TLCOhio

Shorter cruises? Three of our best of the best, most memorable cruises with Silversea were 15 days or more. This includes for up and down the Norway Coast to the top Europe, the Amazon River, Mumbai to Singapore. Longer sailings allow getting to know the staff, connecting with other passengers, etc. Doing the "same old typical ports" is also a non-starter for us. I can fully understand seeking a younger audience that is more limited with their work/family schedules and timings. But, how does Silversea balance that with and for their current "customer base". Lots of challenges! Different audience have varied "needs" and desires. Trying to be "all things" for a much wider audience is difficult. MISSION IMPOSSIBLE??? THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Norway Coast/Fjords/Arctic Circle cruise from Copenhagen, July 2010, to the top of Europe. Scenic visuals with key tips. Live/blog at 252,721 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1172051-livesilver-cloud-norway-coastfjords-july-1-16-reports/

Ready for the famous Thailand and Phuket movie connection? Ko Khao Phing Kan is an island in Thailand, in Phang Nga Bay northeast of Phuket. About 130 feet from the shores of Khao Phing Kan lies a 66 feet tall islet called Ko Ta Pu or Ko Tapu. The islands are limestone karst towers and are a part of Ao Phang Nga National Park. Since 1974, when this location was featured in the James Bond movie "The Man with the Golden Gun", it has been popularly called James Bond Island. This was the exotic and high-tech hideout for Bond's antagonist, Francisco Scaramanga. The movie ends with a wild shoot-out with many twists and turns. Love the various James Bond movie/fantasies we have enjoyed over the many decades. Re-watched this 1970's classic before we did our visit here in late February 2024. THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio For more Bangkok background, including a variety of options, potential, visuals, etc., check out this posting: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2915090-bangkok-ny-times-options-ideas-etc/#comment-64898979 Different boats were used to visit these nearby islands in this dramatic area of Thailand near Phuket.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) Here is proof that we physically were visiting this famed James Bond Island. Second is a closer view of this dramatic limestone karst tower/formation that rises up next to this base/location for the hired assassin/villain in this movie. The final two visuals below were captured as we walked around this island and stood under these massive rock formations and observed a large cave at this film location.: Here is another example at an adjoining island as to how visitors explored this scenic region of Thailand.:

Appreciate sharing this reporting and interview. The new SS President brings "fresh eyes" to Silversea and its product. Maybe good? Maybe not? As he mentioned about widening the staff and adding more world-wide diversity, we observed and benefited from that during our February 2024 Mumbai to Singapore Silver Moon sailing. A number of the staff were from Africa and we enjoyed sharing with them our past experiences in traveling to their countries, etc. YES, he wants to attract younger customers to prepare for the future as those of us older might not be always be around and able to travel forever in the future. BUT, as General Motors discovered with their Oldsmobile brand, you cannot trash your existing, mature customers in hot pursuit of those younger and more hip. GM's mismanagement killed that long-established auto brand. Delicate marketing/performance challenge????? Look forward to hearing him be more specific and detailed for how he will be "BALANCING" the finances and being customer-focused. The Silversea audience pays more and expect things to be significantly above average. How will the Prex respond?? THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Lisbon, NWSpain, Bordeaux/Brittany: Live/blog, June 2017 from Portugal to France along scenic Atlantic Coast on the Silver Spirit. Now at 35,748 views. Many pictures, details for history, food, culture, etc.: www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2511358

As detailed earlier, we super loved the Siam Niramit evening program. Putting the "frosting on the cake" was having front-row, center seats for this amazing performance. Below are some additional visuals. Unfortunately, cameras were not allowed or permitted inside the theater. Here are some highlights at to how TripAdvisor summarized this attraction: "Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Thai history and culture. This exceptional journey begins an incredible spectacle of rich Thai arts and cultural heritage, presented through cutting-edge technology and breathtaking special effects on the world's largest stage. Witness history spring to life in an unforgettable tableau. Engage in traditional Thai village activities, and gain an appreciation for the timeless elegance of Thai traditions. The Siam Niramit is a journey steeped in Thai culture. Let the magic of Siam Niramit Phuket enrapture you." Most all of the TA reviews were positive, including this example: "The show was phenomenal! The set was beautiful and the actors/actresses were so talented and professional. Don’t miss it if you wish to learn and experience Thai culture and tradition. It was one of the highlights of our trip to Thailand." "Amazing" is the one-world summary I would offer. Yes, aimed at tourists, but they put on a great show with such a large cast and first-close costumes, sets and staging. THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio From late 2018, see “Holy Lands, Egypt, Jordan, Oman, Dubai, Greece, etc.”, with many visuals, details and ideas for the historic and scenic Middle East. Now at 22,8240 views. Connect at: www.boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2607054-livenautica-greece-holy-lands-egypt-dubai-terrypix’s/ From the Siam Niramit evening program near Phuket, here were a couple of examples for outdoor decorations seen as we waited to enter this large-scale theater. Colorful?: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) Prior to the indoor performance, we toured around their outdoor, village-like displays, buildings and grounds reflecting Thai history and life. Below are a few of my visual samples for these areas, the welcoming staff, crafts, etc.: After the spectacular, large-scale show concluded, we exited and certain of the costumed performers were outside, available for pictures. Earlier I posted three different visuals to illustrate the amazing costumes. Here is one different picture where an audiences member posed with some of the on-stage talent.:

More from Phuket? Yes!! And, this was only from our first afternoon there. The next day's, all-day speedboat adventure to James Bond Island will be coming soon. On photography, here is some added background. For this 31-day, "Around the World" adventure, I went back to check from numbers of the first photo taken in Delhi to the last in Japan and up with the numbers snapped for 2399 through 8389, plus then I add in those from my iPhone, plus my back-up Nikon 5500 and get a rough total of 6450 visuals, plus a few dozens or so taken by our guides in Singapore and Japan on their cameras. That's lots!! See why it takes some time to sort through all of the visuals, rate/pull out the best, do some cropping and editing, etc. Are visuals important?? The picture postings have been great fun in sharing Visuals are very powerful and sometimes what people remember most!! Right or wrong? That's why this thing called television has done fairly well in our society. I like the Eyewitness and Insight travel books because of their great variety of good visuals. An experienced trial lawyer taught me that people are four times more likely to remember what they . . . BOTH see and hear!! Studies also show that those younger tend to be more visually-oriented. The old saying "A picture is worth a thousand words" incorporates the idea that a complex messages can be conveyed with just a single or a few still images. It is more probable to communicate large amounts of "data" or words quickly. Supposedly, this familiar saying comes from a Chinese proverb attributed to Confucius. A Russian writer wrote "A picture shows me at a glance what it takes dozens of pages of a book to expound." French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte reportedly said: "A good sketch is better than a long speech" More soon on my photography approach and maybe a few "secrets"? THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Panama Canal? Early 2017, Fort Lauderdale to San Francisco adventure through Panama Canal. Our first stops in Colombia, Central America and Mexico, plus added time in the great Golden Gate City. Now at 33,425 views. http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2465580 When traveling into and out of Phuket, there appeared to be some sort of festival and/or event upcoming. Lots of color, decorations and style on the streets as the below visuals document. Is this a large, large dinosaur/ Cute creatures shown?: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) Loved this below sign for a chicken place in Phuket. Maybe a memorable name for starting a dining chain in the U.S.?:

Need more proof and evidence from Phuket that we enjoyed the sights and experiences here? It was super hot this day, but we survived. THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Dubrovnik! Visual samples, tips, details, etc., for this super scenic and historic location. Over 54,426 views. http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1439227 Here are more visual samples of the detailed design from the Phuket temple architecture. Fancy??: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) In the Phuket downtown, here is a wider sample for the architecture, friendly people, various shops, designs, flowering touches, decorative details, etc.:

Surprise? In doing some checking today with things being so hot outside, I discovered a group of pictures from my photo files where I had not completed the updating. Warning! Lots of colorful and interesting visuals. Where?: Phuket!! Thailand’s largest island promises ocean beauty and wide beaches of opulence, with dramatic scenery and sights. Yes, it checked all of the various boxes!! We explored the streets of busy Phuket Town with markets, lively activity, temples and fun architecture. We had an afternoon, plus a full day here. Lots to enjoy and love. Phang Nga Bay National Park is nearby with its remarkable landscape of towering limestone karst. The iconic rock formations are encased by theatrical inlets and greenery-clad rock formations. Our speedboat tours allowed us to feel the salty air as we traveled between secluded islands, and visited an authentic stilted village. Lavish temples, Chinese shrines and giant Buddha statues add another layer of cultural depth. From a New York Times March 16, 2010, profile, they summarized: "The teardrop-shaped island of Phuket has long been known for its dazzling beaches and naughty night life. But for many, it was the catastrophic Asian tsunami in 2004 that finally placed Phuket on the map. Recovery has been swift, and in recent years the island has firmly reasserted itself as a premier beach resort in southern Thailand, with a growing crop of luxury hotels, top-notch restaurants and even a thriving art community." THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Kotor/Montenegro: Various visual samples, tips, details, etc., for this scenic, historic location. Over 56,396 views. http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1439193 For the first afternoon in Thailand, we were recovering from being a "little under the weather" and did not want to do a group tour. We hired a cab at the docking location and traveled to Phuket's city via a scenic, beachside routing. Our "guide" was young and female, but a very careful, considerate driver that worked well at a reasonable price of only $50 for the afternoon. First is a typical beach view and the second visual shows a wider water view with a large Buddha statute towering above from its higher mountain location.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) Here are a few initial views for the colorful and interesting sights and architecture in the Phuket Town.: This temple was newer and one of the most unique designs we observed during our Asian adventure.: Here is my wife with our young guide/driver in front of one of the temple buildings. Second is another example for their downtown shopping/dining area. Not a boring or bland portion of this town. More to come to prove my point for why we enjoyed exploring around here.:

From a financial news website late this afternoon, they had this headline: “S&P500 clinches record high” with these highlights: “The S&P 500 closed at another record high on Tuesday as Nvidia rallied to usurp Microsoft as the most valuable company, pushing the broader tech sector higher and overshadowing economic data pointing to a more wary U.S. consumer. U.S. retail sales increased at a slower-than-anticipated rate on a monthly basis in May, rising 0.1%, an improvement from a downwardly-revised decline of 0.2% in April. The weak retail sales figure could impact the outlook for the wider economy.” Below is the Wall Street Journal chart for this key overall market indicator for this large group of stocks during the first five and a half months this year. Looking up, UP, UP? : Full story at: https://www.investing.com/news/stock-market-news/stock-market-today-sp500-clinches-record-high-nvidia-now-most-valuable-company-3488191 THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Norway Coast/Fjords/Arctic Circle cruise from Copenhagen, July 2010, to the top of Europe. Scenic visuals with key tips. Live/blog at 252,721 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1172051-livesilver-cloud-norway-coastfjords-july-1-16-reports/

Affecting cruise line finances and their future involves questions about where all can the increasing number of cruise ship go and dock. Many parts of the Middle East are now doubtful and/or not easy to reach via previous, established routings. But, now there are questions for places such as Greece getting too popular for tourists!! What's next? From Bloomberg News and a travel news website yesterday, they had this headline: “Greece to Limit Cruise Ships Visiting Popular Islands Next Year” with these highlights: “Greece plans to reduce the number of cruise ships visiting its popular tourist destinations. the country’s prime minister, announced that he will place caps on how many cruises can travel to Greek islands in the Aegean Sea. Islands like Mykonos and Santorini are popular tourist destinations. Since the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic boosted tourism overall, more visitors than ever before have been seeking out the islands.” In 2006 when we did our first cruise and visited Mykonos, we super loved it. BUT, we were lucky on that day as we were the only ship in port that day. I cannot image the impacts and crowding if six to eight cruise ships been there during just one day. As a "bonus" below are just a few "eye candy" samples from Mykonos to prove why and how we enjoyed this Greek island so much. We got a rental car and did some exploring, including out to some uncrowded beaches where coastal "action" was colorful and happening. Any others been to Mykonos more recently? Santorini is still on our "must-do" future list. A good reason to go back again to Greece. Full story at: https://ftnnews.com/travel-news/cruise-travel/greece-to-limit-cruise-ships-visiting-popular-islands-next-year/#google_vignette THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Barcelona/Med: June 2011, with stops in Villefranche, ports near Pisa and Rome, Naples, Kotor, Venice and Dubrovnik. Great visuals with key highlights, tips, etc. Live/blog now at 259,973 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1362155-solstice-livefirst-timer-reportspix’s-italycroatian-june-7-19/

Is it good news that Greece is getting more and more popular for tourists? From Bloomberg News and this travel news website yesterday, they had this headline: “Greece to Limit Cruise Ships Visiting Popular Islands Next Year” by Vedat Özgür Töre with these highlights: “Greece plans to reduce the number of cruise ships visiting its popular tourist destinations. the country’s prime minister, announced that he will place caps on how many cruises can travel to Greek islands in the Aegean Sea. Islands like Mykonos and Santorini are popular tourist destinations. Since the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic boosted tourism overall, more visitors than ever before have been seeking out the islands.” In 2006 when we did our first cruise and visited Mykonos, we super loved it. BUT, we were lucky on that day as we were the only ship in port that day. I cannot image the impacts and crowding if six to eight ships had arrived there on just one day. Full story at: https://ftnnews.com/travel-news/cruise-travel/greece-to-limit-cruise-ships-visiting-popular-islands-next-year/#google_vignette THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Panama Canal? Early 2017, Fort Lauderdale to San Francisco adventure through Panama Canal. Our first stops in Colombia, Central America and Mexico, plus added time in the great Golden Gate City. Now at 33,425 views. http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2465580

From a Wall Street Journal-connected financial website and MSN News yesterday, they had this headline: “ ‘Don’t be a cruise snob’: How I learned to love sailing on the high seas” with these highlights: “There are those who consider a cruise vacation the ultimate in travel. And there are those who view it as a sojourn into a hellish world of ticky-tackiness and overindulgence, with a little seasickness thrown in for good measure. But to borrow a phrase from Cyndi Lauper, girls (and guys) just want to have fun. And as I’ve now learned after a weeklong sailing from New York to Bermuda and back, a cruise vacation is a lot of fun.” Here is more of the writer's background/perspective: "My change of heart about cruising speaks to a broader trend: The world has gone cruise crazy of late. Coming out of the pandemic, the industry has seen a record number of passengers — some 31.7 million in 2023, which surpasses the 2019 tally by 7%, according to figures from Cruise Lines International Association. Many of those passengers are first-timers: Bermuda happens to be the most expensive country in the world. If I had opted to fly there, stay in a hotel and eat out in a few restaurants, I could have easily spent the equivalent of my cruise fare. I suspect the value aspect is what’s driving a lot of people to look at cruising of late. Travel costs are up 12% compared to 2019." Financial value is an important point to consider. The writer also summarized: "In case you hadn’t noticed, it’s a resort on the move. Meaning it gets you to the places you want to experience, be it Bermuda, the Caribbean or even Antarctica, plus all the points in between, without having to deal with trains, planes and automobiles." Many other good and other considerations are outlined in this detailed commentary. Interesting!! Late this am, the stocks for Royal Caribbean and other two major companies continue downwards, even when the overall market is going up. Why and how?? Over 140K Views!: This cruise line financial thread is now over 140,000 views. Appreciate those who have stopped by, posted comments and questions, share important background, etc. Keep it coming!! Full story at: https://www.msn.com/en-us/travel/news/don-t-be-a-cruise-snob-how-i-learned-to-love-sailing-on-the-high-seas/ar-BB1oek4K?ocid=BingNewsSearch THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Enjoy the Caribbean? Here are two popular posts/links with thousands of views with much info for . . . . Grenada https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2179927-grenada-pixs-fun-experiences-jan2015/page/2/#comment-66823149 Or, Aruba: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2178325-aruba-pixs-fun-experiences-feb2015/page/3/#comment-66677721

Good luck with your first Silversea cruise. Yes, there are ways to work out your logistics in doing Denali first before a sailing down the Alaska coast to Vancouver and then for the fun/scenic Rocky Mountaineer adventure. As a caution with timing, Alaska can be challenging and a little of a weather "gamble". May and early June can be a little bit of a "roll of the dice" with weather for Alaska. For Denali in August, the rain risks rise up. When in Denali in early August, the rains washed out some of the rails along the train route from Fairbanks, forcing us to take a bus in returning south to Anchorage. Be flexible. Things will work out. Happy to answer any additional questions. THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Athens & Greece: Visuals, details from two visits in a city and nearby with great history, culture and architecture. Now at 66,211 views. http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1101008

Appreciate these great comments and follow-ups our Miami friend above, R&T, etc. Also, smartly noted by Gourmet Gal about "Many wealthy travelers want exclusivity." Yes, much is in "play", changing and evolving. In the past week, I have seen a number of TV ads on two different, major cable news networks pitching for Silversea. Advertising through TV to reach older, more affluent consumers?? That tells me that Silversea is seeing some slowing in future bookings and that they need to do "more" to keep their increasing number of ships full and profitable. Keeping quality high and foolishly pinching pennies? Yes, we saw both in action during our February Mumbai to Singapore Silver Moon sailing. With more new ships, plus their large existing fleet, more "creativity" will be need to fill this enlarged Silversea capacity. Especially when and if the economy tightens. THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Lisbon, NWSpain, Bordeaux/Brittany: Live/blog, June 2017 from Portugal to France along scenic Atlantic Coast on the Silver Spirit. Now at 35,734 views. Many pictures, details for history, food, culture, etc.: www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2511358

From the Wall Street Journal's sister publication of Barron's and MSN News this afternoon, they had this headline: “Carnival and Norwegian Stocks Are Sinking the S&P 500. Pricing May Be an Issue.” with these highlights: “BofA analyst Andrew Didora wrote in a research note Friday that 'based on cruise prices pulled in early June, there was modestly softer pricing in ocean markets relative to early May.' This led investors to be concerned that the cruise lines have lost some ability to maintain higher prices. Investors are now awaiting Carnival’s second-quarter report scheduled for June 25.” Pricing power?? Interesting question. As consumers, we can hope for pricing hikes to moderate and that better cruising values will return. BUT, stockholders and Wall Street types might view things differently?? Full story at: https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/topstocks/carnival-and-norwegian-stocks-are-sinking-the-s-p-500-pricing-may-be-an-issue/ar-BB1of4pe?ocid=BingNewsSearch THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Abu Dhabi vs. Dubai? Many different UAE tips, options, ideas, visuals, etc. with more than 21,600 views at: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2521493-abu-dhabi-vs-dubai-procon-factors/page/5/#comment-66634467

Today was a super BAD DAY for the cruise stocks. See charts below. Does this one report signal why and how? Believe it?? From this Wall Street Journal-related financial news website mid-day, they had this headline: “Carnival’s stock leads the S&P 500’s losers as BofA raises a pricing concern” with these highlights: “Carnival’s stock is having its worst day in nearly two years, Norwegian and Royal Caribbean shares also drop. Shares of cruise operators were having a pretty bad day Friday, as BofA Securities analyst Andrew Didora suggested there was a crack in the sector’s pricing armor.” Full story at: https://www.marketwatch.com/story/carnivals-stock-leads-the-s-p-500s-losers-as-bofa-raises-a-pricing-concern-316f03bf?_gl=1*1ym6112*_gcl_au*MTc3NTQ5MDQwOC4xNzEzNTU5NzQ5*_ga*NzI5MzY4NzcyLjE3MTU4MDA4MzM.*_ga_K2H7B9JRSS*MTcxODQwODYyNi4xNjIuMS4xNzE4NDA5MDk0LjYwLjAuMA.. THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Lisbon vs. Porto? Many different Portugal tips, options, ideas, visuals, etc. with more than 31,000 views at: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2558841-lisbon-vs-porto-which-best/page/7/#comment-66782296 From the Wall Street Journal late Friday, here are their charts during the past week for the four major cruise lines. Have added Viking to this comparison group. Good idea?. BUT, was today their worst trading day in recent memory?: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) By comparison, the overall S&P 500 performed much differently during the past week. Second is how this broader-market index has performed year-to-date. Why??:

Remember the famed Frank Sinatra song from 1958 with these fun words: "There's a bar in far Bombay. Come on and fly with me, let's fly, let's fly away." YES!! When walking our dog yesterday, that song was on my favorites play-list and it is wonderful to make note for its "Come Fly with Me" involving this famed city in India. From Travel+Leisure magazine in late January, they had this headline: “15 Best Places to Visit in India” with these highlights: “Historic, glitzy, and positively gargantuan, Mumbai is easily one of India’s most cosmopolitan destinations. This city by the sea is the nation's financial and entertainment capital, and while you’re unlikely to rub shoulders with Bollywood stars here, you're sure to see a lot of impressive attractions in very little time. Marvel at the grand Indo-Saracenic architecture at Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, or see thousands of clothes hanging out to dry at Dhobi Ghat, the world's largest open-air laundry.” For Jaipur, this T+L profile noted: "The capital of Rajasthan and one-third of North India’s popular Golden Triangle tourist route, Jaipur is a must-visit for those who llove architecture and shopping. The Pink City offers a rich cultural heritage, stunning andmarks like Amber Fort, vibrant bazaars, and intricate handicrafts. Many of Jaipur's key attractions are found in the historic walled part of the city, which became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019." For Agra, T+L summarized: "Many travelers to India put the 17th-century Taj Mahal at the top of their list. This white marble mausoleum is easily India’s most recognizable structure — and it’s one of the New Seven Wonders of the World." Full story at: https://www.travelandleisure.com/best-places-to-visit-in-india-8550824 THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio AFRICA?!!?: Fun, interesting visuals, plus travel details from this early 2016 live/blog. At 56,903 views. Featuring Cape Town, South Africa’s coast, Mozambique, Victoria Falls/Zambia and Botswana's famed Okavango Delta. www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2310337 As we did our sail-away from Mumbai on the Silver Moon, here is the view for a portion of this large city, including the Taj Mahal Palace and Tower. This air quality was not ideal this day, causing the overcast look from this sailing position.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) In the central part of the Silver Moon, here is one of my visuals for the sweeping design and look of this stairway area. .: While on the Silver Moon, here was the graphic on the suite TV screen for our routing.:

What is happening this morning with the stock market driving down the value for Royal Caribbean?? Both Carnival and Norwegian are down, DOWN by even bigger margin this am. Here is the Wall Street Journal RCL chart at mid-morning: From the Wall Street Journal's sister publication of Barron's this morning, they had this headline: “Royal Caribbean Stock Is in for Smooth Sailing. Cruise Demand Runs Deep.” Maybe we will know more later today after the stock market closes. Full story at: https://www.barrons.com/articles/royal-caribbean-stock-carnival-norwegian-cruise-3b0c4d28?_gl=1*10kl4kf*_gcl_au*MTc3NTQ5MDQwOC4xNzEzNTU5NzQ5*_ga*NzI5MzY4NzcyLjE3MTU4MDA4MzM.*_ga_K2H7B9JRSS*MTcxODM3NDMzOS4xNTguMS4xNzE4Mzc3MzQ1LjQ1LjAuMA.. THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Love the Caribbean? Here are popular posts/links with over 20,000 views each with much information for . . . . Barbados: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2179164-barbados-50th-birthday-our-pixs-experiences-feb2015/page/3/#comment-65530134Or, Dominica: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2169714-dominica-love-our-experience-pictures-etc/page/3/#comment-66637276

New high for Royal Caribbean stock? YES!! As this below Wall Street Journal chart shows, RCL hit a 52-week high today. Both Carnival and Norwegian are still lagging behind those year-long peaks, but today both of their stocks were up between 2.4% to 3%. From the Washington Post this afternoon, they had this headline: “Fed forecasts just one rate cut this year as inflation fight grinds on" with this sub-headline: "The announcement came hours after fresh price data offered some encouragement. But the path ahead is still uncertain.” Here is some of their reporting highlights: “Inflation is improving, but prices are still growing faster than normal. The economy is slowing, but not enough to convince the Federal Reserve it can take its foot off the brake. The blurry picture has left Fed leaders in no rush to cut high interest rates this year, with officials signaling only one trim in 2024. That’s pared back from the three cuts officials expected just a few months ago.” Is that all clear and perfectly understandable? Full story at: https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2024/06/12/cpi-fed-inflation-interest-rates/ THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio India to Singapore 2024: Live/Blog with many visuals, including “Golden Triangle”, Japan, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Malaysia: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2992045-live-terryohio-india-to-signapore-silver-moon-rising-pix’s/

The stock market is up, UP big-time this morning and the cruise stocks have seen a wild ride in the past 30 hours. See this Wall Street Journal chart at mid-morning today: From the Wall Street Journal this morning, they had this headline: “Inflation Eased Slightly to 3.3% in May, Lower Than Expected" with this sub-headline: "Core prices that exclude volatile food and energy items climbed 3.4% from a year earlier.” Here are some of their story/analysis highlights: “U.S. inflation slowed in May, an ease in price pressures that should boost the likelihood of interest-rate cuts by the Federal Reserve later this year. Wednesday’s report keeps alive the prospect that the Fed might be able to cut interest rates at its September meeting. Officials have said they are looking to regain confidence that price growth is slowing after several disappointing figures at the beginning of the year.” Is a "soft landing" now more possible? Maybe, if?? Full story at: https://www.wsj.com/economy/central-banking/cpi-report-fed-meeting-interest-rate-ef93c8b0?mod=hp_lead_pos7 THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Lisbon vs. Porto? Many different Portugal tips, options, ideas, visuals, etc. with more than 30,000 views at: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2558841-lisbon-vs-porto-which-best/page/7/#comment-66782296

From this financial news website linked below during this past weekend, they had this headline: “Is Royal Caribbean Cruises A Risky Investment?” with these highlights: “Legendary fund manager Li Lu (who Charlie Munger backed) once said, 'The biggest investment risk is not the volatility of prices, but whether you will suffer a permanent loss of capital.' So it seems the smart money knows that debt is a very important factor, when you assess how risky a company is. Importantly, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. does carry debt. But is this debt a concern to shareholders?” Their chart below shows Royal Caribbean's debt (red) versus equity (blue) and cash on hand (green). Here is more from their reporting: "Zooming in on the latest balance sheet data, we can see that Royal Caribbean Cruises had liabilities of US$9.91b due within 12 months and liabilities of US$20.0b due beyond that. Offsetting this, it had US$437.0m in cash and US$455.0m in receivables that were due within 12 months. So its liabilities total US$29.0b more than the combination of its cash and short-term receivables. This is a mountain of leverage even relative to its gargantuan market capitalization of US$39.8b." Their concluding, final summary point: "it does seem to us that Royal Caribbean Cruises is a somewhat risky investment as a result of its debt." Full story at: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/royal-caribbean-cruises-nyse-rcl-130016966.html THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Love the Caribbean? Here are popular posts/links with over 20,000 views each with much information for . . . . Barbados: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2179164-barbados-50th-birthday-our-pixs-experiences-feb2015/page/3/#comment-65530134Or, Dominica: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2169714-dominica-love-our-experience-pictures-etc/page/3/#comment-66637276

People?? Yes, there are millions here in Mumbai and as the below visuals verify, there is a wide variety of types, style and interests here in this economic and business center for India. THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Athens & Greece: Visuals, details from two visits in a city and nearby with great history, culture and architecture. Now at 65,931 views. http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1101008 On the grounds of the crowded Shri Siddhivinayak Temple, there were not just lots of people, plus many different shops selling a wide variety of goods. These three visuals give a sampling for the various people and this busy place in Mumbai.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) Here is another interesting intersection in Mumbai with its architectural designs and details.: Within the historic hallways of the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, they are had a couple of areas with pictures of various famous people who have visited and stayed at this hotel. Some of these visuals included former President Obama, HRH Prince William and Princess Kate, TV star Oprah Winfrey, Hillary Clinton, actress Sharon Stone, Vogue Editor Anna Wintour, Apple CEO Tim Cook, etc. Plus, at the bottom of this glass case, they had a sign-in book autographed by famous visitors here. But, I did not notice space for our pictures to be included. Should I call and ask? Or, send them one of our pictures for inclusion within these showcases?: In the reception lobby of the older, historic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, this visual shows two of the staff members with the highly-decorated ceiling and light fixture above. Classy setting?:

Getting ready and close for wrapping up our Mumbai experiences over three days. Below are some varied views and added visuals from a city that is BOTH large and not boring/bland. Questions? Comments? Don't be shy! Happy to share more. THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Amazon River-Caribbean 2015 adventure live/blog starting in Barbados on the Silver Cloud for 26 days. Many visuals from this amazing river and Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, San Juan, etc.). Now at 75,813 views: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2076101-live-amazon-river-caribbean-many-pix’s-terryohio/ Near the popular and super busy Shri Siddhivinayak Temple, we observed outside both the highly-regarded cattle and ladies selling various floral and other offerings.: On the grounds of the Babulnath Temple was this colorful display with an old tree behind it.: Buses in India can be very full, plus there are many motorcycles amid the busy traffic scene.: As we traveled in Mumbai, there were various outdoor art and monuments to observe and enjoy.:

Bonus Time? Here below are a few extra "Eye Candy" samples for the super historic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel in Mumbai. THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Here is another, better angle for this hotel's pool and patio area. Yes, it would be nice to enjoy lunch or dinner out here. But with the late schedule adjustments by Silversea and their required circumnavigation around the southern part of Africa, they could only "afford" per corporate "bean counters" to give us lunch and dinner inside a large, boring ballroom and with a average buffet set-up. This outdoor Taj Mahal Palace venue seemed to be more fun and exciting!: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) The breakfasts at this hotel were better and more customized as the hotel chef here made things to order.: In the newer lobby area that connected the historic hotel with the 1972 Tower addition, here are some visuals samples for its reception desk and some of the decor and design touches here at this top-rated hotel. Nothing looking too shabby??: In the older part of their hotel lobby, here was another of their floral creations for Valentine's Day celebrations.:

Earlier I had posted about this historic hotel where we stayed for three nights in Mumbai. From the London Telegraph, they summarized: “Taj Mahal Palace is a historic landmark hotel and opulent oasis of calm in the amiable chaos of Mumbai. The original building is a seven-tiered wedding cake of gothic, Greco-Roman, Islamic and Rajasthan architecture topped by a glittering Florentine dome. The extravagant interiors are adorned with Italian marble floors, Belgian chandeliers and 4,000 works of art, most of them antique.” This hotel has hosted Kings, celebrities and presidents, plus been the site for many films and documentaries. There are six floors in the Taj Mahal Palace and twenty floors in the Taj Mahal Tower. First opened in late 1903, it celebrated its 120th anniversary right before we arrived in mid February 2024. Below are some more visuals from in and around this interesting and unique hotel complex. THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Venice: Loving It & Why??!! Is one of your future desires or past favorites? See these many visual samples for its great history and architecture. This posting is now at 114,664 views. http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1278226 Here are two different views not previously posted of the main hotel dome and of the adjoining/connected, built in 1972 Tower Hotel wing.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) In the lobby, as we were approaching Valentine's Day, these large floral displays require daily maintenance and freshen-ups. It keeps the staffs busy!!: In the older, historic area, this is a part of the stairs, open atrium. Second is a statute in this area. And, if you look carefully, you can see in the mirrored background, this photographer hard at work. Maybe?: For the older, historic part of the hotel, there is this outdoor patio area with the pool nearby.: Near the front entrance, these two horses added some charm and character to the Taj Mahal Palace.: Part of the style and class for this hotel was having added "touches" such as this musician performing live in the lobby.:

One of the newer and very impressive sites visited was the Sri Sri Radha Gopinath Hare Krishna Temple. Hare Krishna is a branch of Hinduism and has more than 400 temples worldwide. Utilizing marble and sandstone, it involves intricate carvings, etc. It was built in the 1970’s. It is modeled after 17 temples of Vrindavan, which were built by wealthy landlords and kings from Rajasthan. More information can be obtained at: https://iskconchowpatty.com/about-temple/ THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Sydney to NZ/Auckland Adventure, live/blog 2014 sampling/details with many exciting visuals and key highlights. On page 23, post #571, see a complete index for all of the pictures, postings. Now at 251,334 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1896175-solstice-live-australianzhawaii-many-pix’s-jan-20-feb-3/ This exterior view was posted earlier, but merits repeating and recycling with the two religious persons walking in front.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) Here is a view for some of the intricate exterior detail/design craftsmanship.: From the large, second-floor hall, here are samples for what is there at both ends of this large room and with participants there.: