A Silver Shadow Over The World - December 2023 to May 2024

[Mr Luxury]

Just now, mysty said:

 

That's only one of his many good points! 😁  He's also very tolerant of my shenanigans. 

We can all see that here 😁

[mysty]

For those interested, here is the story of the chutes and ladders involved in obtaining a travel insurance policy here in Canada.  The US offers many options that Canadians do not have access to.  And so the game begins.....

 

In order to estimate what this big adventure would cost us we requested an estimate for travel insurance from Insurance Company A.

October 27, 2022 quote from Insurance Company A

EMERGENCY MEDICAL - PLAN A   $1,477.55 ($1,477.55 + $0.00 tax)
Non-Medical Inclusive - $15,059.00 (Before applicable taxes) = $16,263.72

EMERGENCY MEDICAL - PLAN A    $2,272.19 ($2,272.19 + $0.00 tax) 
Non-Medical Inclusive - $16,995.00 (Before applicable taxes) = $18,354.60

Total = $38,368.06

 

May 23, 2023 quote from Insurance Company A

EMERGENCY MEDICAL - PLAN A    $2,032.27 ($2,032.27 + $0.00 tax) 
Non-Medical Inclusive -  $19,113.00 (Before applicable taxes) = $20,642.04

EMERGENCY MEDICAL - PLAN A    $2,065.63 ($2,065.63 + $0.00 tax)
Non-Medical Inclusive -  $19,113.00 (Before applicable taxes) = $20,642.04

Total = $45,381.98

Increase of  $7,013.92

 

At this point we approached Insurance Provider B for a quote on Trip Cancellation/Interruption.

Their quote on May 23, 2023:

Trip Cancellation/Interruption - $30,446.45 (for same insured value as Insurance Company A)

 

As you can see there is a difference of about $10,837.63.  We recognize that we are comparing apples and bananas as Insurance Company A was quoting on the Non-Medical Inclusive and Insurance Provider B was quoting on Trip Cancellation/Interruption which covers fewer items (no lost luggage, travel accident, etc).  However we did not want to pay an additional $ 41,284.08 over the cost of the cruise.

 

Our awesome travel agent approached Insurance Company A with the quote we had received from Insurance Provider B.  The agent there initially said that they would match the Insurance Provider B quote.  That agent then sent our travel agent a quote for $30,446.45 and the requirement to sign a document (Limited Benefit) which said that we acknowledged that the coverage for a COVID related cancellation would be limited to a total of $150,000.  Our cruise fare is over $200,000.  Insurance Provider B had no such limitation.  We sent our travel agent an email saying we would not go with Insurance Company A.  The next thing we know our travel agent gets back to us telling us that Insurance Company A will not use the COVID limitation. Is this supposed to inspire trust in Insurance Company A?

 

The denouement is .....we purchased the Emergency Medical from Insurance Company A.  We will purchase the Trip Cancellation/Interruption from Insurance Provider B in mid-June when we start the process of paying for our cruises.

 

I'm not a big fan of game playing and the agent at Insurance Company A was obviously a player. That will not work out well for them.

[mysty]

Myster and I are big fans of sushi.  We have access to reasonable offerings in our small town.  When we did the 2019 overland trip from Osaka to Nara to Kyoto to Tokyo we enjoyed amazing sushi.  We are really looking forward to that experience in 2024.  I did a little research to determine what we might expect to pay for lunch or dinner sushi in Japan.

 

https://matcha-jp.com/en/2532#:~:text=For example%2C lunch at a,approximately 5%2C000 to 10%2C000 yen

 

"If you're traveling Japan, eating sushi is a must. The availability of delicious, high-quality sushi is incomparable to the sushi offered abroad. Diners can choose from traditional sushi bars with course meals to a casual conveyor belt restaurant where you can order from an electronic tablet. A sushi meal will cost anywhere from 2,000 yen to 10,000 yen per person, but it depends on the restaurant you go to and when you eat.

For example, lunch at a sushi restaurant will usually be around 2,000 to 3,000 yen for a set consisting of different sashimi and rolled sushi. If you dine in the evening, dinner will be approximately 5,000 to 10,000 yen. The lowest-cost option is going to conveyor-belt sushi, or kaiten zushi, which will cost anywhere from 1,000 to 2,500 yen per person for lunch or dinner."

 

https://ichisushi.com/how-much-is-sushi-in-japan/

 

https://pinpointtraveler.com/how-much-should-i-budget-a-day-for-meals-as-a-tourist-in-japan/

 

"For many visitors, Japanese food is one the most anticipated aspects of their trip. And rightly so. Japanese food is varied, and for the most part not all that challenging once you get past the raw fish part. Unsurprisingly, when it comes to figuring out your budget for one day of meals in Japan, your predilection for the finer things as well as your volume requirements will be key variables.

Ramen is one of Japan’s most famous exports. It originated in China many millions of bowls ago, and has evolved into three primary varieties in Japan. Tonkotsu ramen (pictured above) is the one in a rich pork broth. Shoyu ramen has a base made with soy sauce, and miso ramen is basically tonkotsu ramen with the addition of miso. A lunch, dinner, or after-drinking bowl of ramen should generally run around 900 yen (about US$8). This includes tax, and there is no tipping in Japan.

You may be tempted to sweeten the carb bounty with a side order of gyoza (dumplings). A gaggle of six should run you around 300 yen, or about US$2.70. A medium draft beer clocks in at about 450 yen (about US$4). Overall, it’s probably safe to budget about US$10 for a ramen meal, depending on your beverage choice (water being the free one)."

[highplanesdrifters]

I've got a lot of catching up to do. I've been saving this thread to savor upon my return! 🤗

[mysty]

21 minutes ago, highplanesdrifters said:

I've got a lot of catching up to do. I've been saving this thread to savor upon my return! 🤗

 

Thank you High!  🥰  I certainly enjoyed your play-by-play and awesome photos on your recent Explorer cruise!  Welcome back!

Edited June 4, 2023 by mysty

[mysty]

We would be in Shanghai, China on April 8, 9, and 10, 2024.  We have visited Shanghai twice before.

According to http://whatsinport.com:

 

"The award-winning Shanghai International Cruise Terminal, close to the famous Bund, designed by Spark Architects and completed in 2011, combines a series of headquarters office buildings with more than 430,000 sq. ft. of retail space within a less than a mile long riverside park. Unfortunately for most cruisers, the facility cannot handle ships larger than 87,000-tons; smaller than most mainstream ships, however, most luxury cruise line vessels, including Crystal, Seabourn, Silversea, Regent, Oceania, fit very nicely. At times you will be docked at a distant berth with no direct access to the terminal building.

With a price tag of more than US$200 million, the huge new Wusong International Cruise Terminal, at a bend in the Huangpu on the Puxi side of the river, is one of the most advanced passenger terminals in the world, and will make Shanghai the first Chinese mainland city with berths for large international cruises. The cruise terminal has a  four-storey building for cruise ticketing, waiting and customs (with immigration procedures taking only 48 seconds), and other facilities spread over 300,000m2, including shopping streets, hotels, office buildings, apartments and art centers – the aim being to turn the area into something of a Xintiandi, Shanghai's popular nightlife district. It is about 15 miles north of the city.

Free shuttles provided by the port will drop you off at Baoyang Road Station, where you can take the subway. 

 

Shanghai, a vigorous and energetic international metro-polis, welcomes people from all over the world to enjoy its special atmosphere. This modern metropolis with its rich heritage of ancient
Chinese culture has much to see and do. Shanghai means "Above the sea"

The Oriental Pearl TV Tower is the modern symbol of Shanghai City. Standing beside the Huangpu River with a height of 468 meters (1536 feet), it is the tallest TV tower in Asia and the third highest in the world. This unusual structure that dominates the skyline is a great attraction to tourists.
Nanjing Road is considered to be the "No. 1 commercial street in China". Here along its 5.5 kilometers (3.4 miles), you will find over 600 shops that on average are visited by some 1.7 million people each day. If you like shopping, do not miss it!

Yuyuan Garden is the largest of Shanghai's ancient gardens with architectural styles of the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The garden has six areas, each with its own style. The Grand Rockery, in the center of the Garden, is the most renowned sight here.
.
Shanghai Museum is a veritable treasure house of ancient Chinese art and houses 120,000 precious relics. Bronzes, pottery, paintings and calligraphies are distinctive features of the Museum's collection. Seen from above, the Museum resembles a large bronze mirror of the Han Dynasty (206BC -220). From the distance, it looks like a bronze Ding, an ancient cooking vessel that contains so many mementos of the 5,000-year-old history of Chinese civilization.

 

 

Another sight not be missed is the Bund. The bund is best visited just before sunset, you will then see an unique spectacle: Shanghai turns on its light! Situated on the east bank of the Huangpu River , one can enjoy the bracing air and fine sunshine as well as seeing something of the many activities along the river. The new finance and commercial houses cluster together along the south of the Bund while along the west there is a wealth of grand buildings in the European architectural styles of the nineteen-twenties, thirties and early forties. Marshal Chen Yi's statue looks down on the square where lively musicians gather to play and sing bringing pleasure to the many people who stop by to listen. At night bright lights add to the happy atmosphere as people stroll along the wide riverside promenade."

 

There are 3 cruise terminals in Shanghai.  I'm not sure which terminal Silver Shadow will use.

https://www.cruisemapper.com/ports/shanghai-port-12

 

We booked SHANGHAI ACROBATIC SHOW for April 8th.

Experience a spectacular acrobatic show and a night view of the Shanghai's famous Bund during this evening. Departing the pier, a 30-minute drive brings you into the town center and proceed to the nearby theatre for an exciting and first-rate show.

CHINESE ACROBATICS

For more than 2,000 years, the Chinese have practiced the art of acrobatics. Although elements of acrobatics appeared prior, the time of the Han Dynasty (221 BC-220 AD) saw on-stage displays with music. The artists combined aspects of their daily life with their individual and group talents, resulting in feats such as balancing on chairs and tables, jar tricks, rope-walking and pole-climbing. Between the 7th and 10th centuries, performances of acrobatics were often held at the imperial court. Tonight, sit back and watch in amazement as the troupe performs some of the best acrobatic art in China.

ACROBATIC SHOW

The troupe, founded half a century ago, is renowned in international circus acrobatic circles, having toured many countries during the last decades. In an exuberant 90-minute performance that combines breath-taking acrobatics, martial arts, enchanting music, and spectacular lighting and set design, the award-winning troupe captures the essence of life's energy in a celebration of ancient and modern Chinese culture. The 40-member company includes phenomenal gymnasts, dancers, and jugglers who focus their bodies and minds to work in perfect harmony.

Following the show, enjoy a drive marveling at the city's glittering night lights transfer back to ship.

 

We booked HIGHLIGHTS OF SHANGHAI WITH CHINESE LUNCH for April 9th.

The fabled city of Shanghai is China's major port and the largest city in all of Asia. This comprehensive, full-day excursion takes you to Shanghai's most popular and intriguing sites.

THE BUND

Depart the pier and travel by coach to the Bund, one of the symbols of Shanghai. The Bund shows off Shanghai's outstanding foreign buildings, most of which were erected before 1937. To the Europeans, the Bund was Shanghai's answer to Wall Street. In the 1930s, the string of buildings hosted the city's financial and commercial centers, and the world's greatest banks and trading empires established a base here.

NEW ECONOMIC ZONE

Continue the drive to the New Economic Zone in the Pudong New Area. Prior to 1990, the Pudong New Area was farmland and rice paddies. Today, it is an urban experiment that is expected to become Asia's financial, economic and commercial center. Stop for photos near the oddly futuristic Oriental Pearl TV and Radio Tower. The sixth-tallest structure in the world, this peculiar tower has become a symbol of the city and fully captures the boldness and glitz that are today's Shanghai. Next, proceed to the tallest building of China, the Shanghai World Financial Centre (SWFC), which was completed in 2008. Marvel at this 1,600-foot (492-meter)-high new landmark of Shanghai and take a picture.

JIN MAO BUILDING

Visit to nearby Jin Mao Building, one of the landmarks of Shanghai and a soaring monument to the city's economic boom. A silvery pagoda, a rising bamboo shoot, and an upright pen are images evoked by the 88-storey-high Jin Mao Building in Pudong. Enjoy the panoramic view from the Observation Lounge on the 88th floor.

Jin Jiang Hotel

Midway through your busy sightseeing program, a Chinese-cuisine lunch is served at the Jin Jiang Hotel. A witness to history, the Jin Jiang Hotel has received more than 400 heads of state and government from countries all over the world since its opening. The hotel was once the place where Chairman Mao Zedong and his colleagues held meetings and it was also the site of the signing of the 1972 Sino-America joint communiqué by Chairman Mao and U.S. President Nixon.

SHANGHAI OLD TOWN & YU YUAN GARDENS

Continuing on, discover Shanghai's Old Town and wander among its maze of narrow alleys and cobblestone lanes. As locals bustle about their daily activities, experience one of China's most famous dumpling cookeries and admire the area's remarkable architecture. From here, proceed to the 16th-century Yu Yuan Garden. This cultivated oasis captures the essence of the landscape art and architectural style of the Ming and Qing dynasties. It has also served as the inspiration for the famous willow-pattern chinaware. High walls adorned with huge, stone dragons shelter teahouses, pavilions, rockeries and carp ponds. Make your way back to the coach by way of a small lake, which is spanned by a picturesque zigzag bridge.

 

JADE BUDDHA TEMPLE

Next head northwest to Jade Buddha Temple, founded in 1881. Its rare statues of Buddha, each carved from a single piece of white Burmese jade, are of special interest. Depending on the schedule of resident monks, you may be able to peek inside one of the temples to witness a prayer session.

All too soon, bid farewell to Shanghai and return to the ship.

[lincslady]

The acrobatic show  is fabulous, Mysty.  So glad you are going to that.

 

Lola

[mysty]

2 minutes ago, lincslady said:

The acrobatic show  is fabulous, Mysty.  So glad you are going to that.

 

Lola

 

Thank you for your review Lola!  It certainly grabbed my attention!  We do enjoy the experience of these kinds of performances.  We're looking forward to it! 😁

[mysty]

On 5/22/2023 at 6:11 AM, mysty said:

We would be in Bequia, St Vincent and Grenadines on December 19, 2023.  This would be a new port for us.

 

According to http://whatsinport.com :

"Ships anchor in Admiralty Bay and passengers tender to Port Elizabeth.
Port Elizabeth is a tiny waterfront town that is only a few blocks along the waterside. A tourist information booth is on the jetty, shops and restaurants face the bay, and taxis are always present.
Water taxis are available for transportation between the jetty and nearby beaches for about $6.

Bequia means "island of the clouds" in the ancient Arawak.
Bequia is a small island, measuring 7 square miles (18 km2) with a population of approximately 4,300.

The quaint waterfront of Port Elizabeth is lined with bars, restaurants and craft shops. Bequia is encircled by gold-sand beaches, many of which disappear into coves, excellent for sailing, scuba diving and snorkeling. Lodgings vary from luxurious resort cottages to small, simple West Indian inns. Much of the nightlife centers on the hotels and beach side barbecues, invariably accompanied by a steel band.

When you get off the tender, there will be some small boats that will take you for a tour around the Island for about an hour. The price is about $16 for 2 people.
A taxi will cost about $30 per hour.
The other thing you can do is catch the large ferry to St. Vincents. It leaves the dock at 9:30am and returns at 1:00pm. The trips take 1 hour.
You can also hire a motorboat at the tourist office. It is a minute or two walk to the left of the tender pier. The motorboat tariff is $150. for 6 persons. The trip takes 20 min."

 

We booked SCENIC BEQUIA & GRENADINE SEA SALT.

Take a ride in an open-air jeep or minivan thru Bequia's main town Port Elizabeth thru to Fort Hamilton where there are beautiful views of Port Elizabeth Harbor and mainland St. Vincent where you can take the opportunity to take memorable pictures. Then, drive to Mt. Pleasant where you get a different viewpoint of the breathtaking Port Elizabeth harbor. Then, you take a scenic drive along the Atlantic Coast while enjoying the sea breeze.

GUIDED TOUR OF THE GRENADINE WILD SEA SALT PRODUCTION FACILITY AT THE OLD SUGAR MILL

Upon arrival at the Firefly Estate, you will enter the Grenadine Sea Salt production facility to meet the tour guide who will introduce you to the story of Grenadine Sea Salt and the Sugar Mill where it is located. Visitors are told about the history of the Old Sugar Mill, which dates back to the early 18th century, with photographs of the old ruin before the restoration.

TASTING OF THE VARIOUS SALTS, VISIT OF THE OLD MILL

You will observe workers in the Grenadine Sea Salt Clean room and working commercial kitchen producing the various blends. Walk to the relaxing courtyard area where you enjoy local tasty snacks featuring a variety of Grenadine Sea Salts and a glass of coconut or plain water. While you are enjoying tasting, the tour guide will provide information on various ways to use the finishing salts, accompanied by a handout with salt facts to take home.

Afterwards you will explore historical details of the old mill, including the old indigo vats, and it's park-like surroundings; walk to the solar evaporation salt stills area where a guide explains how Grenadine Sea Salt is produced from Bequia seawater.

Finally, you will have some time in the Grenadine Sea Salt Gift Shop at the conclusion of your visit, re-board your open-air jeep or minivan and commence the approximately 15-minute drive back to the pier.

 

We've just been notified that the tour we booked (SCENIC BEQUIA & GRENADINE SEA SALT) has been cancelled for operational reasons.  We booked BEQUIA HERITAGE TOUR instead.

 

Depart from the pier at Port Elizabeth by means of the open sided safari vehicle.

FORT HAMILTON

Together with the local guide the first stop will be at the scenic observation point located at the northern point of Admiralty Bay. The original fortification located at this strategic vantage point has long gone, however cannons produced by both French and English were found in the waters surrounding Bequia and have be placed at this historic site.

VISIT SERGEANT'S MODEL BOAT MUSEUM

The nest stop is the boat building museum where you will see how the famous model boats are built by hand. The history of boat building in Bequia which was once the main industry will be shared with guests. The boat building tradition has been passed on from generation-to-generation.

 

 

VISIT PAGET FARM

Drive thru one of the main fishing and boat-building village of Bequia called Paget Farm. Our local guide will provide information about the culture and interesting anecdotes about this small culturally rich village.

DRINK AT LOCAL BAR

Then drive to a Local Bar where guests are offered a local beer, rum punch, fruit punch or soft drink. The relaxing ambience makes a nice ending of a tour that gave a glimpse into the small island lifestyle of Bequia. At the conclusion of your tour, there is a short drive back to the tender pier at Port Elizabeth and return to the ship.

[HappyLadyTravels]

Mysty, please email me at maxine_kane@msn.com 

I would like to send you info on a full day to Blue Mountains for out first day in Sydney. 

[mysty]

2 hours ago, HappyLadyTravels said:

Mysty, please email me at maxine_kane@msn.com 

I would like to send you info on a full day to Blue Mountains for out first day in Sydney. 

 

2 hours ago, HappyLadyTravels said:

Mysty, please email me at maxine_kane@msn.com 

I would like to send you info on a full day to Blue Mountains for out first day in Sydney. 

 

Done! 🥰

[mysty]

We would be in St. Kitts (Basseterre), St Kitts and Nevis on December 21, 2023.  This would be a new port for us.

 

According to http://whatsinport.com:

 

"The Pier Area: Three different piers, including separate ones for cruise ships and the "Caribe Queen," the island ferry that runs between St. Kitts and Charlestown, the capital of Nevis. Friday and
Saturday are particularly good times to be at the pier, when the colorful produce and vegetable market is in session. The terminal area at port Zante has restaurants, shops, and cafes, and it's about a 10- minute stroll into downtown Basseterre also called "The Circus".

As of 2020 the pier is capable of handling four large cruise ships at once. If more than four ships are calling, the other ships will either use the cargo port or tender passengers ashore.

The passengers can walk directly through the "duty free" shopping area and onward to the central downtown area. Before giving you duty-free rates, merchants often ask for something that shows you are not a resident, such as a cruise card, foreign driver's license, or a passport.

 

An hour's easy walk will show you the highlights of Basseterre, the capital of St. Kitts with about 15,000 inhabitants. Basseterre is ideal for exploring on foot since everything is laid out in square blocks.
Basseterre has been the British capital of St. Kitts since 1727, though it was part of the French sector when the two nations both held the island.  The name Basseterre in French means "low land," which most of the commercial district certainly is; it has been flooded several times.

Be sure to notice the colorful red and yellow wooden fishing boats near the pier with their nets drying in the sun; they make great photos. Treasury Building Standing right on the waterfront, this domed
colonial building is a reminder of the importance of the islands as sugar colonies. Everything that arrived at or departed from St. Kitts went through these arches.

Beware of the guys with the monkeys. They will charge you if their monkeys jump on you and you take a picture.

 

The St. Kitts Scenic Railway takes passengers on a 3-hour tour that makes a 30-mile circle around the beautiful Eastern Caribbean island of St. Kitts, with 18 miles by narrow gauge train and 12 miles on sightseeing buses."

A combination of train and bus, this three-hour tour weaves a fascinating route past some of the island’s most historic sights. Constructed from 1912 to 1926, the rail system originally carried sugar from St. Kitts’ estates to the factory in Basseterre, but today serves as a fun tourist attraction. Visitors ride in double-decker cars—the lower is air-conditioned, the upper open-air—past black-sand beaches, old plantations, and sugarcane fields, and then up a portion of Mount Liamuiga.

 

We booked ST. KITTS SCENIC RAILWAY.

All aboard the 'Last Railway in the West Indies', the St. Kitts Scenic Railway. This unique island tour runs in a complete circle around St. Kitts allowing guests the opportunity to see the entire country by rail and highway in only three hours.

ST. KITTS SCENIC RAILWAY

No trip to this two-island federation is complete without the experience of traveling on the St. Kitts Scenic Railway. This one-of-a-kind narrow gauge railroad was built almost a century ago to deliver sugar cane from the fields to the sugar mill in the capital city of Basseterre. The railway now provides a fascinating way to see the island from the comfort of double-deck railcars built specifically for touring the island of St. Kitts. The upper level features a spacious open-air observation deck with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The lower level provides air-conditioned comfort with expansive six-foot vaulted windows. Island ambiance is evoked with comfortable rattan furniture, complimentary specialty drinks, island music sung by the Scenic Railway Choir, and a colorful narrative history of the Caribbean.

On this memorable journey, the railway hugs the Northeastern coastline where rippling fields of sugarcane stretch from the shoreline up to the mountains. The high volcanic peaks rise nearly 4,000 feet above sea level, coated with lush green rainforests. The train rolls across tall steel bridges spanning deep 'ghuts', or canyons, and winds through small villages and farms. Your railway tour narrator will point out abandoned sugar estates with overgrown chimneys and windmills, and provide insight into the island's unique history. The duration of the train ride is approximately 1.5 hour.

SCENIC DRIVE

Your experience is complemented by a scenic drive along the Southwestern coast. Enjoy vistas of Brimstone Hill Fortress, the British 'Gibraltar of the West Indies', Middle Island where Thomas Jefferson's great-grandfather is buried, and the neighboring island of Nevis, birthplace of American statesman Alexander Hamilton, the first Secretary of the U.S. Treasury.

[Mr Luxury]

2 hours ago, mysty said:

We would be in St. Kitts (Basseterre), St Kitts and Nevis on December 21, 2023.  This would be a new port for us.

 

According to http://whatsinport.com:

 

"The Pier Area: Three different piers, including separate ones for cruise ships and the "Caribe Queen," the island ferry that runs between St. Kitts and Charlestown, the capital of Nevis. Friday and
Saturday are particularly good times to be at the pier, when the colorful produce and vegetable market is in session. The terminal area at port Zante has restaurants, shops, and cafes, and it's about a 10- minute stroll into downtown Basseterre also called "The Circus".

As of 2020 the pier is capable of handling four large cruise ships at once. If more than four ships are calling, the other ships will either use the cargo port or tender passengers ashore.

The passengers can walk directly through the "duty free" shopping area and onward to the central downtown area. Before giving you duty-free rates, merchants often ask for something that shows you are not a resident, such as a cruise card, foreign driver's license, or a passport.

 

An hour's easy walk will show you the highlights of Basseterre, the capital of St. Kitts with about 15,000 inhabitants. Basseterre is ideal for exploring on foot since everything is laid out in square blocks.
Basseterre has been the British capital of St. Kitts since 1727, though it was part of the French sector when the two nations both held the island.  The name Basseterre in French means "low land," which most of the commercial district certainly is; it has been flooded several times.

Be sure to notice the colorful red and yellow wooden fishing boats near the pier with their nets drying in the sun; they make great photos. Treasury Building Standing right on the waterfront, this domed
colonial building is a reminder of the importance of the islands as sugar colonies. Everything that arrived at or departed from St. Kitts went through these arches.

Beware of the guys with the monkeys. They will charge you if their monkeys jump on you and you take a picture.

 

The St. Kitts Scenic Railway takes passengers on a 3-hour tour that makes a 30-mile circle around the beautiful Eastern Caribbean island of St. Kitts, with 18 miles by narrow gauge train and 12 miles on sightseeing buses."

A combination of train and bus, this three-hour tour weaves a fascinating route past some of the island’s most historic sights. Constructed from 1912 to 1926, the rail system originally carried sugar from St. Kitts’ estates to the factory in Basseterre, but today serves as a fun tourist attraction. Visitors ride in double-decker cars—the lower is air-conditioned, the upper open-air—past black-sand beaches, old plantations, and sugarcane fields, and then up a portion of Mount Liamuiga.

 

We booked ST. KITTS SCENIC RAILWAY.

All aboard the 'Last Railway in the West Indies', the St. Kitts Scenic Railway. This unique island tour runs in a complete circle around St. Kitts allowing guests the opportunity to see the entire country by rail and highway in only three hours.

ST. KITTS SCENIC RAILWAY

No trip to this two-island federation is complete without the experience of traveling on the St. Kitts Scenic Railway. This one-of-a-kind narrow gauge railroad was built almost a century ago to deliver sugar cane from the fields to the sugar mill in the capital city of Basseterre. The railway now provides a fascinating way to see the island from the comfort of double-deck railcars built specifically for touring the island of St. Kitts. The upper level features a spacious open-air observation deck with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The lower level provides air-conditioned comfort with expansive six-foot vaulted windows. Island ambiance is evoked with comfortable rattan furniture, complimentary specialty drinks, island music sung by the Scenic Railway Choir, and a colorful narrative history of the Caribbean.

On this memorable journey, the railway hugs the Northeastern coastline where rippling fields of sugarcane stretch from the shoreline up to the mountains. The high volcanic peaks rise nearly 4,000 feet above sea level, coated with lush green rainforests. The train rolls across tall steel bridges spanning deep 'ghuts', or canyons, and winds through small villages and farms. Your railway tour narrator will point out abandoned sugar estates with overgrown chimneys and windmills, and provide insight into the island's unique history. The duration of the train ride is approximately 1.5 hour.

SCENIC DRIVE

Your experience is complemented by a scenic drive along the Southwestern coast. Enjoy vistas of Brimstone Hill Fortress, the British 'Gibraltar of the West Indies', Middle Island where Thomas Jefferson's great-grandfather is buried, and the neighboring island of Nevis, birthplace of American statesman Alexander Hamilton, the first Secretary of the U.S. Treasury.

I'm not going on that railway just to be buried next to Thomas Jefferson's great grandfather.

[mysty]

20 minutes ago, Mr Luxury said:

I'm not going on that railway just to be buried next to Thomas Jefferson's great grandfather.

 

That would not be my reason to ride those rails either! 😅

[mysty]

We would be in Gustavia, St. Barthelemy, French West Indies on December 22, 2023.  This would be a new port for us.

 

According to whatsinport.com:

 

"Most cruise ships anchor outside sheltered Gustavia harbor and tender guests to Port de Pleasance, the center of Gustavia. 

 

Tiny, picture-perfect St. Barts has long been the haunt of the very rich who come for privacy, gorgeous beaches, and exquisite French cuisine. It has 20 or more magnificent beaches, linked by hilly narrow roads you can explore in open-air Jeeps.

 

Gustavia is very walkable.
Shell beach is only a 10 minute walk from the tender pier. 
Taxis are available at a designated taxi rank for trips around the island. It is a good idea to establish the fare before starting out.
Beware taxis are expensive, especially on Sunday and holidays.
Consider renting a car, also expensive.

 

Fort Gustav and Fort Carl 
These are two of the island's original fortresses that remain standing.

St-Barth Museum
Exhibits in this small museum offer a look at the island's history.

Grand Cul de Sac and Petit Cul de Sac
These nearby beaches boast the island's finest stretches of sand."

 

We booked ERNEST’S TOUR - ST. BARTHS HIGHLIGHTS BY MINIVAN.

The picturesque beauty and history of St. Barths are yours to discover during this panoramic, half-day sightseeing excursion.

GUSTAVIA, LIGHTHOUSE, AIRPORT

Depart the pier for a scenic sightseeing drive through Gustavia en route to an exterior photo stop at the Lighthouse. Upon arrival, receive a brief introduction about the history of the island and construction of Gustavia. Re-board your coach and head to a vantage point near the airport; if possible, see a plane landing.

SALINE, GRAND FOND, GRAND CUL DE SAC, POINT MILOU, COLOMBIER VIEWPONT AND BAY, FLAMANDS BEACH

Your tour continues with a drive to Saline. Upon arrival, see the salt ponds and learn about their importance in the evolution of the island's economy. Leaving Saline, re-board your van and drive to Grand Fond, where the vantage-point offers views of the Atlantic Ocean. Next, proceed for photo stops at Grand Cul de Sac, a large lagoon lined with luxury hotels, Pointe Milou and the Colombier Viewpoint, which offer idyllic views over Colombier Bay and Flamands Beach.

DOMAINE DE FELICITÉ MUSEUM, LITTLE ST. BARTHS HOUSES, BOTANICAL GARDEN

A final stop is made at the Domaine de Felicité Museum, which features authentic little St. Barths houses that showcase the history and local life on the island. The houses are surrounded by a beautiful Botanical Garden, where you can view virtually all of the plants that grow naturally on the island. A refreshment and comfort stop are also provided at the museum. Following your visit, re-board your coach and commence the short drive back to the pier.

 

[turtlemichael]

Mysty, a few comments on Barths. We had been there twice before when we landed in the last few days of WC2023. We had had excellent snorkeling tours on the previous occasions so this time we decided to just do a lunch (with John and Gaynor). At the end stage of the WC we had done enough touring! You are of course there at the beginning (indeed, pre-beginning!) and haven't been before. If you decided on a lunch we can thoroughly recommend a restaurant called Fish Corner which is within a few minutes walk from the tender port. It was excellent, even if no Morton Bay Bugs, and well priced.  Nothing is cheap in Barths!

[Mr Luxury]

1 hour ago, mysty said:

We would be in Gustavia, St. Barthelemy, French West Indies on December 22, 2023.  This would be a new port for us.

 

According to whatsinport.com:

 

"Most cruise ships anchor outside sheltered Gustavia harbor and tender guests to Port de Pleasance, the center of Gustavia. 

 

Tiny, picture-perfect St. Barts has long been the haunt of the very rich who come for privacy, gorgeous beaches, and exquisite French cuisine. It has 20 or more magnificent beaches, linked by hilly narrow roads you can explore in open-air Jeeps.

 

Gustavia is very walkable.
Shell beach is only a 10 minute walk from the tender pier. 
Taxis are available at a designated taxi rank for trips around the island. It is a good idea to establish the fare before starting out.
Beware taxis are expensive, especially on Sunday and holidays.
Consider renting a car, also expensive.

 

Fort Gustav and Fort Carl 
These are two of the island's original fortresses that remain standing.

St-Barth Museum
Exhibits in this small museum offer a look at the island's history.

Grand Cul de Sac and Petit Cul de Sac
These nearby beaches boast the island's finest stretches of sand."

 

We booked ERNEST’S TOUR - ST. BARTHS HIGHLIGHTS BY MINIVAN.

The picturesque beauty and history of St. Barths are yours to discover during this panoramic, half-day sightseeing excursion.

GUSTAVIA, LIGHTHOUSE, AIRPORT

Depart the pier for a scenic sightseeing drive through Gustavia en route to an exterior photo stop at the Lighthouse. Upon arrival, receive a brief introduction about the history of the island and construction of Gustavia. Re-board your coach and head to a vantage point near the airport; if possible, see a plane landing.

SALINE, GRAND FOND, GRAND CUL DE SAC, POINT MILOU, COLOMBIER VIEWPONT AND BAY, FLAMANDS BEACH

Your tour continues with a drive to Saline. Upon arrival, see the salt ponds and learn about their importance in the evolution of the island's economy. Leaving Saline, re-board your van and drive to Grand Fond, where the vantage-point offers views of the Atlantic Ocean. Next, proceed for photo stops at Grand Cul de Sac, a large lagoon lined with luxury hotels, Pointe Milou and the Colombier Viewpoint, which offer idyllic views over Colombier Bay and Flamands Beach.

DOMAINE DE FELICITÉ MUSEUM, LITTLE ST. BARTHS HOUSES, BOTANICAL GARDEN

A final stop is made at the Domaine de Felicité Museum, which features authentic little St. Barths houses that showcase the history and local life on the island. The houses are surrounded by a beautiful Botanical Garden, where you can view virtually all of the plants that grow naturally on the island. A refreshment and comfort stop are also provided at the museum. Following your visit, re-board your coach and commence the short drive back to the pier.

 

Pop down to the Eden rock Hotel for lunch

Take plenty of money 😀

Edited June 7, 2023 by Mr Luxury

[turtlemichael]

3 minutes ago, Mr Luxury said:

Pop down to the Eden rock Hotel for lunch

Take plenty of money 😀

Or take out a second mortgage!

[mysty]

54 minutes ago, turtlemichael said:

Mysty, a few comments on Barths. We had been there twice before when we landed in the last few days of WC2023. We had had excellent snorkeling tours on the previous occasions so this time we decided to just do a lunch (with John and Gaynor). At the end stage of the WC we had done enough touring! You are of course there at the beginning (indeed, pre-beginning!) and haven't been before. If you decided on a lunch we can thoroughly recommend a restaurant called Fish Corner which is within a few minutes walk from the tender port. It was excellent, even if no Morton Bay Bugs, and well priced.  Nothing is cheap in Barths!

 

47 minutes ago, Mr Luxury said:

Pop down to the Eden rock Hotel for lunch

Take plenty of money 😀

 

Thank you gentlemen!  A quick review of the menus leads me to prefer Fish Corner.  We don't have a house to mortgage.   😅

[mysty]

We would be in Los Angeles, California on January 12, 2024.  We've visited LA before but never by ship.

 

According to http://whatsinport.com:

 

"Most cruise lines use the World Cruise Center in San Pedro. Cruise ships belonging to Carnival Corp. use the Cruise Terminal in Long Beach which is a huge white hemisphere with an elevated gangway leading from the terminal to the ship. The old Queen Mary, now a hotel and museum is next to the terminal. Carnival Cruise Line just finished a multimillion-dollar renovation of its Long Beach Cruise Terminal facility to accommodate larger ships and enhance terminal
operations.

 

Los Angeles is huge and distances are almost beyond taxi's limits. That's why most airline passengers rent cars.

 

Despite a relative lack of tangible sights and museums, LA's west side is a tourist honey pot. The reason is obvious: the Pacific-side location, where it's perpetually summertime and the living is generally pretty easy. The center of the action is liberal, likeable Santa Monica: the beach has a bright, busy pier with food stalls and games arcades, and the Santa Monica Place mall and the Third Street Promenade are within easy walking distance. However, things are a little livelier just
down the coast in Venice, both on the famously oddball beach and in the cultured, arty shops and galleries on Abbot Kinney Boulevard.

Surf dogs, meanwhile, should head north to Malibu's Surfrider Beach or south to Huntington Beach.

 

Edging inland, past the fabulous Getty Center near Brentwood and UCLA dominated Westwood, lies Beverly Hills. Although the big chains have impinged on world-famous Rodeo Drive and its surrounding commercial streets, this is still an undeniably wealthy and glamorous part of town. Slightly further inland is West Hollywood. Like Beverly Hills, it's not home to any major attractions besides its own indigenous atmosphere, but the nightlife here is livelier than in many of the surrounding areas.

 

Some of the biggest changes in LA recently, at least in the eyes of returning tourists, have been in the heart of Hollywood. Pretty rough around the edges for years, it's recently been cleaned up, with the huge mall development at the corner of Hollywood and Highland perhaps the main sight for sore eyes. However, the old favorites all remain: the hand- and footprints outside Grauman's Chinese Theatre, the 2,000-plus stars that make up the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and, way up in the Hollywood hills, the world-famous Hollywood sign."

 

We booked HIKE TO THE HOLLYWOOD SIGN.  Tour agenda is not yet available.

The current blurb says.....Experience the thrill of seeing the iconic 'Hollywood' sign from up-close during this panoramic hiking trek. Your half-day excursion travels to Griffith Park for a guided hiking trek leading up to this internationally recognized symbol, which features 'Hollywood' spelled out in huge letters and a spectacular view of the horizon. Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Los Angeles, Griffith Park, Guided Hike to the 'Hollywood' Sign, Giant Letters, 'Hollywood' Sign Visit, Return Hike.

 

Here is a link to Griffith Park info:

https://www.discoverlosangeles.com/visit/the-guide-to-griffith-park-in-los-angeles

 

"Spanning more than 4,200 acres of land, Griffith Park is one of the largest municipal parks with urban wilderness areas in the United States. Originally a part of the Spanish land grant, Rancho Los Feliz, the park was named for its former owner, “Colonel” Griffith J. Griffith, a Welsh industrialist and philanthropist. In 1896, Griffith bequeathed five square miles of his Rancho Los Feliz estate to the people of Los Angeles. Since Griffith's original gift, further donations of land, along with city purchases and the reversion of private land to public domain, have expanded Griffith Park to its present size.

Launched in 2019, the Griffith Parkline offers convenient transportation for the park's 10 million annual visitors. The bus runs from noon to 10 pm on Saturdays and Sundays. Passengers can hop on and off at more than a dozen locations, including the Griffith Observatory, the Hollywood Sign, the Los Angeles Zoo and Travel Town."

 

 

[lincslady]

Come on, Mr. L - where is the most expensive restaurant in LA for you to recommend.

[Mr Luxury]

1 hour ago, lincslady said:

Come on, Mr. L - where is the most expensive restaurant in LA for you to recommend.

Providence

Melrose Avenue 😛

[mysty]

21 minutes ago, Mr Luxury said:

Providence

Melrose Avenue 😛

 

Thankfully they are not yet open for lunch!  😅  Only dinners on offer currently!  Not that we could actually dine there.   Country mice budgets.   😅

[mysty]

We are scheduled to arrive in Juneau at 10:00 pm on May 15, 2024 after our visit to Endicott Arm.  We depart the port on May 16 at 5:00 pm.  We visited this port in 2010 on our Alaska cruise and we visited the Mendenhall Glacier.

 

According to http://whatsinport.com :

"Marine Park, Ferry Terminal or S. Franklin Dock are the three cruise terminals of Juneau. Ships may anchor and tender passengers to town when more than three ships are docked. All within easy walking distance to town. There is also a shuttle bus that provides a ramp available for fully confined guests or cruise passengers with mobility difficulties.

The AJ dock is further away. For $3 per person, you can get a day pass for the AJ dock shuttle which runs every 15 minutes. The shuttle takes you to the Mount Robert Tram station. There are lots of booths there that sell tours along the street.

A $54 million project to add a pair of floating cruise ship berths to Juneau’s downtown waterfront has just been completed. Juneau offers unparalleled glacier viewing from Tracy Arm Fjord, Mendenhall Glacier, the Juneau Ice field and Glacier Bay National Park. Outdoor enthusiasts will love Juneau's extraordinary kayaking, dog sledding, rafting, biking, hiking and glacier hiking. Winter enthusiasts will enjoy snowboarding and downhill, cross-country and heli-skiing.

Abundant salmon and halibut fishing is also available minutes from downtown. Wilderness cabins and fishing lodges cater to anglers seeking the remote USA fishing experience.
Juneau flight seeing excursions feature spectacular scenery. Incredible wildlife inhabits areas in and around Juneau.

 

Nearby Admiralty Island National Monument, features one of the largest concentrations of brown bear in the world. Icy Strait offers unprecedented whale watching.

Mendenhall Glacier - When in Juneau take a regular $2 bus ($4 round trip) from the center of town, where the boats dock, to the Mendenhall Glacier park. You can pay the driver in cash or buy two
tickets at one of the many kiosks on the dock. Although you can't get right up to the glacier, you get a great view of it and the visitors' center is very informative. Or take the tour buses they are a very good value, give an interesting commentary, several stops. Yes, you load in the parking area near the tram. Booths line the sidewalks. It is an hour round trip, dock to Mendenhall. 20 minute ride in each direction.

Juneau is an easy walking town.
Taxis in Juneau are very expensive.

It rains a lot here, as Juneau is located in a rain forest. Wait with  booking excursions till you are there.

Visitors will find incredible specialty shops featuring limited edition designer jewelry and beautiful Native USA design jewelry. Native carved silver bracelets with totemic designs are also popular items from our region. These bracelets will usually bear the animal representation of the wearer's moiety and clan house. Sculpture and carved totem poles are popular art pieces for discriminating collectors of usan artwork. Totems were created to tell the stories of USA's Native people. Totemic designs also adorn bent wood boxes, ceremonial paddles and Tlingit halibut hooks."

 

We booked ALASKA CULINARY EXPERIENCE & WHALE QUEST for May 16th.

Following a short motorcoach ride to scenic Auke Bay, you'll board a high-speed expedition vessel custom designed for wildlife viewing. Relax in the warm, spacious main cabin as you set out to explore Stephens Passage, a pristine marine wilderness surrounded by snow-capped peaks and glaciers. This area is world-renowned as a favored summer feeding ground for humpback whales.

PHOTOGRAPHIC OPPORTUNITIES, WHALES, WILDLIFE

As whales are sighted, your skilled captain will gently maneuver the vessel to allow exceptional viewing and photographic opportunities. You'll be amazed by the gracefulness of these ocean giants as they slowly arc their massive tail flukes into the air. Bring a warm jacket to wear on the observation deck; the whales are often close enough to hear them breathe. An onboard naturalist will explain the behavior and habitat of the humpback whale and other wildlife you may encounter, including orcas, sea lions, porpoises, harbor seals, bald eagles, and more. Whale sightings are guaranteed.

CULINARY EXPERIENCE

The culinary experience highlights locally-sourced cuisine. Tea, coffee, and cocoa will be served in addition to locally-brewed beer, wine, and sodas.

 

Auke Bay.....

[Daveywavey70]

4 hours ago, mysty said:

We are scheduled to arrive in Juneau at 10:00 pm on May 15, 2024 after our visit to Endicott Arm.  We depart the port on May 16 at 5:00 pm.  We visited this port in 2010 on our Alaska cruise and we visited the Mendenhall Glacier.

 

According to http://whatsinport.com :

"Marine Park, Ferry Terminal or S. Franklin Dock are the three cruise terminals of Juneau. Ships may anchor and tender passengers to town when more than three ships are docked. All within easy walking distance to town. There is also a shuttle bus that provides a ramp available for fully confined guests or cruise passengers with mobility difficulties.

The AJ dock is further away. For $3 per person, you can get a day pass for the AJ dock shuttle which runs every 15 minutes. The shuttle takes you to the Mount Robert Tram station. There are lots of booths there that sell tours along the street.

A $54 million project to add a pair of floating cruise ship berths to Juneau’s downtown waterfront has just been completed. Juneau offers unparalleled glacier viewing from Tracy Arm Fjord, Mendenhall Glacier, the Juneau Ice field and Glacier Bay National Park. Outdoor enthusiasts will love Juneau's extraordinary kayaking, dog sledding, rafting, biking, hiking and glacier hiking. Winter enthusiasts will enjoy snowboarding and downhill, cross-country and heli-skiing.

Abundant salmon and halibut fishing is also available minutes from downtown. Wilderness cabins and fishing lodges cater to anglers seeking the remote USA fishing experience.
Juneau flight seeing excursions feature spectacular scenery. Incredible wildlife inhabits areas in and around Juneau.

 

Nearby Admiralty Island National Monument, features one of the largest concentrations of brown bear in the world. Icy Strait offers unprecedented whale watching.

Mendenhall Glacier - When in Juneau take a regular $2 bus ($4 round trip) from the center of town, where the boats dock, to the Mendenhall Glacier park. You can pay the driver in cash or buy two
tickets at one of the many kiosks on the dock. Although you can't get right up to the glacier, you get a great view of it and the visitors' center is very informative. Or take the tour buses they are a very good value, give an interesting commentary, several stops. Yes, you load in the parking area near the tram. Booths line the sidewalks. It is an hour round trip, dock to Mendenhall. 20 minute ride in each direction.

Juneau is an easy walking town.
Taxis in Juneau are very expensive.

It rains a lot here, as Juneau is located in a rain forest. Wait with  booking excursions till you are there.

Visitors will find incredible specialty shops featuring limited edition designer jewelry and beautiful Native USA design jewelry. Native carved silver bracelets with totemic designs are also popular items from our region. These bracelets will usually bear the animal representation of the wearer's moiety and clan house. Sculpture and carved totem poles are popular art pieces for discriminating collectors of usan artwork. Totems were created to tell the stories of USA's Native people. Totemic designs also adorn bent wood boxes, ceremonial paddles and Tlingit halibut hooks."

 

We booked ALASKA CULINARY EXPERIENCE & WHALE QUEST for May 16th.

Following a short motorcoach ride to scenic Auke Bay, you'll board a high-speed expedition vessel custom designed for wildlife viewing. Relax in the warm, spacious main cabin as you set out to explore Stephens Passage, a pristine marine wilderness surrounded by snow-capped peaks and glaciers. This area is world-renowned as a favored summer feeding ground for humpback whales.

PHOTOGRAPHIC OPPORTUNITIES, WHALES, WILDLIFE

As whales are sighted, your skilled captain will gently maneuver the vessel to allow exceptional viewing and photographic opportunities. You'll be amazed by the gracefulness of these ocean giants as they slowly arc their massive tail flukes into the air. Bring a warm jacket to wear on the observation deck; the whales are often close enough to hear them breathe. An onboard naturalist will explain the behavior and habitat of the humpback whale and other wildlife you may encounter, including orcas, sea lions, porpoises, harbor seals, bald eagles, and more. Whale sightings are guaranteed.

CULINARY EXPERIENCE

The culinary experience highlights locally-sourced cuisine. Tea, coffee, and cocoa will be served in addition to locally-brewed beer, wine, and sodas.

 

Auke Bay.....

Give my regards to Flame and Bunsen if you see them in Auke Bay. Bunsen was only 5 months old when we saw him there. He was having a Whale of a time. https://www.facebook.com/darren.s.owen/videos/10219984392386089