Arrived in Singapore at 6AM.  We were going to go on a city tour on the way to our hotel arranged through the cruise ship.  After consulting the expected time of arrival at Marina Mandarin Hotel following the tour (after 2 PM), we decided to  escape the cruise terminal and opt for a taxi to the hotel instead.  It was a little costly since the tour was prepaid BUT there was good reason. . . Marshall was scheduled for Flight Experience at 1PM.  Luckily, we got early check in! This hotel is beautiful and the location is outstanding and we were able to get a little breakfast and rest prior to the Flight and Flyer adventures.  

The flight simulator @ Flight Experience was exciting .  Marshall got to take off and land at  both Hong Kong airports, Reno, and Sacramento.  Finding that a 737 pilot must use both hands, feet, and whits to do the task, gave us a new admiration for that job.  The flight instructor said Marshall did an outstanding job (I thought so, too) and Marshall now has a DVD of his experience.   

The Singapore Flyer is similar to the London Eye which we will try later this week.  The views were breathtaking.  Variety and creativity were sen in every direction.  There was a floating stadium, hotel with a park shaped like a ship on top, and many other unique engineering masterpieces. From the top, we could also see the Voyager of the Seas, our "home" for the past 42 day. 

Tomorrow we will take that missed city tour; we have already explored several shopping venues (they tend to run into each other).  Sadly, we will not get to explore the city and surroundings in depth for we have a flight to London @ 11PM.  Guess we will just have to return to get a more in depth version of this outstanding, clean city. 

Live Wire Revisited and pics

LIVE WIRE REVISITED

It has been a long time on this ship.  I was not eager to repeat shows.  I did make the exception with the Beatles group after meeting the leader.  It was better the second time.  Though the entertainment crew of the ship changed by 50%, I did not go to the show.  Passed on the harmonica concert; Marshall went and said it was good.  Since Marshall has been a good sport and attended the show alone last night, I gave in and went to see Live Wire again.  Since I did not enjoy their performance before, my attendance was on the condition I could leave if it was equally as bad as previously. I stayed for the whole show!  

Live Wire must have had jet lag the last time they performed on this ship out of Nassau; they have to have been onboard for at least 2 days before today’s show AND it was apparent. The energy had them living up to their name.  The delivery of the patter was less plastic while the audience participation greatly increased--no sleeping through the rhythmic clapping  and sing along.  What a change!

24 days at sea down.  One sea day to go.  2 ports until Singapore.  What can I say?  Don’t worry, I will figure it out and be optimistic about it. 

Marshall enjoying the balcony.

A Passage FROM India

I was reminded that I have not posted in a bit.  Where did I leave off?  with the sketchy e-mail service on this ship, I am not sure what got through and what did not; therefore, I will just start where we are now.  Since being optimistic is the point, you will have to decipher this for yourself as you read on.   

Today we are doing the first of the last 3 days at sea.  We started out the day at the gym.  Yes, I did say we and gym in the same sentence. Marshall did the treadmill; I did several upper body weight machines and the rowing.  These have become my favorites and they are getting to be easy at the low level I use.  My next step will be to advance the weights and increase the time before we leave the ship.  hopefully we will both continue something when we get home. 

Back to India and the “experience’. Both ports in India were hot and humid.  Goa was less developed, but it had more to see than Cochin historically--at least on our tours.  From the distance across the port, Cochin was quite beautiful.  Each place visited had vast amounts of greenery and left-overs. Black mold is a bountiful crop in Cochin and to a lesser degree in Goa.  There must be a great deal of building going on since most buildings looked to be unfinished at this point.  We wondered where the call centers were located; we did not see any of the building as in China. 

A view of the street carts. 

As we were leaving the port, the city lights were beginning to come on.  The lights of the ferries glittered while  they crossed the bay.  Our harbor pilot, in his crisp white uniform, gracefully leapt from the ship to his awaiting boat and escorted us to the final exit marker light.  Pilot and boat crew waved a fond farewell as we slipped out into the Arabian Sea and on to our next adventures at sea. 

Pictures

This is the pic of Bob and Windee in Petra.

It is not working to send pictures at this time.  Will do that as soon as the internet allows.

One of the gun boats as mentioned before.



Us in Petra.




Yeah, finally got some pictures posted.

Adventures after the Suez Canal

It has been a very busy few days.  Since leaving Alexandria, we have traversed the Suez Canal, visited Petra in Jordan, and the Valley of the Kings and Luxor from Safaga.

We took a cart ride to the Treasury at Petra and started the trek to the back.  Not far along the was I spotted a man who looked very familiar.  Seconds later, I spotted a woman who looked exactly like my neighbor!  Yes, it was my neighbor, Windee, from Stockton!  We went half way around the world to greet each other.  WOW!  small world!

Port of call--Safaga, Egypt:  The desert reminded Marshall of Fort Erwin; it was  beautiful in a strange sort of way, even more so since we were on an air conditioned bus with plenty of cold water and it was in the high 90’s. 

The fabulous temple of Karnak was incredible.  It is amazing that the ancients could such colossal monuments while the builders of the Egyptian homes today are so many steps behind.  It was explained that the “unfinished” look is in preparation  for the sons to marry, build on top of the existing home and bring the wife home.  I like close, but that is just a bit too close.

Cruise on the Nile was relaxing while the breezes upon the water was a refreshing change of pace. Then, back to the bus and more sites to see.

I really love a bargain.  I love to barter a price, but some of the insistence really got to me.  No, NO, and NO. usually works in latin countries.  This was a new ballgame.  One guy finally got me laughing when he said he had all sizes of blouses and patted his stomach.  It was so bizarre   that I just kept laughing.  Yes, I did buy that blouse.  

The ride back to the ship would beat Mr. Toad hands down.  We were optimistic that we would get back to the ship without incident, but it was only by pure luck that we did not become statistics of those claimed by the roads of Egypt.

Grateful for the luxuries of the ship, we retreated to our stateroom following a large draft at the Pig and Whistle.  Suddenly, we heard strange sounds outside our balcony window.  I do not know exactly what we were watching, but I did take pictures and a short video.  I will post that activity a little later. 

@ present we are in the Red Sea and the internet is not working.   Will post this as soon as possible.

Cheers!

EGYPT

Spent 2 days docked in Alexandria.  Went to Cairo one day and one in Alexandria.  The pyramids are still there, demonstrators and all.  Went to the museum; small group gathered but NEWS said it was much bigger.  Must have used “fish eye” lens. 

Began the canal passage around 3;30am.  Will complete it about 12 hours later.  Going slowly--about the rate of speed we travel  to San Francisco on the MarMar. The water is like glass.  Smoother than the waters ofthe Delta.  The flies have been able to catch with us we are going so slowly. 

We are having a “pirate drill” later in preparation for the Aden.  This is the largest cruise ship to do the canal so far.  The ships are in a convoy--like Smokey and the Bandit. 

Scenery just changed as I was writing. We are in the Big Bitter Lake and there are tall barren sand hills all around.   Not on my list of places to return or retire.

More later, heading south, you’ll.

Egypt and the canal

EGYPT

Spent 2 days docked in Alexandria.  Went to Cairo one day and one in Alexandria.  The pyramids are still there, demonstrators and all.  Went to the museum; small group gathered but NEWS said it was much bigger.  Must have used “fish eye” lens.  

Began the canal passage around 3;30am.  Will complete it about 12 hours later.  Going slowly--about the rate of speed we travel  to San Francisco on the MarMar. The flies have been able to catch with us we are going so slowly.  

We are having a “pirate drill” later in preparation for the Aden.  This is the largest cruise ship to do the canal so far.  The ships are in a convoy--like Smokey and the Bandit.  

Scenery just changed as I was writing. We are in the Big Bitter Lake and there are tall barren sand hills all around.   Not on my list of places to return or retire. 

At the Egyptian Museum

Marshall sitting  @ the pyramids

The Saini side of the canal.

More later, heading south, you’ll. 

PS  We should be out of the canal soon.

April 29, 2011 One down and 2 to go.

We arrived in Valencia today.  When we exited the ship, we were surprised to see a long line of travelers and one Greyhound-Style  bus.  Hummm, several thousand passengers and crew and only one bus??  There was no way we could have possibly walked into the center of town.  Across from that buss was one that went to the terminal; from there one must take a taxi to the center of town.  The latter was our choice. We shared a taxi to the center of town where we, surprisingly, met 2 of our table mates.  

We, our jolly 4, walked about the city.  It was a sleepy city at that time.  Sunday and before 11:00 is not the time to expect shops  and other things of interest to be open.  We enjoyed the beautiful parks, horses on parade, and the architecture of the city. The walk was interesting and it was nice to walk on dry land without constant movement; that movement is wonderful for putting one to sleep.   

Upon returning to the ship, we went to the plentiful buffet and had lunch while gazing at the beautiful blue Mediterranean Sea.  It is hard to believe that it has been 16 days already and some of our new friends will be leaving us in a few short hours in Barcelona.   This is an adventure.  With luck, the rest of the cruise will be present more opportunities to see and learn new things. 

Good bye Atlantic Crossing!

These are the people we ate with on the ship.  The other picture is a traffic jam, worse than LA trying to get on the ferry,---no really; it is storage for new cars. 

here were protests the day we were in valencia.  Just because we told then to "get a Job" was no reason to get upset. 

Malaga and aboard ship

Malaga, Spain  April 27, 2011

As walked from the  spacious ship terminal,  we were greeted by a young lady asking if we would like a city tour by cab.  We had anticipated playing buffalos and just roaming, but the price was right and it seemed like a good idea.  As it turned out, it was not a good idea; it was a VERY good idea. 

We discovered there are places to which the tour busses do not have direct access, but due to their size, taxis are allowed.  It was perfect because we did not want to walk great distances to  then have to walk up stairs, grades, etc.  Our driver, Miguel, was delightful and made sure we saw the highlights of the city.  

We did not get to go into the cathedral.  It seems someone was rude enough to have died and needed a funeral on our day in Malaga.  Someone did not consult our ship’s calendar and our preferred agenda.  He won’t do that again!

Used the offshore internet.  Checked gmail account.  Since I was using my ipod, i was not going to compose a post.  it would have been for each correct letter entered, I would be removing 3.  A very slow process especially when done with very large hands and tiny keys. 

Returned to ship and kept busy until it was time to go to dinner.  Ate light this time--had a salad lunch upon return from Malaga.  Entertainment tonight was truly entertaining.  The gentleman played the violin and had something for everyone.  His name was Gary Lovini from London area.  If I ever figure out how to attach his music, I will do so.  

Following the glorious performance, I went to the guest services and traded for Euros.  Then I returned to the theater and bought cd’s of the performer.  Marshall will love them.  

Not wanting to go to the pub this evening, I took some US dollars and proceeded to the Royal Casino.   Deposited 20$ in one machine and did OK.  Moved to another and it that remaining money.  I force fed the new machine another 20.  It started regurgitating coins.  I finally got so tired of  pressing the buttons and my back  was starting to smart from the backless chair, so I quit!  My cup runneth over.  Now I know what $158.50 looks like in a cup.  I was hoping to get my $40 back--I did and some to play with again. I will be able to get over 200 points before the end of the cruise and get some cheezy prize BUT it is better than getting spit upon. 

Is there a pattern of winning $150+?  I sure hope so.  I have been there twice and left with that amount AND I didn’t bring it with me!

Very sleepy.  Hope allergy pills work or I will scratch all night and not be perky and ready to explore.  Sweet dreams.  MEW

P.S.I will try to post pictures here, but if it doesn’t work I will do it on Facebook. 

Late post--a history lesson by now.

At Sea . . .
What can I say?  Sleeping extra late.  Bingo, Food, games, Food, Sleep.  You get the picture.  Think I will save the minutes and write after our next port UNLESS there is something interesting.   No pictures, just blue water in all directions for miles and miles.
Would have sent something earlier, but it took 10 minutes and $6 just to get on.  Not good for internet service.  More later

PS.  Sorry these did not get published prior.  Will buy more computer time next leg. MEW

Upon exiting the elevator on the 11th deck, we saw the gorgeous vistas of Ponta Delgada, Azores.  After 6 days “AT SEA” the land of this island looked particularly wonderful.  The forcast for weather was continuing chill, but to our delight it was very mild with a sprinkle of clouds. 

We walked around the embarcadero and took a tour on a small motorized train through the narrow, winding, maze of streets.  Efile://localhost/Users/marianwattel/Desktop/102_1247.jpgverything was so clean and freshly painted.  The narrow sidewalks, residential doorways adjacent to the streets, and frequently interspersed parks reminded us of the colonial towns in  Latin America. 

We concluded our time on the island in search of an internet cafe.  Luckily we achieved our goal and it had the added benefit of the local beer.  

We have again set sail and will be “AT SEA” for 2 more days before reaching our first port in Spain.  If the internet holds up, reports will be forthcoming from the adventures “AT SEA.”

2 days AT SEA

Day 12, April 25, 2012  AT SEA, where else?

We are on our way to Spain.  The excitement of going through the Straits of Gibraltar was high until the captain informed us, in his very thick accent, that  it would be at 1AM on the 27th.  Now the 27th didn’t phase anyone, it was the 1AM that got to everyone.  Hopefully the timing for the Suez Canal crossing will be better timed so we won’t sleep through it, too. 

Oh, yeah!  We have moved the clock forward another hour this noon.  I have lost count of how many 23 hour days we have had so far, but  I think it will be 16 by the time we reach Singapore. Our table mates are doing the reverse crossing in December and will have 25 hour days at that time.  That is granting the wish to have more time to do things.  More time to sit and read, and read, and read gets to be a little much--and I love to read!

The seagoing sleepies  have gotten to Marshall.  I had them when we left Nassau so I totally  understand.   There are activities to do, but with this long  of a cruise,  there will be plenty of time  to do all of the activities and sample everything that the ship has to offer food-wise; therefore, why not just have a giant sleep-in?

Assuming the role of food provider-- like a mother bird, I scoured each of the foodie venues selecting only the most desirable, nutritious of items to sustain Marshall.  Yes, I got him a giant bowl of chocolate soft-serve and several raisin/oatmeal cookies. 

Recovery!  Marshall was back to his normally genial self and ready to attend the formal dinner, Elton John show, and  dance @ the Pig & Whistle.    Late night of fun.  good thing it is not a port day and we can sleep in without missing anything. 

Day 13, April 26  THE Gathering. 

All continuing passengers were to attend a meeting regarding the process to continue on board.  For us who are moving cabins, they will take care of it,  We just need to “hold on to” our valuables.  Since he will be with me, I will not have to worry about him being misplaced. They  discussed the passport/visa issues for each of the countries we will be visiting.  It appears we will be giving the Passports to them and getting them back a number of times.  Some of the questions asked seemed to be no-brainers; but since all elevators do not go to the same floor, so to speak, they were expected. 

In the end, we had a glass of champagne on RCL, surrendered our passports for a bit, and were on the same floor as the photographer displays, art auction items, and the dining room.  What an opportunity it  opened up for the next adventure!   Where does one start ?

No pictures, you can look at the previous of water and get the idea. 

"Give me land, lots of land. . . ."

Upon exiting the elevator on the 11th deck, we saw the gorgeous vistas of Ponta Delgada, Azores.  After 6 days “AT SEA” the land of this island looked particularly wonderful.  The forcast for weather was continuing chill, but to our delight it was very mild with a sprinkle of clouds. 

We walked around the embarcadero and took a tour on a small motorized train through the narrow, winding, maze of streets.  Everything was so clean and freshly painted.  The narrow sidewalks, residential doorways adjacent to the streets, and frequently interspersed parks reminded us of the colonial towns in  Latin America. 

We concluded our time on the island in search of an internet cafe.  Luckily we achieved our goal and it had the added benefit of the local beer.  

We have again set sail and will be “AT SEA” for 2 more days before reaching our first port in Spain.  If the internet holds up, reports will be forthcoming from the adventures “AT SEA.”

A jolt by Live Wire

Set sail around 5PM from the bustling port of Nassau. ENTs probably have a constant clientele of tour  hawkers following the cruise ships abandoning the docks of this island paradise. With 6 ships in port, it was a real money maker for the locals.  Finally they can get some peace and quiet.

Dinner was enjoyable with our personable waiter, assistant, supervisor, and charming table mates.  4 of the 7 continents were represented by our little gathering. Along the food line, my favorite was the jalapeno potato soup.  Yummy!
Entertainment was billed as energetic Celtic music akin to Riverdancee revisited; LIVE WIRE.  My expectation was upbeat violin/ stringed instrumental music and perhaps a jig or two.  The duet’s name was a misnomer.    I recall Dueling Banjos as a lively piece not the tempo of of the beginning strings playing Twinkle Twinkle Little Star at their first performance. Marshall’s eyes were drooping and I caught myself nodding off only to be awaken by the audience applause after each piece.  The patter between songs was so canned the performer didn’t seem to know that this is not a 7 day cruise. It was only a 50 minute performance, but it seemed much longer.

Room service has made us “live wires” with the cookies and hot chocolate; just in time for us to go to sleep and rest up for another day at sea.  Just checked the promenade and the only sign of life is the karaoke at the Pig and Whistle.  People must also be resting up for a lively day at sea.