Friday 27th July 2012 – Oranjestad Aruba in the Caribbean
Bright and early start to watch from our balcony as the little tug guided us in through a narrow reef, got our first view of a divi divi tree in the reef.
We docked around about 7 am and all clear to go ashore very soon after. It’s an interesting port, very colourful and with a wonderful blend of architecture, originally Aruba was a Dutch colony, so most of the streets and buildings have a Dutch influence.
We walked a long way through the town streets where vendors were setting up stalls, the usual fare was on offer, zillions of t-shirts and fridge magnets, hats, bags, and every other shop sold jewellery. On our walk past the Renaissance Resort we met some people from Brooklyn who were feeding fish, we watched on and saw some wonderful coloured fish, and crabs galore, after our chat we moseyed on back around to the town area
We flagged a taxi and booked a one hour tour, which was not particularly special, however we covered a fair bit of ground, some of which we would have been happy to miss, after all how many flippin resorts do you need to drive through ??
Our driver was a lovely local lady and was happy to share her local knowledge with us, she took us first to see the California Lighthouse, named after a shipwreck called the California who some 2 years before her demise was in the vicinity of the Titanic, and she was sent a mayday call, however her radio officer was asleep and missed the call, fate is cruel, and it is thought this was a bad luck omen for the California.
Next we drove to Arashi and Melmok Beach and resort areas, where the beaches were very beautiful, Tierra Del Sol Country Club, Palm Beach also gorgeous, then through the resorts (yawn) Eagle Beach and then to Saint Anne’s Church 125 years old, and it was next to a beautiful cemetery where there were row after row of crypts decorated with loads of flowers and ornaments.
Following the coast road we arrived at a Dutch Village in Eagle Beach, by this time, we both felt like we had been drugged, and I was nodding off like an old nanna, oh wait I am an old Nanna, Warren was feeling just a sleepy, warm weather and a comfy car ride, winning combination, and it was not even 9.30 am !
Back we went to Oranjestad, where Warren went and dumped our bags and I had a browse at the sparkly number shops, nice gear here kiddos.. Time to ply Warren with drinks I think.
Mojitos Cantina had free Wi-Fi, and nice cool bevies, so here we sat and refreshed ourselves ready for our next shopping excursion, looking for make up for mum, they didn’t have hers but di have mine, at a good price, sold thank you very much, about quarter or less then AU$.
We trawled the back blocks looking for souvenir’s, managed to grab a few trinkets and a new hat for Warren, so he doesn’t wreck his best VB 35 year old bucket hat, held together by good luck and dirt ! Diamonds International was yelling out to me, so I dragged Wazza in, and after they offered him free beers, the rest is history. I AM worth it..true, so a nice little bit of bling is being made for me, while I run amok in Aruba again.
Mojitos for lunch, we shared a meal and I again went off for some more retail therapy, while Wazza kept the seat warm. Few more trinkets for the kids, and off we went to the beachfront bar called the Paddock, I had a warm glass of wine, so no seconds for moi. By the way finally after all this rotten beer Warren has found a local beer he enjoyed, called Balashi, a local brew, he likes Aruba now hahahahaha.
Time to collect the new bling, it’s very pretty, and I know how lucky I am, spoilt brat in fact, but I AM worth it..true
Upstairs to Hard Rock Café, to have a sentimental cheers for Shazza, blow me down, not a drink to be found, t-shirts and trinkets, but no cool drinks, so down stairs we trundled and had our final drinks at Iguana Joes, where they tried to rip us off, my astute husband was onto them, scoundrels they are.
Trekking off now to get some bottled water to bring back to the ship, Warren assured me there was a supermarket “around the corner”, by now it’s 48 degrees in a water bag, the sun was scorching into my ring and blinding me, next corner he says, yeah sure, we almost walked back to freaking StThomas, no supermarkets here mate. Back tracked to the servo right near the ship and our cold water purchases were made, for all our effort we should have just got it on the ship, but an adventure is an adventure after all. And today was an adventure, albeit an expensive one.
Back on board with an hour to spare before sail away so a swim was in order, we went to the pool with the “nanna” steps, offended a few oldies as we had our drinks with us, so off they snotted/trotted, and we shared the pool with a few really nice people, one a guy who had a stroke at 53, doing the world cruise, he has had it hard, and still does it hard. Times like this we take stock and think we are so blessed to have our good health.
Time for the sail away party up on pool deck, the band was playing some great music, reminded me of Zig Zag on the Radiance, how I enjoyed their music, and the sail out of Aruba was just magnificent.
Drinks and laughs at the pool bar, we meet lovely new people every day, darned if I can remember names, so I have loads of “mates”.
Dinner was casual in the horizon again, then back to the Riviera Bar for more night time laughs and chats. Still haven’t seen a show, not enough hours in the day, sad really. Do I hear words of sympathy from you all ??
Tomorrow is another day at Sea, loving these sea days, time to rest and recover, oh and look at my new bling.
Thanks to those who are following, sorry I don’t reply, it takes me sometimes 10 precious minutes to just get my home page up.
I hope you know I appreciate your company.
Cheers
Saturday, July 28, 2012
Thursday July 26th, 2012 at Sea (recovery day)
We had a late start after a huge day and night yesterday, and started with brekky in the dining room, always nice to be waited on, and as usual the service was excellent.
Next up was trivia with our new friends from Parkes and Tasmania, both couples are lovely and we enjoy being part of their team, cos they have a brain between them! We scored 13, our friends Joyce & Dieter and their mates are our fierce opponents and they managed to beat us by 1 point, so the challenge is on now ……….. look out for “It’s only a Game”
A swim was next on the agenda, but after changing into my swimmers I thought better of it, and decided I need a rest day, so took block while Wazza went swimming and then had his usual sea day arvo of drinks and water volley ball, large teams, and not organised, but never the less those that play all have fun (except for one who thought he was the lord of the pool bossing and pushing people around), Warren was trying to slam the ball into the back of his head but kept missing, better luck next time.
I caught up with stuff and had another rest, I often wonder how I played so hard once upon a time, age will do that ..sad, LOL
No dressing for dinner tonight we just went to the Horizon buffet and we had a very small dinner and an early night.
I did some work on the blog and had a read, the ship is very quiet after port days, in fact most nights it’s like a floating nursing home, lights out early, tonight we felt like a part of the crowd.
Tomorrow we look forward to seeing Aruba.
We had a late start after a huge day and night yesterday, and started with brekky in the dining room, always nice to be waited on, and as usual the service was excellent.
Next up was trivia with our new friends from Parkes and Tasmania, both couples are lovely and we enjoy being part of their team, cos they have a brain between them! We scored 13, our friends Joyce & Dieter and their mates are our fierce opponents and they managed to beat us by 1 point, so the challenge is on now ……….. look out for “It’s only a Game”
A swim was next on the agenda, but after changing into my swimmers I thought better of it, and decided I need a rest day, so took block while Wazza went swimming and then had his usual sea day arvo of drinks and water volley ball, large teams, and not organised, but never the less those that play all have fun (except for one who thought he was the lord of the pool bossing and pushing people around), Warren was trying to slam the ball into the back of his head but kept missing, better luck next time.
I caught up with stuff and had another rest, I often wonder how I played so hard once upon a time, age will do that ..sad, LOL
No dressing for dinner tonight we just went to the Horizon buffet and we had a very small dinner and an early night.
I did some work on the blog and had a read, the ship is very quiet after port days, in fact most nights it’s like a floating nursing home, lights out early, tonight we felt like a part of the crowd.
Tomorrow we look forward to seeing Aruba.
Wednesday 25th July 2012 St Thomas in the Caribbean
We woke to find we had arrived into St Thomas, the morning was very warm and humid, as you would expect given the part of the world we are in. I rang mum and Daniel, all is well at home, Bonnie is doing well, Kailee is still being a wonderful “surrogate” mum for me.
After the calls were made we headed off the ship and walked along the streets to find mostly everything was still closed, gradually the stores began to open their doors, and explore we did. We walked a fair distance then jumped into a taxi for a 2 hour tour of this beautiful place. The lady who took us on tour was fantastic and a really good driver and as always is a bonus she was born and bred in this part of the world.
We took in some fabulous views and got to see the Allure of the Seas also parked near our ship, what a huge mumma this one is!
We stopped for a while at a café high in the hills, and I had a banana daiquiri, topped with some local rum, it was very nice indeed, almost blew my socks off, the girl who served me was using the rum to clean her hands, as you do !
We finished our tour at Magens Bay, a beach that charges you $4 each for a swim, money well spent, as we really loved this place and swam for a couple of hours, chatting to people here and there, really a fabulous beach.
Time for lunch and couple of rum punches, also with a kick like a mule, no such thing as responsible service of alcohol her, that’s for sure. We sat on the balcony overlooking the water and enjoyed our lunch, soaking in the vibe.
Time to head home, where we had a bit of a kip before another wonderful sail away.
Tonight was Christmas in July and we had dinner in the dining room, it was a lovely meal, fabulous wait staff fussing over us.
A big Christmas party was held up on deck and we partied the night away up there with some of our new friends.
We woke to find we had arrived into St Thomas, the morning was very warm and humid, as you would expect given the part of the world we are in. I rang mum and Daniel, all is well at home, Bonnie is doing well, Kailee is still being a wonderful “surrogate” mum for me.
After the calls were made we headed off the ship and walked along the streets to find mostly everything was still closed, gradually the stores began to open their doors, and explore we did. We walked a fair distance then jumped into a taxi for a 2 hour tour of this beautiful place. The lady who took us on tour was fantastic and a really good driver and as always is a bonus she was born and bred in this part of the world.
We took in some fabulous views and got to see the Allure of the Seas also parked near our ship, what a huge mumma this one is!
We stopped for a while at a café high in the hills, and I had a banana daiquiri, topped with some local rum, it was very nice indeed, almost blew my socks off, the girl who served me was using the rum to clean her hands, as you do !
We finished our tour at Magens Bay, a beach that charges you $4 each for a swim, money well spent, as we really loved this place and swam for a couple of hours, chatting to people here and there, really a fabulous beach.
Time for lunch and couple of rum punches, also with a kick like a mule, no such thing as responsible service of alcohol her, that’s for sure. We sat on the balcony overlooking the water and enjoyed our lunch, soaking in the vibe.
Time to head home, where we had a bit of a kip before another wonderful sail away.
Tonight was Christmas in July and we had dinner in the dining room, it was a lovely meal, fabulous wait staff fussing over us.
A big Christmas party was held up on deck and we partied the night away up there with some of our new friends.
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Tuesday July 24th 2012 At Sea In the Bermuda Triangle
Today the sea has changed from the mill pond we had yesterday and the really high humidity to a swell and much cooler temps.
We are after all in the Bermuda Triangle…
How many people can say they have been here ?? We can and yes I know we are lucky ducks.
Last night turned into a fizzer, it was formal night and Warren was not allowed into the dining room without long sleeves, so he nicked off somewhere, I came back home and changed and spent the night cruising around the many fabulous night time venues, again, I met some really great fellow travellers, and we exchanged a dozen stories or maybe more. The staff on the ship is fantastic, and there seem to be bunches of people travelling alone.
I stayed and played till the wee hours as did Warren, albeit in different venues, he crashed after a big old session upstairs, I crashed after a big old session of dancing and laughing all over the ship with my new mates ! (Still miss our Royal mates, just not the same, never the less still fabulous)
I chose to be spoilt with a brekky on the balcony this morning, it was so relaxing to sit and watch the wonderful Ocean go by and know I had not a care in the world.
Yep, life is good.
All the deck chairs are tied down now, as the sea has taken on a different perspective.
Spooky music paying on the blog right now….oooooooohhhhhhhhh
First time at trivia, and as usual, we chose the correct name for our team, “Its Only A Game” in honour of Frank and Norm, and blow me down, we managed to get 14 out of 20…gosh we are brilliant, just ask me, I will tell you .
Time now to wake Wazza up, water volleyball is about to happen.
Today the sea has changed from the mill pond we had yesterday and the really high humidity to a swell and much cooler temps.
We are after all in the Bermuda Triangle…
How many people can say they have been here ?? We can and yes I know we are lucky ducks.
Last night turned into a fizzer, it was formal night and Warren was not allowed into the dining room without long sleeves, so he nicked off somewhere, I came back home and changed and spent the night cruising around the many fabulous night time venues, again, I met some really great fellow travellers, and we exchanged a dozen stories or maybe more. The staff on the ship is fantastic, and there seem to be bunches of people travelling alone.
I stayed and played till the wee hours as did Warren, albeit in different venues, he crashed after a big old session upstairs, I crashed after a big old session of dancing and laughing all over the ship with my new mates ! (Still miss our Royal mates, just not the same, never the less still fabulous)
I chose to be spoilt with a brekky on the balcony this morning, it was so relaxing to sit and watch the wonderful Ocean go by and know I had not a care in the world.
Yep, life is good.
All the deck chairs are tied down now, as the sea has taken on a different perspective.
Spooky music paying on the blog right now….oooooooohhhhhhhhh
First time at trivia, and as usual, we chose the correct name for our team, “Its Only A Game” in honour of Frank and Norm, and blow me down, we managed to get 14 out of 20…gosh we are brilliant, just ask me, I will tell you .
Time now to wake Wazza up, water volleyball is about to happen.
Tuesday July 24th 2012 At Sea In the Bermuda Triangle
Today the sea has changed from the mill pond we had yesterday and the really high humidity to a swell and much cooler temps.
We are after all in the Bermuda Triangle…
How many people can say they have been here ?? We can and yes I know we are lucky ducks.
Last night turned into a fizzer, it was formal night and Warren was not allowed into the dining room without long sleeves, so he nicked off somewhere, I came back home and changed and spent the night cruising around the many fabulous night time venues, again, I met some really great fellow travellers, and we exchanged a dozen stories or maybe more. The staff on the ship is fantastic, and there seem to be bunches of people travelling alone.
I stayed and played till the wee hours as did Warren, albeit in different venues, he crashed after a big old session upstairs, I crashed after a big old session of dancing and laughing all over the ship with my new mates ! (Still miss our Royal mates, just not the same, never the less still fabulous)
I chose to be spoilt with a brekky on the balcony this morning, it was so relaxing to sit and watch the wonderful Ocean go by and know I had not a care in the world.
Yep, life is good.
All the deck chairs are tied down now, as the sea has taken on a different perspective.
Spooky music paying on the blog right now….oooooooohhhhhhhhh
First time at trivia, and as usual, we chose the correct name for our team, “Its Only A Game” in honour of Frank and Norm, and blow me down, we managed to get 14 out of 20…gosh we are brilliant, just ask me, I will tell you .
Time now to wake Wazza up, water volleyball is about to happen.
Today the sea has changed from the mill pond we had yesterday and the really high humidity to a swell and much cooler temps.
We are after all in the Bermuda Triangle…
How many people can say they have been here ?? We can and yes I know we are lucky ducks.
Last night turned into a fizzer, it was formal night and Warren was not allowed into the dining room without long sleeves, so he nicked off somewhere, I came back home and changed and spent the night cruising around the many fabulous night time venues, again, I met some really great fellow travellers, and we exchanged a dozen stories or maybe more. The staff on the ship is fantastic, and there seem to be bunches of people travelling alone.
I stayed and played till the wee hours as did Warren, albeit in different venues, he crashed after a big old session upstairs, I crashed after a big old session of dancing and laughing all over the ship with my new mates ! (Still miss our Royal mates, just not the same, never the less still fabulous)
I chose to be spoilt with a brekky on the balcony this morning, it was so relaxing to sit and watch the wonderful Ocean go by and know I had not a care in the world.
Yep, life is good.
All the deck chairs are tied down now, as the sea has taken on a different perspective.
Spooky music paying on the blog right now….oooooooohhhhhhhhh
First time at trivia, and as usual, we chose the correct name for our team, “Its Only A Game” in honour of Frank and Norm, and blow me down, we managed to get 14 out of 20…gosh we are brilliant, just ask me, I will tell you .
Time now to wake Wazza up, water volleyball is about to happen.
Tuesday July 24th 2012 At Sea In the Bermuda Triangle
Today the sea has changed from the mill pond we had yesterday and the really high humidity to a swell and much cooler temps.
We are after all in the Bermuda Triangle…
How many people can say they have been here ?? We can and yes I know we are lucky ducks.
Last night turned into a fizzer, it was formal night and Warren was not allowed into the dining room without long sleeves, so he nicked off somewhere, I came back home and changed and spent the night cruising around the many fabulous night time venues, again, I met some really great fellow travellers, and we exchanged a dozen stories or maybe more. The staff on the ship is fantastic, and there seem to be bunches of people travelling alone.
I stayed and played till the wee hours as did Warren, albeit in different venues, he crashed after a big old session upstairs, I crashed after a big old session of dancing and laughing all over the ship with my new mates ! (Still miss our Royal mates, just not the same, never the less still fabulous)
I chose to be spoilt with a brekky on the balcony this morning, it was so relaxing to sit and watch the wonderful Ocean go by and know I had not a care in the world.
Yep, life is good.
All the deck chairs are tied down now, as the sea has taken on a different perspective.
Spooky music paying on the blog right now….oooooooohhhhhhhhh
First time at trivia, and as usual, we chose the correct name for our team, “Its Only A Game” in honour of Frank and Norm, and blow me down, we managed to get 14 out of 20…gosh we are brilliant, just ask me, I will tell you .
Time now to wake Wazza up, water volleyball is about to happen.
Today the sea has changed from the mill pond we had yesterday and the really high humidity to a swell and much cooler temps.
We are after all in the Bermuda Triangle…
How many people can say they have been here ?? We can and yes I know we are lucky ducks.
Last night turned into a fizzer, it was formal night and Warren was not allowed into the dining room without long sleeves, so he nicked off somewhere, I came back home and changed and spent the night cruising around the many fabulous night time venues, again, I met some really great fellow travellers, and we exchanged a dozen stories or maybe more. The staff on the ship is fantastic, and there seem to be bunches of people travelling alone.
I stayed and played till the wee hours as did Warren, albeit in different venues, he crashed after a big old session upstairs, I crashed after a big old session of dancing and laughing all over the ship with my new mates ! (Still miss our Royal mates, just not the same, never the less still fabulous)
I chose to be spoilt with a brekky on the balcony this morning, it was so relaxing to sit and watch the wonderful Ocean go by and know I had not a care in the world.
Yep, life is good.
All the deck chairs are tied down now, as the sea has taken on a different perspective.
Spooky music paying on the blog right now….oooooooohhhhhhhhh
First time at trivia, and as usual, we chose the correct name for our team, “Its Only A Game” in honour of Frank and Norm, and blow me down, we managed to get 14 out of 20…gosh we are brilliant, just ask me, I will tell you .
Time now to wake Wazza up, water volleyball is about to happen.
Sunday July 22nd 2012 At Sea
Today was all about getting to know our way around the ship, and having a relax after the frantic pace of New York.
It is so lovely to be back on a ship again so soon.
Meet and mingle was at 5 pm in the bar, it was good to meet the people who we had "befriended" for so many months before our cruise.
Monday July 23rd 2012 At Sea
The weather is really getting humid and the sea is like a mill pond. Usual day doing as one does, meeting people having a few bevvys on the pool deck, and our cabin crawl was to be held this afternoon, but apart from Janet, Garry, Gay and Graeme, no one showed (although there was a small lack of detail on my part, which bar ??)
Not to worry we will try again after our meet and mingle luncheon on Saturday, cos I am NOT bringing Tims Tams home with me . We attended the port lecture and enjoyed hearing about this beautiful Caribbean Port of St Thomas which will be our first stop on Wednesday, it looks so georgous.
Warren had his first game of water volleyball, and his team won, while I came and did the fun stuff ie washing.
Tonight is the Captains welcome drinks and formal night, although we are going to be "not too formal"
Princess stuffed up our membership, so we have no platinum till Los Angeles, good on ya, It will be fixed for us when we send some verification paperwork, so as of today still no internet, I will purchase a small package, to keep in touch, and hope to frind free wifi in St Thomas.
Today was all about getting to know our way around the ship, and having a relax after the frantic pace of New York.
It is so lovely to be back on a ship again so soon.
Meet and mingle was at 5 pm in the bar, it was good to meet the people who we had "befriended" for so many months before our cruise.
Monday July 23rd 2012 At Sea
The weather is really getting humid and the sea is like a mill pond. Usual day doing as one does, meeting people having a few bevvys on the pool deck, and our cabin crawl was to be held this afternoon, but apart from Janet, Garry, Gay and Graeme, no one showed (although there was a small lack of detail on my part, which bar ??)
Not to worry we will try again after our meet and mingle luncheon on Saturday, cos I am NOT bringing Tims Tams home with me . We attended the port lecture and enjoyed hearing about this beautiful Caribbean Port of St Thomas which will be our first stop on Wednesday, it looks so georgous.
Warren had his first game of water volleyball, and his team won, while I came and did the fun stuff ie washing.
Tonight is the Captains welcome drinks and formal night, although we are going to be "not too formal"
Princess stuffed up our membership, so we have no platinum till Los Angeles, good on ya, It will be fixed for us when we send some verification paperwork, so as of today still no internet, I will purchase a small package, to keep in touch, and hope to frind free wifi in St Thomas.
Sunday July 22nd 2012 At Sea
Today was all about getting to know our way around the ship, and having a relax after the frantic pace of New York.
It is so lovely to be back on a ship again so soon.
Meet and mingle was at 5 pm in the bar, it was good to meet the people who we had "befriended" for so many months before our cruise.
Monday July 23rd 2012 At Sea
The weather is really getting humid and the sea is like a mill pond. Usual day doing as one does, meeting people having a few bevvys on the pool deck, and our cabin crawl was to be held this afternoon, but apart from Janet, Garry, Gay and Graeme, no one showed (although there was a small lack of detail on my part, which bar ??)
Not to worry we will try again after our meet and mingle luncheon on Saturday, cos I am NOT bringing Tims Tams home with me . We attended the port lecture and enjoyed hearing about this beautiful Caribbean Port of St Thomas which will be our first stop on Wednesday, it looks so georgous.
Warren had his first game of water volleyball, and his team won, while I came and did the fun stuff ie washing.
Tonight is the Captains welcome drinks and formal night, although we are going to be "not too formal"
Princess stuffed up our membership, so we have no platinum till Los Angeles, good on ya, It will be fixed for us when we send some verification paperwork, so as of today still no internet, I will purchase a small package, to keep in touch, and hope to frind free wifi in St Thomas.
Today was all about getting to know our way around the ship, and having a relax after the frantic pace of New York.
It is so lovely to be back on a ship again so soon.
Meet and mingle was at 5 pm in the bar, it was good to meet the people who we had "befriended" for so many months before our cruise.
Monday July 23rd 2012 At Sea
The weather is really getting humid and the sea is like a mill pond. Usual day doing as one does, meeting people having a few bevvys on the pool deck, and our cabin crawl was to be held this afternoon, but apart from Janet, Garry, Gay and Graeme, no one showed (although there was a small lack of detail on my part, which bar ??)
Not to worry we will try again after our meet and mingle luncheon on Saturday, cos I am NOT bringing Tims Tams home with me . We attended the port lecture and enjoyed hearing about this beautiful Caribbean Port of St Thomas which will be our first stop on Wednesday, it looks so georgous.
Warren had his first game of water volleyball, and his team won, while I came and did the fun stuff ie washing.
Tonight is the Captains welcome drinks and formal night, although we are going to be "not too formal"
Princess stuffed up our membership, so we have no platinum till Los Angeles, good on ya, It will be fixed for us when we send some verification paperwork, so as of today still no internet, I will purchase a small package, to keep in touch, and hope to frind free wifi in St Thomas.
July 21 2012 Embarkation day New York City
Great excitement when we woke this morning to realise it was time for our Panama Canal Cruise..woo hoo ..happy days
We left our baggage at the front desk and went for a final look at New York, and as advised by our friend Frank we headed to Grand Central Station, they sure did get that name right, unbelievable, a work of a genius, just so wonderful. Thanks Frank, you never let us down with your sugestions !
So as one does in New York, you go to brekky at an Irish Pub, possibly the very nicest one we have come across, and we have seen a few. Great inexpensive meal, and a yummy bloody mary, huh that’s what I like…
Off trawling the streets one last time, and one more visit to Macys , still not a fan, walked out empty handed again. Back to the Wello to gather our bags and head off to the ship..Yay happy happy days ! I know on the way back we fell into another Irish Pub, but as Wazza is not with me right now, I don’t recall the name, but it was a fine and dandy place for a farewell drink to the Big Apple.
Bags got off we go, embarkation took not too long and we found our very nice stateroom..lol cabin in no time and settled into what would be home for 16 nights, welcome aboard us !! Woo hoo
Sail away was OK, but only a small number of passengers attended, the band was great, the views magnificent, oh and we waved goodbye to the fabulous Statue of Liberty.
Sailaway cocktails were a yummy mango number, I added my bubbles and it was then fantastic
Alright lets go and check out this lovely ship, and yes she may be old, (as I am) but in fine shape (as I am NOT) a very fine ship, and for all the negative reports, you got it WRONG. She sails, her crew are great and yep, I am at sea and loving it.
Happy nanna
TIME FOR BED ..HOO ROO
Great excitement when we woke this morning to realise it was time for our Panama Canal Cruise..woo hoo ..happy days
We left our baggage at the front desk and went for a final look at New York, and as advised by our friend Frank we headed to Grand Central Station, they sure did get that name right, unbelievable, a work of a genius, just so wonderful. Thanks Frank, you never let us down with your sugestions !
So as one does in New York, you go to brekky at an Irish Pub, possibly the very nicest one we have come across, and we have seen a few. Great inexpensive meal, and a yummy bloody mary, huh that’s what I like…
Off trawling the streets one last time, and one more visit to Macys , still not a fan, walked out empty handed again. Back to the Wello to gather our bags and head off to the ship..Yay happy happy days ! I know on the way back we fell into another Irish Pub, but as Wazza is not with me right now, I don’t recall the name, but it was a fine and dandy place for a farewell drink to the Big Apple.
Bags got off we go, embarkation took not too long and we found our very nice stateroom..lol cabin in no time and settled into what would be home for 16 nights, welcome aboard us !! Woo hoo
Sail away was OK, but only a small number of passengers attended, the band was great, the views magnificent, oh and we waved goodbye to the fabulous Statue of Liberty.
Sailaway cocktails were a yummy mango number, I added my bubbles and it was then fantastic
Alright lets go and check out this lovely ship, and yes she may be old, (as I am) but in fine shape (as I am NOT) a very fine ship, and for all the negative reports, you got it WRONG. She sails, her crew are great and yep, I am at sea and loving it.
Happy nanna
TIME FOR BED ..HOO ROO
Friday, July 20, 2012
Washington DC Coach Tour Friday 20th July 2012
Jumped in one of the 68 billion yellow cabs to join our tour to Washington.
The coach was OK, but not Scenic standard, nor was the tour guide although both satisfactory. We departed about 7.15 am and headed through the Lincoln Tunnel, to New Jersey, great excitement as we crossed the bridge and saw the Sun Princess docked at New York, Pier 90, wow, she looked great, OK then its on then to Delaware where we had our first smoko, it is the 2nd smallest state in the US , no tax and lowest IRS in the States. Just a jumbo servo was all we saw. So we ventured south and in a short space of time we were in Maryland State, and the city of Baltimore, travelling on a coach, and not stopping we did not get to see too much along the way, but was interesting none the less.
A tunnel through Susquehana River Blatimore harbour, Baltimore is the largest Eastern seaport.
Our tour guide informed us that New York City was the first capitol then Philydelphia then Washington (not that he was very informative.LOL ) and I am sure my spelling is incorrect, Frank..help..
Washington, here we come, we drove first through the suburban areas, and got a good feel for the housing and industy of the the area, before we hit the big time City
First stop was the Vietman Memorial, where we saw a black marble wall etched with the names of more than 55000 souls killed or missing in action, so very sad to see, what a bloody waste of our countrymen. A lovley memorial, but so senseless that stupid war was, as they all are.
Lincoln monument was next, had to pinch my self was I really here ??? The building was awesome, 36 colums, built for each state back in the day of President Lincoln.
Korean memorial was just unbelivable, such a fabulous creation, a black marble wall with images of soldiers, hard to describe, and a field of soldiers, in a paddock, will post photos, of this as it is brilliant, and very emotional also.
The Washington Spire at 165 meters was another jaw dropping sight, in fact the whole day was pretty much full on with stuff you only ever dream about.
Yep we are lucky, and dont' we know it !!
Loads and loads of photo stops at world famous land marks, and one that will never ever leave my memory bank was to stand in front of the White House, and take a photo...geepers, glad I dont have to clean the bugger, its HUGE and gorgeous, I am sure I have a photo of Obama on the roof, will post that next. The entire city is just wonderful, every landmark outstanding.
Living the dream here in DC..LOL
Lunch stop was at Smithsonian Air and space museum, but not for us, we chose a walk in the park and a beer for Wazza, before the Hell ride home...back at NYC about 9 pm, very long day, walked to say g'day to our ship, she looked splendid in port, and we felt like we would be very welcome ...really very excited to board the ship, and meet our new "mates" and after a week of NYC, enough is enough..lol, time to move on.
All in all a truly wonderful day, and no matter what happens, always hang on to the fact that you dreams can come true, in good times and bad,
Ours are for sure.
The coach was OK, but not Scenic standard, nor was the tour guide although both satisfactory. We departed about 7.15 am and headed through the Lincoln Tunnel, to New Jersey, great excitement as we crossed the bridge and saw the Sun Princess docked at New York, Pier 90, wow, she looked great, OK then its on then to Delaware where we had our first smoko, it is the 2nd smallest state in the US , no tax and lowest IRS in the States. Just a jumbo servo was all we saw. So we ventured south and in a short space of time we were in Maryland State, and the city of Baltimore, travelling on a coach, and not stopping we did not get to see too much along the way, but was interesting none the less.
A tunnel through Susquehana River Blatimore harbour, Baltimore is the largest Eastern seaport.
Our tour guide informed us that New York City was the first capitol then Philydelphia then Washington (not that he was very informative.LOL ) and I am sure my spelling is incorrect, Frank..help..
Washington, here we come, we drove first through the suburban areas, and got a good feel for the housing and industy of the the area, before we hit the big time City
First stop was the Vietman Memorial, where we saw a black marble wall etched with the names of more than 55000 souls killed or missing in action, so very sad to see, what a bloody waste of our countrymen. A lovley memorial, but so senseless that stupid war was, as they all are.
Lincoln monument was next, had to pinch my self was I really here ??? The building was awesome, 36 colums, built for each state back in the day of President Lincoln.
Korean memorial was just unbelivable, such a fabulous creation, a black marble wall with images of soldiers, hard to describe, and a field of soldiers, in a paddock, will post photos, of this as it is brilliant, and very emotional also.
The Washington Spire at 165 meters was another jaw dropping sight, in fact the whole day was pretty much full on with stuff you only ever dream about.
Yep we are lucky, and dont' we know it !!
Loads and loads of photo stops at world famous land marks, and one that will never ever leave my memory bank was to stand in front of the White House, and take a photo...geepers, glad I dont have to clean the bugger, its HUGE and gorgeous, I am sure I have a photo of Obama on the roof, will post that next. The entire city is just wonderful, every landmark outstanding.
Living the dream here in DC..LOL
Lunch stop was at Smithsonian Air and space museum, but not for us, we chose a walk in the park and a beer for Wazza, before the Hell ride home...back at NYC about 9 pm, very long day, walked to say g'day to our ship, she looked splendid in port, and we felt like we would be very welcome ...really very excited to board the ship, and meet our new "mates" and after a week of NYC, enough is enough..lol, time to move on.
All in all a truly wonderful day, and no matter what happens, always hang on to the fact that you dreams can come true, in good times and bad,
Ours are for sure.
Part 2 Niagara to NYC
Ok, lets continue on from the flight, good flight, and under on hour, as all flights should be ! we decided on the air train and Long Island rail to get us back to NYC, its part of the adventure, and only cost us $22.50. Air train took us to Jamiaca , Queens, where we thought we would check out Queens, pretty seedy, but interesting and lo and behold out jumped an Irish Pub, what do you know about that ??? Peter the Irishman has owned the pub for 48 years, and was a true Irish Character, along with his charming daughter ..oh but you dont want to live here he said..LOL.
Couple of rounds later of good old banter we caught the Long Island train back to NYC, Penn Station and walked home to the Wello.
We got a room with a view (as requested) blow me down its on the 25th floor, and the lift is about 358 years old, if this wont kill me nothing will ! The room is fine, not as large as our original one, but we have a walk out balcony where you can hear and smell the vibe of the amazing city we are blessed to be a part of right now.
A snooze was in order, my first arvo nanny nap, then off to dinner in the hotel at the Greek restaurant called Mollivos, lovely meal, crashed out ready for the big Washington DC trip in the morning.
Looking forward to our trip to DC.
Humid nights still but some rain
Couple of rounds later of good old banter we caught the Long Island train back to NYC, Penn Station and walked home to the Wello.
We got a room with a view (as requested) blow me down its on the 25th floor, and the lift is about 358 years old, if this wont kill me nothing will ! The room is fine, not as large as our original one, but we have a walk out balcony where you can hear and smell the vibe of the amazing city we are blessed to be a part of right now.
A snooze was in order, my first arvo nanny nap, then off to dinner in the hotel at the Greek restaurant called Mollivos, lovely meal, crashed out ready for the big Washington DC trip in the morning.
Looking forward to our trip to DC.
Humid nights still but some rain
Thursday, July 19, 2012
Niagara Falls to New York
Here we are at Buffalo Airport ready to board our flight back to JFK, the day is young, and so far we have come across the rudest border security person, nicest Canadian Cabbie, loveliest check in chick at Jet Blue and snakiest immigration officer, I challenged her to talk, and when she bared her fangs and snarled, I just wished her a jolly old day....witch...takes a little effort to be courteous, don't like your job, go away sods..lol easy to say when you are on vacation...having my first bloody Mary and cheers with Shazza , miss you mate.
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
I lost track now ? 18 th July Niagara Falls
So we are a bit confused as to what day we are up to, and I guess no one really gives a flying fig ! What a fabulous and spectacular day we have had here today. It was hard to drag our selves out of our wonderful room, but adventures have to happen, or the blog would be as boring as bats poop.
Okey dokey off we went after a slow start, we were both a bit worse for wear, so no rush today.
From home we walked to the Incline rail to take us to the beginning of our tour and decided before we start we would have brunch, as one does in Niagara Falls, we got a terrific possy overlooking the Canadian falls and had a delicious meal, prawns and vegie rolls, Wazza had carbonara, both yummo !
Journey behind the falls was the first on our agenda, through lots of little tunnels, and lifts that made me stop breathing for a wee while, the observation portals are 38 meters below the falls, please dont google this fact, as were making a bit of it up, built in 1903, got a fantastic close up look at this creation of Gods that really makes you take stock !
Niagaras fury was next, I was thinking wtf are we doing here watching animated movies, till part 2, wow did that blow us away, we got rained on and snowed on and earthquaked on and our bones were rattled ..what wa great interactive experience...
A shuttle bus transported us to the Maid of The Mist tour, oh how much fun was that, we went so close to the falls you could have touched the rock walls, briliant, come on everyone get over here ! We got wet and laughed like loons, oh by the way Canadian friends, its great to back in Looney and Tooney land, Nola you will soon know what I am talking about ! And your gardens are still the most beautiful I have seen. My heart is so happy to be back in your delightful Country, with your friendly community !
Debbie I am still wearing my World around my neck and touch it a thousand times a day and realise how darn lucky we are. Life IS good.
Time for a bevvy now we thought, so off we trotted to the Mist Bar and refreshed ourselves before we boarded the bus to White Water Walk, oh by the way we met some great people from Western Aussie, and we bumped into them all over the place all day, I think they were stalking us, also some great people from Ohio, Cincinnati (Frank correct my spelling please..)
Deep into the Niagara Great Gorge we went, down another perilous 80 year old lift ( and I survived) to the boardwalk, where we walked and were gobsmacked at the #6 rapids, Lorraine and I would have done fine I am sure, no fear for us girls ! The water was manic, one side mania the other side lovely forest.
Oh bummer gotta get out of here in a lift again, job done and proud of my self.
Tomorrow I will climb the Empire State Building hahahaha I can hear you all laughing ya guts out.
Surely by now it was time for a coolie, so we walked to town via kids mile and had a nice cocktail at Ruby Tuesdays on Clifton Hill, great vibe in this town, hilly as stink, but fantabulous. OK, we need to stock our fridge so our mates from the West pointed us to the only bottlo in town and we got a couple of take aways, again Wazza is coming back here to open up a Wazza Murphys and sell VBs..and cheap bubbles..we will die happy here, someone said we were 4 minutes from home, they must have been talking 4 minutes in a concord, my blisters are getting NO rest, but I am living the dream.
Reservation made for Tony Romas tonight, then sadly we leave here on a flight back to NYC tomorrow.
Lost all my stuff off my phone yesterday, bummer.
Life IS good, and we are LIVING THE DREAM..love to all and thanks for the lovely comments
Cheers from Niagara Falls xx
Okey dokey off we went after a slow start, we were both a bit worse for wear, so no rush today.
From home we walked to the Incline rail to take us to the beginning of our tour and decided before we start we would have brunch, as one does in Niagara Falls, we got a terrific possy overlooking the Canadian falls and had a delicious meal, prawns and vegie rolls, Wazza had carbonara, both yummo !
Journey behind the falls was the first on our agenda, through lots of little tunnels, and lifts that made me stop breathing for a wee while, the observation portals are 38 meters below the falls, please dont google this fact, as were making a bit of it up, built in 1903, got a fantastic close up look at this creation of Gods that really makes you take stock !
Niagaras fury was next, I was thinking wtf are we doing here watching animated movies, till part 2, wow did that blow us away, we got rained on and snowed on and earthquaked on and our bones were rattled ..what wa great interactive experience...
A shuttle bus transported us to the Maid of The Mist tour, oh how much fun was that, we went so close to the falls you could have touched the rock walls, briliant, come on everyone get over here ! We got wet and laughed like loons, oh by the way Canadian friends, its great to back in Looney and Tooney land, Nola you will soon know what I am talking about ! And your gardens are still the most beautiful I have seen. My heart is so happy to be back in your delightful Country, with your friendly community !
Debbie I am still wearing my World around my neck and touch it a thousand times a day and realise how darn lucky we are. Life IS good.
Time for a bevvy now we thought, so off we trotted to the Mist Bar and refreshed ourselves before we boarded the bus to White Water Walk, oh by the way we met some great people from Western Aussie, and we bumped into them all over the place all day, I think they were stalking us, also some great people from Ohio, Cincinnati (Frank correct my spelling please..)
Deep into the Niagara Great Gorge we went, down another perilous 80 year old lift ( and I survived) to the boardwalk, where we walked and were gobsmacked at the #6 rapids, Lorraine and I would have done fine I am sure, no fear for us girls ! The water was manic, one side mania the other side lovely forest.
Oh bummer gotta get out of here in a lift again, job done and proud of my self.
Tomorrow I will climb the Empire State Building hahahaha I can hear you all laughing ya guts out.
Surely by now it was time for a coolie, so we walked to town via kids mile and had a nice cocktail at Ruby Tuesdays on Clifton Hill, great vibe in this town, hilly as stink, but fantabulous. OK, we need to stock our fridge so our mates from the West pointed us to the only bottlo in town and we got a couple of take aways, again Wazza is coming back here to open up a Wazza Murphys and sell VBs..and cheap bubbles..we will die happy here, someone said we were 4 minutes from home, they must have been talking 4 minutes in a concord, my blisters are getting NO rest, but I am living the dream.
Reservation made for Tony Romas tonight, then sadly we leave here on a flight back to NYC tomorrow.
Lost all my stuff off my phone yesterday, bummer.
Life IS good, and we are LIVING THE DREAM..love to all and thanks for the lovely comments
Cheers from Niagara Falls xx
y 7 17th July 2012 New York to Niagara Falls
Just the morning when I slept beyond 4 am, the alarm woke me at 5.45..bugger !!
A smooth check out of the Wellington Hotel where we have stored our suitcases for our return, and into a taxi to Penn Station, where we were met with mass confusion, and half the population of the USA all waiting to get on a train to someplace other than New York City ! Very daunting, however all turned out to be very simple once we got the general idea, and we were on board the Amtrak train and departing just 2 minutes late. As advised by our Yankee mate Frank, we scrambled to find 2 good window seats on the left had side of the train, for this gem of information I was to utter a “thanks mate” many many times throughout the very delightful and picturesque trip to Niagara.
We travelled a lot of the way with the Hudson River beside us, the scenery was gorgeous, and the towns we passed with little timber cottages proudly flying the Flag of their beloved USA reminded me so much of so many movies I have seen in the past, it felt like being on the set of a movie, a great experience, all in all, so happy we chose to travel by land.
Naturally there has to be a down side, we are surrounded by a league of LOUD nations and noisy kids and in no time at all the dunnies were a shocker. Half the people in the carriage are coughing and spluttering, and lastly the free wifi advertised only works on one carriage (not ours).
Jackie Over has been enjoying the train trip and relaxing with Wazza and having a few beers.
The train has refreshments and a fair range of food on offer.
I would recommend the train up, the journey is wonderful, the dunnies are awful, and scenery and relaxation win over stinky loos. I planned to catch up on some overdue sleep..yeah sure nanna, not on this shift, I was still on a high after last night, I scaled the walls of the biggest building in the world and survived, hey how good am I ???
After clearance by the USA and clearance by the Canadians we hit the road to the Marriot
The view from our room is beyond description, abloodymazing, so gorgeous we stayed put all night just enjoying the spectacle in front of us. Poor Wazza went on a mission to get some take away beers it was a non event, he is coming back here to open up a take away beer shop that sells VBs..lol so we called room service and a trolley with half of Dan Murphys arrived, so funny. The activities for the evening had begun. Niagara Falls, spas, yummy room service dinner, yep, life is good.
The bed was so comfy the room so lovely we slept in till late, and still we just we sit and enjoy this wonderful view.
We are on the 29th floor, and the spray from the Falls is taller than we are. AWESOME to say the least.
Just the morning when I slept beyond 4 am, the alarm woke me at 5.45..bugger !!
A smooth check out of the Wellington Hotel where we have stored our suitcases for our return, and into a taxi to Penn Station, where we were met with mass confusion, and half the population of the USA all waiting to get on a train to someplace other than New York City ! Very daunting, however all turned out to be very simple once we got the general idea, and we were on board the Amtrak train and departing just 2 minutes late. As advised by our Yankee mate Frank, we scrambled to find 2 good window seats on the left had side of the train, for this gem of information I was to utter a “thanks mate” many many times throughout the very delightful and picturesque trip to Niagara.
We travelled a lot of the way with the Hudson River beside us, the scenery was gorgeous, and the towns we passed with little timber cottages proudly flying the Flag of their beloved USA reminded me so much of so many movies I have seen in the past, it felt like being on the set of a movie, a great experience, all in all, so happy we chose to travel by land.
Naturally there has to be a down side, we are surrounded by a league of LOUD nations and noisy kids and in no time at all the dunnies were a shocker. Half the people in the carriage are coughing and spluttering, and lastly the free wifi advertised only works on one carriage (not ours).
Jackie Over has been enjoying the train trip and relaxing with Wazza and having a few beers.
The train has refreshments and a fair range of food on offer.
I would recommend the train up, the journey is wonderful, the dunnies are awful, and scenery and relaxation win over stinky loos. I planned to catch up on some overdue sleep..yeah sure nanna, not on this shift, I was still on a high after last night, I scaled the walls of the biggest building in the world and survived, hey how good am I ???
After clearance by the USA and clearance by the Canadians we hit the road to the Marriot
The view from our room is beyond description, abloodymazing, so gorgeous we stayed put all night just enjoying the spectacle in front of us. Poor Wazza went on a mission to get some take away beers it was a non event, he is coming back here to open up a take away beer shop that sells VBs..lol so we called room service and a trolley with half of Dan Murphys arrived, so funny. The activities for the evening had begun. Niagara Falls, spas, yummy room service dinner, yep, life is good.
The bed was so comfy the room so lovely we slept in till late, and still we just we sit and enjoy this wonderful view.
We are on the 29th floor, and the spray from the Falls is taller than we are. AWESOME to say the least.
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
Day 6 Monday 16 th July 2012 New York
Fresh fruit on the run for brekkie as we headed to Macys store, to at least be able to say we had been there ! What a huge huge store that is, like our Myer on steroids, and soon to expand to be the largest store in the world, although we think Dubai may have something to better that. No purchases made, just a couple of prices on make up for mum, I really don’t think New York is all that cheap.
Had a walk around a few stores and reboarded our ho ho bus for day 3 of the tour. Headed out to Downtown Tribeca and Chinatown on route to our booking at noon to visit the 9/11 Memorial, we were early so found a nice cool place to sit at Lily O’Brien’s Irish pub (still no VB).
The visit to this memorial to the victims and families of the tragic events at the Twin Towers was very moving, it is both beautiful and so very sad, as you walk around these giant pools and see all the names of the innocent victims. The organisation to enter the area is very well done, and the gardens surrounding where the towers once stood were lush and tranquil. The new Tower One is well under way and will be a fabulous looking building when complete.
Time to go in search of the cruise we had included with our tour, and alas, we jumped off at the wrong spot, so decided on lunch at Seaport Café, Pier 17 on the waterfront. I had a yummy lobster salad sandwich and Warren had the cafes special burger. Great meal in a great location.
Next was trying to decide what to do, if we should try and find this cruise, or just do our own thing, the decision was made to go and walk around Harlem, so we got the ho ho bus back out to Uptown and bailed out at the Harlem Market place, I think the tour guide thought we were a bit cracked in the head. We ventured thorough what was once a ghetto, but now making changes (except for the shop I went into for cold water, it was really feral and I was not taking my eye off Warren for a second, or my bag), but we escaped unscathed !
We found a Costco store and as we had never been to one we thought we would have a look, oh no they want $55 to “join”, so that was a big fat “no deal”. By this stage we were ready for a cool down and cool drink so we jumped in a taxi and got a free taxi ride home using the money I found on the ground, $160..woo hoo for me….happy days.
Back home to get changed and head off to our included visit to the Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Centre, again the lines to get in were orderly and it didn’t take long at all for it to be our turn to board the lift to the 68 th floor, now I am NOT a fan of lifts, so I was fairly packing my drawers, but I must say the 42 seconds it took to get there were smooth, and I was keeping focussed on the sound and light show in the roof of the lift (at first the lights in the lift dim dramatically, that was a small heart attack moment, but by the time I recovered we were there) I made sure I was last on first off, and the bravery was well rewarded by the SENSATIONAL view of New York at night, over 3 levels and 360 degrees, no pushing for a spot at the windows so we managed to get a few great photos.
Off to dinner by now it is almost 11 pm and we can surely see why this is called the City that never sleeps, people everywhere, dinner was at The Brooklyn Diner highly recommended by one of our great tour guides, and it was an awesome 60s style with flair venue and I had the chicken pot pie, to die for, and recipient of many food awards, rightly so, a tasty homemade style meal just wish I could have fitted it all in, Warren had macaroni cheese, also yummy, real Yankee. tucker for us tonight.
Getting those boxes ticked off.
Tomorrow early start as we head to Penn Station for our train trip to Niagara Falls.
Jackie Over is very excited about her train trip, and will be sporting her new I love New York frock.
Thanks to those who are coming along with us, great to have you along.
Reading a few rather disturbing things about Noro Virus outbreak on the ship, hope they get that under control before it’s our turn to board.
Fresh fruit on the run for brekkie as we headed to Macys store, to at least be able to say we had been there ! What a huge huge store that is, like our Myer on steroids, and soon to expand to be the largest store in the world, although we think Dubai may have something to better that. No purchases made, just a couple of prices on make up for mum, I really don’t think New York is all that cheap.
Had a walk around a few stores and reboarded our ho ho bus for day 3 of the tour. Headed out to Downtown Tribeca and Chinatown on route to our booking at noon to visit the 9/11 Memorial, we were early so found a nice cool place to sit at Lily O’Brien’s Irish pub (still no VB).
The visit to this memorial to the victims and families of the tragic events at the Twin Towers was very moving, it is both beautiful and so very sad, as you walk around these giant pools and see all the names of the innocent victims. The organisation to enter the area is very well done, and the gardens surrounding where the towers once stood were lush and tranquil. The new Tower One is well under way and will be a fabulous looking building when complete.
Time to go in search of the cruise we had included with our tour, and alas, we jumped off at the wrong spot, so decided on lunch at Seaport Café, Pier 17 on the waterfront. I had a yummy lobster salad sandwich and Warren had the cafes special burger. Great meal in a great location.
Next was trying to decide what to do, if we should try and find this cruise, or just do our own thing, the decision was made to go and walk around Harlem, so we got the ho ho bus back out to Uptown and bailed out at the Harlem Market place, I think the tour guide thought we were a bit cracked in the head. We ventured thorough what was once a ghetto, but now making changes (except for the shop I went into for cold water, it was really feral and I was not taking my eye off Warren for a second, or my bag), but we escaped unscathed !
We found a Costco store and as we had never been to one we thought we would have a look, oh no they want $55 to “join”, so that was a big fat “no deal”. By this stage we were ready for a cool down and cool drink so we jumped in a taxi and got a free taxi ride home using the money I found on the ground, $160..woo hoo for me….happy days.
Back home to get changed and head off to our included visit to the Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Centre, again the lines to get in were orderly and it didn’t take long at all for it to be our turn to board the lift to the 68 th floor, now I am NOT a fan of lifts, so I was fairly packing my drawers, but I must say the 42 seconds it took to get there were smooth, and I was keeping focussed on the sound and light show in the roof of the lift (at first the lights in the lift dim dramatically, that was a small heart attack moment, but by the time I recovered we were there) I made sure I was last on first off, and the bravery was well rewarded by the SENSATIONAL view of New York at night, over 3 levels and 360 degrees, no pushing for a spot at the windows so we managed to get a few great photos.
Off to dinner by now it is almost 11 pm and we can surely see why this is called the City that never sleeps, people everywhere, dinner was at The Brooklyn Diner highly recommended by one of our great tour guides, and it was an awesome 60s style with flair venue and I had the chicken pot pie, to die for, and recipient of many food awards, rightly so, a tasty homemade style meal just wish I could have fitted it all in, Warren had macaroni cheese, also yummy, real Yankee. tucker for us tonight.
Getting those boxes ticked off.
Tomorrow early start as we head to Penn Station for our train trip to Niagara Falls.
Jackie Over is very excited about her train trip, and will be sporting her new I love New York frock.
Thanks to those who are coming along with us, great to have you along.
Reading a few rather disturbing things about Noro Virus outbreak on the ship, hope they get that under control before it’s our turn to board.
Day 4 Sunday 15th July 2012
Good start with a nice healthy brekky on the run, the fruit here is from California and is delicious! The berries are huge and so cheap, there are vendors selling all manner of things on the side walks, hot dogs, kebabs, drinks, t-shirts, to name just a few.
We headed off to the Hop on Hop off bus to do the Up town tour which would take us to places like Harlem the Bronx, but the opportunity to go for a Sunday morning walk through the Memorial Gardens for John Lennon won us over. So we had a lovely wander through Strawberry Fields which is in Central Park, just over the road from where John was murdered. His wife Yoko still lives there, she owns 3 apartments on one level. The gardens are very beautiful and so peaceful.
We decided to continue our walk and came across a squillion joggers and walkers all taking advantage of a warm Sunday morning. We walked and walked and walked some more to find the museum that was part of our package, alas we went to the wrong one, not like us to get stuff wrong! The young girl told us where to head, it was just a short way up the road, glad it wasn’t a long way, cos we would still be walking at tea time. So eventually we found the correct museum, had a look through and headed off to rejoi.n the ho ho bus to Carnegie Hall and to the shops to get a t-shirt to cover my shoulders, it was very hot in the sun. On to Battery Point to try to get over to Governors Island, as it appealed to us, however the queue stretched for kilometres, so we did as one does, and went to the New York City beer garden.
On to the subway to Penn Station intending to go to Pier 38, but got sidetracked at Lucys roof top bar near Madison Square Gardens for a pleasant time people watching and listening to 33000 cabbies honk their flipping horns. I had a really lovely mojito and thought of the times shared with Shazza doing the same.
I am laughing as I write this up, as it still sounds like all we did was go on a massive pub crawl, but we walked in between pubs……… so, we happened upon a place called the beer academy, only reason we went there was cos they advertised the had 100 beers on tap and 50 bottles surely there would be a VB there, sadly for Warren this was not the case. Onward we go in the quest to find him a VB in New York City. It’s a tough job, but alas a job that must be done.
We found the ho ho bus again and continued our up town tour through Harlem with a local lady who was from Harlem and was just delightful to listen to her. She too was very passionate about her city, and the community.
Along the way we saw some amazing stuff, a church built by the Rockefeller children for their parents, cool $50 and extraordinary to say the least. The architecture of the buildings in this city blows you away, given their age.
11.30 pm saw us arrive home after leaving at about 7.30 am, we were a bit weary, had a bite to eat (New Yorks famous pizza, we do them way better in our country !
Another fabulous day was had in the Big Apple.
Good start with a nice healthy brekky on the run, the fruit here is from California and is delicious! The berries are huge and so cheap, there are vendors selling all manner of things on the side walks, hot dogs, kebabs, drinks, t-shirts, to name just a few.
We headed off to the Hop on Hop off bus to do the Up town tour which would take us to places like Harlem the Bronx, but the opportunity to go for a Sunday morning walk through the Memorial Gardens for John Lennon won us over. So we had a lovely wander through Strawberry Fields which is in Central Park, just over the road from where John was murdered. His wife Yoko still lives there, she owns 3 apartments on one level. The gardens are very beautiful and so peaceful.
We decided to continue our walk and came across a squillion joggers and walkers all taking advantage of a warm Sunday morning. We walked and walked and walked some more to find the museum that was part of our package, alas we went to the wrong one, not like us to get stuff wrong! The young girl told us where to head, it was just a short way up the road, glad it wasn’t a long way, cos we would still be walking at tea time. So eventually we found the correct museum, had a look through and headed off to rejoi.n the ho ho bus to Carnegie Hall and to the shops to get a t-shirt to cover my shoulders, it was very hot in the sun. On to Battery Point to try to get over to Governors Island, as it appealed to us, however the queue stretched for kilometres, so we did as one does, and went to the New York City beer garden.
On to the subway to Penn Station intending to go to Pier 38, but got sidetracked at Lucys roof top bar near Madison Square Gardens for a pleasant time people watching and listening to 33000 cabbies honk their flipping horns. I had a really lovely mojito and thought of the times shared with Shazza doing the same.
I am laughing as I write this up, as it still sounds like all we did was go on a massive pub crawl, but we walked in between pubs……… so, we happened upon a place called the beer academy, only reason we went there was cos they advertised the had 100 beers on tap and 50 bottles surely there would be a VB there, sadly for Warren this was not the case. Onward we go in the quest to find him a VB in New York City. It’s a tough job, but alas a job that must be done.
We found the ho ho bus again and continued our up town tour through Harlem with a local lady who was from Harlem and was just delightful to listen to her. She too was very passionate about her city, and the community.
Along the way we saw some amazing stuff, a church built by the Rockefeller children for their parents, cool $50 and extraordinary to say the least. The architecture of the buildings in this city blows you away, given their age.
11.30 pm saw us arrive home after leaving at about 7.30 am, we were a bit weary, had a bite to eat (New Yorks famous pizza, we do them way better in our country !
Another fabulous day was had in the Big Apple.
Sunday, July 15, 2012
Day 3 New York, Day 1 Hop on Hop off Tour
A quick brekky was had a Fluffys, just down the road from our place, just OK, we will get a winner soon, although I am not at all hungry, my body clock is a bit haywire ! Hope that keeps up...
A big day out, doing th Downtown tour, taking in sights such as Greenwich Village, Little Italy, China Town, (where we got off for a wander, and looked for a pub, but it was a bit too seedy (even for us)...so back on the bus through the financial district Wall Street Soho, Grasmercy the Grament Distrioct, such a wonderful blend of cultures and amazing buildings, from the high life to the very sad and run down walk ups !
A marathon walk to try and find the High Line (thanks Marilyn) after a long haul and a pub and lunch stop we found this once upon a time railway track, and rather than pay for the removal, they turned this into a wonderful walking trail for families, it really was worth the trek..we loved it !
We stopped off for lunch at Chelsea, after a walk through the way too busy Chelsea markets.
Cannot believe how hard it is to find a loo in this city of a squillion people, and when you do, man, they are the pits...learned a good tip on our later tour, "go to Starbucks"..
Another trek back to town and we stopped in at West End Bar and Grill for a cool drink...oh by then it was decided to get another round in Molly Wee, where we chatted for a good time with the Irish barman and several locals, great craick was had !
So while we waited for our evening tour we sat and revived at Chevvys, a really fabulous Mexican place, just for a bit of a rest..you know how it is, when in New York, mingle !
The night tour was lead by a passionate Brooklyn fellow, gosh he was fantastic, the best guide we have had. Times Square was where we began, there were another guzzillion people, most of the tour covered what we had seen that day, but then we got to cross th Brookly Bridge, a brilliant sight to see, into Brooklyn where we got to see where all the highlights were, including a burger joint where the line was hundreds of people long, and where the "famous" people live or have lived
Loved this tour.
Times Square was crazy crazy tonight, huge crowds waiting to enter the "hot spots" we had a drink at Hard Rock New York, but the wait for a meal was 1 hour or so.
Time to find a quiet spot..ha ha ha ..quiet spots will never happen at an Irish pub..O'Briens fed us a small meal, before we battled the masses and masses of people, as we had been on the road since about 7 am, and it was now 11 pm, we had decided no more crowds, lets go "home" to our lovely quiet and comfy hotel, where I can get rid of these shoes..
Bed after 1.30 pm...the bags under my eyes will be able to carry slabs of VB's for Wazza ...
A big day out, doing th Downtown tour, taking in sights such as Greenwich Village, Little Italy, China Town, (where we got off for a wander, and looked for a pub, but it was a bit too seedy (even for us)...so back on the bus through the financial district Wall Street Soho, Grasmercy the Grament Distrioct, such a wonderful blend of cultures and amazing buildings, from the high life to the very sad and run down walk ups !
A marathon walk to try and find the High Line (thanks Marilyn) after a long haul and a pub and lunch stop we found this once upon a time railway track, and rather than pay for the removal, they turned this into a wonderful walking trail for families, it really was worth the trek..we loved it !
We stopped off for lunch at Chelsea, after a walk through the way too busy Chelsea markets.
Cannot believe how hard it is to find a loo in this city of a squillion people, and when you do, man, they are the pits...learned a good tip on our later tour, "go to Starbucks"..
Another trek back to town and we stopped in at West End Bar and Grill for a cool drink...oh by then it was decided to get another round in Molly Wee, where we chatted for a good time with the Irish barman and several locals, great craick was had !
So while we waited for our evening tour we sat and revived at Chevvys, a really fabulous Mexican place, just for a bit of a rest..you know how it is, when in New York, mingle !
The night tour was lead by a passionate Brooklyn fellow, gosh he was fantastic, the best guide we have had. Times Square was where we began, there were another guzzillion people, most of the tour covered what we had seen that day, but then we got to cross th Brookly Bridge, a brilliant sight to see, into Brooklyn where we got to see where all the highlights were, including a burger joint where the line was hundreds of people long, and where the "famous" people live or have lived
Loved this tour.
Times Square was crazy crazy tonight, huge crowds waiting to enter the "hot spots" we had a drink at Hard Rock New York, but the wait for a meal was 1 hour or so.
Time to find a quiet spot..ha ha ha ..quiet spots will never happen at an Irish pub..O'Briens fed us a small meal, before we battled the masses and masses of people, as we had been on the road since about 7 am, and it was now 11 pm, we had decided no more crowds, lets go "home" to our lovely quiet and comfy hotel, where I can get rid of these shoes..
Bed after 1.30 pm...the bags under my eyes will be able to carry slabs of VB's for Wazza ...
Saturday, July 14, 2012
Day 2 New York...what a blast !
New York – New York
Day 2
Our day began early with a walk to check out this amazing city, after a good night’s sleep in our very comfy hotel room, ( I originally woke at 3 am and thought about taking off then, fortunately I managed to fall asleep for a couple more hours !) We stopped in at Pot Belly for brekky and some free wi-fi and time to catch up on the news from home. Our most wonderful news is that Bonnie is going to be fine, the lump she had removed is benign. Taletha says she is missing us, but Kailee is giving her lots of gentle cuddles. Pot Belly was OK, not outstanding but fine for what we needed they are at the corner of 7th Ave and West 37th Street.
Having fueled up we headed off to find a shop my Grandfathers cousin George Alfred LeJuge had many years ago at 210 West 14th Street, it is no longer the fish shop it once was, but a trendy manicure salon ! It was quite a trek to get there, but I was pleased to be able to give mum a report.
Off to explore the subway at the corner of West 14th and 7th Avenue to check out Central Park at West 59th, the subway is quick clean and efficient and also at $2.50 quite cheap.
Central Park is just fabulous ! It covers 843 acres and 6 percent of Manhattan Island, its current value is 26 billion dollars…….hmmmmmmmm ! We hired a horse and carriage and spent half an hour checking out this wonderful park, our driver was very informative and our horse (Bobby) was pretty good too !!
Then a little time exploring the park on foot, had a look at a carousel that’s over 100 years old then we took Jackie Over to visit where her apartment is. We saw a penthouse purchased by a Russian man for his daughter, just a cool $88 mill ! Also where John Lennon lived and sadly also was murdered, Bonos shack, Tony Bennet’s place, just to name a few celebs who call New York home.
On then by taxi to pier 83 to catch our Circle Line Statue of Liberty Cruise (75 minutes) the boat was packed to the rafters, but we snagged a good possy ! The statue is 300 foot high, its made of copper, the base is in the shape of a star, in her left hand she holds the declaration of Independence, he right hand the torch for freedom and Liberty and her crown 7 points representing the 7 continents. Fairly takes your breath away to see this amazing landmark for yourself !! Then off for a walk along the waterfront to see where the Titanic was to have berthed, and found a really great watering hole, busy busy and fabulous atmosphere, it was on Lackawanna Railway barge, we sat for a good while watching all the comings and goings on the Hudson River. The Carnival Disney was in port (Carol and Bob we thought of you guys !)
Next stop was the Blarney Stone pub, what an eye opener for this nanna and pop, drug deals going down, the bar was “bent” in the middle, it was only about 3 meters wide, if that, and full of very loud Americans, but as seedy as it was, we did enjoy our visit, the publican was a really nice lady. As you do in New York, you go to the next pub, The Twins Irish bar, where we watched with our mouths wide open as a bloke who was fairly well cut managed to remain on his bar stool, even when he had a 30 degree list..good work mate !!
Off to the Alpha Bar on West 34th Street where we met 2 lovely young girls from France and had a bit of a refuel of delicious vegetarian spring rolls, and sat curb side watching this amazing city do what it does best, honk horns, and drive those 14000 yellow cabs at a mad pace, it’s a fair dinkum sea of yellow cabs here !!
By now I have blisters the size of saucers on my feet, but as much as we have walked, not one shoe store have I found..Macys where are you ??? Deb, I am sure you found the shops a whole lot easier than I am now. Madison Square Gardens and TGIF for a squiz at east 34th and 8th Ave, it really is an easy city to navigate (having said that I am very pleased to have my navigator with me !)
I know this sounds like a pub crawl, but in between all this we do a whole lot of walking, and I also purchased a sim/data card that will give me free phone calls and data for a month. Happy Jan !!
Last stop before we crashed was Pig and Whistle; it was a lovely pub, great friendly staff.
Yes, I do love New York, and I am really looking forward to the time we will spend here.
3 day Hop on Hop off tour begins today.
Day 2
Our day began early with a walk to check out this amazing city, after a good night’s sleep in our very comfy hotel room, ( I originally woke at 3 am and thought about taking off then, fortunately I managed to fall asleep for a couple more hours !) We stopped in at Pot Belly for brekky and some free wi-fi and time to catch up on the news from home. Our most wonderful news is that Bonnie is going to be fine, the lump she had removed is benign. Taletha says she is missing us, but Kailee is giving her lots of gentle cuddles. Pot Belly was OK, not outstanding but fine for what we needed they are at the corner of 7th Ave and West 37th Street.
Having fueled up we headed off to find a shop my Grandfathers cousin George Alfred LeJuge had many years ago at 210 West 14th Street, it is no longer the fish shop it once was, but a trendy manicure salon ! It was quite a trek to get there, but I was pleased to be able to give mum a report.
Off to explore the subway at the corner of West 14th and 7th Avenue to check out Central Park at West 59th, the subway is quick clean and efficient and also at $2.50 quite cheap.
Central Park is just fabulous ! It covers 843 acres and 6 percent of Manhattan Island, its current value is 26 billion dollars…….hmmmmmmmm ! We hired a horse and carriage and spent half an hour checking out this wonderful park, our driver was very informative and our horse (Bobby) was pretty good too !!
Then a little time exploring the park on foot, had a look at a carousel that’s over 100 years old then we took Jackie Over to visit where her apartment is. We saw a penthouse purchased by a Russian man for his daughter, just a cool $88 mill ! Also where John Lennon lived and sadly also was murdered, Bonos shack, Tony Bennet’s place, just to name a few celebs who call New York home.
On then by taxi to pier 83 to catch our Circle Line Statue of Liberty Cruise (75 minutes) the boat was packed to the rafters, but we snagged a good possy ! The statue is 300 foot high, its made of copper, the base is in the shape of a star, in her left hand she holds the declaration of Independence, he right hand the torch for freedom and Liberty and her crown 7 points representing the 7 continents. Fairly takes your breath away to see this amazing landmark for yourself !! Then off for a walk along the waterfront to see where the Titanic was to have berthed, and found a really great watering hole, busy busy and fabulous atmosphere, it was on Lackawanna Railway barge, we sat for a good while watching all the comings and goings on the Hudson River. The Carnival Disney was in port (Carol and Bob we thought of you guys !)
Next stop was the Blarney Stone pub, what an eye opener for this nanna and pop, drug deals going down, the bar was “bent” in the middle, it was only about 3 meters wide, if that, and full of very loud Americans, but as seedy as it was, we did enjoy our visit, the publican was a really nice lady. As you do in New York, you go to the next pub, The Twins Irish bar, where we watched with our mouths wide open as a bloke who was fairly well cut managed to remain on his bar stool, even when he had a 30 degree list..good work mate !!
Off to the Alpha Bar on West 34th Street where we met 2 lovely young girls from France and had a bit of a refuel of delicious vegetarian spring rolls, and sat curb side watching this amazing city do what it does best, honk horns, and drive those 14000 yellow cabs at a mad pace, it’s a fair dinkum sea of yellow cabs here !!
By now I have blisters the size of saucers on my feet, but as much as we have walked, not one shoe store have I found..Macys where are you ??? Deb, I am sure you found the shops a whole lot easier than I am now. Madison Square Gardens and TGIF for a squiz at east 34th and 8th Ave, it really is an easy city to navigate (having said that I am very pleased to have my navigator with me !)
I know this sounds like a pub crawl, but in between all this we do a whole lot of walking, and I also purchased a sim/data card that will give me free phone calls and data for a month. Happy Jan !!
Last stop before we crashed was Pig and Whistle; it was a lovely pub, great friendly staff.
Yes, I do love New York, and I am really looking forward to the time we will spend here.
3 day Hop on Hop off tour begins today.
Brisvegas to New York...for real ?? Get outta here !!!
Day 1 Brisbane to New York
Our flight to Los Angeles was long, but uneventful; we slept a bit of the way. Daniel Taletha and Kailee dropped us off with lots of time to spare, so no nerves for me !
LAX to New York was a whole lot quicker and we began to get very excited about our visit to the City of Angels, the city that never sleeps …our arrival was on time, and we grabbed a yellow cab, and got really lucky with our New York Cabbie, he was such a great bloke, chatted all the way to our hotel, and so informative.
Hotel Wellington gave us an upgrade to a suite……….awesome stuff, we have a large 2 room suite, but the views leave a bit to be desired, oh well I guess they are fine if you love brick walls……….however, as we plan only to sleep and shower here, the view is not an issue for us We have all we need, the air con works well, it is quiet and clean, I will give this a good recommendation on Trip Advisor. The staff were also really friendly.
Our flight to Los Angeles was long, but uneventful; we slept a bit of the way. Daniel Taletha and Kailee dropped us off with lots of time to spare, so no nerves for me !
LAX to New York was a whole lot quicker and we began to get very excited about our visit to the City of Angels, the city that never sleeps …our arrival was on time, and we grabbed a yellow cab, and got really lucky with our New York Cabbie, he was such a great bloke, chatted all the way to our hotel, and so informative.
Hotel Wellington gave us an upgrade to a suite……….awesome stuff, we have a large 2 room suite, but the views leave a bit to be desired, oh well I guess they are fine if you love brick walls……….however, as we plan only to sleep and shower here, the view is not an issue for us We have all we need, the air con works well, it is quiet and clean, I will give this a good recommendation on Trip Advisor. The staff were also really friendly.
G'day from the USA
Blog is written up, just gotta work out how to get it here. we are having a brilliant time, and both love New York, although the crowds did us in tonight after 18 hours on the go..ready for our quiet room, and the aircon..more soon ..hoo roo from the Big Apple
Sunday, July 1, 2012
Just wanted to pop in and say g'day, yes I know we have been a bit behind the 8 ball, but as our trip is not yet up and running , we are just marking time...dont go away ... Nola and Peter (they are our sister and bil) are also not far off embarking on a most amazing Scenic tour a bit like we did last year,I am jumping out of my skin for them, I KNOW how awesome this trip is, and the most marvelous memories they will bring home. If you ever get lucky enough to do as we did, Alaska is extrordinary, words fail me, just a wonderful place to visit..... Oh and be sure to go to Denali for the life of me, I cannot begin to tell you how this place made me feel.............
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)