TLCOhio

Temples? Yes, we saw many in India and these other nations. First to shown below is Babulnath Temple. It was built for the first time by a Hindu merchant of that time, going back around 800 years in history. A bigger and the current temple was built in 1890 with considerable height, but a lightning strike in the 1960’s damage to the spire to lower its height of the present temple. Until the 1980’s, the Babulnath Temple was one of the tallest structure and locations in Mumbai. Consider one of the most iconic Shiva temples in Mumbai, Babulnath has intricately carved interiors, plus pillars and a ceiling featuring elements from Hindu mythology. 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 252,516 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1172051-livesilver-cloud-norway-coastfjords-july-1-16-reports/ At the Babulnath Temple, below are some exterior views .: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) Here are three of the interior views within this historic and highly-decorated temple.: Outside of this temple, there was this group doing various chants and religious activities connected with this site.: Outside of Babulnath Temple, here is a 23-second video giving a sample of the chants and showing more of the exterior structures.: DSC_4903.mov From a distance, this is the top part of the Shri Siddhivinayak Temple, dedicated to Lord Ganesh, the elephant-headed God. This is a very rich and popular/crowded temple surrounded by dense urban development.:

Mani Bhavan was Gandhi's Bombay base from 1917 to 1934. It is now a permanent museum and memorial to the Mahatma (October 1869 – January 30, 1948). The mansion belonged to Revashankar Jagjeevan Jhaveri, Gandhi's friend and host in Mumbai. It was from Mani Bhavan that Gandhi initiated the Non-Cooperation, Satyagraha, Swadeshi and Home Rule Movements, as well as his decision to abstain from drinking cow's milk in order to protest the cruel and inhuman practice of phookan meted out to milch cattle common during that period. In November 2010, US President Barack Obama visited here. This multi-floor location has various photographs, letters and displays, plus a library that constitutes a museum to Gandhi’s historic life. On the second floor and pictured below is the room that Gandhi used during his stays here featuring the mat where he would sleep. As mentioned earlier from reading the comprehensive book “Freedom at Midnight”, I learned much about Gandhi’s major role in India’s history, plus watching highly-rated movies such as “Gandhi” multiple times. To be this close to “Real History” is amazing. Also, when visiting South Africa and Durban in 2016, we connected more with his history there of legal work and pushing for freedom and justice. We also forget that he studied and learned the English law from three years in London. Quite a unique and significant connection with a person who shaped much in the world with his strategy of peaceful protest!! You can visit this website: https://www.gandhi-manibhavan.org/ to learn more. 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 259,782 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1362155-solstice-livefirst-timer-reportspix’s-italycroatian-june-7-19/ Here is the front/overall view of the home that became the Gandhi Museum, Mani Bhavan.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) Here is the bust/relief of Mahatma Gandhi at this center/home/museum.: Here is the second-floor room where he slept when visiting in what was then called Bombay.: Here are two samples of his correspondence (including this letter written in 1939 to the then German leader) and one of his messages/sayings. Notice the spinning wheel symbol at the bottom of the second item?: Here are just a few of the many photographs and the 3-D displays reflecting Gandhi's long history. This includes at the bottom for an early rail action against race-based rules in South Africa and at one of his many legal trials in India against the British rulers.:

Architecture in Mumbai?? Most of the designs blend Gothic, Victorian, Art Deco, Indo-Saracenic and Contemporary styles. Many buildings, structures and historical monuments remain from the colonial era. Per Wikipedia, Mumbai, after Miami, has the second largest number of Art Deco buildings in the world. 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 Here are just three of my visuals representing the dozens and dozens of high-rise late 20th and early 21st century structures rising up in Mumbai. Many striking office, condo and apartment buildings.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) Here is just one of the many Gothic/Victorian or neoclassical style buildings in Mumbai.: This is another angle for one of the many art-deco buildings in Mumbai.: Near our Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, this shopping location reflects what I would call a colonial-style design.:

Marine Drive is a three-kilometer promenade along this natural bay. At the northern end of Marine Drive is Girgaon Chowpatty and the adjacent road links Nariman Point at southern tip. Marine Drive is also known as the Queen's Necklace when viewed at night. Most of the buildings erected by wealthy Parsis were constructed in an art deco style, popular in the 1920’s and 1930’s. Many hotels are along this drive, most prominent being the five-star Oberoi. 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 Along Marine Drive, here are three different views highlighting the buildings, beach, people, etc., that are observed along this scenic route.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) As we moved from our Taj Mahal Palace Hotel to different Mumbai locations during these three days, below are a couple of visual samples. Yes, there was traffic and various busy activities/sights to observe. But, traffic was not as bad and congested as experienced in Delhi. Why? Part of the reason is that in the more developed and high-rise populated South Mumbai region, they do not allow the Tuk-Tuk vehicles to operated. Below is our skilled bus driver navigating these busy streets. Yes, in India, like in the UK, the drive on the left wide of the roadways. Like how the bus is decorated with colorful balloons in the second picture?:

Mumbai's largest wholesale flower market is Dadar Flower Market, a colorful cornucopia of multi-hued marigolds, red roses and pink and purple asters. Boxes and boxes of different flowers. The scent-filled air is wonderfully. In this maze of 600 stalls, there are plenty of overflowing, round woven baskets and other containers that yield a feast for photographers like me being busy snapping the sights and capturing this amazing experience. Like what is shown below? 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 Here is a small sampling of the many, many interesting and exciting visuals to be experienced at this Mumbai flower market.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!)

Khotachiwadi is an urban village featuring of 18th-century Portuguese houses, conforming to the old-Portuguese style architecture. There used to be 65 of these houses, but that number has now been reduced to 28 old buildings as new skyscrapers go up in the historic area. Most of the current residents there now descend from the original inhabitants of Mumbai. From Architectural Digest magazine in July 2021, the summarized this historic area as: "Mumbai's most beautiful neighbourhood". You can link their story at: https://www.architecturaldigest.in/story/the-history-and-stories-from-mumbais-most-beautiful-neighbourhood-khotachiwadi/ 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 In this 18th-century Portuguese historic area, here is a sampling from our visiting there. Third is a couple who are long-time residents in this Portuguese-connected area of mostly wooden houses and structures.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) Inside this Portuguese house, we toured and learned more about this history and designs connected with this area of Mumbai.: Outside of this Portuguese home, here is our guide answering questions from my wife during our tour. Contrary to the current assumptions, the history and connections for India are more than just associated with the British colonial rule and development. The Portuguese conquests and power were the first Europe connections to and control in parts of India. The Dutch followed later in parts of India and then the British control dominated over these various areas.:

More variety and life in Mumbai? Below the "hits" keep coming. Much more to share for and from this vibrant city. THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Canada 2022/2023: Scenic visuals, details from Canada Maritimes (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Cape Breton Island). Plus, new from Aug. 2023, exploring historic/charming Quebec City. Visual/Info Summaries: www.flickr.com/photos/196555480@N08/albums Outside of the Crawford Market, here is how large items are transported going into and/or out of this busy sales/supply area.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) Here is an added sampling for sights, buildings, selling, etc., in Mumbai.:

Another must-see option in Mumbai is Dhobi Ghat. It is an open-air laundry constructed in 1890. The washers, known as dhobis, work in the open to clean clothes and linens from Mumbai's hotels and hospitals. There are rows of open-air concrete wash pens, each fitted with its own flogging stone. claimed to be the world's largest outdoor laundry, Dhobi Ghat is a very popular attraction among foreign tourists. It is located next to Mahalaxmi railway station on the Western Railway suburban line in southern Mumbai. We traveled via the Church Gate Station to board a local train for the ride to Mahalakshmi Station in going to Dhobi Ghat. The Church Gate railway station was built in 1870. It is the southernmost terminus of Western Railway line of Mumbai suburban railway. It transports over four million people from their suburban homes to their work. THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Early 2020, many visuals and details from New Zealand/South Pacific in going from Auckland to French Polynesia. This includes Bora Bora, Fiji, NZ experiences, etc: Live/blog: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2735732-live-terryohio-“new”-regatta-south-pacificnz-pix’s/ Here are four visual samples from Dhobi Ghat, the famed open-air laundry in Mumbai along side one of the major rail lines. Busy location that is unique.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) Here are some visuals from boarding at the Church Gate Station and riding this train. Fortunately, we were riding after the peak community times when this station would be more crowded.: Across from the train station, we saw people bringing in lunch packages from suburban homes to feed those working in the more dense main business areas of South Mumbai. Interesting local custom.:

Appreciate the nice and kind follow-ups from Tothesunset. Keep it coming!!. Below samples more of the history, architecture and character of Mumbai. This includes Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, formerly named for Queen Victoria. It is a historic railway station and UNESCO World Heritage Site. The terminus was designed by a British architectural engineer in an Italian Gothic style. Construction began in 1878 and was completed in 1887, the year marking 50 years of Queen Victoria's rule. Featured visually is much about one of our first highlights visited in Mumbai. Crawford Market (officially Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Mandai) is one of South Mumbai's largest and most famous markets. The building was completed in 1869, and originally named after Arthur Crawford, the first Municipal Commissioner of the city. The market was later renamed to honor an Indian social reformer. The market is situated opposite the Mumbai Police headquarters, just north of Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus railway station. In 1882, the building was the first in India to be lit up by electricity. This sprawling market has everything from a wide variety of fresh produce and spices to pets, clothes and jewelry. The market was designed by a British architect to represent a blend Victorian Gothic architecture with indigenous elements. It has a 15-meter high skylight designed to allow the sunlight to brighten up the marketplace. Part of the interior art/design was done by John Lockwood Kipling (the father of novelist Rudyard Kipling). The Kiplings lived and grew up right nearby to this market complex. THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Summer 2019 Calgary, Jasper/Banff National Parks, Western Canada Rocky Mountaineer rail adventure, Vancouver, sailing up to Alaska on Silver Muse, post-cruise excursion to Denali, etc. Many visuals, Our firsts in these scenic areas! Now at 21,728 views. Live/blog: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2682584-live-terryohio-silver-muse-alaska-canadarockies-pix’s/ This is the Brihanmumbai municipal corporation building, constructed 1894-1893. Like the domes and style of this era?: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) Here is a portion of Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus. Sorry this is not of better quality, but it was snapped as we quickly traveled past in our vehicle. Did not get a chance to go there and spend more time exploring its unique exterior and interior with eighteen loading areas for local and long-distance trains.: Here are a variety of visuals from exploring around the large and interesting Crawford Market in Mumbai. Shown in two of the pictures are a couple on our ship from New Hampshire.: Here is my wife, Penny, at a shop in Crawford Market where she purchased a number of different spices. Fun, interesting and helpful to learn more about the wide range of spices produced in India!!:

Across from our hotel was another Mumbai landmark. It's the Gateway of India, completed in 1924. This monument forms the symbolic entrance to British India. Located on the waterfront at an angle, opposite the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, it overlooks the Arabian Sea. The Gateway of India was built to commemorate the arrival of British King George V, on December 2, 1911. He was the first British monarch to visit India. Construction, however, did not begin until 1915. The monument commemorates the legacy of British colonial rule. The Gateway's arch has a height of 85 feet with its central dome being 49 feet in diameter. The central dome is surrounded by four turrets. NY Times summarized: “fine example of the Mughal-meets-Gothic style of architecture known as Indo-Saracenic.” The Gateway is also the monument from where the last British troops left in 1948, following Indian independence a year earlier. Below is a night visual of this monument, plus two other of my views/angles for this India/Mumbai landmark. Nice to have it so close to where we were staying for three nights. 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 22,818 views. Connect at: www.boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2607054-livenautica-greece-holy-lands-egypt-dubai-terrypix’s/

Here are a few more samples of the various descriptions and comments about Mumbai that I pull together prior to our visit. Called a “spicy destination of colour and chaos”, Mumbai is a vibrant “collision of contrasts and culture” that is also known as the “City of Dreams”. The city’s colonial heritage brings a wealth of diverse religious traditions together with Muslims, Zoroastrians, Christians and Hindus living side by side. Per the Times of India about Mumbai: “endorses living on the edge” and “has become the muse of authors across the world”, “the most cosmopolitan city in India.” Also shared: “apart from the usual attractions, many just want to get a first-hand on experiencing life in the fast lane and to witness waves of humanity getting on with their life” and “Mumbai is like any world city with madness and the method in madness that ensures people find calm in chaos.” From Fodors: Mumbai is a city of extremes, where slum-dwelling strivers making dollars a day serve Bollywood stars and industrial billionaires. It's a 24-hour city and a beautiful city of silver towers when viewed by twilight from the Bandra-Worli Sea Link bridge. Sensory overload is the name of the game. From London’s Times: “Mumbai is the city, Bombay is the emotion”. “This city wears its heart — an inimitable blend of soul, style and swagger — on its sleeve.” More to come from the various Mumbai markets, buildings, history, etc. 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 33,406 views. http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2465580 Here are a few more visuals samples from our initial drive into Mumbai from the airport to the Taj Mahal Palace hotel. Many different styles, history and designs. Always interesting and full of character!!: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) From our room in the Taj Mahal Palace Tower hotel room, here was a view of the older portion of this historic site, plus some of the adjoining coastal areas. Second is looking in another direction as the sun is getting ready to set during our first evening in Mumbai.:

Mumbai? Here is some of my notes and background for this major "star" that defines much for its important to this country that is now the world's largest in population. Known as Bombay until 1995, Mumbai is the capital of Indian state Maharashtra and the financial center of India. As of 2024, Mumbai is second only to Delhi as the most populous metro city in India. It is the ninth-most populous in the world with metro Mumbai being now nearly 22 million people. Tokyo’s metro population is number one at 37 million, while Delhi’s metro size is the world’s number two at 34 million. On this early 2024 adventure, we spent a decent amount of time in three of the world nine largest cities. Mumbai has a deep natural harbor and an ancient fishing history across its seven islands that were under the control of successive local rulers before being part of the Portuguese Empire. Then in 1661, things evolve to East India Company control as the dowry of Catherine from Portugal when marrying Charles II of England. The Portuguese were actively involved in the foundation and growth of their Roman Catholic religious orders in Bombay. The English were in constant struggle with the Portuguese given the strategic natural harbor and its safety from land attacks. By the middle of the 17th century the growing power of the Dutch Empire forced the English to acquire a station in western India. The opening of the Suez Canal in 1869 transformed Bombay into one of the largest seaports on the Arabian Sea. Mumbai is now the financial, commercial and entertainment capital of India. Per Wikipedia, Mumbai is one of the world's top ten centers of global financial flow, generating 6.16% of India's GDP, 25% of its industrial output, 70% of its maritime trade and 70% of its capital transactions. The city is also home to the famed Bollywood cinema production operations. Until the 1970’s, Mumbai owed its prosperity largely to textile mills and the seaport, but the local economy has diversified to include finance, engineering, diamond-polishing, healthcare and information technology. The Bombay Stock Exchange is the oldest stock exchange in Asia. As of 2022, Mumbai is home to the eighth-highest number of billionaires of any city. 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 35,716 views. Many pictures, details for history, food, culture, etc.: www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2511358 After landing at the Mumbai airport, we headed to the main part of this large and sprawling metropolitan area. But, first we need to cross over the Bandra-Worli Sea Link. This signature structure required ten years for construction and is a 3.5 mile long, 8-lane wide, cable-stayed bridge that links Bandra in the Western Suburbs of Mumbai with Worli in South Mumbai. It is the longest sea bridge, as well as the 5th longest bridge in India. Opened in 2010, its peak height is 413 feet. Is this an impressive welcoming to Mumbai?: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) Here is an initial sampling for some of the new and olde building we experienced as we drove to our Taj Mahal Palace Hotel. Like this variety of various architectural styles and periods?:

Appreciate those with patience and interest as the things at work, home and with family got busy and distracting in May. It's now early June and I am seeking to finish with a couple of "loose ends" from our Jaipur experiences. AND, then move for much more in-depth coverage from our three days in Mumbai. Many more fun visuals and details to share from India. As always, any and all questions, requested sharing and comments are welcomed. Don't be shy!! The only "bad question' is for what is not asked. From MSN News and this news website two days ago, they had this headline: “Best places to visit in Jaipur in 2024” with these highlights: “Jaipur, known as the Pink City, is is famous for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or just want to go on a shopping spree, Jaipur has something to offer.” A number of the locations we visited or saw are detailed, plus this timing tip/summary: "The best time to visit Jaipur is from October to March. During these months, the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. The temperature ranges from 15°C to 25°C, making it comfortable to explore the city's attractions." Full story at: https://www.msn.com/en-in/travel/news/best-places-to-visit-in-jaipur-in-2024/ar-BB1nJVdP?ocid=BingNewsSearch 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 At one of our evening dining locations in Jaipur, they had a theme highlighting and celebrating the sport of polo. We forget that India is the birthplace of modern polo. Not the British!! Surprised to learn? The food was good and we enjoyed the mix of Indian and colonial atmosphere.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) Here are some more visuals from staying in Jaipur at the Royal Heritage Haveli, a converted 18th-century Rajasthani hunting lodge. First is a view of their landscaped grounds. Second is a night view from the roof-top, outdoor dining area. Third is that dining area with lighted fires at night as we enjoyed dinner. Fourth is one of its old, historic wooden doors.: For our suite at the Royal Heritage Haveli, the bathroom was not boring and/or small. Does not look like a Marriott or Holiday Inn back in the USA. Second is what the hotel staff put on my wrist when checking out as a memory from visiting and staying there at this historic location. It's still on my wrist and brings back wonderful memories from our stimulating visit to Jaipur.: On the way to the Jaipur airport for our flight to Mumbai, we observed this interesting and unusual display. Lots of color and stimulation in India!! Nothing too shy and boring. Pictured second are the aircraft tails for Air India planes like what we used for our trip to Mumbai. Like the aircraft colors and design?:

How do cruise executives and consumers "navigate' the changing and evolving economic conditions? How will this affect future cruise bookings? How much differences will there be for luxury lines versus those aimed at/for mass-market sailing brands? Reactions?? From the Wall Street Journal this morning, they had this headline: “Economic Data Paint a Picture of Two Americas" with this sub-headline: "The rich are feeling confident, but lower-income households are growing cautious.” Here are a few of their reporting highlights: “The U.S. economy keeps throwing up surprises, making it difficult to get a read on what’s happening for everyone from ordinary investors to the Federal Reserve. A growing disconnect between the fortunes of upper- and lower-income Americans could account for some of the crossed signals. Companies have been warning in recent weeks that consumers are pulling back. To cite one example among many, Campbell Soup, owner of Pepperidge Farm and other snack brands, just days ago lowered its sales forecast because it said shoppers are increasingly economizing on snack purchases and switching to private label alternatives. One possible reason for the mix of caution and abandon is that people lower on the income ladder who spend a bigger share of their income on necessities are feeling pinched and less confident about their job prospects.” Full story at: https://www.wsj.com/economy/consumers/economic-data-paint-a-picture-of-two-americas-fb10e908?mod=hp_lead_pos3 THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Canada 2022/2023: Scenic visuals, details from Canada Maritimes (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Cape Breton Island). Plus, new from Aug. 2023, exploring historic/charming Quebec City. Visual/Info Summaries: www.flickr.com/photos/196555480@N08/albums

From the Wall Street Journal as of the Friday afternoon close, below are the charts for the three major cruise companies, plus Viking, too. Things look more steady and stable this week? After Tuesday major upswing, things held fairly strong and level during the rest of the week. Reactions and predictions for the rest of the month? THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Early 2020, many visuals and details from New Zealand/South Pacific in going from Auckland to French Polynesia. This includes Bora Bora, Fiji, NZ experiences, etc: Live/blog: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2735732-live-terryohio-“new”-regatta-south-pacificnz-pix’s/ Here are the Wall Street Journal charts for the three major cruise lines during this past week.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) For the past week, however, Viking moved somewhat downward. Where for their young market future?:

Today is another 52-week high/peak for the value of the Royal Caribbean stock. Things also are up for the other two major cruise stocks. These two, however, still are not close to reaching and soaring above their 52-week highs. See the Wall Street Journal chart this afternoon below for RCL: Also below from the Wall Street Journal, they had this headline: “Norwegian Cruise Line Looks to Cut Costs and Debt—‘No Sacred Cows’ " with this sub-headline: "The Miami-based company is paying down debt that built up during the pandemic while aiming to cut $300 million in costs by 2026.” Here were their reporting highlights: "Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings’ finances took a hit during the pandemic, as ships stopped sailing, and it had to raise billions of dollars in capital to stay afloat. Now, the company is looking to clean up its balance sheet. This means generating more cash to pay down debt, which during the pandemic ballooned by more than $4 billion. The Miami-based company behind the Norwegian, Regent Seven Seas and Oceania cruise lines is also planning to slash $300 million in costs by 2026, with $100 million in reductions coming this year. 'We are maniacally focused on that,' Chief Financial Officer Mark Kempa said of deleveraging the balance sheet.” Slashing costs? Can one person's view of "waste" can be another's view of for some view as delivering "luxury, style and class"? Is this especially true for Regent and Oceania that like to view their lines as a step or two above the mass-market basics?? Is this "slashing cost" strategy affecting Silversea these days? Full story at: https://www.wsj.com/articles/norwegian-cruise-line-looks-to-cut-costs-and-debtno-sacred-cows-738ed418?page=1 THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Summer 2019 Calgary, Jasper/Banff National Parks, Western Canada Rocky Mountaineer rail adventure, Vancouver, sailing up to Alaska on Silver Muse, post-cruise excursion to Denali, etc. Many visuals, Our firsts in these scenic areas! Now at 21,610 views. Live/blog: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2682584-live-terryohio-silver-muse-alaska-canadarockies-pix’s/

Here is more background as to the Carnival move for Australia. From USA Today and MSN News today, they had this headline: “Carnival Corp to fold P&O Cruises Australia brand into Carnival Cruise Line.” Here are their reporting highlights: “Carnival Corp. will fold P&O Cruises Australia into Carnival Cruise Line next year. The cruise line operator will retire the P&O Cruises Australia brand in March 2025, the company announced Monday. 'Despite increasing Carnival Cruise Line's capacity by almost 25% since 2019 including transferring three ships from Costa Cruises, guest demand remains incredibly strong so we're leveraging our scale in an even more meaningful way by absorbing an entire brand into the world's most popular cruise line,' Carnival Corp. CEO Josh Weinstein said in a news release. The change does not affect Carnival Corp.’s England-based P&O Cruises, which is a separate brand.” Full story at: https://www.msn.com/en-us/travel/news/carnival-corp-to-fold-p-o-cruises-australia-brand-into-carnival-cruise-line/ar-BB1nCn4r?ocid=BingNewsSearch 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 22,765 views. Connect at: www.boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2607054-livenautica-greece-holy-lands-egypt-dubai-terrypix’s/

Could this news/story be the reason for the major upswing today for all three cruise corporation? From the Wall Street Journal's sister publication of Barrons within the past hour, they had this headline: “Carnival Is Absorbing Australian Cruise Line. It Could Be ‘Catalyst Needed to Start a Rally” with these highlights: “Carnival is wrapping its Australian line of cruise ships into its flagship brand—a move that Melius Research sees as a big step for the cruise line." Full story at: https://www.barrons.com/articles/carnival-australia-cruise-line-stock-84609ef1?_gl=1*1paxz8*_ga*NzI5MzY4NzcyLjE3MTU4MDA4MzM.*_ga_K2H7B9JRSS*MTcxNzUyMDM1OS4xMDcuMS4xNzE3NTIxNTcwLjAuMC4w 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 33,387 views. http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2465580

From the Wall Street Journal early afternoon today, this chart below shows Royal Caribbean going up, UP to a new 52-week HIGH!! Something positive is being sense and driving their stock upward. Right? Why and how?? Also from the Wall Street Journal early this morning, they had this headline: “The Dollar Is at Its Strongest Since the 1980s. Can It Last?" and sub-headline: "The greenback is historically very expensive amid a recovery in global growth and a fraught election campaign.” Here are some of their reporting highlights: “For a decade now, currency markets have been ruled by the strengthening dollar. But no kingdom lasts forever. Contrary to what many on Wall Street expected, the U.S. dollar has gotten a fresh wind this year, as bumpy inflation data has prompted investors to dial back bets on rate cuts. Measured against other currencies, the greenback is still below the recent 2022 peak when an aggressive Federal Reserve was raising interest rates. But it remains historically expensive in inflation-adjusted terms—just 10% shy of the level at which Richard Nixon ended gold convertibility in 1971.” Interesting financial history? How does this affect cruising, their pricing, etc., for the future? Good or bad?? Below is a detailed WSJ chart over the past decades: Full story at: https://www.wsj.com/economy/the-dollar-is-at-its-strongest-since-the-1980s-canit-last-a1d407b9 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 35,553 views. Many pictures, details for history, food, culture, etc.: www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2511358

From our February 2024 Mumbai to Singapore Silver Moon sailing, below are a couple of visuals showing part of that china pattern used at La Terrazzo. Does this main veal dish and dessert look good and tasty?? See more Silversea sailing/adventure visuals from the live/blog connected below. Sorry, did not take a visual of the back of these plates. 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/

From the Wall Street Journal mid-morning today, the Royal Caribbean stock is up, UP by a significant margin. Both Carnival and Norwegian were up this morning in a major way, too. Why and how? Could it be optimism from the business publication, Barrons, late Friday afternoon as they had this headline: “After Years of Turbulence, the Cruise Lines Are Sailing Under Blue Skies”. Here were a few of their reporting highlights: “Annie Lennox may have been channeling the cruise lines when she sang of traveling the world and the seven seas in her 1983 hit “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This).” Today, millions are following her. The top cruise operators, Carnival, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings and Royal Caribbean, are reporting record bookings. Royal Caribbean stock trades above its prepandemic price. Carnival shares are up 4% since Barron’s highlighted the stock in early April. Norwegian caught an upgrade on Tuesday, and analysts launching coverage of newly public Viking Holdings have been giddy.” Full story at: https://www.barrons.com/articles/cruise-line-stocks-carnival-norwegian-royal-caribbean-32682be4?_gl=1*1bw6k2r*_ga*NzI5MzY4NzcyLjE3MTU4MDA4MzM.*_ga_K2H7B9JRSS*MTcxNzQyMzAzMS4xMDEuMS4xNzE3NDIzMzcxLjAuMC4w THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio AFRICA?!!?: Fun, interesting visuals, plus travel details from this early 2016 live/blog. At 56,796 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

From the New York Times Travel Section this weekend, they have this headline: “36 HOURS Porto, Portugal” by SETH SHERWOOD with these highlights: “First Lisbon; now Porto. The whole world seems to have fallen in love lately with the nearby beaches, old churches, seafood-heavy cuisine and historical UNESCO-listed streets of Portugal’s second-largest city, where the number of tourists has doubled in a decade. (The circus-like atmosphere along the Douro riverfront and outside Livraria Lello, a neo-Gothic 19th-century bookstore, are only the most obvious signs.) And the home of port wine is keeping pace with a slew of new offerings. Recent years have seen the opening, upgrading or expansion of museums, art centers, food markets, food halls and hotels aplenty — along with the inauguration of World of Wine, a dining and entertainment district.” This detailed profile with many visuals has a wide variety options to consider as recommendations for key stops/attractions, shopping, restaurants and bars, where to stay and getting around in Porto. Here are a couple of small samples for what they outline in this report: "Gazing at the bridges and passing ships on the Douro River is a favorite Porto pastime. For sublime views far from the dense crush of the waterfront walkways, the Jardins do Palácio de Cristal, a manicured 19th-century park, is a relaxed, bucolic alternative and a favorite with locals. If you’re keen to avoid thronged streets and blasting music — hallmarks of the Mardi Gras-like Clérigos nightlife district — head east to Bomfim, a laid-back bohemian neighborhood of art galleries and indie boutiques. " Full story at: https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2024/05/30/travel/things-to-do-porto.html THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Love the Caribbean? Here are popular posts/links with over 20,000 views with much info 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

From the London/UK Daily Mail and MSN News in the past week, they had this headline: “Glamorous Greece: Inside the Athenian Riviera, which is rediscovering its seductive past” with these highlights by author Nigel Tisdall: “The 40-mile strip of land stretches south from Piraeus to Cape Sounion, It offers a 'different but equally enticing proposition' to Greece's islands.” Here is more background: "While many of us are drawn to Greece’s myriad islands, this 40-mile strip of pines and sand – stretching south from Piraeus to Cape Sounion – offers a different but equally enticing proposition. These shores are no stranger to glamour. In the early 1960s, what was then known as Asteria, the Greek word for 'star', attracted another local shipping tycoon Aristotle Onassis, who would come here with American-born Greek soprano Maria Callas. Today, the Athenian Riviera is having a renaissance that was ignited four years ago with the debut of the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel." Full story at: https://www.msn.com/en-ca/travel/tripideas/glamorous-greece-inside-the-athenian-riviera-which-is-rediscovering-its-seductive-past-with-the-help-of-some-incredible-but-pricey-hotels/ar-BB1nbzU2?ocid=BingNewsSearch 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 35,511 views. Many pictures, details for history, food, culture, etc.: www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2511358

From the Reuters newswire and MSN yesterday, they had this headline: “Cruise operators offer summer discounts as ships crowd the Caribbean, Alaska” with these highlights: “Cruise operators Royal Caribbean, Carnival and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings are discounting summer itineraries as they look to fill empty cabins aboard older ships, according to travel agencies and company websites. The companies are lowering summer prices in part because more vessels are headed for already popular Caribbean and Alaskan destinations - and as they reroute ships away from Red Sea destinations due to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.” Maybe there will be some downward "adjustments" with pricing for the future? Full story at: https://www.msn.com/en-ca/travel/news/cruise-operators-offer-summer-discounts-as-ships-crowd-the-caribbean-alaska/ar-BB1nlcTL?ocid=BingNewsSearch 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 65,291 views. http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1101008

From the Wall Street Journal as of the Friday afternoon close, below are the charts for the three major cruise companies, plus Viking, too. Lots of sharp up and down moves? How to explain and predict for the future with these stocks, plus the overall market? 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 75,547 views: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2076101-live-amazon-river-caribbean-many-pix’s-terryohio/ Venice: http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1278226 For the past week during the four trading days, here are the Wall Street Journal charts showing the "ROCKY" route traveled on choppy seas for the three major cruise corporations.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) For the past week and in their first month as a listed stock, Viking has moved up, UP in a very positive manner. Where for the future?: