013. At Sea...
We have a new Captain, William Kent.
I slept well; and talked with Jack early this morning, who gave me the CASTLE update.
Very sad about the Oklahoma tornado. A video on our SKY NEWS channel showed a woman talking about her experience and then her little dog appeared in the rubble...very moving story.
Today I had a fun lunch in the Dining Room (fancy schmancy) with Jeff and two funny, funny guys who are performing tonight. I saw their show last cruise and it was nice to meet them up close and personal and hear their stories. And we laughed. A lot.
I joined the new Pop Choir and we have a smaller group to start, however we may grow a bit over this first week. This new show will feature music from many musicals and will be fun to perform.
Jeff and I plan to do some serious walking or gym activities this cruise since I'm feeling better. We walked our first mile on Deck 7 this afternoon, however he didn't like it because we encountered folks walking in both directions! Even though signs are clearly posted J said this is the only ship where walkers walk clockwise! But really, it's confusing because you have walkers and even joggers running in both directions! Not sure how we will resolve this...it stressed him out.
That's about all for today...nothing really exciting, but a mild, very pleasant day. Tomorrow, in Brisbane, Jeff and I will do our own thing because he's very familiar with the city and using the water taxis to get around.
Cheers!
I slept well; and talked with Jack early this morning, who gave me the CASTLE update.
Very sad about the Oklahoma tornado. A video on our SKY NEWS channel showed a woman talking about her experience and then her little dog appeared in the rubble...very moving story.
Today I had a fun lunch in the Dining Room (fancy schmancy) with Jeff and two funny, funny guys who are performing tonight. I saw their show last cruise and it was nice to meet them up close and personal and hear their stories. And we laughed. A lot.
I joined the new Pop Choir and we have a smaller group to start, however we may grow a bit over this first week. This new show will feature music from many musicals and will be fun to perform.
Jeff and I plan to do some serious walking or gym activities this cruise since I'm feeling better. We walked our first mile on Deck 7 this afternoon, however he didn't like it because we encountered folks walking in both directions! Even though signs are clearly posted J said this is the only ship where walkers walk clockwise! But really, it's confusing because you have walkers and even joggers running in both directions! Not sure how we will resolve this...it stressed him out.
That's about all for today...nothing really exciting, but a mild, very pleasant day. Tomorrow, in Brisbane, Jeff and I will do our own thing because he's very familiar with the city and using the water taxis to get around.
Cheers!
Monday, May 20, 2013. Around the World Cruise Day One, Sydney
Spent a fun day with Sally Bowyer who flew in from Melbourne to be with us. Since we were not in Darling Harbour, but docked a good distance away, we taxied to the City Centre at the Capitol Theatre. I'm sure you want to know why there? Because there is a small independent grocer/7-11 type store that sells Maynard's Wine Gums! (Jeff's and my favorite candy!)
CD store, Woolworth's, McDonald's. For lunch. Jeff swears their french fries are better than ours and as good as the Pago Pago ones we had last week! I can't prove him wrong. And he said we probably won't have more of the same until we get home, which is OK with me.
After lunch we walked a bit and had a snack at a chocolate shop before catching another cab back to the ship. It was a short day but lots of fun and so nice to finally meet Sally in person after our Skype-meeting.
Back on board ship, I was assigned yet another room, this one is an inside room on Deck 10 where there are suites and a few smaller rooms. Mine is very nice but it doesn't really matter because I'll only be there for two nights...then in Brisbane I'll get another cabin until Dubai, when I'll probably be evicted again. But as the Aussies say, "No worries!"
Tonight Jeff and the dancers perform their WABS....Welcome Aboard Show. Then, a quick, late dinner and off to bed.
CD store, Woolworth's, McDonald's. For lunch. Jeff swears their french fries are better than ours and as good as the Pago Pago ones we had last week! I can't prove him wrong. And he said we probably won't have more of the same until we get home, which is OK with me.
After lunch we walked a bit and had a snack at a chocolate shop before catching another cab back to the ship. It was a short day but lots of fun and so nice to finally meet Sally in person after our Skype-meeting.
Back on board ship, I was assigned yet another room, this one is an inside room on Deck 10 where there are suites and a few smaller rooms. Mine is very nice but it doesn't really matter because I'll only be there for two nights...then in Brisbane I'll get another cabin until Dubai, when I'll probably be evicted again. But as the Aussies say, "No worries!"
Tonight Jeff and the dancers perform their WABS....Welcome Aboard Show. Then, a quick, late dinner and off to bed.
Sunday, May 19, 2013
Sunday, May 19, 2013. Sea Day Two of Two. Tasman Sea and Rough Waters
Rocking and Rolling along still headed ing toward Sydney. Busy Day started with Interdenominational church service at 9:00. Very moving and presided over by a Methodist minister from Australia. I was the weeping one in the second last row...why? The hymns. That happens. Everyone knows I'm a weeper! I should hire myself out at funerals where no one comes. My eyes will leak and I will weep...guaranteed! Oh boy!
From there, to haircut appointment where I felt like weeping again, but it will grow back.
And after that, a showing of the concert film with champagne served. Two glasses and no breakfast equalled more unsteady efforts to get around!
Quick lunch/breakfast and packing. Packing. Packing.
Goodbyes with chocolate covered strawberries. Moving stuff to Jeff's cabin as my eviction notice came through. Settled accounts of first cruise and received Australia Customs forms. Figuring out plans for tomorrow.
Final Trivia...subject "travel". Arrrrgghhhh. Came in third again! Prize was a World Cruise....brochure! Said goodbyes to Jeanne and Belinda and Mick, new friends who go back to Adelaide and Melbourne tomorrow. I'll miss them, but we exchanged addresses and we will try to keep in touch.
Whew. Last night is hard. Called Amy for a quick chat and caught up with Apex doings. Yawn...time for pillow time.
From there, to haircut appointment where I felt like weeping again, but it will grow back.
And after that, a showing of the concert film with champagne served. Two glasses and no breakfast equalled more unsteady efforts to get around!
Quick lunch/breakfast and packing. Packing. Packing.
Goodbyes with chocolate covered strawberries. Moving stuff to Jeff's cabin as my eviction notice came through. Settled accounts of first cruise and received Australia Customs forms. Figuring out plans for tomorrow.
Final Trivia...subject "travel". Arrrrgghhhh. Came in third again! Prize was a World Cruise....brochure! Said goodbyes to Jeanne and Belinda and Mick, new friends who go back to Adelaide and Melbourne tomorrow. I'll miss them, but we exchanged addresses and we will try to keep in touch.
Whew. Last night is hard. Called Amy for a quick chat and caught up with Apex doings. Yawn...time for pillow time.
Saturday, May 18, 2013. Sea Day One of Two. Coral Sea, aimed for Sydney
Calm seas expected to rev up later today.
Laundry.
Late breakfast.
Last Pop Choir rehearsal.
Pop Choir Concert. They liked us! They really seemed to like our 94 member choir! It went by very quickly and was actually fun.
Big flap over choir pictures and the $30 apiece charge. I didn't buy one, but will hope one happens to come my way.
Jeff had two shows tonight and I took a bunch of photos during them...we'll see what I got!
Last Formal Night. Lobster night. We skipped dinner as it is impossible to eat in the dining room on a show night. Instead we celebrated with the chocolate croissants in Jeff's cabin just before midnight.
Laundry.
Late breakfast.
Last Pop Choir rehearsal.
Pop Choir Concert. They liked us! They really seemed to like our 94 member choir! It went by very quickly and was actually fun.
Big flap over choir pictures and the $30 apiece charge. I didn't buy one, but will hope one happens to come my way.
Jeff had two shows tonight and I took a bunch of photos during them...we'll see what I got!
Last Formal Night. Lobster night. We skipped dinner as it is impossible to eat in the dining room on a show night. Instead we celebrated with the chocolate croissants in Jeff's cabin just before midnight.
Friday, May 17, 2012. Noumea, New Caledonia. Tour: Island Drive and Aquarium
Our last port of this cruise is today...Noumea, a French-speaking tropical island closer to Australia. First stop, the Catholic Church of the Immaculate Conception, perched upland a bit in the hills out from the city. And wonder of wonders...an air -conditioned bus! Figures...it's much cooler today with low humidity. Church has memorabilia from many miracles said to have occurred here. There are many plaques of marble placed in memory of them..some old, some newer. The island is primarily Catholic and Methodist.
Second stop is a beautiful high hilltop with one of the prettiest views we've seen so far...Noumea has the largest natural lagoon in the Pacific Islands and a coral reef to boot. There are small islands dotting the turquoise waters making for a gorgeous setting. The hilltop is graced by a couple bright yellow Tchou Tchou Petit Trains which transport tourists and locals up the steep slopes to enjoy the views, especially Amedee Island, a World Heritage Site out on the reef.
Last stop is the Aquarium of the Lagoons, down the hill nearer to the city centre. It's a small but charming and adequate endeavor featuring many Pacific fish species, sea snakes, reef sharks, sea horses, and some pretty creepy other things that look like bionic sea bugs that resemble huge cockroaches sitting on the sea bottom. There was also a black light room featuring glowing corals. The last exhibit held the awful crown of thorns starfish which are destroying parts of the Great Barrier Reef.
We managed to do some shopping, very specific this time, and found Jeff's fav patisserie for yummy chocolate eclairs and chocolate croissants...to go...for later.
Jeff had one evening show of British Invasion, we grabbed a quick bite to eat, then rushed over for evening trivia. Our little team has managed to stay in the top two to four (out of 25+- teams) most nights. But we are craving a top winning night and given there are other shows tonight we figure there might not be quite so many good competitors ...it might just be our night! Subject was supposed to be "entertainment" so we were ready, especially with Jeff on our team! They switched the subject to "general knowledge" at the last minute, but we drafted a math, physics, army guy who said he didn't know anything! Great! Well, he saved our @$&'s with four answers we had no clue about...krypton, some odd sort of tool, a martial art thing, and a tricky math problem...we won! Our team of four won! Pens and wee flashlights! Now we are planning for the Around the World team...figure we need to draft another librarian, a math teacher, some sport enthusiast and an Aussie or two...we might have a chance!
It was a very good day!
Second stop is a beautiful high hilltop with one of the prettiest views we've seen so far...Noumea has the largest natural lagoon in the Pacific Islands and a coral reef to boot. There are small islands dotting the turquoise waters making for a gorgeous setting. The hilltop is graced by a couple bright yellow Tchou Tchou Petit Trains which transport tourists and locals up the steep slopes to enjoy the views, especially Amedee Island, a World Heritage Site out on the reef.
Last stop is the Aquarium of the Lagoons, down the hill nearer to the city centre. It's a small but charming and adequate endeavor featuring many Pacific fish species, sea snakes, reef sharks, sea horses, and some pretty creepy other things that look like bionic sea bugs that resemble huge cockroaches sitting on the sea bottom. There was also a black light room featuring glowing corals. The last exhibit held the awful crown of thorns starfish which are destroying parts of the Great Barrier Reef.
We managed to do some shopping, very specific this time, and found Jeff's fav patisserie for yummy chocolate eclairs and chocolate croissants...to go...for later.
Jeff had one evening show of British Invasion, we grabbed a quick bite to eat, then rushed over for evening trivia. Our little team has managed to stay in the top two to four (out of 25+- teams) most nights. But we are craving a top winning night and given there are other shows tonight we figure there might not be quite so many good competitors ...it might just be our night! Subject was supposed to be "entertainment" so we were ready, especially with Jeff on our team! They switched the subject to "general knowledge" at the last minute, but we drafted a math, physics, army guy who said he didn't know anything! Great! Well, he saved our @$&'s with four answers we had no clue about...krypton, some odd sort of tool, a martial art thing, and a tricky math problem...we won! Our team of four won! Pens and wee flashlights! Now we are planning for the Around the World team...figure we need to draft another librarian, a math teacher, some sport enthusiast and an Aussie or two...we might have a chance!
It was a very good day!
Saturday, May 18, 2013
Thursday, May 16, 2013. SEA DAY...aimed for Noumea, New Caledonia
Happy Birthday to Jack! 70! Jeff and I called him early in his morning to sing and wish him a happy start to a happy birthday!
On our end it was a fairly quiet day, although somewhere along the line, in one of the lounges a woman passenger fell and broke her hip. She'll be taken off tomorrow for medical help. I hope she speaks French or understands it! Noumea is very, very French!
I took the afternoon and watched the very wonderful French movie, THE INTOUCHABLES. It was very well done and I highly recommend it. It us based on a true story and tells about a smart and wealthy gentleman who sustains a spinal cord injury and hires a street wise young man to be his aide. It is so funny in parts and one of those movies to remember.
It was also Italian Night on the ship and new entertainment boarded in Fiji, so we have some new faces aboard.
We have only one more port, Noumea, before two sea days and then Sydney. There's a lot of buzz because both Sydney and the first stop, Brisbane, on the world cruise, are said to be ports with not the usual docking places, but docks far away from shops and good restaurants. This is critical for some of us. $60 cab rides to buy toothpaste are not good! We will see what transpires...
On our end it was a fairly quiet day, although somewhere along the line, in one of the lounges a woman passenger fell and broke her hip. She'll be taken off tomorrow for medical help. I hope she speaks French or understands it! Noumea is very, very French!
I took the afternoon and watched the very wonderful French movie, THE INTOUCHABLES. It was very well done and I highly recommend it. It us based on a true story and tells about a smart and wealthy gentleman who sustains a spinal cord injury and hires a street wise young man to be his aide. It is so funny in parts and one of those movies to remember.
It was also Italian Night on the ship and new entertainment boarded in Fiji, so we have some new faces aboard.
We have only one more port, Noumea, before two sea days and then Sydney. There's a lot of buzz because both Sydney and the first stop, Brisbane, on the world cruise, are said to be ports with not the usual docking places, but docks far away from shops and good restaurants. This is critical for some of us. $60 cab rides to buy toothpaste are not good! We will see what transpires...
Wednesday, May 15, 2013. Suva, FIJI. Tour: Island Drive and Firewalking
Well, I did this tour alone as Jeff had a rehearsal. The Firewalking part was amazing and along with it the locals did rituals and performed a fight scene along with dancing and juggling and storytelling. Altogether it was a very enjoyable day.
I'm always tired after touring, as I'm not sure I've recovered from this bug 100%. I've learned that others who have had this bronchitis like thing have landed in the doctors care and a few haven't emerged from their cabins for weeks! I also heard that for a while we flew a "yellow flag" which means we have a certain percentage of sickies onboard. We guessed at 25% or so. The odd thing about it is that you might feel fairly good in the morning, but by midday or mid afternoon you really want to find a cocoon and hideaway.
I've learned that I will probably be bunking with Jeff in his cabin for a short period of time between cruises...well actually from Sydney until perhaps Brisbane as the housing folks figure out if they have another cabin for me. So I'll be giving up my lovely balcony high rise for a basement co-op for a bit.
Quote for the day: "See one promontory, one mountain, one sea, one river, and see all." ...Socrates
I'm always tired after touring, as I'm not sure I've recovered from this bug 100%. I've learned that others who have had this bronchitis like thing have landed in the doctors care and a few haven't emerged from their cabins for weeks! I also heard that for a while we flew a "yellow flag" which means we have a certain percentage of sickies onboard. We guessed at 25% or so. The odd thing about it is that you might feel fairly good in the morning, but by midday or mid afternoon you really want to find a cocoon and hideaway.
I've learned that I will probably be bunking with Jeff in his cabin for a short period of time between cruises...well actually from Sydney until perhaps Brisbane as the housing folks figure out if they have another cabin for me. So I'll be giving up my lovely balcony high rise for a basement co-op for a bit.
Quote for the day: "See one promontory, one mountain, one sea, one river, and see all." ...Socrates
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
Sunday, May 12, 2013. MOTHER'S DAY. Pago Pago, American Samoa
This was an incredible day! First, a heavy rainstorm hit the island making it almost unbearably hot and humid, even early in the morning. Many parts of the islands main road were flooded, but our bus splashed right on through! Our tour was Island Drive and Ava Ceremony. Tour was OK, not great just OK, but what made it unusual was that Mothers Day is a BIG DEAL on the island. All public places like churches and restaurants had beautiful signs, flowers, balloons, pictures, wishing all mothers Happy Mother's Day! People stopped their cars and called out good wishes to us...men, women and children. It was quite something. Family is very very important to the Samoans and this celebration showed it.
Part of the tour was a Ava Ceremony...it was never fully explained to us, however, which made it odd more than anything else. There were interesting dances prior to the ceremony, but those weren't explained either.
Jeff sent me a huge bouquet of flowers which I didn't notice right away, I went to my balcony for sail away and did some previous blogs, but later I sniffed something very fragrant and noticed them!
Jeff treated me to an extra special dinner - reservation only- in The Steakhouse restaurant onboard. It was a wonderful meal finishing off a very special Mothers Day.
Quote for today: "I will sing, I will go, and never ask me why I was born a rover and a passer-by." -...Ridgely Torrence
Part of the tour was a Ava Ceremony...it was never fully explained to us, however, which made it odd more than anything else. There were interesting dances prior to the ceremony, but those weren't explained either.
Jeff sent me a huge bouquet of flowers which I didn't notice right away, I went to my balcony for sail away and did some previous blogs, but later I sniffed something very fragrant and noticed them!
Jeff treated me to an extra special dinner - reservation only- in The Steakhouse restaurant onboard. It was a wonderful meal finishing off a very special Mothers Day.
Quote for today: "I will sing, I will go, and never ask me why I was born a rover and a passer-by." -...Ridgely Torrence
Saturday, May 11, 2013. Sea Day 2/2
We are heading toward Pago Pago, American Samoa today. We were up late last night but today the clocks went back one hour so that helped compensate. It's another cloudy and somewhat overcast day...we've had a few of those lately. Someone mentioned to us today that we will be getting a new captain soon...probably in Sydney. I haven't seen the current captain yet!
It occurred to me that I have spent no time and or money in the casino yet! I just don't think of heading there. Evenings are either shows or trivia or lounges listening to nice music, or interesting conversations with other passengers. It's not hard to find something to do.
I can't remember if I did a post about SPAM or not...this is the canned kind, not the email kind. When we were in Hawaii one evening a festival had traffic all snarled into gridlock. It was because of the SPAM FESTIVAL! Who knew? (If I'm repeating myself, forgive, please.). Hawaii is the number one state in consumption of SPAM in America. It can be found at all convenience stores, groceries, and many restaurants serve entrees with SPAM. SPAM is one of the most requested items at the Hawaii Food Bank. It's 76 years old, was introduced by Hormel Foods in 1937. The SPAM JAM Festival in Waikiki is 11 years old. The Festival offered SPAM delicacies like SPAM burgers, SPAM pancakes, SPAM Tacos, SPAM cheesecakes, ChocoSPAMalicious Popsicles(!), SPAM sushi, and a hundred more. There are also many varieties of SPAM...low-sodium, Classic, Turkey and more. Now you are almost a SPAM expert!
It occurred to me that I have spent no time and or money in the casino yet! I just don't think of heading there. Evenings are either shows or trivia or lounges listening to nice music, or interesting conversations with other passengers. It's not hard to find something to do.
I can't remember if I did a post about SPAM or not...this is the canned kind, not the email kind. When we were in Hawaii one evening a festival had traffic all snarled into gridlock. It was because of the SPAM FESTIVAL! Who knew? (If I'm repeating myself, forgive, please.). Hawaii is the number one state in consumption of SPAM in America. It can be found at all convenience stores, groceries, and many restaurants serve entrees with SPAM. SPAM is one of the most requested items at the Hawaii Food Bank. It's 76 years old, was introduced by Hormel Foods in 1937. The SPAM JAM Festival in Waikiki is 11 years old. The Festival offered SPAM delicacies like SPAM burgers, SPAM pancakes, SPAM Tacos, SPAM cheesecakes, ChocoSPAMalicious Popsicles(!), SPAM sushi, and a hundred more. There are also many varieties of SPAM...low-sodium, Classic, Turkey and more. Now you are almost a SPAM expert!
Monday, May 14, 2013. (13th lost because we passed over the dateline) SEA DAY
Today is hot with an occasional drizzle as we head to FIJI! We had a choir rehearsal and then adjourned to the Atrium of the ship where the ship photographer aligned us properly and took out photo.
The day was more or less frittered away which is OK now and then, I think.
I wrote a positive comment card regarding our dinner waiter last evening. Hopefully he'll see it or receive a reward for it.
We had a major singalong in the evening which I enjoyed immensely while Jeff pretended not to! He bought me a Long Island Ice Tea, grumbled a bit, and pretended he was a trumpet or trombone for much of the evening...quite funny!
Quote for today: "There is a certain relief in change, even though it be from bad to worse; as I have found in traveling in a stagecoach, that it is often a comfort to shift one's position and be bounced in a new place." -...Washington Irving
The day was more or less frittered away which is OK now and then, I think.
I wrote a positive comment card regarding our dinner waiter last evening. Hopefully he'll see it or receive a reward for it.
We had a major singalong in the evening which I enjoyed immensely while Jeff pretended not to! He bought me a Long Island Ice Tea, grumbled a bit, and pretended he was a trumpet or trombone for much of the evening...quite funny!
Quote for today: "There is a certain relief in change, even though it be from bad to worse; as I have found in traveling in a stagecoach, that it is often a comfort to shift one's position and be bounced in a new place." -...Washington Irving
Saturday, May 11, 2013
Friday, May 10, 2013. Sea Day 1of 2
Our Pop Choir is practicing every possible day that we can to be ready to perform before everyone disembarks in Sydney on the 20th. I can't tell from one song to the next whether I will sing bass, alto or just squeak from song to song! This cold keeps lingering and although I don't feel awful, I have no stamina and fade easily by late afternoon. I slept in again this morning. I carry throat lozenges around everywhere along with my box of Kleenex!
I had a lively conversation with an English teacher about regional accents and dialects. She laughed when I said that Americans don't think we have accents! A woman came into our conversation having overheard me talking and recognized my accent as something other than Kiwi or Aussie...she is from Chicago!
Jeff has two shows tonight and I'll skip the formal festivities to sit one hour ahead of each performance to get a seat! The shows are the most popular!
After show report: both shows went well...most all words were remembered. Two wardrobe malfunctions nearly caused the show to be renamed "The Wee Willie Show" as two boy dancers had open zippers!
Quote for today: "it is not worthwhile to go round the world to count the cats in Zanzibar."-...Henry Thoreau
I had a lively conversation with an English teacher about regional accents and dialects. She laughed when I said that Americans don't think we have accents! A woman came into our conversation having overheard me talking and recognized my accent as something other than Kiwi or Aussie...she is from Chicago!
Jeff has two shows tonight and I'll skip the formal festivities to sit one hour ahead of each performance to get a seat! The shows are the most popular!
After show report: both shows went well...most all words were remembered. Two wardrobe malfunctions nearly caused the show to be renamed "The Wee Willie Show" as two boy dancers had open zippers!
Quote for today: "it is not worthwhile to go round the world to count the cats in Zanzibar."-...Henry Thoreau
Thursday, May 9, 2013
Thursday, May 9, 2013. Bora Bora. Tour: Island Drive, Anau Lookout, & Bloody Mary's
We sailed into Bora Bora through the only opening in the reef (sound familiar?) about 9:00 last evening...it's only about six miles from Raiatea. And I'm still working out what makes this such a popular spot. The ads say it's unspoiled. True. But I think it might need a little spoiling. Or fixing up. Or at least repair from the last three hurricanes over the last few years. The draw is probably the diving and reef exploration. The water is a multitude of gorgeous shades of blue. No snakes or critters, they say. But boy do they get some serious rain showers. Think monsoon!
We were rained on all morning. Jeff was seriously splashed when a not nice vehicle sprayed him with a puddle. We hunted for our pins to continue our little mini collections but none were to be found. We did find some vanilla tea for Amy and some nifty postcards.
More women than men leave the island for education and more schooling. Any schooling past elementary upper level means traveling to Raiatea on a weekly basis via a two hour boat ride @$30. French government picks up one a month. Boys usually quit school early to help...fish, I guess. Chinese run all the businesses because earlier history showed natives weren't much interested, so Chinese took advantage of the opportunities. Lifestyle is pretty laid back to say the least.
Water comes very close to the only road by inches...a high tide would flood most of it.
Saw two shows...fair...both were familiar from out last cruise.
Quote for today! "Travel teaches toleration."...Disraeli
We were rained on all morning. Jeff was seriously splashed when a not nice vehicle sprayed him with a puddle. We hunted for our pins to continue our little mini collections but none were to be found. We did find some vanilla tea for Amy and some nifty postcards.
More women than men leave the island for education and more schooling. Any schooling past elementary upper level means traveling to Raiatea on a weekly basis via a two hour boat ride @$30. French government picks up one a month. Boys usually quit school early to help...fish, I guess. Chinese run all the businesses because earlier history showed natives weren't much interested, so Chinese took advantage of the opportunities. Lifestyle is pretty laid back to say the least.
Water comes very close to the only road by inches...a high tide would flood most of it.
Saw two shows...fair...both were familiar from out last cruise.
Quote for today! "Travel teaches toleration."...Disraeli
Wednesday, May 8, 2013. Raiatea. Tour: TAHA'A PEARL FARM AND VANILLA PLANTATION
TAHA'A is a smaller, quieter island about 45 minutes away from Raiatea by boat. I went on tour by myself because Jeff had a rehearsal scheduled. Since I'm finally feeling a bit better I was confident I could make it through the boat ride without a calamity...and I did...make it through. Maurice, our guide told us about the island people and their three main sources of income: coconut oil, vanilla, and tourism/black pearls. Once on the island, which is very much subsidized by France, we rode in "Le trucks", or open air flatbed passenger buses...kind of. Not too much comfort here, but manageable. Electricity just came to this island in the late 1990's so it's not very sophisticated..."third world" might be too enthusiastic.
We visited a vanilla plantation and later a pearl farm. The plantation was owned by a Danish gentleman who had at least two beautiful Polynesian daughters...reminded me of "South Pacific" in a very literal way. I did purchase vanilla beans which, he said, can be brought into the US without declaring them. He also said the beans can and should last for years and years if kept in glass in cool, dark places. When they lose their odor they can be thrown away.
The pearl farm was interesting too. Our guide showed us how the "little intruder" sand or a tinier pearl is inserted using a scalpel into the mussel or oyster. The mussel then works at the irritant for two or three years to make the pearl. Only about 60% of the grafts work.
I returned to the ship and watched Jeff's raggedy rehearsal for their newest show...suffice to say they need a few more rehearsals. Later we came in third again at evening trivia.
Quote for today: "Travel light and you can sing in the robber's face." ...Juvenal
Nana. (Which is local patois for "good bye"...)
We visited a vanilla plantation and later a pearl farm. The plantation was owned by a Danish gentleman who had at least two beautiful Polynesian daughters...reminded me of "South Pacific" in a very literal way. I did purchase vanilla beans which, he said, can be brought into the US without declaring them. He also said the beans can and should last for years and years if kept in glass in cool, dark places. When they lose their odor they can be thrown away.
The pearl farm was interesting too. Our guide showed us how the "little intruder" sand or a tinier pearl is inserted using a scalpel into the mussel or oyster. The mussel then works at the irritant for two or three years to make the pearl. Only about 60% of the grafts work.
I returned to the ship and watched Jeff's raggedy rehearsal for their newest show...suffice to say they need a few more rehearsals. Later we came in third again at evening trivia.
Quote for today: "Travel light and you can sing in the robber's face." ...Juvenal
Nana. (Which is local patois for "good bye"...)
Tuesday, May 7, 2013. Moorea
I shall title my first book "I Missed Moorea". I did. Miss it. And Jeff tells me now, "It is the MOST beautiful island!" And so it is.
But first a postscript on yesterday in Papeete...before dinner we took a short walk around the part of town closest to the ship and found a Parfumeur called PAT AND VAL. The backstory here is that many years ago while in the Carribean I purchased a cologne I fell in love with called Escada...it was new then and more than a few years ago I ran out of my second bottle and haven't been able to find it except occasionally on line at awful prices for something unseen. I've had Jeff looking for a couple of years for me with no luck. He walked me into this darling little shop on Rue Jeanne d'Arc and lo and behold, the beautiful young shop woman actually had some in the original red box. She showed me the sample bottle, and sprayed some on my hand to sniff. What the heck?
I couldn't smell a thing because of my cold!!!! How can you buy cologne or perfume when you can't smell it? I asked Jeff to smell it and tell me what it smelled like...he said it smelled good and a little like licorice. I bought it! The secret scent in it is fennel! I knew I had the right one at long last!
OK Im a happy girl, cause today I can smell my Escada!!! And I should have bought all four bottles!
Back to Moorea. Although I didn't get up until nearly noon, I felt better when I did! Yay. The island as seen from my room had many tall peaks and valleys all lush and green. We are anchored in a cove...the same cove Capt. Cook found. There are lovely reefs all around the island, but only one break in the reef, which is how both Cook and Sea Princess got in. It's really stunning and I'll have Jeff post some pictures on Facebook. (You can friend him at J Michael Beech; he won't mind.)
We've had some very good movies showing on deck under the stars...ARGO is tonight. And Spider-Man was on the other night. Tomorrow is a Judi Dench flick I plan to coerce Jeff to see with me...The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. I've seen it already but don't mind seeing it again.
Quote for today: The American arrives in Paris with a few French phrases he has culled from a conversational guide or picked up from a friend who owns a beret. He speaks the sort of French that is really understood by another American who has also just arrived in Paris. ...Fred Allen. ( I expect the same could be said for Americans in French Polynesia!)
But first a postscript on yesterday in Papeete...before dinner we took a short walk around the part of town closest to the ship and found a Parfumeur called PAT AND VAL. The backstory here is that many years ago while in the Carribean I purchased a cologne I fell in love with called Escada...it was new then and more than a few years ago I ran out of my second bottle and haven't been able to find it except occasionally on line at awful prices for something unseen. I've had Jeff looking for a couple of years for me with no luck. He walked me into this darling little shop on Rue Jeanne d'Arc and lo and behold, the beautiful young shop woman actually had some in the original red box. She showed me the sample bottle, and sprayed some on my hand to sniff. What the heck?
I couldn't smell a thing because of my cold!!!! How can you buy cologne or perfume when you can't smell it? I asked Jeff to smell it and tell me what it smelled like...he said it smelled good and a little like licorice. I bought it! The secret scent in it is fennel! I knew I had the right one at long last!
OK Im a happy girl, cause today I can smell my Escada!!! And I should have bought all four bottles!
Back to Moorea. Although I didn't get up until nearly noon, I felt better when I did! Yay. The island as seen from my room had many tall peaks and valleys all lush and green. We are anchored in a cove...the same cove Capt. Cook found. There are lovely reefs all around the island, but only one break in the reef, which is how both Cook and Sea Princess got in. It's really stunning and I'll have Jeff post some pictures on Facebook. (You can friend him at J Michael Beech; he won't mind.)
We've had some very good movies showing on deck under the stars...ARGO is tonight. And Spider-Man was on the other night. Tomorrow is a Judi Dench flick I plan to coerce Jeff to see with me...The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. I've seen it already but don't mind seeing it again.
Quote for today: The American arrives in Paris with a few French phrases he has culled from a conversational guide or picked up from a friend who owns a beret. He speaks the sort of French that is really understood by another American who has also just arrived in Paris. ...Fred Allen. ( I expect the same could be said for Americans in French Polynesia!)
Monday, May 6, 2013. Papeete, Tahiti. Really! Tour: Island Drive
This was a very bad day for me. We were in the very last seat on the bus, sandwich-like, and my coughing started and I just couldn't stop. It was hurting and very scary because I couldn't catch my breath, and I was also trying to die quietly! Oh my! Finally the lady in front of me said, "Dearie, would you like a sweet?" And it turned out she is a heavy smoker who sounded just like me when she coughed! I did manage to stop, but I was nervous the rest of the day that something would kick start it again!
I was very worn out and the tour was rather boring, but there was a high point...a magnificent waterfall in a glen of fern and lush bamboo and other plantings. It was beautiful, but really, I was just too miserable to fully appreciate it. I pretty much stayed semi conscious on the bus after that and left the photography to Jeff. We rested for a while after getting back to our mother-ship, then headed back out for "dinner by food truck". I couldn't taste my poulet citron at all while Jeff enjoyed his broccoli poulet.
While I was talking to Jeff, a small critter with a long tail grabbed a crumb of something and headed in my direction under our table. I screeched, then explained to Jeff why. Any shred of interest in my food was gone.
With that finished the sun was done too. We sat for a few minutes then headed to the truck serving crepes and waffles. We ended up waiting more than an hour in pouring rain for our order to be taken, then filled. Mine was apricot, Jeff's was Oreo with chocolate ice cream and Chantilly...(whipped cream). Ahhhhh. Regarde! Amour and every other French word I know!
At the end of the evening, soaked, sleepy, sick, and bummed...I told Jeff I was going to skip Moorea's excursion in the morning. We'll see what tomorrow brings after some solid sleep!
I was very worn out and the tour was rather boring, but there was a high point...a magnificent waterfall in a glen of fern and lush bamboo and other plantings. It was beautiful, but really, I was just too miserable to fully appreciate it. I pretty much stayed semi conscious on the bus after that and left the photography to Jeff. We rested for a while after getting back to our mother-ship, then headed back out for "dinner by food truck". I couldn't taste my poulet citron at all while Jeff enjoyed his broccoli poulet.
While I was talking to Jeff, a small critter with a long tail grabbed a crumb of something and headed in my direction under our table. I screeched, then explained to Jeff why. Any shred of interest in my food was gone.
With that finished the sun was done too. We sat for a few minutes then headed to the truck serving crepes and waffles. We ended up waiting more than an hour in pouring rain for our order to be taken, then filled. Mine was apricot, Jeff's was Oreo with chocolate ice cream and Chantilly...(whipped cream). Ahhhhh. Regarde! Amour and every other French word I know!
At the end of the evening, soaked, sleepy, sick, and bummed...I told Jeff I was going to skip Moorea's excursion in the morning. We'll see what tomorrow brings after some solid sleep!
Sunday, May 5, 2013
Saturday, May 4, 2013. SEA DAY THREE of FOUR
Today was another shot at laundry. I gathered up all the dirties and separated them into three plastic bags stuffed fully...and headed off along with detergent, dryer sheets and cash to storm the laundry room on my deck 11. It's at the other end of the ship and lugging all the bags seemed to equal at least part of a Zumba workout...well, it felt that way anyhow. I opened the door marked Laundromat, wiggled my way in with my bags of dirties, and saw three women ironing and one woman stoutly, formidably, and grumpily watching over four washer/dryers. I gave a cheery "Good Morning", and no one blinked or responded. So much for Aussie wash day! I left, happy to be away from the negative atmosphere. I'll try later.
Later. I've got two machines going. One lady ironing. My stuff humming away. I was set to wash all in cold water...now if I could just figure out how cold 40C is! My nightmare would be having all my new shirts and shorts shrink! We will see what happens.
Tonight is formal night and I suspect all the other women are getting their hair done while I'm feeling a lot like Cinderella. I plan to go to the Ball, but the second seating! J is my hero who keeps me from getting too lost, and who helps me navigate the Aussie ways. And, we'll be going to the Ball together. Usually, the menu on formal evenings is something special like lobster, Beef Wellington, or fancy filet...tonight's menu seems rather ordinary. We've only eaten in the dining room once so far...too busy in the evenings, I guess.
Clothes came out fine and I realize this is a very boring post.
Later. I've got two machines going. One lady ironing. My stuff humming away. I was set to wash all in cold water...now if I could just figure out how cold 40C is! My nightmare would be having all my new shirts and shorts shrink! We will see what happens.
Tonight is formal night and I suspect all the other women are getting their hair done while I'm feeling a lot like Cinderella. I plan to go to the Ball, but the second seating! J is my hero who keeps me from getting too lost, and who helps me navigate the Aussie ways. And, we'll be going to the Ball together. Usually, the menu on formal evenings is something special like lobster, Beef Wellington, or fancy filet...tonight's menu seems rather ordinary. We've only eaten in the dining room once so far...too busy in the evenings, I guess.
Clothes came out fine and I realize this is a very boring post.
Sunday, May 5, 2013. Sea Day #4
This cold, throat, cough thing is making life fairly miserable...but I met a woman this morning at choir who is still suffering with it at the week three point. She said she's taking Benedryl every four hours. If I did that I'd never see the outside of my cabin. Choir director asked if I planned to be at the presentation right before Sydney. I told her I planned to be there but I'm not sure if my voice will show up!
I felt pretty lousy all day, but J and I did manage to play a game of Scrabble and I'm sad to report that although I was winning right up to the last two words or so, he managed to beat me by just a few points by going out first with a nice little word on a triple word score. There will be a rematch.
For my sister doulas I forgot to mention that in Kauai there is a Birth Stone, that is a huge rock, that, by legend was used by mothers to lean on when they needed to push the royal, or not so royal, babies into the world. Our guide told us that when the mothers used the stone they felt no pain! I am skeptical. He couldn't exactly when this was practiced...only used the word prehistoric...which makes me more skeptical!
Tahiti tomorrow!
Quote for today: "If you travel you see people in variety. But if you stay home you see them in development. -Upton Close
I felt pretty lousy all day, but J and I did manage to play a game of Scrabble and I'm sad to report that although I was winning right up to the last two words or so, he managed to beat me by just a few points by going out first with a nice little word on a triple word score. There will be a rematch.
For my sister doulas I forgot to mention that in Kauai there is a Birth Stone, that is a huge rock, that, by legend was used by mothers to lean on when they needed to push the royal, or not so royal, babies into the world. Our guide told us that when the mothers used the stone they felt no pain! I am skeptical. He couldn't exactly when this was practiced...only used the word prehistoric...which makes me more skeptical!
Tahiti tomorrow!
Quote for today: "If you travel you see people in variety. But if you stay home you see them in development. -Upton Close
Saturday, May 4, 2013
Thursday, May 2, 2013. SEA DAY #1
Seems I was sort of signed up for the Sea Princess Passenger Chorus, by J...so I figured I would at the very least give it a go, as they say. I went to the first practice today for a new program to be presented the day before we arrive in Sydney. Practice went well with many men...perhaps 40 or more and fewer women, perhaps 20 or so...and they sound very strong. We are led by a brother sister team who also teach dance and do evening trivia...a well packaged team. I like the music and I'm enjoying singing bass for a change...until this throat thing goes away!
Now for the exercise report...today is the last free day and tomorrow J and I start getting serious about walking or going to the gym. It didn't happen in Hawaii...we had five ports in five days and long tiring excursions in each place. Now with sea days and with J's last two shows tonight for awhile, we'll be able to focus more on the gym.
Show Report: Early show went better than yesterday's but a rather blah audience not too ready to get involved in the show. Late show had some drinkers who were happy to clap along so the rest of the audience followed suit. J said he mumbled some nonsense speaking in tongues, but I didn't catch it...he sounded fine to me so I must be hearing in tongues! In fact he had all the right costumes on at the right times with matching shoes and no trips or stumbles, so I think the night was a success.
Having fun...I like having a balcony...weather holding...Tahiti here we come!
Now for the exercise report...today is the last free day and tomorrow J and I start getting serious about walking or going to the gym. It didn't happen in Hawaii...we had five ports in five days and long tiring excursions in each place. Now with sea days and with J's last two shows tonight for awhile, we'll be able to focus more on the gym.
Show Report: Early show went better than yesterday's but a rather blah audience not too ready to get involved in the show. Late show had some drinkers who were happy to clap along so the rest of the audience followed suit. J said he mumbled some nonsense speaking in tongues, but I didn't catch it...he sounded fine to me so I must be hearing in tongues! In fact he had all the right costumes on at the right times with matching shoes and no trips or stumbles, so I think the night was a success.
Having fun...I like having a balcony...weather holding...Tahiti here we come!
Wednesday, May 1, 2013. Hilo, Hawaii
Late last night we moved some snacks, shoes, and dirty clothes of mine to Jeff's cabin to make the move easier. This morning early we met our excursion group as both J and I are escorts. First stop was a nice candy store, then the Hawaiian Botanical Gardens. We were warned about the very steep walking path and offered a $5 golf cart trip both ways. Feeling strong of knees and stout of heart and upon reflection, stupid, I elected to walk it! I was hot and sticky after less than a minute and realized it would no doubt take me the entire 75 minutes to walk back up the very, very steep path. Once down we took many beautiful pictures and after the orchids, I told Jeff I was going to start up...with about 30 minutes left. Well, I just kept thinking that slow and steady would win the race and finally, huffing just a little, I got to the top...after trying to bribe the cart driver for a wee ride the rest of the way. Mr. Driver was not amused. I, however, felt like I'd won the Ironman!
Volcanoes National Park was the next stop and we saw steam vents, the Kilauea Caldera, the lava tube, Mauna Loa and various other picture stops. Our final stop was the Macadamia Nut Factory and finally our mother ship...ending a very long eight hour day of sightseeing with a very knowledgable, but overly chatty, guide.
Picked up my new cabin key and settled in...there's a view! And 4 closets! (For three weeks...)
Jeff's Country Jam show played to an over capacity crowd who sounded happy with the show, although numerous errors had J laughing by the end...8 bars missing words, no shoes, a stumble leaving him hugging the stage floor, and probably more. Funny stuff but "no worries" as the Aussies say...all will be well! The cast has two more performances to get it all right...
Quote of the day: "Strong and content I travel the open road"...Walt Whitman
PS...I love my new cabin!
Volcanoes National Park was the next stop and we saw steam vents, the Kilauea Caldera, the lava tube, Mauna Loa and various other picture stops. Our final stop was the Macadamia Nut Factory and finally our mother ship...ending a very long eight hour day of sightseeing with a very knowledgable, but overly chatty, guide.
Picked up my new cabin key and settled in...there's a view! And 4 closets! (For three weeks...)
Jeff's Country Jam show played to an over capacity crowd who sounded happy with the show, although numerous errors had J laughing by the end...8 bars missing words, no shoes, a stumble leaving him hugging the stage floor, and probably more. Funny stuff but "no worries" as the Aussies say...all will be well! The cast has two more performances to get it all right...
Quote of the day: "Strong and content I travel the open road"...Walt Whitman
PS...I love my new cabin!
Friday, May 3, 2013. SEA DAY #2
Day of new things outside of the box...ZUMBA GOLD is Zumba in a chair! Don't be fooled. It's a dandy wake up activity. After 30 minutes of that we move on to plain ZUMBA, but nothing about it is plain! It would be rigorous on land, but on a rocking ship when one is not too steady anyhow, it is a real challenge to simply stand upright! Add wiggling, some salsa, wild arm waving, jumping, and staying with the leader from point one to point two and I was huffing and puffing quickly. I didn't finish the entire 45 minutes, but turned in a respectable 30 for a total of a very busy hour.
I learned a couple of things...one, I'm much more uncoordinated than I thought and two, I'll try it barefooted next time because sliding on a thick carpet with sneakers doesn't happen.
Met Jeff for lunch and although it has rained off and on all day, the frigate birds riding the ship's drift were fun to watch.
We are set to watch Les Miz now outside on the uppermost deck...wine provided by J.
Late note: watched the movie and enjoyed seeing it on a huge screen as the tropical sun sank at sunset with gorgeous colors as a backdrop. No more rain tonight, we hope, for all the folks attending the open deck party. We elected to have a pizza at the small Italian cafe and we'll call it an early night as both of us are fighting a throat bug.
Quote for today: "The only reason people get lost in thought is because it's unfamiliar territory."...Paul Fix
PS...is anybody reading this?
I learned a couple of things...one, I'm much more uncoordinated than I thought and two, I'll try it barefooted next time because sliding on a thick carpet with sneakers doesn't happen.
Met Jeff for lunch and although it has rained off and on all day, the frigate birds riding the ship's drift were fun to watch.
We are set to watch Les Miz now outside on the uppermost deck...wine provided by J.
Late note: watched the movie and enjoyed seeing it on a huge screen as the tropical sun sank at sunset with gorgeous colors as a backdrop. No more rain tonight, we hope, for all the folks attending the open deck party. We elected to have a pizza at the small Italian cafe and we'll call it an early night as both of us are fighting a throat bug.
Quote for today: "The only reason people get lost in thought is because it's unfamiliar territory."...Paul Fix
PS...is anybody reading this?
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
Tuesday, April 30, 2013. Kona on the Big Island, Hawaii
I've been away now for one week and in some ways it seems like much longer because, I think, every day is so filled with activities. Today I took a nice relaxing excursion to the Kona Coffee Company intending to buy Jack some 100% Kona Coffee...instead he'll be getting a photo of the coffee pricing...$49.95 for a very few ounces! So sorry, Jack.
We also visited a lovely painted church up in the mountains and then the Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historic Park which was so beautiful.
I'll be moving to another room in the morning...the new one will have a balcony and that will be very nice. Aloha until tomorrow.
We also visited a lovely painted church up in the mountains and then the Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historic Park which was so beautiful.
I'll be moving to another room in the morning...the new one will have a balcony and that will be very nice. Aloha until tomorrow.
Sunday, April 28, 2013. Kaua'i, HI
Jeff was assigned as an excursion escort for the day...Wiamea Canyon, Wailua River BoatRide, & Fern Grotto, so along with 48 other hardy souls we boarded the bus at 8:15 am and were on our way. Nice lunch on the way in Poipu at Keoki's...and stopped to see the water spout (spouts through the rocks as the waves come in). One gentleman became ill and unfortunately is quarantined for 48 hours while the rest of us wonder if we get it. Played trivia and our team came in second (of about 15 teams.)! Haven't seen any shows yet...they have either been comedians or secondary singers Jeff has seen before.
Monday, April 29, 2013. Maui, HI
Being disconnected takes some getting used to, I'm learning. I think of things I want to say, but my iPad is elsewhere and I'm someplace where my paper and pencil aren't either! I have a $40 Internet access card which is what I use to logon and publish these entries. It will be interesting to see how long it lasts. So today was a tendering day and we were a considerable distance from shore so the ride in took a while. While we tendered the surfers were on the same waves we were on and that seemed a bit strange to me. Lahaina was a typical tourist town with many small boutique and ABC stores, but here and there a gem was hidden. One such shop is an antique poster shop featuring late 1800 European posters with beautiful themes and colors/compositions hard to describe but familiar in some ways. Not of products or things familiar to me, but the graphics and unusual colors seemed familiar. I guess I was or should I say I am an old soul. Jack is probably nodding his head saying or thinking, "Uh, yes you are old!"
On one corner of the town was a Banyan Tree with a plaque saying it is the largest of its kind in the US and it was planted in 1873. It must take up over an acre with all the complex branches intertwining. It is amazing and the temperature is about twenty degrees cooler under it.
We had our first dinner in the dining room...the later seating...and I had a Shrimp Cocktail, Scallops Newburgh, and for dessert Cinnamon Ice Cream. Delicious. And at 10:00 we watched The Hunger Games on deck at Movies Under the Stars. I was so tired, I only watched half of it and retired earlier than ever to my cabin!
Monday, April 29, 2013. Maui, HI
Being disconnected takes some getting used to, I'm learning. I think of things I want to say, but my iPad is elsewhere and I'm someplace where my paper and pencil aren't either! I have a $40 Internet access card which is what I use to logon and publish these entries. It will be interesting to see how long it lasts. So today was a tendering day and we were a considerable distance from shore so the ride in took a while. While we tendered the surfers were on the same waves we were on and that seemed a bit strange to me. Lahaina was a typical tourist town with many small boutique and ABC stores, but here and there a gem was hidden. One such shop is an antique poster shop featuring late 1800 European posters with beautiful themes and colors/compositions hard to describe but familiar in some ways. Not of products or things familiar to me, but the graphics and unusual colors seemed familiar. I guess I was or should I say I am an old soul. Jack is probably nodding his head saying or thinking, "Uh, yes you are old!"
On one corner of the town was a Banyan Tree with a plaque saying it is the largest of its kind in the US and it was planted in 1873. It must take up over an acre with all the complex branches intertwining. It is amazing and the temperature is about twenty degrees cooler under it.
We had our first dinner in the dining room...the later seating...and I had a Shrimp Cocktail, Scallops Newburgh, and for dessert Cinnamon Ice Cream. Delicious. And at 10:00 we watched The Hunger Games on deck at Movies Under the Stars. I was so tired, I only watched half of it and retired earlier than ever to my cabin!
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