tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52445969024533482112024-03-05T18:26:00.185-08:00Frank and Judy Go ...Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14089147397708468584noreply@blogger.comBlogger145125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5244596902453348211.post-13350442080613415702020-01-04T06:11:00.001-08:002020-01-04T06:11:33.653-08:00<br />
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><span style="color: white;">Starting our third trip around the world
on Holland America's ms Amsterdam! We sail from Ft. Lauderdale on January 4th,
and on May 12, 128 days later, return to Ft. Lauderdale. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><span style="color: white;">To kick off the cruise and the new year,
we arrived in Sarasota on New Year's Day for a pre-cruise visit with friends
Tauna and Doug Durand. Had a lovely sightseeing "excursion" in and
around Sarasota to ease back into cruise life! St. Armand's Circle on Longboat
Key, created by John Ringling, one of the famous brothers. Didn't realize there
were so many "keys" - small islets - just off the coast of Florida,
connected to the mainland by a system of bridges. Great lunch at Columbia
Restaurant, a Tampa area staple since 1905, serving Cuban sandwiches, black
bean soup and other Cuban specialities. </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><span style="color: white;">Two blocks away is Ledo Beach with its
powdery white sand, which used to be partly a nude beach; mercifully, everyone is now
fully clothed! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><span style="color: white;">An iconic Florida sight - a greyhound
racetrack. Florida is ending dog racing in 2020, and the tracks will become
casinos. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><span style="color: white;">Beautiful
entryway to the Ca'd'Zan - House of John - the palatial home of John Ringling. Built in
the mid-1920s, it was bequeathed to the state of Florida in 1936. The grounds
include a fantastic art museum as well as a circus museum (currently closed for
renovation).</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><span style="color: white;">Another view of
Ca'd'Zan, which sits at the water's edge. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt; text-align: center;"><span style="color: white;">So much more to
see and do in Sarasota, we definitely needed more time. What a great start to our
third trip around the world! Thanks, Tauna and Doug, for your hospitality and
Sarasota tour guide expertise!</span></span></div>
<br />Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14089147397708468584noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5244596902453348211.post-80747698454336178112017-05-02T14:40:00.001-07:002017-05-02T14:40:04.047-07:00… to Barcelona for a second day …<p>… which began auspiciously when we happened on a small antique market just off the ship. We found lots of intriguing things (relics! charms! knives!). </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-unVwbgodD_k/WQj8JBpjBQI/AAAAAAAAkto/AwXW2Ob491oaz5PUvZqtnARV56hYpWVoACHM/s1600-h/DSC06546%2B%2528800x595%2529%255B5%255D"><img title="DSC06546 (800x595)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06546 (800x595)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1RTYPQkxwCA/WQj8KGAdZzI/AAAAAAAAkts/5CY0kQwfUzMBhPVVJlBL4uXbI2O4pH2nACHM/DSC06546%2B%2528800x595%2529_thumb%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" width="377" height="281"></a> </p> <p>We hopped on the green bus to make our way toward Gaudi’s Park Guell, passing Barcelona’s many beaches and Gaudi’s masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hveJBlDWuFo/WQj8LbXOXRI/AAAAAAAAktw/1h-J1euv428eKWQ_9zo6mQX5nIBEw979QCHM/s1600-h/DSC06584%2B%2528800x600%2529%255B4%255D"><img title="DSC06584 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06584 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4Of9kfQrqNY/WQj8MaZi48I/AAAAAAAAkt0/eZsxk-boYy8yJzodgXasrfaBhwceBFC-wCHM/DSC06584%2B%2528800x600%2529_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" width="347" height="261"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gtr7_-3pYks/WQj8NU3xgZI/AAAAAAAAkt4/vG_rfBWQtSEOgRDFrnq0yyAV5zTIT4YbgCHM/s1600-h/20170414_122543%2B%2528600x800%2529%255B4%255D"><img title="20170414_122543 (600x800)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="20170414_122543 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PbBsY9JwyMs/WQj8OAE_DkI/AAAAAAAAkt8/3KGsDDwEFYg7Pbql9EJKdf5yOOwxaAjpwCHM/20170414_122543%2B%2528600x800%2529_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" width="199" height="264"></a></p> <p>The city is filled with quirky buildings and sculptures. Frank Gehry’s shiny metal fish was built for the 1992 Olympics, as was the cell tower designed to look (vaguely) like an Olympic athlete leaning over to accept a medal. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-blKHFkODhZI/WQj8PNB0ZCI/AAAAAAAAkuA/cI-jPWgGrOkJj6uvtV7HsVQRSze3DY9uwCHM/s1600-h/DSC06604%2B%2528800x599%2529%255B4%255D"><img title="DSC06604 (800x599)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06604 (800x599)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--adXgUjMlDA/WQj8QJ7mlLI/AAAAAAAAkuE/9jWB5arqJj8Q5n4S4YZtA6J38VIf2X88wCHM/DSC06604%2B%2528800x599%2529_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" width="350" height="264"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oRc8BnEfZFk/WQj8Q8nIC5I/AAAAAAAAkuI/u_SfIvgzwCYVhjzwtxuP6yCn-VY40TySACHM/s1600-h/DSC06136%2B%2528601x800%2529%255B4%255D"><img title="DSC06136 (601x800)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06136 (601x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aj-JigW_wUE/WQj8R56xIoI/AAAAAAAAkuM/HF9BLaQS4-cUofi9TDwGfpd_CCrpIt-pQCHM/DSC06136%2B%2528601x800%2529_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" width="201" height="267"></a></p> <p> The Agbar Tower was completed in 2004, and its tiles are illuminated at night. A Joan Miro sculpture graces the harbor, and the Miraestels floating sculptures by Robert Llimos enliven even the water. The sculpture is seen here with a pretty tower for the Port Vell Aerial Tramway.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fbiOo40y-Fk/WQj8S-I22oI/AAAAAAAAkuQ/tVqcLNsKRvAsY-24VgtT5CFP5sph60J5gCHM/s1600-h/DSC06661%2B%2528592x800%2529%255B3%255D"><img title="DSC06661 (592x800)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06661 (592x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jCbs-hhWzaA/WQj8T58JmII/AAAAAAAAkuU/TLA1s-cd8A0HQO_MjbwMQVXWpXGJ67uvQCHM/DSC06661%2B%2528592x800%2529_thumb?imgmax=800" width="182" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4EoRDQ3ML3U/WQj8Us5tFoI/AAAAAAAAkuY/UJZnnYYmExYxBV7k2gIfeypEkjP1edZYgCHM/s1600-h/DSC06248%2B%2528597x800%2529%255B3%255D"><img title="DSC06248 (597x800)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06248 (597x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RgK5LkHnbiQ/WQj8Vosv-iI/AAAAAAAAkuc/o3vcAN6-ezYAO6UTLwH3fGKmJSNy6Tp2wCHM/DSC06248%2B%2528597x800%2529_thumb?imgmax=800" width="183" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-D1rZ4B7ai9M/WQj8WS804MI/AAAAAAAAkug/hTRMwnlLz0gZfw_sEC8H0yH6AWc5MAEbwCHM/s1600-h/DSC06554%2B%2528592x800%2529%255B3%255D"><img title="DSC06554 (592x800)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06554 (592x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BFg1ppx5RnI/WQj8XJ5oqII/AAAAAAAAkuk/ZZHVs6iKp5Umn1VPuNUQcRg1tLB4DUMtACHM/DSC06554%2B%2528592x800%2529_thumb?imgmax=800" width="182" height="244"></a></p> <p>Everywhere you look, there’s something interesting to see: a gigantic ball nervously perched on a roof, or a sudden glimpse of “David and Goliath.”</p> <p> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3hNwOaMANpw/WQj8YH-tGYI/AAAAAAAAkuo/uzJuJ90-u_kWCGZAPAw2M8UC0g2JWmQzQCHM/s1600-h/DSC06597%2B%2528601x800%2529%255B12%255D"><img title="DSC06597 (601x800)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06597 (601x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yvR9gpG_bUs/WQj8Y4tuTAI/AAAAAAAAkus/36w40oAc59o2oDaUJIN7K6KRzAzqGeoRwCHM/DSC06597%2B%2528601x800%2529_thumb%255B3%255D?imgmax=800" width="201" height="267"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yg2OVrX6u4Q/WQj8ZxpwPLI/AAAAAAAAkuw/pCZHsRl0l8Y98SOmLEhlWfUGILrJ5E6lACHM/s1600-h/DSC06588%2B%2528800x600%2529%255B8%255D"><img title="DSC06588 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06588 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-a-R3A9F_DGk/WQj8a_yuc6I/AAAAAAAAku0/NqrwoxaLaNAujDCGyDoDsnydAx1gw1SwwCHM/DSC06588%2B%2528800x600%2529_thumb%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" width="355" height="267"></a> </p> <p>A several mile uphill walk to the Park got us only the disappointing information that all tickets had already been sold for the day! We decided it was time for lunch, but there were no restaurants in the area. Another long walk brought us to excellent tapas – chicken croquettes, potato bombe, potatoes bravo, an omelette sandwich and ham and cheese – washed down with sangria. Refreshed, we caught a cab to the National Museum of Catalonian Art in Montjuic Park, and had an hour to walk through the Gothic exhibits, featuring works by El Greco, Tintoretto, Rubens, etc. The view of the city from Montjuic was spectacular; Sagrada Familia, clothed in scaffolding, is visible at the top left in the first photo. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4zwSjyyWa-E/WQj8bkV62cI/AAAAAAAAku4/0zLOfP9XfpsmtReG6KQt0jBOtuglrjGxgCHM/s1600-h/DSC06749%2B%2528800x600%2529%255B5%255D"><img title="DSC06749 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06749 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pQRZINKbylw/WQj8c35C40I/AAAAAAAAku8/6vTuv9SdSq8Xgtr_Rl3f0UW3NrVjsjObQCHM/DSC06749%2B%2528800x600%2529_thumb%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" width="291" height="219"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_WcZBalBDjk/WQj8dwkPapI/AAAAAAAAkvA/aJxE73mdJXw0JbseCQNmsXmJp24nRNJ0ACHM/s1600-h/DSC06754%2B%2528800x600%2529%255B4%255D"><img title="DSC06754 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06754 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NKfNYcb67mE/WQj8e_YCkOI/AAAAAAAAkvE/_NG7Ti8XrgsauF_ni5a6CxmhdW_k7lvdgCHM/DSC06754%2B%2528800x600%2529_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" width="288" height="217"></a></p> <p>Inside the museum, we found St. Sebastian, curiously portrayed by Spanish artists holding a bow and arrows, rather than pierced by arrows as in Italian art. The lone exception was a beautiful carved wooden statue – by an Italian artist.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6WIjUanFnuE/WQj8f9Lk8mI/AAAAAAAAkvI/YNThtpZ3ScQFtAqh4tfNmds_OibCVXmoACHM/s1600-h/DSC06774%2B%2528422x800%2529%255B5%255D"><img title="DSC06774 (422x800)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06774 (422x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SfqXtB6Xeko/WQj8gkjqfrI/AAAAAAAAkvM/qB6-b-VYRI4mMVXfbbztUITQe1eALfjbACHM/DSC06774%2B%2528422x800%2529_thumb%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" width="154" height="289"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Yziz5Ky6Vqk/WQj8hq-MqgI/AAAAAAAAkvQ/pFbcoRcAjUc9u42KeJNan5g2e8NLB8d9wCHM/s1600-h/DSC06776%2B%2528500x800%2529%255B5%255D"><img title="DSC06776 (500x800)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06776 (500x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yaoezfPPF0M/WQj8ikJqMuI/AAAAAAAAkvU/WeYw6OpSA4s8rtnJXoKzUllY-cUdpO2ngCHM/DSC06776%2B%2528500x800%2529_thumb%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" width="181" height="286"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-icYX5bvztOc/WQj8jdDvdmI/AAAAAAAAkvY/VftrSjTAwWIUoK272yG-Ld7mlMZ9obLwACHM/s1600-h/DSC06806%2B%2528321x800%2529%255B6%255D"><img title="DSC06806 (321x800)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06806 (321x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZSaaJdvDK_c/WQj8kdbiiRI/AAAAAAAAkvc/geGZYFqQ3UQ0HPMoBZ-DARn_rN0qEidtgCHM/DSC06806%2B%2528321x800%2529_thumb%255B3%255D?imgmax=800" width="118" height="289"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pVcBQwlijLM/WQj8lI117dI/AAAAAAAAkvg/l8RIhBZ2qCEU6pRGgB210fEUUgrBsLUbACHM/s1600-h/DSC06812%2B%2528256x800%2529%255B4%255D"><img title="DSC06812 (256x800)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06812 (256x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0NUgaUv4ABA/WQj8l__N9aI/AAAAAAAAkvk/m9LfERKjDNgutEq5rSW38uFQgLxQiMUUwCHM/DSC06812%2B%2528256x800%2529_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" width="96" height="291"></a></p> <p>Back on the ship, it was party time! Mia and I arranged a small surprise birthday party for Frank in the Pinnacle Grill, with our tablemates and friends. Some of our guests were a little TOO happy! Laurence and Joy, the outstanding Neptune Lounge concierges, decorated our cabin with balloons and a “Happy Birthday” banner while we were at dinner, providing a second surprise. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xpECuUeod6Y/WQj8mgohH7I/AAAAAAAAkvo/Fbn55TPaQl0HC-xPo0H0iNfpKwdiZz3swCHM/s1600-h/DSC06945%2B%2528800x600%2529%255B5%255D"><img title="DSC06945 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06945 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GAfyNOFsDm0/WQj8ngdsooI/AAAAAAAAkvs/kAKOK5x1jFc25ZfSYervhaIkLhK6VFPvQCHM/DSC06945%2B%2528800x600%2529_thumb%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" width="288" height="217"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xyctSxgAjno/WQj8otXP7HI/AAAAAAAAkvw/qOhiDP5nrRkJDCb4EacS9z_GAjP8tmwcQCHM/s1600-h/DSC06951%2B%2528800x649%2529%255B4%255D"><img title="DSC06951 (800x649)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06951 (800x649)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RjDaiIIInFU/WQj8pR1ZswI/AAAAAAAAkv0/YLa17DF7EIMV58yDQBFo-UQp6I8OuUDxwCHM/DSC06951%2B%2528800x649%2529_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" width="267" height="218"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-l7_OAL3CShs/WQj8qTu4K0I/AAAAAAAAkv4/jPzzv57EhvUgHKkzZkDbV8yU_EBw6Lr3QCHM/s1600-h/DSC06953%2B%2528800x605%2529%255B4%255D"><img title="DSC06953 (800x605)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06953 (800x605)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QClVr4jjmx8/WQj8rLwN1PI/AAAAAAAAkv8/feysJ0yMziMp-iRYDcJAqnU3GNDK6Bi0ACHM/DSC06953%2B%2528800x605%2529_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" width="286" height="218"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-s8U1CV1kOZk/WQj8r7fwOvI/AAAAAAAAkwA/diV1NRo1A5EmlHqiDqfSnFcNHTmbj6LfACHM/s1600-h/DSC06964%2B%2528800x600%2529%255B4%255D"><img title="DSC06964 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06964 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-W2URhtZFqMY/WQj8s0TabCI/AAAAAAAAkwE/xRuSAYozeDQYTkGcylNvBqObQoHyxScjwCHM/DSC06964%2B%2528800x600%2529_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" width="288" height="217"></a></p> <p>What a day!</p>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14089147397708468584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5244596902453348211.post-85045355212129657202017-05-01T13:03:00.001-07:002017-05-01T13:03:31.990-07:00… to Barcelona …<p>… for an overnight stay in this city of incredible architecture and fabulous public art. We’ve been to Barcelona a few times, so we opted for the hop-on bus to get around the city, and headed first to the Spanish Village (Poble Espanyol de Barcelona). We had been there once for a flamenco performance, but wanted time to explore this made-up city thoroughly. Built for the 1929 World’s Fair, it replicates buildings throughout Spain, and includes shops and handicraft demonstrations, as well as restaurants. It was as fascinating as we hoped it would be. Glassblowers created puzzling globe-shaped items which we learned would become dinner plates, while another workshop made unique glass dishes by melting glass. In a small knife shop, we watched a video on damasquinado, the inlaying of gold into a dark steel background. Unfortunately, photos were prohibited at most shops. There was even a shop selling the caganer, the inexplicably popular figure mostly used at Christmas. Why?!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kEI-RiV0VCQ/WQeUBWEnEUI/AAAAAAAAkp0/j8ElSqCFx8IWZnSgnZT2bQpCVqYbA0ExACHM/s1600-h/DSC06158%2B%2528600x800%2529%255B4%255D"><img title="DSC06158 (600x800)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06158 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JzuWLWRGgLE/WQeUCkl6ENI/AAAAAAAAkp4/lwWfpbgTL4gvd8_abRTl8ekEEfgTeMHWgCHM/DSC06158%2B%2528600x800%2529_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" width="203" height="269"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wblMivz87xk/WQeUDnkpEWI/AAAAAAAAkp8/K3WqEIk8ZIESjxbTHKgU4IsKXSSxB7OgACHM/s1600-h/DSC06175%2B%2528800x600%2529%255B4%255D"><img title="DSC06175 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06175 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aINI0vyYqGo/WQeUEn9ONKI/AAAAAAAAkqA/4etxco-kVFQVXoyHm1lqQBCT5azw4DKlwCHM/DSC06175%2B%2528800x600%2529_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" width="356" height="268"></a></p> <p> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZNl-GqjQlpk/WQeUFmL6gDI/AAAAAAAAkqE/iSctuhDa1ZcIgOH71etvGwEK32_fToX2wCHM/s1600-h/DSC06191%2B%2528800x600%2529%255B3%255D"><img title="DSC06191 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06191 (800x600)" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR6B5gkO0SXRBBqzxhhyphenhyphen7NsKUVQlhq51YyVnup2s3sV4_NCnE4YO7d_Rxa4-HgpcL2MdPtt-ozqWq5eh8lSSX74e7ALQlBumTlVX6eve_YNvY1OS_TgGp2gI4d-Unau_bC4eCQ8bSEycY/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7i16wsbzNtE/WQeUHzYb76I/AAAAAAAAkqM/gQjIXdeDZjAv-T8UDYK5i85iACUmHKNeQCHM/s1600-h/DSC06230%2B%2528800x460%2529%255B5%255D"><img title="DSC06230 (800x460)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06230 (800x460)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xll_F4K7qGo/WQeUI4p9jII/AAAAAAAAkqQ/Uh6eoVaB8xIk1OAGU6KZOaPTXM_QrV25ACHM/DSC06230%2B%2528800x460%2529_thumb%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" width="315" height="183"></a></p> <p>We visited the excellent Museum of Contemporary Art, whose finest pieces were by Miro and Picasso, and ended our visit to the Village with a great tapas lunch – fascinated by extra-long straws in our sangria, and ogling our neighbor’s jumbo seafood paella. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-THJqDyvRtEE/WQeUJ83JgaI/AAAAAAAAkqU/_lAQy3xaPcs409IUVe-0O7icarFW4MobACHM/s1600-h/DSC06209%2B%2528800x600%2529%255B4%255D"><img title="DSC06209 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06209 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hUoLNyszs28/WQeUKw1yk1I/AAAAAAAAkqY/i5UKP85d1j49LHTYSP6kDIWIIm8VC1ZeACHM/DSC06209%2B%2528800x600%2529_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" width="285" height="215"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FfLfwEM4ugg/WQeULzkBFmI/AAAAAAAAkqc/vD2deOoSLdkbgabYIfPKYt_fg4zqOFtIACHM/s1600-h/DSC06215%2B%2528800x600%2529%255B4%255D"><img title="DSC06215 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06215 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-s2FmCHXE75Y/WQeUM0OZMgI/AAAAAAAAkqg/R6XCBWGRZpAURbdFeCbSDXkZnsx5RJ5nwCHM/DSC06215%2B%2528800x600%2529_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" width="279" height="210"></a> </p> <p>Next stop: La Pedrera, the apartment building designed by Gaudi. Unfortunately, my vertigo made the rooftop portion of the tour even more thrilling than usual … </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pFuAUVXtsqw/WQeUN1esEbI/AAAAAAAAkqk/sRRqbmOCTowuYAzbkTrY1aD21T7KuIoNgCHM/s1600-h/DSC06381%2B%2528800x600%2529%255B4%255D"><img title="DSC06381 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06381 (800x600)" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkOJfKjX2lvC4DV3bYs5XmdAyIf342s9GqFVqqfcWU-enQ4dNKPGCdI-KL6jcFPXv-o9SV4-7D8yUgb2nuuiyRgHmsKV_ukuKKVL-ynI7SL9BbeCAUaHEbgfEEZJQ3d9bSNRPsW3GlXgw/?imgmax=800" width="264" height="199"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tsXYUKUrk6E/WQeUP8jcECI/AAAAAAAAkqs/gLq-9fzFXFIdo1hMlqRRcUcDz8SdtMEIACHM/s1600-h/20170413_152640%2B%2528800x565%2529%255B4%255D"><img title="20170413_152640 (800x565)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="20170413_152640 (800x565)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5KixUbAHCVE/WQeUQyfen2I/AAAAAAAAkqw/AAAOz6LZ58crQGHaNuI2o0wX9MVik1dPgCHM/20170413_152640%2B%2528800x565%2529_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" width="277" height="197"></a></p> <p>The ticket line for Gaudi’s nearby Casa Battlo was long, so we sat across the street to marvel at the exterior and have another sangria. Continuing on to Las Ramblas, we meandered the entire length among the many craft stalls and shops, stopping for a look (and a snack) at St. Josep La Boqueria, a bustling market. Spanish ham is king here, even sold in chunks in paper cones for immediate consumption, or but everything else edible is also on display. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UBw7_kLxiJk/WQeUR2UX5SI/AAAAAAAAkq0/BMvfCTF8mrEBQAViNGkILK8OboGdBrq6QCHM/s1600-h/DSC06506%2B%2528800x600%2529%255B5%255D"><img title="DSC06506 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06506 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RGo9ho0CUqU/WQeUS0AS_eI/AAAAAAAAkq4/n8UY-Ru42JARqVhDgrCeMru-87LOawBSgCHM/DSC06506%2B%2528800x600%2529_thumb%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" width="341" height="257"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nm-_9vgt8EE/WQeUTxpvXHI/AAAAAAAAkq8/bZdjkqBe4ss7RZozf9apVLg5sQMmQHaaQCHM/s1600-h/DSC06509%2B%2528600x800%2529%255B4%255D"><img title="DSC06509 (600x800)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06509 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DB7fDITemkI/WQeUU6GUrgI/AAAAAAAAkrA/PcYTqNJNb2Q4OxMm9zHPYPMgWupQ51p0QCHM/DSC06509%2B%2528600x800%2529_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" width="194" height="257"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nS6EBokhUPg/WQeUV3q3oVI/AAAAAAAAkrE/d_68gynOqnkFcyPm7JXCMJxnla1gvk5CACHM/s1600-h/DSC06475%2B%2528585x800%2529%255B4%255D"><img title="DSC06475 (585x800)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06475 (585x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UOOPtyLBe24/WQeUWmKiK2I/AAAAAAAAkrI/0Ts74wQkq7kIR7XeoXWYnjvbLFqHLpAKACHM/DSC06475%2B%2528585x800%2529_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" width="188" height="255"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zk2p8gnQeco/WQeUXzSm9WI/AAAAAAAAkrM/oyuXgUHSARoBtfxCA-Kyq4GwYPkTmnfAACHM/s1600-h/DSC06456%2B%2528800x591%2529%255B6%255D"><img title="DSC06456 (800x591)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06456 (800x591)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-A42NBCQGkU0/WQeUY7IYREI/AAAAAAAAkrQ/vogfHzYJgH0HVaIH17sDWweUX44HtZGaACHM/DSC06456%2B%2528800x591%2529_thumb%255B3%255D?imgmax=800" width="339" height="251"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lJMRAgt19gc/WQeUZwmqaGI/AAAAAAAAkrU/xv3pLyhxLOgKUMGBJ1IWBh4u3p9NJiosACHM/s1600-h/DSC06461%2B%2528800x592%2529%255B4%255D"><img title="DSC06461 (800x592)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06461 (800x592)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-T2YRGr19qRk/WQeUa1dsIYI/AAAAAAAAkrY/C3y_95_LBIMeZroYgwR2wHS0ArxmSjCygCHM/DSC06461%2B%2528800x592%2529_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" width="265" height="198"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9dpWzPR-soM/WQeUb42H6QI/AAAAAAAAkrc/y_CMFOCNLJwGWEYvjfvo4ZBPz6P9BmqPQCHM/s1600-h/DSC06489%2B%2528800x600%2529%255B4%255D"><img title="DSC06489 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06489 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NMflqXa_D74/WQeUc-6h7FI/AAAAAAAAkrg/VqndXwqxwqg7TMp4Z4U0j0vWaXHihpfkwCHM/DSC06489%2B%2528800x600%2529_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" width="260" height="196"></a></p> <p>What is it with these straws? You can drink your sangria from inside the restaurant!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Rp87A_2HEvM/WQeUd8vF4WI/AAAAAAAAkrk/ORq6GDZq6mMLNhWeGS7HzwWjDb3BddLsACHM/s1600-h/DSC06503%2B%2528600x800%2529%255B4%255D"><img title="DSC06503 (600x800)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06503 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-43ExKqgQyMA/WQeUe--EszI/AAAAAAAAkro/bQxM_eVhL3YOZsmVRzYHbInitfqpysGGQCHM/DSC06503%2B%2528600x800%2529_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" width="196" height="260"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-j2AEw_CUf_k/WQeUf81XzHI/AAAAAAAAkrs/cPMXBuxOgMQJX48vMoAXtT8d0LRo9KDmQCHM/s1600-h/DSC06414%2B%2528800x600%2529%255B4%255D"><img title="DSC06414 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06414 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SiqWzX29SQI/WQeUg9c11zI/AAAAAAAAkrw/CU0IpN_C-xwiHMEKNJ4qHb8RreGoGvl1ACHM/DSC06414%2B%2528800x600%2529_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" width="341" height="257"></a></p> <p>We were determined to have paella this trip, so Mia located Cheriff in the old part of Barcelona, an excellent restaurant known for its lobster paella. So delicious! </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JhSGCPrmAP4/WQeUh3Mra8I/AAAAAAAAkr0/adUeMsiuFCI2iMUFQnKQEyKA24fJATG5QCHM/s1600-h/DSC06525%2B%2528536x800%2529%255B4%255D"><img title="DSC06525 (536x800)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06525 (536x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1BPQ6Zi7kSw/WQeUiooxEII/AAAAAAAAkr4/gBOsLY0_KEUVkQ1tv5Tb4H989U5F6VkbACHM/DSC06525%2B%2528536x800%2529_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" width="186" height="275"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oCHV_JLa9I0/WQeUj1f7JtI/AAAAAAAAkr8/df-cdEAI3o4MN6fzPKIfDAPVVc1sHGCZQCHM/s1600-h/DSC06527%2B%2528800x600%2529%255B4%255D"><img title="DSC06527 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06527 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JHtTekzNRFU/WQeUkw6NeEI/AAAAAAAAksA/TlrUDljLB7Q7pErmCgkIzcao8Urs5XCewCHM/DSC06527%2B%2528800x600%2529_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" width="356" height="268"></a></p> <p>We headed back to the ship, happy and full! </p>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14089147397708468584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5244596902453348211.post-75935528434826729512017-04-22T20:11:00.001-07:002017-04-22T20:11:17.690-07:00… to Palma de Mallorca, Spain …<p>… playground of the rich and famous, home of the Mallorca/Majorca pearl, and most importantly, the port where Mia joined us for a four day stay on the ship. The first order of the day was to complete the boarding process for Mia in time for a 9:00 excursion. In less than 10 minutes she was aboard, luggage dropped, ship card obtained and once again off the ship and ready for adventure. Outstanding!</p> <p>Our excursion began with a short stop at the imposing Belver Castle, with a view over the city. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qBQAppcOIzI/WPwXSX51Q-I/AAAAAAAAkZI/J1TNjdJB9fomoWd-UhPyVIu7YFGKk-AcwCHM/s1600-h/DSC05628-800x60011"><img title="DSC05628 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05628 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2WY3Tds5vFw/WPwY42yPC7I/AAAAAAAAkZU/uqRw-ZeJjlgY_TyMMtXFyOg6Z269dYyIwCHM/DSC05628-800x600_thumb1?imgmax=800" width="281" height="212"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JMWHMFIsKIA/WPwY8a4kMGI/AAAAAAAAkZY/ubNle7PB0fw6GAIyEnjIzBFlGHdpqCQewCHM/s1600-h/DSC05632-800x600"><img title="DSC05632 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05632 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IXyQLV6oZ5w/WPwZAIvvr-I/AAAAAAAAkZc/d2hd6VkpU3orfhSenFhlCTVCiJPotJmjgCHM/DSC05632-800x600_thumb?imgmax=800" width="282" height="212"></a></p> <p>A photo stop at the Cathedral was next.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9MHjz0yhDEo/WPwZC4NtzaI/AAAAAAAAkZg/yi0Op4lSe1gg0SXgEJGxGdpH0JCFzz7JwCHM/s1600-h/DSC05663-800x60011"><img title="DSC05663 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05663 (800x600)" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitu48xGDYSwtnuwOK_uW-9yQdDqGMb3oFPstmBjCwPoldoYyjPBnLRVEky2-z1IlYaG-WNWsfRopGTgkxYGyKEoPBwtesyyJnnwL5OE5ZdS9ZP6RMoRK4Sn1QtxYytpDola4o6_EWjQbc/?imgmax=800" width="358" height="269"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZtywAB-TXQw/WPwZKKXR0wI/AAAAAAAAkZo/7m1kYpVVfjclKK8pajX0J9P0bAoZZX6NgCHM/s1600-h/DSC05672-600x800"><img title="DSC05672 (600x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05672 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JfeRq8rNg_Q/WPwZNOuSPMI/AAAAAAAAkZs/NCJ1RNl-flcY1QtpD0ssLHG1NVVjoVBjwCHM/DSC05672-600x800_thumb?imgmax=800" width="201" height="267"></a></p> <p>The highlight of the trip was a flamenco performance at Son Amar. Flamenco is usually loud – lots of stomping, clapping and shouting – so I took earplugs and really enjoyed the show! The pre-performance tapas and sangria were yummy!</p> <p> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lLqgpIL-MAo/WPwZQ6HSWpI/AAAAAAAAkZw/rDAq6dzp7Fgz9EpTwkXBtJDLxfF1eAiZgCHM/s1600-h/DSC05749-600x8001%255B1%255D"><img title="DSC05749 (600x800)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05749 (600x800)" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5tKiuK9Ywvq_Tn78R-QXpqTrwdzAepQ9x3czOtLRDN1alj7f05wLIJ9lFJyvJVh9fzz6ueAMROJOwpO9EWU-oqnUZBIO_1zj7_tw1tr0UVw-0XYfRheWqpXYW2B9gXBCO4znIjSG9pqI/?imgmax=800" width="177" height="235"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rX-3Wrq7cYk/WPwZY8KEu6I/AAAAAAAAkZ4/--sDVHhARMk3UZs6RujFbK_R9LydFhgIACHM/s1600-h/DSC05761-800x6005%255B1%255D"><img title="DSC05761 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05761 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0t6kJWiXYes/WPwZcVq_64I/AAAAAAAAkZ8/iEJLa3ftf-kN9k3z4TL3sUIza8C8gdumgCHM/DSC05761-800x6005_thumb?imgmax=800" width="191" height="233"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-J7sS4tgHXDU/WPwZfOcBluI/AAAAAAAAkaA/ZDhsOLQlIj8Rkh1kEF0czS9ABDnoNRL1wCHM/s1600-h/DSC05787-599x8001%255B3%255D"><img title="DSC05787 (599x800)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05787 (599x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ke0ciAtbMDo/WPwZiL9GbtI/AAAAAAAAkaE/pj9Axkce1eI5mFOsT1LTl-Nz9hby5J_tACHM/DSC05787-599x8001_thumb%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" width="176" height="233"></a></p> <p>Excursion over, we walked around in the old part of Mallorca, revisiting a Gaudi building we had discovered on a previous visit. It has fantastic touches!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dGVxIcQ_zU4/WPwZmClojNI/AAAAAAAAkaI/xScqXwI1qdcA6NM5pTK7GSIQiYbrvVDIgCHM/s1600-h/DSC05926-600x800"><img title="DSC05926 (600x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05926 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-s5It130YuRw/WPwZpu9MG7I/AAAAAAAAkaM/IQVO-eKBqroTLPpvpoORXiIH2vYi5LAUACHM/DSC05926-600x800_thumb?imgmax=800" width="201" height="267"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ijq4XSxVy2k/WPwZtNV8pWI/AAAAAAAAkaQ/GKdEuDhIqWEnCHa9n0OI_VhKyqzJSwuMACHM/s1600-h/DSC05928-800x592"><img title="DSC05928 (800x592)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05928 (800x592)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-z1yjI7pjDGg/WPwZxi9mKTI/AAAAAAAAkaU/_dGR82ygZUAHZCEq4Vj92M9PVLHDlrusACHM/DSC05928-800x592_thumb?imgmax=800" width="358" height="267"></a></p> <p> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FKyZ3InmuVg/WPwZ1w5O2JI/AAAAAAAAkaY/vko-bFvbogkGbgg3-CMBRgpZ0Z5LomKaACHM/s1600-h/DSC05984-800x56511"><img title="DSC05984 (800x565)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05984 (800x565)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZDYrmrJtXyo/WPwZ5hXa2NI/AAAAAAAAkac/XVXkI1uDzRg_dAc4vDklE1n_0edvbON4gCHM/DSC05984-800x565_thumb1?imgmax=800" width="265" height="189"></a> </p> <p>One of Mia’s friends had told her to make sure to have an ensaimada, one of the specialties in Mallorca, so we sought out a bakery and tried one chocolate and one plain. They were much like a big round croissant, with the chocolate one filled with nutella. They were both delicious!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zcSlHUaWRQk/WPwZ8vxJqwI/AAAAAAAAkag/4M4wjHbmQG4ycbWcOVaSpql0BPDZoUYBwCHM/s1600-h/DSC05934-800x600"><img title="DSC05934 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05934 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gfMbUnZdjfg/WPwZ_6qV8yI/AAAAAAAAkak/Tou6u8jkAEwtbSkHbbJLeRFB6QmDkQyvgCHM/DSC05934-800x600_thumb?imgmax=800" width="280" height="211"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VzCHwANg0qQ/WPwaDe60yRI/AAAAAAAAkao/LPW9YpWgVcQ9cgwgS1wr-v_KUq6tgp1TQCHM/s1600-h/DSC05931-800x600"><img title="DSC05931 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05931 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lK3uCEbv0uM/WPwaHuILl6I/AAAAAAAAkas/NyaJlkhxU0MZ-w29EjGxZyXW3WW5u6BsgCHM/DSC05931-800x600_thumb?imgmax=800" width="284" height="214"></a></p> <p>This seems to be the food edition of the blog! Mallorca is also known for its ham, and the display of baguette sandwiches in a butcher shop was enticing. We also visited a a beautiful church, ready for Easter week. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1h4r2Rzj2ZQ/WPwaP0t210I/AAAAAAAAkaw/QulW5c5k2E0b_znH7HqLlwtj5O8750GqgCHM/s1600-h/DSC05945-800x6001"><img title="DSC05945 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05945 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pbfomFkWeA8/WPwaVZZZP0I/AAAAAAAAka0/M79tkhp4Y_MNfKOG81J5WUqVqe0xn9pwwCHM/DSC05945-800x600_thumb1?imgmax=800" width="358" height="270"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-h4l9K5Smg2s/WPwaZ7lfCaI/AAAAAAAAka4/l7DxKr8Ek1EX725ontBZwNcOEFsxuxIDgCHM/s1600-h/DSC05949-592x800"><img title="DSC05949 (592x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05949 (592x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-R6BcPt-KdCk/WPwafb6pYWI/AAAAAAAAka8/i-lbURURN-USGhdJej0iygIfeyXRjbjvQCHM/DSC05949-592x800_thumb?imgmax=800" width="200" height="268"></a></p> <p>Some of the painted doors were terrific! </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1aBpmpZS308/WPwalW76fqI/AAAAAAAAkbA/K6ogV71XFugMQcG8fqekKPpIkF9SWLPoACHM/s1600-h/DSC05968-745x8001"><img title="DSC05968 (745x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05968 (745x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eC6MQuwTKvs/WPwaqIWtVvI/AAAAAAAAkbE/g2mTvCY8dKAZMRBKmLwReR_Nl_GCqA40gCHM/DSC05968-745x800_thumb1?imgmax=800" width="278" height="297"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oT7tiwFBsaI/WPwauDJZudI/AAAAAAAAkbI/-VWwWOUnbbQS2g4t_BkMXLG7sxnRe5mbwCHM/s1600-h/DSC05974-434x800"><img title="DSC05974 (434x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05974 (434x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ikq8hqH2JL0/WPwaxyP0PjI/AAAAAAAAkbM/Jw60rdsvirE7HcZ-xYtzUfX7XFpxyPkDgCHM/DSC05974-434x800_thumb?imgmax=800" width="164" height="299"></a></p> <p>The iconic Mallorca windmills are visible from the harbor, as is Belver Castle and the Cathedral. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SZeEslR1WSU/WPwa2fim6CI/AAAAAAAAkbQ/BwoEpZ5r-os9nGuDg4ZUsWSyo8Z9ZusUwCHM/s1600-h/DSC06053-800x5991"><img title="DSC06053 (800x599)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06053 (800x599)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GeSvY_h0ADY/WPwa52GH6aI/AAAAAAAAkbU/-ECWkwXZhbcuO793qCNuldEKWBDXmbzewCHM/DSC06053-800x599_thumb1?imgmax=800" width="281" height="212"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bfCYjDTsA-c/WPwa-uFbT-I/AAAAAAAAkbY/TXjyRYSGYtIWotCVbFnQZX3EqA_gZ2QQQCHM/s1600-h/DSC06076-800x600"><img title="DSC06076 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06076 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KHQN7_Rq6yk/WPwbC_sfY4I/AAAAAAAAkbc/JMVMHO2ioVw3RPEZT8OzTTwTPxUhfa5awCHM/DSC06076-800x600_thumb?imgmax=800" width="285" height="215"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/---X5Q09APqs/WPwbGPI0MXI/AAAAAAAAkbg/-qBDqQwHaXAaP4eJeqtxCtb0Uww1UDwNgCHM/s1600-h/DSC06089-800x599"><img title="DSC06089 (800x599)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06089 (800x599)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zFJnZ7buVsY/WPwbKTm8ItI/AAAAAAAAkbk/avTC7kkttqYXZPl9Inmu3UHTbGoqBN-wACHM/DSC06089-800x599_thumb?imgmax=800" width="280" height="211"></a></p> <p>Our day ended with a surprise “Welcome Aboard” cake for Mia at dinner, accompanied by the Indonesian song usually sung for birthdays. Hmmm, wonder what those words actually mean?… </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7SFYeUIHbcE/WPwbPOGi6VI/AAAAAAAAkbo/HPxdyvVcdXg1TxF_d9i2QYgeQEryFraOQCHM/s1600-h/DSC06100-2"><img title="DSC06100 (2)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06100 (2)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-a76wDjAjkgo/WPwbUazxOfI/AAAAAAAAkbs/XtDcSEDzSIYV4uAMl0cK1HARJx9fL-yTgCHM/DSC06100-2_thumb?imgmax=800" width="206" height="282"></a></p>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14089147397708468584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5244596902453348211.post-6832473389234143512017-04-21T18:55:00.001-07:002017-04-21T18:55:54.530-07:00… to Valletta, on the island of Malta…<p>… in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea. The Knights of Saint John moved to Malta when they were expelled from Rhodes in 1530, and fortified its deep natural harbor so it could be defended against pirates and other invading ships. They brought a golden age of prosperity and security to Malta that lasted for 268 years, until the city surrendered to Napoleon. What’s left today is a charming stone city built on the hills, a popular vacation spot for Europeans.</p> <p>Valletta was another new port for us, so we took an excursion which went first to the fishing village of Marsaxlokk, then for a glass blowing demonstration, and finally a wine tasting. We were lucky; the weekly market in Marsaxlokk was in full swing when we arrived, selling candy, fruit, veggies, clothing, cell phones, and souvenirs. Our guide said the people of Malta are in the midst of an obesity epidemic, and the many stands of local pastries and candies provided a clue to the cause.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lGuMx9qbiPo/WPq2AnyuLoI/AAAAAAAAkWI/7MBiv9G3FHc/s1600-h/DSC05008-800x600.jpg"><img title="DSC05008 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05008 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gCJBIe-IrOg/WPq2EDyHjvI/AAAAAAAAkWM/T4fpHrYS-uU/DSC05008-800x600_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="276" height="208"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-i1AV_CDHRAU/WPq2KxwDflI/AAAAAAAAkWQ/x0p0ZK6Wz0U/s1600-h/DSC05022-800x600.jpg"><img title="DSC05022 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05022 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2IybYSQJKRM/WPq2QNzh1kI/AAAAAAAAkWU/JjCk4uPk3AM/DSC05022-800x600_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="277" height="209"></a></p> <p>The fishing boats in Marsaxlokk all have tiny protective eyes painted on their prows.</p> <p> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PWySRy4JUWo/WPq2VJvjlMI/AAAAAAAAkWY/aiTc3vLcA9o/s1600-h/DSC05023-800x600.jpg"><img title="DSC05023 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05023 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jXeMRm2gW9E/WPq2ZHMTWbI/AAAAAAAAkWc/nifnmQPzxnU/DSC05023-800x600_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="269" height="203"></a> </p> <p>On the way to the Mdina Glass Factory, we passed Mosta Church, with one of the largest domes in Europe; this dome was pierced by a bomb in WWII, but miraculously, the bomb didn’t explode. Nearby was the ancient walled medieval city of Mdina. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GAfrW3JaLb0/WPq2cHpFb7I/AAAAAAAAkWg/zo53WAxlSnc/s1600-h/DSC05158-800x593.jpg"><img title="DSC05158 (800x593)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05158 (800x593)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-evIDpe7QN7U/WPq2g0ra40I/AAAAAAAAkWk/Y1GozRtHQEg/DSC05158-800x593_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="387" height="288"></a> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FQWUO-MeFGg/WPq2kM-rvCI/AAAAAAAAkWo/wTVRnLxildU/s1600-h/DSC05173-800x2374.jpg"><img title="DSC05173 (800x237)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05173 (800x237)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ikjIbWS2BBg/WPq2nwo54NI/AAAAAAAAkWs/cqXYSrSbjsg/DSC05173-800x237_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="667" height="200"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8Thzh4OGrDU/WPq2q35hVQI/AAAAAAAAkWw/2XWdC7dpD0M/s1600-h/DSC05190-600x8004.jpg"><img title="DSC05190 (600x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05190 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4TzTB726qFg/WPq2ukvr7-I/AAAAAAAAkW0/Cm9QiYR7JVk/DSC05190-600x800_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="209" height="277"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sui3wCDqqfk/WPq2yckXYiI/AAAAAAAAkW4/KrLucA4zwpc/s1600-h/DSC05195-800x6004.jpg"><img title="DSC05195 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05195 (800x600)" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKo8WjsQznqVrKiz5akDjRkkVjG418aCfIm5GrvXO6VShpf_usLTv-4vvr0IqQsd7vEuZClmD0Bn2v66KEF-d_Ph_qkXt_K0ltjGryXWovDYEKuI5ll82-v4Zp9m9aVhkXiLt5iecyxzQ/?imgmax=800" width="369" height="278"></a></p> <p>Meridiana Vineyards were planted on the old runways of a World War II airstrip. The owners preserved the old sundial from the airstrip. The wines were just OK, but the local pepper-crusted cheese served with them was a stand-out!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tzVSDE5J8tc/WPq27NFtRzI/AAAAAAAAkXA/nlzYXfGyp44/s1600-h/DSC05247-800x5994.jpg"><img title="DSC05247 (800x599)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05247 (800x599)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Rq47nP3L68Y/WPq2--BtkmI/AAAAAAAAkXE/dWylRbH_2ko/DSC05247-800x599_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="367" height="276"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-n9PxRJcrl5g/WPq3C2PyLHI/AAAAAAAAkXI/3r9Ck4gLQkA/s1600-h/DSC05243-599x80011.jpg"><img title="DSC05243 (599x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05243 (599x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EPtH5v4b6TQ/WPq3GoBJ11I/AAAAAAAAkXM/rocxM9YWBXE/DSC05243-599x800_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="206" height="274"></a></p> <p>Back in Valletta, we took the Barrakka Lift, an elevator on the side of the mountain, to ascend to the level of the old city. On the way up you can see the alternative meandering route to the top. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gCUApmGMfrU/WPq3Jvlo2AI/AAAAAAAAkXQ/-e99D41zXtA/s1600-h/DSC05332-600x8003.jpg"><img title="DSC05332 (600x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05332 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-X4OZ58LFNyI/WPq3PrkldZI/AAAAAAAAkXU/5EZvQxXmQr0/DSC05332-600x800_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Qsn8bxaRmLY/WPq3TbFIpCI/AAAAAAAAkXY/25RG4cw-vG0/s1600-h/DSC05427-585x8003.jpg"><img title="DSC05427 (585x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05427 (585x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QgNGumJocbM/WPq3W1d_btI/AAAAAAAAkXc/nh_A5pVOrhw/DSC05427-585x800_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="180" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-L1LFjR6QVHQ/WPq3ah2WHjI/AAAAAAAAkXg/6FEV32BHpZk/s1600-h/DSC05337-600x8003.jpg"><img title="DSC05337 (600x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05337 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-c39ldW7V3KI/WPq3eWF7hBI/AAAAAAAAkXk/B70D8s3Izoc/DSC05337-600x800_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a></p> <p>The view of the harbor and its fortifications from above was outstanding!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hu2e9eX1vBQ/WPq3iW-9HwI/AAAAAAAAkXo/8kb-IIZ4N4A/s1600-h/DSC05341-800x600.jpg"><img title="DSC05341 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05341 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-C2vaiKtQo2s/WPq3mslmnRI/AAAAAAAAkXs/_62szzoZDgY/DSC05341-800x600_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="278" height="210"></a> </p> <p>A timely message in a shop window provided a backdrop for a creative selfie … Arches were everywhere. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dguuCxTn5Qw/WPq3sTmRPpI/AAAAAAAAkXw/9na5WT51Pw4/s1600-h/DSC05395-600x8003.jpg"><img title="DSC05395 (600x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05395 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0n_XgTdslVI/WPq3xNYbvaI/AAAAAAAAkX0/tGeilwrP2Ck/DSC05395-600x800_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NeC09PuZUCg/WPq30fmGcJI/AAAAAAAAkX4/4XPHnnakcJU/s1600-h/DSC05401-596x8003.jpg"><img title="DSC05401 (596x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05401 (596x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ePV6uwbZimY/WPq34f4-4FI/AAAAAAAAkX8/TVqoqe7tfk0/DSC05401-596x800_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="183" height="244"></a> </p> <p>There wasn’t nearly enough time to explore the island; we would have loved to walk around in Mdina, and to see some of the ancient temples built by the Temple Culture and reputed to be the oldest free-standing monuments in the world. Next time!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DwJ4f5KtPoE/WPq3707P5PI/AAAAAAAAkYA/5udXKOD6FB0/s1600-h/DSC05475-800x600.jpg"><img title="DSC05475 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05475 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4K08aIjETGU/WPq3_qTjavI/AAAAAAAAkYE/Hs2yNTLRUyU/DSC05475-800x600_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="287" height="216"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QxowOBu5jXk/WPq4FztQH-I/AAAAAAAAkYI/crTyMW3G7UI/s1600-h/DSC05477-800x600.jpg"><img title="DSC05477 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05477 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ddhnZPbeZDQ/WPq4JeVjd0I/AAAAAAAAkYM/GBcLN8J_z-4/DSC05477-800x600_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="285" height="215"></a></p>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14089147397708468584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5244596902453348211.post-75407005845771328562017-04-20T19:05:00.001-07:002017-04-20T19:05:41.011-07:00… to see the windmills of Mykonos, Greece …<p>… yet another beautiful Greek city with a storied past. Mykonos is like the photogenic friend who never takes a bad picture. Every street, every house, every shop, every church – picture perfect! We started right out on the beach, looking for (and finding!) beach glass and pottery. From there, we walked the island, poking our heads in shops and bakeries, walking the cobblestone streets, watching the residents getting ready for the tourist season, which is due to start in a week or two. Painters were everywhere; even the sidewalk cracks need to be painted to maintain the squeaky white look that is Mykonos. Even the sand is white! The brilliant blue sky was a spectacular backdrop to the white domes, arches, and roofs. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pc5ZenpNFkA/WPlmthidZCI/AAAAAAAAkRY/7LDpDU-gl_Y/s1600-h/DSC04671-800x5764.jpg"><img title="DSC04671 (800x576)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04671 (800x576)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qb216UsNlTU/WPlmxleBVpI/AAAAAAAAkRc/GzacTiPMTys/DSC04671-800x576_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="291" height="211"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NdAEXjz2NVA/WPlm0pqGZmI/AAAAAAAAkRg/-8e-TadzvrY/s1600-h/DSC04663-800x5764.jpg"><img title="DSC04663 (800x576)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04663 (800x576)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-R0Y42zkRKPg/WPlm4yoOL3I/AAAAAAAAkRk/AoKEBOJFI1I/DSC04663-800x576_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="281" height="204"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bQNje3_QehY/WPlm8Qg7FEI/AAAAAAAAkRo/G4aMRG9OfDc/s1600-h/DSC04667-800x6004.jpg"><img title="DSC04667 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04667 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Pafa6-PPwe4/WPlm_9Q_xiI/AAAAAAAAkRs/mi-SYjEG2RI/DSC04667-800x600_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="285" height="215"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-n59DGeNW-yY/WPlnDG9LrEI/AAAAAAAAkRw/r72YI9-ZWsM/s1600-h/DSC04682-800x5884.jpg"><img title="DSC04682 (800x588)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04682 (800x588)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KY1sCsfklwM/WPlnGgvl81I/AAAAAAAAkR0/N1TDTSb3Efs/DSC04682-800x588_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="290" height="214"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2B-D1H5prgI/WPlnJwsSzLI/AAAAAAAAkR4/77dBrYR7zbE/s1600-h/DSC04684-596x8003.jpg"><img title="DSC04684 (596x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04684 (596x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yCpkoC7Qvbk/WPlnNRR9WTI/AAAAAAAAkR8/vEwpxLzaeq0/DSC04684-596x800_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="183" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IGZR7RL3Nz4/WPlnRs2-QwI/AAAAAAAAkSA/FITzVPoFzgU/s1600-h/DSC04685-600x8003.jpg"><img title="DSC04685 (600x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04685 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8mFASfWJAj0/WPlnVSFVuYI/AAAAAAAAkSE/VAR-0zA8DgA/DSC04685-600x800_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-unWA3pMtg0c/WPlnYQy3QfI/AAAAAAAAkSI/lvJZzrVNIVg/s1600-h/DSC04704-595x8003.jpg"><img title="DSC04704 (595x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04704 (595x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FH-9CdMPPYY/WPlnbhebiWI/AAAAAAAAkSM/bCUQ4BUVvYo/DSC04704-595x800_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="182" height="244"></a></p> <p>One of our favorite stops was a tiny church; parishioners were preparing for Easter week, decorating with flowers and candles. And huge loaves of bread …</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cFlrd3FQW-4/WPlnghpCQvI/AAAAAAAAkSQ/Vdqtf67W_no/s1600-h/DSC04712-592x8003.jpg"><img title="DSC04712 (592x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04712 (592x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UJJQbdPdYA0/WPlnkeRrGzI/AAAAAAAAkSU/BgawvWKzjd4/DSC04712-592x800_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="182" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-msh3I0QN07I/WPlnnYio49I/AAAAAAAAkSY/FQnUDMFToxk/s1600-h/DSC04716-612x8003.jpg"><img title="DSC04716 (612x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04716 (612x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-y9XaPhAOsaU/WPlnuses8JI/AAAAAAAAkSc/42xUjgl82P0/DSC04716-612x800_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="188" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UlUWtF4z8e4/WPlnzENqkUI/AAAAAAAAkSg/P-8MR3-HBRw/s1600-h/DSC04717-600x8003.jpg"><img title="DSC04717 (600x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04717 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2c7iZ-Hxkdg/WPln2Qf9v3I/AAAAAAAAkSk/EU9_SyLC1YA/DSC04717-600x800_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-w1KvpwiBdjk/WPln5qdVN7I/AAAAAAAAkSo/Ms8F8c--4Pc/s1600-h/DSC04724-800x5856.jpg"><img title="DSC04724 (800x585)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04724 (800x585)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Kr1b5xNR9rg/WPln9QxcWLI/AAAAAAAAkSs/p-1iJs8OplM/DSC04724-800x585_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="347" height="256"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pCUlH08kAC0/WPloAuxyhSI/AAAAAAAAkSw/k_adX7xwS-g/s1600-h/DSC04741-689x8004.jpg"><img title="DSC04741 (689x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04741 (689x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CJzSskbe57A/WPloDsR6d4I/AAAAAAAAkS0/6Fvb3JEFKhg/DSC04741-689x800_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="222" height="257"></a></p> <p>Mykonos is famous for its windmills, reached by climbing a small hill. It was a good site for a windmill; the brisk wind blew hats off and would have spun the mill shafts if the sails remained. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VeHiKggozv8/WPloHAbMrgI/AAAAAAAAkS4/cI1JtkYlDiI/s1600-h/DSC04765-800x5855.jpg"><img title="DSC04765 (800x585)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04765 (800x585)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Rb6kCpJdqcE/WPloKd64TuI/AAAAAAAAkS8/dfpjCAQU2-8/DSC04765-800x585_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="377" height="278"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzTq91EkOFDV6Rl_ObBxQxksVlWFtSxyM4XJEfksOVvKoO2DypW12SuaqdOUBs4GesUCMV_EZjsGBWoCzmCGDSfyRwLklMMkjH2k3NYnEAc5JfK9x-nDF6xFLt4TuQSN1ShfSslcOgJf8/s1600-h/DSC04780-567x8004.jpg"><img title="DSC04780 (567x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04780 (567x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GN8FXfuGZ-0/WPloSr3bDUI/AAAAAAAAkTE/YTPTxX5jfJw/DSC04780-567x800_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="197" height="277"></a></p> <p>Greek cotton sweaters hung appealingly on a rack, while a real-life Cat’s Meow building sat nearby. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KDwwDISFlwo/WPloVupL0DI/AAAAAAAAkTI/BNxlkTEwt8U/s1600-h/DSC04825-585x8003.jpg"><img title="DSC04825 (585x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04825 (585x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uA6GJoHGa5o/WPloZnJo8XI/AAAAAAAAkTM/PtzwQdO4jik/DSC04825-585x800_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="180" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-62JCfc6EBAs/WPloeZKb0YI/AAAAAAAAkTQ/7PIZ2mzJedU/s1600-h/DSC04828-600x8003.jpg"><img title="DSC04828 (600x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04828 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ARX7HkNyMTo/WPlohR8Ux8I/AAAAAAAAkTU/IGT6pTHty-M/DSC04828-600x800_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IL-hcd2zA_w/WPloksqoMBI/AAAAAAAAkTY/RKz1GXi5Lzk/s1600-h/DSC04836-600x8003.jpg"><img title="DSC04836 (600x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04836 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Gz-78xYEulI/WPlon4iknVI/AAAAAAAAkTc/iSUQANUNj1w/DSC04836-600x800_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a></p> <p>A gregarious shopkeeper invited us in to take a picture of the iconic windmills from his back window. Six in a row! </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--I_8jBHg1Os/WPlorlPUJSI/AAAAAAAAkTg/ZJcxjFN-_EY/s1600-h/DSC04848-800x6005.jpg"><img title="DSC04848 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04848 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5v_wDPnFtpo/WPlou9bqAhI/AAAAAAAAkTk/xXYmw6N1mok/DSC04848-800x600_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="358" height="270"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ffpXiDAqukY/WPloxwcQJII/AAAAAAAAkTo/ZMJYWk6BjM0/s1600-h/DSC04865-592x8004.jpg"><img title="DSC04865 (592x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04865 (592x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5eIAjQ3pxLE/WPlo1ZDsl1I/AAAAAAAAkTs/Syh6MC6zDNU/DSC04865-592x800_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="203" height="272"></a></p> <p>It was a very good day! </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sYx_SPTWF2Y/WPlo5JGJbkI/AAAAAAAAkTw/S-_GW4laYtM/s1600-h/DSC04924-800x5754.jpg"><img title="DSC04924 (800x575)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04924 (800x575)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Pj5Jghbpzt8/WPlo8ij-i1I/AAAAAAAAkT0/R7CVIr7Lc24/DSC04924-800x575_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="360" height="259"></a></p>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14089147397708468584noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5244596902453348211.post-49149380882129450202017-04-19T18:16:00.001-07:002017-04-19T18:16:40.261-07:00… to Heraklion, Crete …<p>… part of Greece. We walked around the streets for a little while before taking the hop on bus to navigate this fortified Greek city, strategically located on the island of Crete. The harbor was initially constructed by the Venetians, and much of the original structure remains. In the sketch, the old original harbor is pictured on top, with the current harbor on the bottom. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6as5fjfCbr0/WPgKQqv2gyI/AAAAAAAAkO8/2hZgIhQvGi4/s1600-h/DSC04434%252520%252528800x774%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04434 (800x774)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04434 (800x774)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-H9mSqIzb-G4/WPgKWJ18QLI/AAAAAAAAkPA/MjodCdUDc3c/DSC04434%252520%252528800x774%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="238" height="230"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-k7WrlVbeRUA/WPgKZjrYVQI/AAAAAAAAkPE/OmDC1r0XFK8/s1600-h/DSC04428%252520%252528800x538%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04428 (800x538)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04428 (800x538)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DksoAys2DWY/WPgKd5t0f7I/AAAAAAAAkPI/WeHfgC9nsT8/DSC04428%252520%252528800x538%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="335" height="226"></a></p> <p>We came across a young man playing the accordion, which reminded Frank of his own accordion lessons as a boy. Fresh fruit and vegetables were for sale everywhere, and fragrant flowering trees lined the streets.</p> <p> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uLojBrXqY04/WPgKhAKg1cI/AAAAAAAAkPM/zSVdmd-57C0/s1600-h/DSC04431%252520%252528621x800%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04431 (621x800)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04431 (621x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5RGyaEISPsY/WPgKkRS0t-I/AAAAAAAAkPQ/KAstOY3KDSc/DSC04431%252520%252528621x800%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="208" height="267"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-t334SX9-7bQ/WPgKpIR2aNI/AAAAAAAAkPU/bw8TaiM4B88/s1600-h/DSC04435%252520%252528800x600%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04435 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04435 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PnjMjEPI-Nc/WPgKtiKi-_I/AAAAAAAAkPY/TwaSLK5rG6U/DSC04435%252520%252528800x600%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="355" height="267"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-o7w7uX5qUzw/WPgKw_ZDH9I/AAAAAAAAkPc/JTwUX3tKlGs/s1600-h/DSC04439%252520%252528612x800%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04439 (612x800)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04439 (612x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rNOELIUfzm4/WPgK08XPKkI/AAAAAAAAkPg/nUyDl74QT-c/DSC04439%252520%252528612x800%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="190" height="246"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-df85rBtg1cE/WPgK4e1YmKI/AAAAAAAAkPk/vtsMy0Gadrw/s1600-h/DSC04440%252520%252528540x800%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04440 (540x800)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04440 (540x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Q5-uzO_SVkg/WPgK90sRmgI/AAAAAAAAkPo/7lLlec4IoPw/DSC04440%252520%252528540x800%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="170" height="250"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--SdAlhn3mdY/WPgLB6gos5I/AAAAAAAAkPs/xtfbHVEA1ws/s1600-h/DSC04445%252520%252528636x800%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04445 (636x800)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04445 (636x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uVvnEKJ3HCM/WPgLFVFqGwI/AAAAAAAAkPw/fUMlQhl9Nao/DSC04445%252520%252528636x800%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="202" height="253"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JLzI7i3tjok/WPgLISG91YI/AAAAAAAAkP0/gLhv6PlHwhE/s1600-h/DSC04513%252520%252528600x800%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04513 (600x800)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04513 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VpucZAc_EWg/WPgLLsUeBMI/AAAAAAAAkP4/WZIFvj0FM6E/DSC04513%252520%252528600x800%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="198" height="263"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HDB0Fr4vEh0/WPgLO3z1g6I/AAAAAAAAkP8/lPUarHLOgzw/s1600-h/DSC04464%252520%2525282%252529%252520%252528800x558%252529%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04464 (2) (800x558)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04464 (2) (800x558)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-g826VIO-H3g/WPgLSSRsWJI/AAAAAAAAkQA/YOF3LO77Zgs/DSC04464%252520%2525282%252529%252520%252528800x558%252529_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="371" height="260"></a> </p> <p>Reflecting current issues, the following timely message appeared in different forms on various walls. A courtyard was filled with books, apparently part of a “book bazaar.” Loved seeing this here, like the books for free in Mumbai.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cXgfpWigij4/WPgLWT8__wI/AAAAAAAAkQE/og7lDH7CI28/s1600-h/DSC04453%252520%252528600x800%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04453 (600x800)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04453 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YQF5BBmjbbo/WPgLaCOPYfI/AAAAAAAAkQI/zgApA0tGsFw/DSC04453%252520%252528600x800%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="208" height="276"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GVXMVXaoWqY/WPgLehcdVmI/AAAAAAAAkQM/adPDSCoKTQg/s1600-h/DSC04454%252520%252528800x599%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04454 (800x599)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04454 (800x599)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fO3Tz49VJIc/WPgLiECIPrI/AAAAAAAAkQQ/k_sP3z-MHHQ/DSC04454%252520%252528800x599%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="364" height="274"></a></p> <p>From the bus, a view of the lovely harbor and the Venetian Castle Koules, a well-loved landmark. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qS0R1-JZsCo/WPgLlaJhfgI/AAAAAAAAkQU/sHBNzZl1ZRE/s1600-h/DSC04477%252520%252528800x600%252529%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04477 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04477 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GfKP8yMuD_E/WPgLorE5kaI/AAAAAAAAkQY/07Bql2YyUDE/DSC04477%252520%252528800x600%252529_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="283" height="214"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YmRC8wyDB-Y/WPgLrzpsw2I/AAAAAAAAkQc/9LfFEh1i6Hg/s1600-h/DSC04489%252520%252528800x591%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04489 (800x591)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04489 (800x591)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HZ9mTFk5ZHA/WPgLvGmfQ-I/AAAAAAAAkQg/-4osZggtaI8/DSC04489%252520%252528800x591%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="285" height="211"></a></p> <p>The highlight of the bus ride was the trip to the site of Knossos, through the countryside, past a lovely Greek Orthodox chapel, outside the city proper. Knossos was the mythical location of the maze in which the minotaur (half man, half bull) of ancient legend was imprisoned. According to the legend, the city of Athens provided several young men each year as a sacrifice to the minotaur, and one of these youths finally slayed the minotaur and escaped from the maze. It’s easy to see the giant mazes on the hillsides at Knossos!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aAe7q_UDAzQ/WPgLypz9yEI/AAAAAAAAkQk/3q9rmkDeJTc/s1600-h/DSC04518%252520%252528800x600%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04518 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04518 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OIaPIlx6-XI/WPgL1wXKC7I/AAAAAAAAkQo/uWgwBi6LRNI/DSC04518%252520%252528800x600%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="256" height="193"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9KFUeFVvJvM/WPgL5k47KwI/AAAAAAAAkQs/kuEkHs7gsGA/s1600-h/DSC04574%252520%252528800x480%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04574 (800x480)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04574 (800x480)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LFAtE1-Qbxs/WPgL9JdEKzI/AAAAAAAAkQw/y-3JaClB-FI/DSC04574%252520%252528800x480%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="322" height="195"></a></p> <p>It was another blue-sky day in a beautiful Greek city, with delicious food and sweet-smelling breezes. Mmmm, Greece – can’t wait to visit again! </p>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14089147397708468584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5244596902453348211.post-27625883382740170352017-04-18T15:57:00.001-07:002017-04-18T15:57:22.625-07:00… around the world …<p>… providing a great opportunity for jewelry making. The uninterrupted time on board, especially during days at sea, lends itself to creativity, and the inspirations in the ports we visit are amazing. Following are some of my creations on the trip. First are some beads made from the tissue paper that wraps the laundry on board. The beads are lightweight and quite durable. During the trip, a wire mishap led to the creation of a new heart-shaped clasp. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qwtUWznt-Qk/WPaRvuPSKDI/AAAAAAAAkKI/jrE0MLXaMSU/s1600-h/20170313_084641-800x7522.jpg"><img title="20170313_084641 (800x752)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="20170313_084641 (800x752)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-goVE0rUhGDY/WPaR0LxNyuI/AAAAAAAAkKM/iLUEA2Unqhw/20170313_084641-800x752_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="248" height="234"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HSJEwafpFpg/WPaR3J2cMGI/AAAAAAAAkKQ/2H6ZroS_Ehg/s1600-h/DSC07476-800x6004.jpg"><img title="DSC07476 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07476 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-80D2BMVzr1c/WPaR6YKiqaI/AAAAAAAAkKU/Nz0xfmI5d84/DSC07476-800x600_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="315" height="237"></a></p> <p>Next, a group of pieces made from Chinese elastic bracelets. The symbol on the long beads is an ancient Chinese symbol, like the Native American symbol. Two $1 bracelets contained enough beads for a bracelet, a ring, two pairs of earrings, and two pendants. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ri0Ru6jM9zs/WPaR-XjuCEI/AAAAAAAAkKY/Dw2CDfPCrVc/s1600-h/20170313_085650-800x7383.jpg"><img title="20170313_085650 (800x738)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="20170313_085650 (800x738)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qLp5cjc3jYY/WPaSBq7JljI/AAAAAAAAkKc/W1IeIIZSXBI/20170313_085650-800x738_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="225"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pe6GUttHLLo/WPaSFAcJb4I/AAAAAAAAkKg/gQVclm8FzQg/s1600-h/DSC09076-800x5964.jpg"><img title="DSC09076 (800x596)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC09076 (800x596)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-H5Fg0Bof45I/WPaSIsUsNxI/AAAAAAAAkKk/_tfYLDlmC20/DSC09076-800x596_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="303" height="227"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FJy92egVZ54/WPaYM9b_VtI/AAAAAAAAkK4/gqTwujhq3xI/s1600-h/DSC09073%252520%252528800x648%252529%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC09073 (800x648)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC09073 (800x648)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LeODlztYfHc/WPaYREX96fI/AAAAAAAAkK8/rNWBuH7ePGw/DSC09073%252520%252528800x648%252529_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="307" height="249"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vq8OdkU5W4w/WPaYUEZonfI/AAAAAAAAkLA/Z3WLqOXWMHk/s1600-h/20170314_134009%252520%252528785x800%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="20170314_134009 (785x800)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="20170314_134009 (785x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DJW-8AziXYM/WPaYXbrY1PI/AAAAAAAAkLE/5v22ru_7ct4/20170314_134009%252520%252528785x800%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="251" height="255"></a> </p> <p>A seed pod and driftwood found on the beach in Nha Trang, Vietnam turned into a pendant with the addition of a pearl. Two chunks of coral found on the same beach also became pendants.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WoIqmUCDJXw/WPaYaJ35cVI/AAAAAAAAkLI/CRnzL8PSo3s/s1600-h/DSC09093-600x8003.jpg"><img title="DSC09093 (600x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC09093 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qo9tTJ8SwWw/WPaYdWm5scI/AAAAAAAAkLM/y_JCmjdr23M/DSC09093-600x800_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vg3momB4ZtA/WPaYgYpAi_I/AAAAAAAAkLQ/aY0uQvH0FEI/s1600-h/DSC08057-600x8003.jpg"><img title="DSC08057 (600x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC08057 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rcpqKFUMqhI/WPaYjTA-DkI/AAAAAAAAkLU/wOxqu8ZiDWc/DSC08057-600x800_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mGfZKO5I6ro/WPaYmfeugwI/AAAAAAAAkLY/WoxpNvfpwAA/s1600-h/DSC08060-600x8003.jpg"><img title="DSC08060 (600x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC08060 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-psGvDHdg4R8/WPaYpl97P0I/AAAAAAAAkLc/O7uHnbxGf3E/DSC08060-600x800_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a></p> <p>An elastic bracelet of colorful chevron beads morphed into a ring, bracelet and earrings. I also made several pairs of these pearl, crystal and garnet earrings.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ogpDLAkFgdI/WPaYtP4ce0I/AAAAAAAAkLg/PU30NGA8ndY/s1600-h/DSC08046-800x6005.jpg"><img title="DSC08046 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC08046 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VElyU32TQEM/WPaYwUrofdI/AAAAAAAAkLk/YVMOpm_PguE/DSC08046-800x600_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="287" height="216"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cwdAKAv3Btw/WPaY07Gay7I/AAAAAAAAkLo/QXuNnllbI3M/s1600-h/DSC02582-800x5874.jpg"><img title="DSC02582 (800x587)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02582 (800x587)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RaTuoSzlqCQ/WPaY4ARWD0I/AAAAAAAAkLs/_8mIhPOMtqU/DSC02582-800x587_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="286" height="211"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uV6WWSIQ1HI/WPaY7S1jUeI/AAAAAAAAkLw/AodYkBobZ1Y/s1600-h/DSC08043%252520%252528600x800%252529.jpg"><img title="DSC08043 (600x800)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC08043 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NILCd_oLIZc/WPaY-c5FqmI/AAAAAAAAkL0/QFlnu_OOwYY/DSC08043%252520%252528600x800%252529_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="213" height="283"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YxzOUoet6jg/WPaZBV4n3_I/AAAAAAAAkL4/cUF5ok23Ny0/s1600-h/DSC07479%252520%252528800x628%252529%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC07479 (800x628)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07479 (800x628)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tm__p_QXYic/WPaZE45TPuI/AAAAAAAAkL8/bvtqw2GBQwg/DSC07479%252520%252528800x628%252529_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="360" height="282"></a></p> <p>A few bags of wooden elephant beads and an elephant keychain from the market in Colombo, Sri Lanka became two necklaces and matching earrings. (Modeled by Tauna Durand)</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bN0_H8Op0T8/WPaZHv3HJhI/AAAAAAAAkMA/hUTJRWZ8_eU/s1600-h/20170316_210727-541x8006.jpg"><img title="20170316_210727 (541x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="20170316_210727 (541x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-icAU9paTXpA/WPaZLKZg9-I/AAAAAAAAkME/zeXrbrB11Kg/20170316_210727-541x800_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="270" height="396"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NH08Z61oyac/WPaZOFPwVoI/AAAAAAAAkMI/0WsBbyXB8-A/s1600-h/DSC02907-600x8006.jpg"><img title="DSC02907 (600x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02907 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4wKAcprnJJs/WPaZRRERPsI/AAAAAAAAkMM/7hivCXClZY8/DSC02907-600x800_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="294" height="392"></a></p> <p>At an Osaka jewelry supply store, Tauna and I bought supplies and directions to make a necklace on display, using Japanese paper pearls. The challenge: the directions were only in Japanese. We finally found time a few months later to get together for assembly – and had enough beads to make earrings to match. The necklace can be worn several ways… two options shown! </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-htC8JhvCwlM/WPaZUnkpypI/AAAAAAAAkMQ/4RU-mj3IeI0/s1600-h/DSC08027-600x8003.jpg"><img title="DSC08027 (600x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC08027 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ugpubkjq-gI/WPaZXVPc5bI/AAAAAAAAkMU/cZ6l9aVI9J4/DSC08027-600x800_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qWeZu59qM8I/WPaZaW9vC0I/AAAAAAAAkMY/jAwQU6mD_IE/s1600-h/DSC08024-657x8003.jpg"><img title="DSC08024 (657x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC08024 (657x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Zs9HeDx8CgE/WPaZdzn0O-I/AAAAAAAAkMc/oAo2NP7jzS8/DSC08024-657x800_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="201" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aUcQEtvL9L0/WPaZjXgZ_CI/AAAAAAAAkMg/n10XhwOfvfU/s1600-h/DSC05585-600x8003.jpg"><img title="DSC05585 (600x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05585 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yy5rd40vcAU/WPaZmvr5HBI/AAAAAAAAkMk/Ojt7kFl7bbI/DSC05585-600x800_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a></p> <p>And then there are the friendship knot rings. They were a 2016 Christmas creation, and have become a favorite, adding various dangles. Think Maltese cross in Malta, and the protective eye in Greece. Annie, a fellow passenger, taught me two new techniques: the Japanese braiding known as kumihimo, and viking knit. I paired my first trial kumihimo project with a turquoise and bone pendant.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-G-K2zTMcFzM/WPaZp5phcaI/AAAAAAAAkMo/ESKAsvsf3KE/s1600-h/DSC08050%252520%252528800x600%252529%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC08050 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC08050 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wgVB3xC87C4/WPaZtRXED-I/AAAAAAAAkMs/cu3IiPOTfSU/DSC08050%252520%252528800x600%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="351" height="264"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6tjoNMsEYhE/WPaZwdbVPXI/AAAAAAAAkMw/uv1NitNSesI/s1600-h/DSC08032%252520%252528600x800%252529.jpg"><img title="DSC08032 (600x800)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC08032 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Qd7C24-o3LU/WPaZz92jNAI/AAAAAAAAkM0/xNqFYpkR0zA/DSC08032%252520%252528600x800%252529_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="206" height="273"></a> </p> <p>There’ve been many other projects, among them three bracelets for our tablemates, a necklace for a friend, and many rings already being worn. Also some assemblages, which are just reusing old jewelry parts in new ways. Don’t have any completed viking knit projects to show yet – but there will be seven sea days during the transatlantic crossing! </p>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14089147397708468584noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5244596902453348211.post-63534204561081474372017-04-17T16:14:00.001-07:002017-04-17T16:14:43.704-07:00… to Nafplion, Greece …<p>… an old city with many different confusing spellings and pronunciations. This was another new port for us, and we disembarked with no preconceptions. It’s a resort town, and wasn’t quite open for the season, which doesn’t start for a few more weeks. But there were some interesting shops open, and everyone seemed to be working on getting ready for tourists. It’s a very picturesque place, and the all-seeing eye kept tabs on us wherever we went – even in the graffiti! </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KeCyUnefxrI/WPVKsceOpVI/AAAAAAAAj9I/PrmSREpoxys/s1600-h/DSC04116-800x6005.jpg"><img title="DSC04116 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04116 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7e2o8TLTvDI/WPVKxHVZwvI/AAAAAAAAj9M/vfRevaKGx_k/DSC04116-800x600_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="357" height="269"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5Bho0LrVp8w/WPVK0OlFl0I/AAAAAAAAj9Q/OIIjqFS_ih8/s1600-h/DSC04117-620x8004.jpg"><img title="DSC04117 (620x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04117 (620x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dQ9Dw4EV-fQ/WPVK3aEDMDI/AAAAAAAAj9U/4dZXKkyZDa0/DSC04117-620x800_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="212" height="272"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-76Cos0dx2Hk/WPVK6dxdLuI/AAAAAAAAj9Y/nSLVnxpDgeQ/s1600-h/DSC04118-800x5354.jpg"><img title="DSC04118 (800x535)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04118 (800x535)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BsetrcUwoPo/WPVK9mnwvTI/AAAAAAAAj9c/GyYn7XBhUzY/DSC04118-800x535_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="292" height="196"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rXuaNtKNnYA/WPVLAsF7HxI/AAAAAAAAj9g/C4Px5SEy7-8/s1600-h/DSC04094-800x6004.jpg"><img title="DSC04094 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04094 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jHtW0rVwlQM/WPVLD7OoKpI/AAAAAAAAj9k/7yxCpEaVN9E/DSC04094-800x600_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="269" height="203"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dICfN-54SeQ/WPVLHMUkI2I/AAAAAAAAj9o/g0uUJMpUGag/s1600-h/DSC04130%252520%252528800x600%252529.jpg"><img title="DSC04130 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04130 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-S_usFUd6Kww/WPVLKEl2feI/AAAAAAAAj9s/1QoexyhsoTM/DSC04130%252520%252528800x600%252529_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="309" height="233"></a></p> <p>Nafplion has the cutest open top hop on bus we’ve seen. We rode the packed bus only to the first stop; overcome by the pushiness of our fellow travelers, we fled to the ramparts of the harbor fortifications. The joke was on us; it was a long walk to the next stop. Along the way we checked out the shops, filled with mostly handmade items that were more creative than we’ve seen elsewhere. We passed a large public park, an old train station, and a small amusement park being readied for the season. We paid a visit to a two-room local museum, which dealt almost exclusively with art celebrating the city’s battle for independence in the 1800s, specifically the disabled veterans of that war. Most exciting, we discovered a bakery, where the friendly bakers posed for photos. We quickly filled a bag with two of six or seven different types of pastry – and the bill came to a whopping 2 euros! </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aqw3gSh27vI/WPVLNn_wyzI/AAAAAAAAj9w/Z5QuiyDwprM/s1600-h/DSC04058%252520%252528800x600%252529%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04058 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04058 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QcfHBew9i6g/WPVLQw1rapI/AAAAAAAAj90/3DTUfmCqJik/DSC04058%252520%252528800x600%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="262" height="198"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FOvcCI_KnKo/WPVLUFZSNqI/AAAAAAAAj94/NTcAoe1CZaM/s1600-h/DSC04098%252520%252528800x600%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04098 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04098 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4LZfIISnR_c/WPVLXp6EwDI/AAAAAAAAj98/5B66F2vSkCw/DSC04098%252520%252528800x600%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="268" height="202"></a>. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-V_FasVDcFgc/WPVLa5GaajI/AAAAAAAAj-A/FAxm6MH2s-E/s1600-h/DSC04129%252520%252528641x800%252529%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04129 (641x800)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04129 (641x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--RxQfknCnFU/WPVLeAUplSI/AAAAAAAAj-E/I1ggGn-Sn88/DSC04129%252520%252528641x800%252529_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="286" height="356"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_7-Ch6z7Uw4/WPVLhG5N2tI/AAAAAAAAj-I/tcoDvpmvI0Y/s1600-h/DSC04132%252520%252528544x800%252529%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04132 (544x800)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04132 (544x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jPT0uoGNwqU/WPVLlNCvz4I/AAAAAAAAj-M/8HuoqGCtSE8/DSC04132%252520%252528544x800%252529_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="357"></a></p> <p> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tP78j-6AjJ4/WPVLnxRdhaI/AAAAAAAAj-Q/aYdPlaBgq0k/s1600-h/DSC04100%252520%252528800x600%252529%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04100 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04100 (800x600)" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi28uyElXurXCp0sZvKiWsdi6clZ6jtym0lOZzlhKT4D9iU_xOXm3shuRQk1Mpp_ABZpM1BLNptfQeByHJhIsmqYEI7K3b89hybPfE7w9Og_7SPzrl6SccPbKnJPvTsqD45JJ6GlJ6bTqk/?imgmax=800" width="267" height="201"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cul08Acpcec/WPVLvLRa7jI/AAAAAAAAj-Y/5r7ACLvVoKg/s1600-h/DSC04123%252520%252528800x600%252529%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04123 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04123 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hWDnAaaPqhw/WPVLycLQcAI/AAAAAAAAj-c/k_XY3jAeShU/DSC04123%252520%252528800x600%252529_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="268" height="202"></a> </p> <p> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SOXB_RhMxIk/WPVL1YsewwI/AAAAAAAAj-g/RqU5J69g4xE/s1600-h/DSC04081%252520%252528800x514%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04081 (800x514)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04081 (800x514)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Khgo9H5Avho/WPVL4JA9HXI/AAAAAAAAj-k/bqEAZTFbRVQ/DSC04081%252520%252528800x514%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="366" height="236"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pk0inUfYeeg/WPVL7FflymI/AAAAAAAAj-o/29pbPHGS2us/s1600-h/DSC04084%252520%252528633x800%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04084 (633x800)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04084 (633x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZXKm16fJ378/WPVL-OnYZyI/AAAAAAAAj-s/kPjDcD8N9nE/DSC04084%252520%252528633x800%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="185" height="233"></a> </p> <p>Fortified, we reboarded the bus and rode to the top of the mountain to the Palamidi Castle, which is a massive fortified area over 700 feet high. It’s sprawling and rocky, with a great view of the city and harbor. It was all downhill after the castle – literally. Nafplion is said to be one of Greece’s prettiest towns, and the view of the city as we sailed out of the harbor was lovely.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLqg59J3sOBmw0dFhFF52UXhObDarcjh8eG6Co3nA3smp6H2wKOnRhc5KCPpxPnz0s506UGb7gHWHUswXNKmevs3Nx7oWRPjva41mltHxIun9cIwGaHtf2LGQoiQAqHqMtIUnNa-tNrWU/s1600-h/DSC04180%252520%252528800x600%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04180 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04180 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GkqR77oWYts/WPVMEqNf5gI/AAAAAAAAj-0/RFB6WZCorW4/DSC04180%252520%252528800x600%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="280" height="211"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-h-19zGltENs/WPVMHp1OUGI/AAAAAAAAj-4/a1QBDNCPiVI/s1600-h/DSC04219%252520%252528800x600%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04219 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04219 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2IDQH5kIczg/WPVMKlu0SiI/AAAAAAAAj-8/YilkD0g7Ct8/DSC04219%252520%252528800x600%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="275" height="207"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KJssGtxzQEk/WPVMNzWdEEI/AAAAAAAAj_A/5y-HBov1ywY/s1600-h/DSC04284%252520%252528800x600%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04284 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04284 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wGpoDf6LvRE/WPVMSLRcQiI/AAAAAAAAj_E/25fkfSh2M5w/DSC04284%252520%252528800x600%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="277" height="209"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vPenN6JNcaQ/WPVMVNqbBrI/AAAAAAAAj_I/_i3QCgiXsKM/s1600-h/DSC04399%252520%252528800x600%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04399 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04399 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MaB8Jn-C8Xs/WPVMYBCHbWI/AAAAAAAAj_M/o0ehKggWBpw/DSC04399%252520%252528800x600%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="272" height="205"></a></p>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14089147397708468584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5244596902453348211.post-87210879510823326492017-04-16T16:11:00.001-07:002017-04-16T16:14:43.575-07:00… to Piraeus, Greece …… for an overnight stay in the port nearest Athens. We had a list of things we wanted to do in Athens: revisit the street of jewelry making supplies if we could find it, see if anything was new at the Antikythera Mechanism exhibit in the National Archaeology Museum, have lunch in the Plaka – and find a souvenir for our door wreath. <br />
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Our first day was fraught with problems. After downloading photos the night before, I forgot to put the memory card back in my camera. Problem #1: find a replacement before leaving the port. None of the stores in the terminal carried cards (!), but a nearby newspaper kiosk did. Done. We opted for the narrated hop-on, hop-off bus near the pier to get to Perikleous Street, listed on an online blog as the place for beads in Athens. This required taking the blue bus, then transferring to the orange bus. Smoothly done – until I realized I’d left my hat on the blue bus. The representative contacted the driver, he found the hat, and said he would drop it off at Stop #1. We continued on, fortified by a circle of the local sesame-crusted bread sold on the street. We located the bead stores, window-shopped on our way to Stop #1 (Easter was definitely in the air, with decorated candles everywhere!), reclaimed the missing hat, and celebrated with lunch at KFC. </div>
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Oij7Zk7FILk/WPP4fsxtl9I/AAAAAAAAj7E/R88sFrl-rg0/s1600-h/DSC03571-715x800.jpg"><img alt="DSC03571 (715x800)" border="0" height="256" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7ziIvH92q5M/WPP4jg5KsHI/AAAAAAAAj7I/XhACfFBWVdA/DSC03571-715x800_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC03571 (715x800)" width="229" /></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-r9-RlgZU2cI/WPP4mmmTJVI/AAAAAAAAj7M/mihLpWypqns/s1600-h/DSC03572-800x600.jpg"><img alt="DSC03572 (800x600)" height="256" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6mME0Vz13Mc/WPP4qEZ_SRI/AAAAAAAAj7Q/6cJuF1YtjLo/DSC03572-800x600_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="display: inline;" title="DSC03572 (800x600)" width="341" /></a><br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hpofvvgk9l8/WPP4tYxKrcI/AAAAAAAAj7U/lWdeVC8eyXw/s1600-h/DSC03579-800x5991.jpg"><img alt="DSC03579 (800x599)" border="0" height="215" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RwHUNbAosT8/WPP4xC7FOSI/AAAAAAAAj7Y/tFaOSZ4eLbI/DSC03579-800x599_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC03579 (800x599)" width="285" /></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IK7ErUPiC4M/WPP42t2PDeI/AAAAAAAAj7c/YWobyNhfokk/s1600-h/DSC03591-800x599.jpg"><img alt="DSC03591 (800x599)" border="0" height="213" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cmSfUFjpNLc/WPP48hsUQwI/AAAAAAAAj7g/rQD-7L_W_OE/DSC03591-800x599_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC03591 (800x599)" width="283" /></a><br />
We hopped back on the bus to the Plaka, and shopped an overwhelming number of jewelry stores, souvenir shops and clothing stands, before cabbing it back to the ship. The 18 K gold and diamond object is a cuff bracelet. <br />
The next day we took a cab to the Archaeological Museum with friends Doug and Tauna Durand, and spent several happy hours gawking at the outstanding collection of gold objects, a great new 3D movie on the Antikythera mechanism, and all of the really ancient pottery and sculptures this incredible museum exhibits. The rather modern-looking musician is from 2800 BCE!<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1WNxcIoJBaM/WPP4_1cQIjI/AAAAAAAAj7k/FwDfaU2wL6U/s1600-h/DSC03729-800x599.jpg"><img alt="DSC03729 (800x599)" border="0" height="248" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9YUlPrU01nQ/WPP5DyYBsOI/AAAAAAAAj7o/J7jkEhCxBLw/DSC03729-800x599_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC03729 (800x599)" width="330" /></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BBMucfopZ0M/WPP5HlLcB9I/AAAAAAAAj7s/VNd7F7wfM_o/s1600-h/DSC03745-659x800.jpg"><img alt="DSC03745 (659x800)" border="0" height="250" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--h983Lh4yIk/WPP5LBn7UxI/AAAAAAAAj7w/vL5SZeM8Qcc/DSC03745-659x800_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC03745 (659x800)" width="207" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghcfLdBb7ZhgNotmCQGj9Qo9RO4afHVK02fBHCWJwiplT3RsFrWeHFJ_nLcZdDmfdy5_bluaADxu9bix9y91gvJN_NV0gRpc2C-6jQLp-ZdSZ45KrGtbXNe-38DFcDYmMjC9nycnaXN9o/s1600-h/DSC03748-800x600.jpg"><img alt="DSC03748 (800x600)" border="0" height="252" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-D05M3Gqlv5c/WPP5SpY-kYI/AAAAAAAAj74/pA7VeRddTe0/DSC03748-800x600_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC03748 (800x600)" width="334" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2msU9XMrTZ0ctYtbNW-IJi1yDoENYtXhHAHCqVhorJuuZtbNBdotiZGSYsS17mPIZGuNpuEM5wT4nErOabhgA4F3q0H_K9Zx3nebmnYesJI6SseRkPp2M28LYgRWNMRSQYlLRU_RE5FE/s1600-h/DSC03773-637x800.jpg"><img alt="DSC03773 (637x800)" border="0" height="251" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sc0_bOqsmgo/WPP5aROLDWI/AAAAAAAAj8A/ZKNtfNONNlA/DSC03773-637x800_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC03773 (637x800)" width="201" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAb2QFaaNNghYZfxfcSkChR1TFNaXd8aMEzpdIqG2AGAgnRABJhiXqR5oLbbbCo1w6-G8zwAYm_yoQjay89BUWzRpU77rZ2JezfhCU01DtB8EPSNOvd1JqfxQcAFxbfWkOCmwDTVLcuyo/s1600-h/DSC03771-644x8003.jpg"><img alt="DSC03771 (644x800)" border="0" height="244" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WXXj6_GUS3E/WPP5g_fvAqI/AAAAAAAAj8I/LvQYkKTbfZU/DSC03771-644x800_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC03771 (644x800)" width="197" /></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-E3El9cEWvWc/WPP5kHIq_pI/AAAAAAAAj8M/fSfTZoWAwHs/s1600-h/DSC037783.jpg"><img alt="DSC03778" border="0" height="244" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0BfvDtwl5Ws/WPP5onKNk9I/AAAAAAAAj8Q/opU0zmcDWLg/DSC03778_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC03778" width="184" /></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1I1OC4lJCR4/WPP5r-JM8tI/AAAAAAAAj8U/7Orlm7hTXB0/s1600-h/DSC038013.jpg"><img alt="DSC03801" border="0" height="244" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iW-wUv9_PV8/WPP5vlTV7RI/AAAAAAAAj8Y/Ns_E3QqucBc/DSC03801_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC03801" width="184" /></a><br />
The museum is unfortunately not close to the other sites in Athens, so we cabbed it again to the Plaka for lunch outside at the Metropol, in front of the beautiful Cathedral of Athens. Lunch over, we shopped the Plaka, walking to the end and transitioning into the flea market of Monastiraki. We headed back to the ship just in time for all aboard. <br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lHm4s1La-FM/WPP5zM9BGsI/AAAAAAAAj8c/DlZMyKL6rLg/s1600-h/DSC03924-800x6004.jpg"><img alt="DSC03924 (800x600)" border="0" height="212" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-l1WYYf3mVww/WPP52j-TDJI/AAAAAAAAj8g/a1Ba8dun1tY/DSC03924-800x600_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC03924 (800x600)" width="281" /></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KI8VjZveqDA/WPP56dle_LI/AAAAAAAAj8k/iF78Dsp4FA4/s1600-h/DSC03960-800x5965.jpg"><img alt="DSC03960 (800x596)" border="0" height="217" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PkRdviFa-I8/WPP59x15W2I/AAAAAAAAj8o/b_d3GN1eBmQ/DSC03960-800x596_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC03960 (800x596)" width="290" /></a><br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nfCPLRn4_Pg/WPP6AhjOiNI/AAAAAAAAj8s/vxDojppYuSM/s1600-h/DSC03980-600x8003.jpg"><img alt="DSC03980 (600x800)" border="0" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi86DgbcQv_1VIHqGchju9QDalaFuVVjeXuYFf7bE5rhOj5b2syxzyBNhPtPt95tFyJ2gUNlDro8e1b8WYhM1vYgabPHXRWl3r6mipFU7FNcdqqUEPEnH-uxsfGhdfpbdYPS3TKK-A9Evs/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC03980 (600x800)" width="184" /></a>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14089147397708468584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5244596902453348211.post-60953906822954082182017-04-07T07:59:00.001-07:002017-04-07T07:59:10.817-07:00… into the Mediterranean to Rhodes, Greece …<p>… where the Colossus of Rhodes once stood, one foot on either side of the harbor. Pillars mark the spot where the giant bronze statue stood; after being destroyed in an earthquake, the statue was melted down for its metal. The Colossus was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World; of these, only the great pyramid in Egypt is still standing.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9H9YFWvM-vs/WOenR4WVSbI/AAAAAAAAj4A/pZnB6eo0MY8/s1600-h/DSC02964-800x6004.jpg"><img title="DSC02964 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02964 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nIx5r5d4fF8/WOenV1TD30I/AAAAAAAAj4E/5BRhvb1_FFY/DSC02964-800x600_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="333" height="251"></a> </p> <p>We hired a cab for a guided tour of the highlights of the city. A World Heritage City, the medieval part of Rhodes is surrounded by fairly intact walls, originally broken only by seven gates, and topped by a castle. It also boasts a very old shopping mall. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EJEYqPkPhjE/WOenZQUcnoI/AAAAAAAAj4I/4pbqz1E7P10/s1600-h/DSC02947-800x5994.jpg"><img title="DSC02947 (800x599)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02947 (800x599)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-99ngaDdSr3g/WOeneW3hduI/AAAAAAAAj4M/DM87ySxs1SY/DSC02947-800x599_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="285" height="215"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QrWaidb2tN4/WOenhmaCYlI/AAAAAAAAj4Q/rXyrpUVMldw/s1600-h/DSC02959-800x5964.jpg"><img title="DSC02959 (800x596)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02959 (800x596)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BbjUsrEi-EA/WOenlO34QvI/AAAAAAAAj4U/4jLB4juXIHs/DSC02959-800x596_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="285" height="214"></a></p> <p>In the harbor, we visited a lovely Greek Orthodox Church, then drove along the beach, marveling at the public diving board in the ocean. North along the coast was a blooming oasis of an overlook over the city. We passed the acropolis of Rhodes, the ancient cemetery and stadium, and looked down on the castle and its moat. Our final request was a beach with beach glass, and our cabbie said he knew of just the spot, behind a glass factory that for many years discarded its rejects in the ocean. Unfortunately it had been awhile since he had been there, and we found only a few pieces. We bid a fond farewell to our cabbie Nick at the old city gates.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WOM6IrKdyYc/WOenoKrOp0I/AAAAAAAAj4Y/HgK2W-JQCFo/s1600-h/DSC02971-600x8005.jpg"><img title="DSC02971 (600x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02971 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ghOtQj4-fSY/WOenr-2M_nI/AAAAAAAAj4c/wmz-bcspxJI/DSC02971-600x800_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="209" height="277"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KzIGWKil09c/WOenvIBhFeI/AAAAAAAAj4g/mz2hKZXPLYs/s1600-h/DSC02985-800x5955.jpg"><img title="DSC02985 (800x595)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02985 (800x595)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HYRgD35yInA/WOenywb5E_I/AAAAAAAAj4k/S1Rqu6H9CG8/DSC02985-800x595_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="367" height="273"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8cRjjZ8zuZQ/WOen2UFf5jI/AAAAAAAAj4o/iDzRlzkxSVA/s1600-h/DSC03004-800x5859.jpg"><img title="DSC03004 (800x585)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC03004 (800x585)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7sDHGRTFypU/WOen5xjjTGI/AAAAAAAAj4s/aw8r7ax3sfc/DSC03004-800x585_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="362" height="267"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-k9ydqLCH3TY/WOen9BPI__I/AAAAAAAAj4w/5iBnevYoj3c/s1600-h/DSC03021-600x8005.jpg"><img title="DSC03021 (600x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC03021 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wTT0l7EpHfk/WOeoAtWHosI/AAAAAAAAj40/K3-2T4pFgnM/DSC03021-600x800_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="202" height="268"></a> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-G4PtVGjpebw/WOeoD6DWlNI/AAAAAAAAj44/8tfg0huiV50/s1600-h/DSC03057-800x6544.jpg"><img title="DSC03057 (800x654)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC03057 (800x654)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LCDu6s977HU/WOeoHfZ02ZI/AAAAAAAAj48/eUlboFDbrrc/DSC03057-800x654_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="277" height="227"></a></p> <p>We explored old Rhodes on foot, peeking into all of its quaint little shops. The weather was perfect, cool and sunny. The shops displayed an unbelievable variety of creative handmade jewelry, pottery, leather goods and clothing. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-10pnhZxmrZM/WOeoKiZW31I/AAAAAAAAj5A/hiqZcjGEip4/s1600-h/DSC03338-600x8006.jpg"><img title="DSC03338 (600x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC03338 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-43yulBBzx9E/WOeoOKOiiZI/AAAAAAAAj5E/ytlCF27Da-Q/DSC03338-600x800_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="177" height="234"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yAMbYt6MnE0/WOeoSlfH1CI/AAAAAAAAj5I/DsA9OWad92w/s1600-h/DSC03313-600x80012.jpg"><img title="DSC03313 (600x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC03313 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uJ3h4tigKd4/WOeoV1AV8dI/AAAAAAAAj5M/D9AVsv6yMAw/DSC03313-600x800_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="179" height="237"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WLqv4ol297c/WOeoZNTEQzI/AAAAAAAAj5Q/S6u67ZtElGY/s1600-h/DSC03375-600x8007.jpg"><img title="DSC03375 (600x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC03375 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qIXqRa9eBpU/WOeodfQ442I/AAAAAAAAj5U/96M0sWu-IlQ/DSC03375-600x800_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="176" height="234"></a> </p> <p>At the top of the street of shops, we visited the Knights’ Hospital, a magnificent castle-like stone building that now serves as a museum. We smelled the wisteria and orange blossoms before we saw them. One of the most astonishing things we saw was a collection of ancient magnifying glasses from the first or second century BCE made from rock crystal, with the differing degrees of magnification marked on their silver holders. Unfortunately, no photos were allowed in that room. The Rhodes Venus, created in the first century BCE, is the most outstanding artwork in the collection. Subtle signs of the knights are everywhere, as are piles of impossibly smooth, round catapult balls. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-19ClvCK2L4c/WOeog8ZAU1I/AAAAAAAAj5Y/YbD46TpzCRk/s1600-h/DSC03086-600x8004.jpg"><img title="DSC03086 (600x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC03086 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vlmkQYrBQx8/WOeokxqSQUI/AAAAAAAAj5c/7Rnsz32d3w8/DSC03086-600x800_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="202" height="268"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FKFCXFHqgUo/WOeor0SI4XI/AAAAAAAAj5g/rp6pwOmGISU/s1600-h/DSC03106-800x6005.jpg"><img title="DSC03106 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC03106 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dQGZOYLY4pE/WOeovsn103I/AAAAAAAAj5k/6eedcKVuYRM/DSC03106-800x600_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="356" height="267"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-y8L9Jeok-f8/WOeo0HvUiMI/AAAAAAAAj5o/DBFelUIL8GE/s1600-h/DSC03200-524x8004.jpg"><img title="DSC03200 (524x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC03200 (524x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-n7TZU_EGDs8/WOeo3xcbz4I/AAAAAAAAj5s/kUNErTPiXOg/DSC03200-524x800_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="265" height="403"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SnNRuyV587M/WOeo7WsqB0I/AAAAAAAAj5w/dYCH-6kvppc/s1600-h/DSC03150-600x8004.jpg"><img title="DSC03150 (600x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC03150 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BLZs43gSo-0/WOeo_lOFROI/AAAAAAAAj50/8pMWG04NjuM/DSC03150-600x800_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="303" height="403"></a> </p> <p>On our way back to the ship, we had to walk along the beach, and decided to stop for a minute and look for beach glass. There, within sight of the ship, we filled a small bag quickly before we ran out of time for all aboard. A great end to a lovely day! </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ID7uRsl00_U/WOepIy8laSI/AAAAAAAAj54/zqimXoyphtA/s1600-h/DSC03381-800x6004.jpg"><img title="DSC03381 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC03381 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gSG_WSqizRI/WOepO596MhI/AAAAAAAAj58/EofBm-njNRk/DSC03381-800x600_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="509" height="383"></a></p>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14089147397708468584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5244596902453348211.post-24435846755519731242017-04-06T07:43:00.001-07:002017-04-06T07:43:52.135-07:00… through the new, improved Suez Canal …<p>… using the section of the Canal opened recently to allow ships to sail in both directions at the same time. The project to widen and improve the canal began in August 2014, and includes the development of three new canal cities, an industrial zone, fish farms, and seven new tunnels. The Suez Canal connects Port Said on the Mediterranean Sea with the port of Suez on the Red Sea, and carries almost 8% of the world’s shipping traffic. Fifty ships use the Canal each day, with the 98 mile transit taking about 15 hours. The first canal connecting the Red and Mediterranean Seas was dug four thousand years ago by Egyptian Pharaoh Senausret III (1887-1849 BCE). In 1799, Napoleon’s engineers discovered the ruins of the ancient east-west canal. Construction of a new north-south canal was discussed for years; the actual project took 10 years, with the Canal opening in 1869. </p> <p>We entered the Canal about 6:15 am and exited about 4:00 pm. Because there are no locks, the trip passes quickly, and the scenery changes constantly, including small villages, fishermen, soldiers, mosques, construction camps and monuments. The weather was perfect: warm and sunny, with a light breeze. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DNhP_RdbPik/WOZSd4rWfsI/AAAAAAAAjzs/mMuPiK7rtOY/s1600-h/DSC02686-800x6115.jpg"><img title="DSC02686 (800x611)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02686 (800x611)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qyj6G3gFFKs/WOZSh7s7b0I/AAAAAAAAjzw/0hjSdQAfSq4/DSC02686-800x611_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="357" height="273"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-he0rEv0H8ZY/WOZSlUKuULI/AAAAAAAAjz0/E_8FUV2m06w/s1600-h/DSC02687-584x8004.jpg"><img title="DSC02687 (584x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02687 (584x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Nazf07WQGGw/WOZSqgGMD9I/AAAAAAAAjz4/8kG5IbY1tmY/DSC02687-584x800_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="278"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zqAXkD3aIE8/WOZStzlufBI/AAAAAAAAjz8/Ur6mj6SoSEM/s1600-h/DSC02683-600x8004.jpg"><img title="DSC02683 (600x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02683 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-S_C3v2xpqh4/WOZSx78LCnI/AAAAAAAAj0A/6iDi4KkCN2I/DSC02683-600x800_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="202" height="268"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-n-l7SieJ1w0/WOZS2aJ1GvI/AAAAAAAAj0E/Waqc3kL8QjI/s1600-h/DSC02691-800x5955.jpg"><img title="DSC02691 (800x595)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02691 (800x595)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rO4Ozvem_IE/WOZS578WauI/AAAAAAAAj0I/IYeCrXmJlpQ/DSC02691-800x595_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="352" height="262"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Nl2g5jAQtAY/WOZS9VK_HOI/AAAAAAAAj0M/XMpnYSsXDDQ/s1600-h/DSC02621-800x5998.jpg"><img title="DSC02621 (800x599)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02621 (800x599)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ynfhlVLL4kY/WOZTAkFCq_I/AAAAAAAAj0Q/a9NGqC8TtKo/DSC02621-800x599_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="285" height="215"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oAWugcMH5dU/WOZTEQfrhqI/AAAAAAAAj0U/rYdb47mL1nI/s1600-h/DSC02716-800x6004.jpg"><img title="DSC02716 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02716 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tDzYMjUR2Os/WOZTJ0Z_zaI/AAAAAAAAj0Y/VgSQvqxwzOM/DSC02716-800x600_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="280" height="211"></a></p> <p>We had three different local pilots for different parts of the Canal, each arriving with a flourish. As a special provision, the ship had to hoist up a small get-away boat beside the ship in case the pilot needed to abandon ship. He was raised and lowered in this boat.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8jBNehx-kKE/WOZTN64l09I/AAAAAAAAj0c/cg6c8HbKUEc/s1600-h/DSC02661-800x5596.jpg"><img title="DSC02661 (800x559)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02661 (800x559)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9vDg7Jc8rSw/WOZTRjyzerI/AAAAAAAAj0g/sTKiqBax690/DSC02661-800x559_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="267"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3rYiS1823YI/WOZTUmBQntI/AAAAAAAAj0k/MybPlL0pf-o/s1600-h/DSC02738-551x8005.jpg"><img title="DSC02738 (551x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02738 (551x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zizarLgEc4w/WOZTX1qYuiI/AAAAAAAAj0o/xAiPTmXaeuI/DSC02738-551x800_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="186" height="269"></a> </p> <p>Remote guardhouses stand along the length of the Canal, and all seem to be manned. Ferry boats loaded with cars and people ply the Canal. The old and new portions of the canal are rejoined shortly before the beautiful bridge which spans the entire canal. Frank enjoyed the scenery. Near the end of the canal we discovered what must be the Great Wall of Egypt …</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5PsLxEojT0A/WOZTbVtT5rI/AAAAAAAAj0s/Ntt2nFEstsI/s1600-h/DSC02672-800x6004.jpg"><img title="DSC02672 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02672 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pgkZx6GmlsE/WOZTe_xmfQI/AAAAAAAAj0w/hUsQxpP-Nc0/DSC02672-800x600_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="290" height="218"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_sn2qbvC5r8/WOZTiBhRp3I/AAAAAAAAj00/Dh4iiAEGdNI/s1600-h/DSC02677-800x6004.jpg"><img title="DSC02677 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02677 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aIjWWsotmAw/WOZTnVnxLpI/AAAAAAAAj04/9QDWtZmnWfM/DSC02677-800x600_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="284" height="214"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZtzWQGcSSJ0/WOZTqWF5PuI/AAAAAAAAj08/nueHfLU79NM/s1600-h/DSC02680-800x6004.jpg"><img title="DSC02680 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02680 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ju0jIOKnDAo/WOZTt3jPXII/AAAAAAAAj1A/MRS_Qh8iEEk/DSC02680-800x600_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="284" height="214"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CuWSfvZCt7g/WOZTxLJ9fkI/AAAAAAAAj1E/PrHEX6XQ7RY/s1600-h/DSC02742-800x6004.jpg"><img title="DSC02742 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02742 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sSDVI-kJ8UU/WOZT0qS69DI/AAAAAAAAj1I/kphUVAiyNWg/DSC02742-800x600_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="284" height="214"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WnEz0Ew98_s/WOZT3xWSPYI/AAAAAAAAj1M/i5gVcrVz-y0/s1600-h/DSC02774-800x5924.jpg"><img title="DSC02774 (800x592)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02774 (800x592)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-G9jjr7P_lPo/WOZT7W8pc9I/AAAAAAAAj1Q/ZkVTDFRc88Q/DSC02774-800x592_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="287" height="214"> </a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vI7W9Agx21w/WOZT-WZZ2nI/AAAAAAAAj1U/Xu2FZwDuIvo/s1600-h/DSC02836-800x6004.jpg"><img title="DSC02836 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02836 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xGPLxTFTfag/WOZUCC9oJWI/AAAAAAAAj1Y/Mhrh9vKBcb0/DSC02836-800x600_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="286" height="216"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-N9h1GP6v8Vc/WOZUFz3Q5MI/AAAAAAAAj1c/atY43Nwm31s/s1600-h/DSC02849-800x6004.jpg"><img title="DSC02849 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02849 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tZ6-hDczKfk/WOZUJfcRSoI/AAAAAAAAj1g/EACnIo09B8I/DSC02849-800x600_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="297" height="224"></a></p> <p>It was a relaxing day! </p>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14089147397708468584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5244596902453348211.post-49534469484834666852017-04-05T07:46:00.001-07:002017-04-05T07:46:57.158-07:00… to the shifting sands of Wadi Rum …<p>… loved by Lawrence of Arabia, and called the “Valley of the Moon” for its otherworldly terrain. The movie Lawrence of Arabia was filmed here, in the incredible pink to deep red desert landscape filled with towering sandstone formations. Wadi Rum is about an hour from the port of Aqaba, on the King’s Highway. </p> <p>Starting at the Wadi Rum Visitors’ Center, we boarded 4x4s, which were actually four-wheel drive pickup trucks (mostly Toyotas), with bench seats along the sides of the truck bed. The biggest challenge for most of us was getting into and out of the trucks at each stop! Not a pretty sight… Our Bedouin guide drove us to a magnificent overlook, where Lawrence’s Seven Pillars of Wisdom rock formation seemed close enough to touch. Walking in the powdery fine red sand was difficult; the rocks strewn across the sand were surprisingly angular, and not at all smoothed or rounded by the action of the sand. </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9rjiDRJTPKFnL2ye9xty4LquDYW3EaK2pElew8wrKyo546MiiDPfK7l5kcTedUnmrlhhtRrbq-czL3m4OpxRQAXzT1whyJaAN3tv4SAGzRFzueplMe_IqMFtuT5IjtEt6AEg46BS9XsA/s1600-h/DSC02311%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC02311" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02311" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XceW322Tnrw/WOUBb2IWk8I/AAAAAAAAjxE/rAXHfCNmU5Y/DSC02311_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="289" height="213"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9E7V-DMmvcY/WOUBfHqha-I/AAAAAAAAjxI/PzVF4StDM9k/s1600-h/DSC01995%252520%252528800x600%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC01995 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC01995 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IqbofAru9vQ/WOUBiaAFoVI/AAAAAAAAjxM/9PYXs_im5g8/DSC01995%252520%252528800x600%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="284" height="214"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DVv-NjpQtn4/WOUBoLlB94I/AAAAAAAAjxQ/NB7Fw2fY1GA/s1600-h/DSC02010%252520%252528800x121%252529%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC02010 (800x121)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02010 (800x121)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xVoN8xx2Er8/WOUBr8zI70I/AAAAAAAAjxU/T9vutTQaRP4/DSC02010%252520%252528800x121%252529_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="601" height="94"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OQ8dYjqIrtM/WOUBvp7OnzI/AAAAAAAAjxY/0VxQxVl7KzM/s1600-h/DSC02009%252520%252528800x600%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC02009 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02009 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Nj6Cm7v-mr4/WOUBzOe_qrI/AAAAAAAAjxc/rhJJE8f0sWI/DSC02009%252520%252528800x600%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="292" height="220"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-B-GDDts6WJI/WOUB2rXFjUI/AAAAAAAAjxg/-JnE0b1XUcE/s1600-h/DSC02023%252520%252528800x600%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC02023 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02023 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2nvdePAwHLw/WOUB6QRv9pI/AAAAAAAAjxk/0_y95iI7UtA/DSC02023%252520%252528800x600%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="284" height="214"></a></p> <p>The next stop was planned for those who wanted to complete part of the trek on a camel. We rode camels at the pyramids in Egypt and one camel ride was more than enough! Getting on is tough because the saddle is so high. The camel straightens its back legs first to stand up, dangling you face first over the ground with only a tiny pommel to hold on to; and they take awhile to unfold their long front legs to level things out. The ride itself is jolting and the saddle uncomfortable. Plus my camel was a provocateur; he kept bumping the camel next to him, with my leg unfortunately in between them. Ouch! And then there’s the getting off part … We also saw some desert petroglyphs at this spot. </p> <p> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Y0nafkCN6wU/WOUB9v-ZIXI/AAAAAAAAjxo/uuuNj18fIlA/s1600-h/DSC02073%252520%252528600x800%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC02073 (600x800)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02073 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uDsGgwLclaM/WOUCBDxibnI/AAAAAAAAjxs/YHjeJFrAjVY/DSC02073%252520%252528600x800%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="282" height="375"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jqONW0eFdqs/WOUCFJsVMXI/AAAAAAAAjxw/PQZSGZLYVvI/s1600-h/DSC02105%252520%252528600x800%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC02105 (600x800)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02105 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jyCzcLftek8/WOUCJHXxgwI/AAAAAAAAjx0/f9g8K1mqNBA/DSC02105%252520%252528600x800%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="285" height="379"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-l6BkEUcpCt0/WOUCM8h3xvI/AAAAAAAAjx4/B3MI3tg9NRc/s1600-h/DSC02137%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC02137" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02137" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-y6bkj-6ueXM/WOUCQumMCvI/AAAAAAAAjx8/xx0IF80HHU0/DSC02137_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="292" height="220"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TFoJeYqng5A/WOUCUF0gUXI/AAAAAAAAjyA/mtOdsXw6mMM/s1600-h/DSC02097%252520%252528800x600%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC02097 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02097 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iou074XmZvc/WOUCZVFCc5I/AAAAAAAAjyE/B10uTjVAZXs/DSC02097%252520%252528800x600%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="285" height="215"></a></p> <p>We visited two Bedouin tent gatherings, where we were treated to sweet and aromatic desert tea served in tiny glass cups, and crunchy sesame seed cookies. Visitors can stay overnight in Bedouin tents (equipped with sinks and toilets) to experience the thrill of the nighttime stars in the heart of the desert. The accommodations seemed pleasant and the prospect of a longer stay in this unfamiliar and gorgeous terrain is certainly appealing. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5XKjNcQ9Jwk/WOUCc1_7E1I/AAAAAAAAjyI/cwY9a7hnjVU/s1600-h/DSC02204%252520%252528800x600%252529%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC02204 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02204 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jgqkSOHJmZM/WOUCg-MdunI/AAAAAAAAjyM/Kmbrwd-msvY/DSC02204%252520%252528800x600%252529_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="345" height="260"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Ijot4l750I0/WOUCkSpsAqI/AAAAAAAAjyQ/rstcyp6swlo/s1600-h/DSC02221%252520%252528600x800%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC02221 (600x800)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02221 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wgek9paaaxA/WOUCpAXu2mI/AAAAAAAAjyU/bwN4yNXD1nI/DSC02221%252520%252528600x800%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="195" height="259"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-in-Qh14mm8U/WOUCtAmlAbI/AAAAAAAAjyY/Ts9RMu1Qv2I/s1600-h/DSC02321%252520%252528800x600%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC02321 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02321 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_CQYGw4Z9vo/WOUCw06Gz7I/AAAAAAAAjyc/PXQojVZSRjM/DSC02321%252520%252528800x600%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="342" height="258"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-S2WQnUvhggQ/WOUC0nrHi7I/AAAAAAAAjyg/Sb49CxxKZFQ/s1600-h/DSC02351%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC02351" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02351" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Pachq35w0bw/WOUC429C7MI/AAAAAAAAjyk/e62O450_vs4/DSC02351_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="197" height="261"></a></p> <p>Back in Aqaba, we met a store owner who specializes in authentic antique Bedouin silver jewelry. Some of the pieces were stunning! Other notable sights were a radish heart, bottles of oils, and piles of spices. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gOmVEiOJTy0/WOUC8u2xS-I/AAAAAAAAjyo/-knF2JCtaOg/s1600-h/DSC02523%252520%252528800x576%252529%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC02523 (800x576)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02523 (800x576)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0T-TJmYdM3s/WOUDARhiZLI/AAAAAAAAjys/S7NAgtmrL9k/DSC02523%252520%252528800x576%252529_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="273" height="198"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JzUzXOqxzws/WOUDD6m3R_I/AAAAAAAAjyw/eFizufOii7Q/s1600-h/DSC02509%252520%252528800x600%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC02509 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02509 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-z-dFNDS11LY/WOUDHloWJuI/AAAAAAAAjy0/TvqlDuJdw9c/DSC02509%252520%252528800x600%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="271" height="204"></a></p> <p> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6Ldu1eDHF58/WOUDLQEjUII/AAAAAAAAjy4/76rWs0feYOM/s1600-h/DSC02513%252520%252528800x600%252529%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC02513 (800x600)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02513 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bcBKWnZHjE0/WOUDPxWEtXI/AAAAAAAAjy8/YTzCJKaF1RQ/DSC02513%252520%252528800x600%252529_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="348" height="261"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-duHki3OsDeM/WOUDTqpiMjI/AAAAAAAAjzA/cnRiHsMWU-I/s1600-h/DSC02519%252520%252528596x800%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC02519 (596x800)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC02519 (596x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Lm7nqluNmKo/WOUDXaPiMCI/AAAAAAAAjzE/A5QRtbK3gHM/DSC02519%252520%252528596x800%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="208" height="277"></a> </p> <p>We returned to the ship with shoes filled with red sand, a wonderful souvenir of our adventure. </p>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14089147397708468584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5244596902453348211.post-37783886575466603362017-04-01T08:16:00.001-07:002017-04-01T08:16:19.637-07:00… the Rose Red City of Petra …<p>… one of the seven wonders of the modern world, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city, carved out of pink sandstone cliffs, is two hours from the port of Aqaba. Built by the Nabataeans around 312 BCE, Petra served as a trading center for the caravans traveling between Egypt and Persia. Taxing the caravans made Petra the richest city in the ancient world. The Roman Empire lost three wars to capture the city, then instead established the tax-free Silk Route, diverting the caravans and eliminating Petra’s economy. The city was absorbed into the Roman Empire around 100 CE, and abandoned after a series of devastating earthquakes. Petra was rediscovered by local Bedouins who began living in the ruins, and hid the city from view for 1100 years. Hearing legends of a lost pink city, a Swiss explorer learned the Bedouin language and dyed his skin to infiltrate the Bedouin community; he revealed the city to Westerners in 1812. The city had been beautified by the Nabataeans in an attempt to lure back caravan traffic; some of these alterations are visible today. The desert setting enhances the site, with the pink sandstone glittering in the sun.</p> <p>There are several options for entering Petra; walking into the city through the towering cliffs is the most dramatic. Horse-drawn carts are also available, and we split up: Frank walked, I rode. The cart saved my knees, but the indescribably bumpy, jolting ride made me think I needed a mouth-guard! Also a seat belt … Our handsome driver, Mohamed, owns three horses; he completes six round-trips a day, rotating the three horses, and works 6 week contracts. It’s a tough trip for the horses, who slip and slide on the hard stone roadway. Mohamed has tried rubber shoes on his horses, but they wear out almost immediately. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Y-qgUSLv2tc/WN_Cjn8ADII/AAAAAAAAjg0/fZcDxLFIJzU/s1600-h/DSC01554-600x8004.jpg"><img title="DSC01554 (600x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC01554 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cpHt0ABbW7o/WN_Codjv4NI/AAAAAAAAjg4/_LwIHChHqW4/DSC01554-600x800_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="194" height="258"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wjoDMTnUVDY/WN_CsDqzu-I/AAAAAAAAjg8/YUq6UAqoBqQ/s1600-h/DSC01696-800x6004.jpg"><img title="DSC01696 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC01696 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iVk9JD6Kp08/WN_CwCamHnI/AAAAAAAAjhA/xXNiRmwXOt4/DSC01696-800x600_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="350" height="264"></a> </p> <p>The entry to the city is breathtaking. Two guards stand watch at the entrance to the path, two kilometers long. At the end, the narrow passage between the cliffs suddenly opens, and the lovely Treasury is in front of you. This is the building you see most often on Petra photos, but Petra is a large city, with many streets, tombs, and civic buildings. Excavations of the site continue, being careful not to disturb the tourists who are a large part of Jordan’s economy. </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Zl9ebXqyyDRRYshBDVzxHCiVWWxYTlTIiucWzBNzrUb9eOLQAc2cMqJKxh7p3g6tmhZfqSqWiy_5F0MRYSY28XlfPDEqldvaxJ5YaMXXupWyj6JFMqTAn53hoiiZ0sj3Ncnb31RgOtg/s1600-h/DSC08091-800x6005.jpg"><img title="DSC08091 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC08091 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5iVipMvWr_c/WN_C55y_cMI/AAAAAAAAjhI/F-p6gmNYWvw/DSC08091-800x600_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="349" height="263"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Vlox46IjfRE/WN_C9f3YIvI/AAAAAAAAjhM/AnMwzKIIXVg/s1600-h/DSC01499-585x8005.jpg"><img title="DSC01499 (585x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC01499 (585x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--dnJ_JrVKe4/WN_DBEltRhI/AAAAAAAAjhQ/tNP2P3-UBgc/DSC01499-585x800_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="196" height="265"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-W0cIXn-3bOM/WN_DE6mGJBI/AAAAAAAAjhU/0gVsq3locX4/s1600-h/DSC01501-600x8003.jpg"><img title="DSC01501 (600x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC01501 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kjPeGcxUwK8/WN_DJwvd-ZI/AAAAAAAAjhY/W3GHyYJHpa0/DSC01501-600x800_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GnNZkNyWBh8/WN_DNLK9v7I/AAAAAAAAjhc/Z_5w_16uJ20/s1600-h/DSC08136-600x8003.jpg"><img title="DSC08136 (600x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC08136 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TqlS35H2L00/WN_DQwUs54I/AAAAAAAAjhg/M8hIz1UvbYU/DSC08136-600x800_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2VsqT2VKeT8/WN_DUOgGdhI/AAAAAAAAjhk/EDEsHDLiYqY/s1600-h/DSC01570-585x8003.jpg"><img title="DSC01570 (585x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC01570 (585x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TS4JGWFsun8/WN_DXxOBF_I/AAAAAAAAjho/SnrjyrYmIsY/DSC01570-585x800_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="180" height="244"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9sM8DDYNkQQ/WN_DbFYoSWI/AAAAAAAAjhs/pynJ4U3cBDY/s1600-h/DSC01580-800x6005.jpg"><img title="DSC01580 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC01580 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GN_SKhN8Ar8/WN_DfAbgc9I/AAAAAAAAjhw/UwYdyEAVaF8/DSC01580-800x600_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="279" height="210"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR8u_y_z02Tygn7xLlsFrtofLz4R17M-OkDlLVq0YKZfQr8QBlQBhiqEyhJok8m5WI33rF5NTVsJWT9Fywyzk05uy_NxhshYcPkfEBQZ_EoNXcfjcRY67Zldr9ycpdgVCvr_YzOrZtes4/s1600-h/DSC01584-800x6004.jpg"><img title="DSC01584 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC01584 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VMmSAN3KA1Q/WN_DmxraguI/AAAAAAAAjh4/K2bYZSozygI/DSC01584-800x600_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="286" height="216"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zniDKcU8oXk/WN_DqqBzB8I/AAAAAAAAjh8/WrouuZJhM4s/s1600-h/DSC01587-600x8004.jpg"><img title="DSC01587 (600x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC01587 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xRV8Ua0Yar0/WN_Dwtiu7XI/AAAAAAAAjiA/4jZ53gUQHes/DSC01587-600x800_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="205" height="272"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9nasU0M1TS8/WN_D0Zm-omI/AAAAAAAAjiE/utVfW6jyKuY/s1600-h/DSC01590-800x5965.jpg"><img title="DSC01590 (800x596)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC01590 (800x596)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-i_qtqZj_Ehg/WN_D4H-gypI/AAAAAAAAjiI/jZtim0bjiis/DSC01590-800x596_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="357" height="268"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ykWHnbKLoqM/WN_D8z9_D7I/AAAAAAAAjiM/aXDIXX0qdNQ/s1600-h/DSC01592-800x5854.jpg"><img title="DSC01592 (800x585)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC01592 (800x585)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NlYaGX0sHKM/WN_EAUq_I6I/AAAAAAAAjiQ/B3Tgb3gHMX4/DSC01592-800x585_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="281" height="207"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4fri08Ut_No/WN_ED9bp94I/AAAAAAAAjiU/i6T3kgbZ2Lk/s1600-h/DSC01822-800x600.jpg"><img title="DSC01822 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC01822 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_groTQ45ibA/WN_EId5BwaI/AAAAAAAAjiY/ncXACT_ntKc/DSC01822-800x600_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="280" height="211"></a></p> <p>The afternoon sky was magnificent, providing a beautiful frame for the majestic pink sandstone – and highlighting a Bedouin tent on top of the cliffs. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-n5bO1OR9O1M/WN_EMephweI/AAAAAAAAjic/aNPMYrlJ8Sg/s1600-h/DSC01637-800x6003.jpg"><img title="DSC01637 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC01637 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oOcc4P1wYYY/WN_EQPFMG4I/AAAAAAAAjig/a3Y08bKZmVA/DSC01637-800x600_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p>What a lovely sight!</p>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14089147397708468584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5244596902453348211.post-82327464716423865722017-03-30T16:03:00.001-07:002017-03-30T16:03:24.246-07:00… to Muscat, in the Sultanate of Oman …<p>… a prosperous, modern Muslim country with an average income of $44,000. The rate of exchange was US$.38 to 1 Omani rial, the first time on this trip the conversion went the other way, with prices nearly tripled in US dollars. Muscat was mostly built after 1970, so almost everything is new. Unlike other cities, there are no skyscrapers – by design. New building is strictly regulated; no buildings can be more than eight stories high, and the only colors permitted are white and cream! The current Sultan, who deposed his father after getting a college education, is revered by the country because he brought prosperity and modernization to the population of 2.5 million. The country is home to about 600,000 foreign workers, and English was widely spoken, at least in Muscat by the mostly-Indian vendors. </p> <p>Because of the delays and difficulties of our berth in Mumbai, the Captain arranged for us to arrive in Muscat the evening before we were due to dock, giving us an extra evening to spend at the local souq or bazaar. The ship ran a shuttle to Mutrah Souq, and the head start put everyone in a good mood. Here, with Frank’s friend Andy, cozy on the jumpseat in the bus. Visitors to Muscat are greeted by the incense burner, surrounded by old forts, next to an amusement park. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7oXHZ4KJFF8/WN2NEJudamI/AAAAAAAAjeI/sv8sTrzqKQA/s1600-h/20170321_181053-800x6004.jpg"><img title="20170321_181053 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="20170321_181053 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-t-e1MjRY08k/WN2NICAv-8I/AAAAAAAAjeM/PnOG0qrxfxg/20170321_181053-800x600_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="279" height="210"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-n8Xc3fgOrD8/WN2NL59Ig2I/AAAAAAAAjeQ/snwJKb3u8tg/s1600-h/DSC00290-800x6004.jpg"><img title="DSC00290 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC00290 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BSAp9av9e-Y/WN2NPkdSkqI/AAAAAAAAjeU/qfEnESdiBYw/DSC00290-800x600_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="274" height="206"></a></p> <p>Oman is known for frankincense and myrrh, and the souq was filled with stalls selling incense and burners. Silk scarves, hanging glass lamps, old silver, and the Omani symbol, a short, curved dagger, were everywhere. Mutrah Souq, unlike the bazaar in Istanbul, is very walkable, clean and well laid out, while still feeling like an authentic market, with winding paths and tiny alleys. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6E4iUlQ9ACk/WN2NTDqJLPI/AAAAAAAAjeY/SB9sTPLdWaE/s1600-h/DSC00365-800x5965.jpg"><img title="DSC00365 (800x596)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC00365 (800x596)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-m6hSdQJqclw/WN2NW2aaOmI/AAAAAAAAjec/fyjFyByzZG8/DSC00365-800x596_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="350" height="262"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-D4z0kTkSry8/WN2Namw1OII/AAAAAAAAjeg/KOqY8Dry3_E/s1600-h/DSC00372-621x8004.jpg"><img title="DSC00372 (621x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC00372 (621x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KD6bSTLqj9g/WN2NeFmx26I/AAAAAAAAjek/jb_DIR2w3Gg/DSC00372-621x800_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="199" height="256"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-q_R-29UwxCE/WN2NinBrfBI/AAAAAAAAjeo/CPwBhmzNMro/s1600-h/DSC00369-600x8004.jpg"><img title="DSC00369 (600x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC00369 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZT_8Cy2NJyE/WN2Nl_DE55I/AAAAAAAAjes/hPTJwEkz3ak/DSC00369-600x800_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="197" height="261"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rgecNOcgUe8/WN2Np7OWw_I/AAAAAAAAjew/v-u2wrRcbNo/s1600-h/DSC00366-800x6005.jpg"><img title="DSC00366 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC00366 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bWIPYxzEsvw/WN2NtvjXVGI/AAAAAAAAje0/lfnKAG26DR4/DSC00366-800x600_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="349" height="262"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pu9ZtMmxCTw/WN2NxK0yVlI/AAAAAAAAje4/flxVkMihhuY/s1600-h/DSC00383-800x6006.jpg"><img title="DSC00383 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC00383 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kPdIUh6m330/WN2N089QmKI/AAAAAAAAje8/TnUNZw8PuTU/DSC00383-800x600_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="343" height="259"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uN-OLpmHki4/WN2N4ODn5qI/AAAAAAAAjfA/M9nEPzGMvRI/s1600-h/20170322_130131-600x8004.jpg"><img title="20170322_130131 (600x800)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="20170322_130131 (600x800)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-awhMCPoDWY4/WN2N7th1hhI/AAAAAAAAjfE/S05TdKAZJtM/20170322_130131-600x800_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="191" height="253"></a></p> <p>We had a blast until promptly at 9 PM, the vendors began a mad rush to close up. As we left the souq for the short ride to the ship, the skies opened and it began to pour, raining steadily for the next few hours – in dry Oman! </p> <p>The next day we took a hop-on, hop-off bus tour of Muscat. Oman’s coastal area is filled with rocky hills, and the countries who ruled at various times built forts seemingly on every hill. The two large ships in the harbor belong to the Sultan; the smaller ship is just a supply ship for the larger one! We stopped in front of the Sultan’s palace for photos, and drove around one of the large forts; neither were open to tourists. Along the way, we passed many beautiful mosques. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Q00fit2EjKA/WN2N_LCOqkI/AAAAAAAAjfI/hAm87EV-vk0/s1600-h/DSC00522-800x6005.jpg"><img title="DSC00522 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC00522 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-on91O39T1K4/WN2OCroo85I/AAAAAAAAjfM/D6-yiFn5gTc/DSC00522-800x600_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="286" height="215"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-s7flX2XT08E/WN2OGXO0I1I/AAAAAAAAjfQ/LrCZlg8NEWg/s1600-h/DSC00515-800x5925.jpg"><img title="DSC00515 (800x592)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC00515 (800x592)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XHCqTEZuO_Q/WN2OJ0rbONI/AAAAAAAAjfU/8JS1Ax6yKY8/DSC00515-800x592_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="290" height="217"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--fsKS_dGCqw/WN2ON05KsPI/AAAAAAAAjfY/dguyJ_booL8/s1600-h/DSC00495-800x5426.jpg"><img title="DSC00495 (800x542)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC00495 (800x542)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2VpkR9WWjQ0/WN2ORR23ENI/AAAAAAAAjfc/cFtgKUVkwKk/DSC00495-800x542_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="291" height="199"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5XXfTxp8sRI/WN2OUhYN_9I/AAAAAAAAjfg/YHi2g3YNqGE/s1600-h/DSC00794-800x5966.jpg"><img title="DSC00794 (800x596)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC00794 (800x596)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Ix9F6auXfLc/WN2OYZVv7VI/AAAAAAAAjfk/C5aizbWqpwM/DSC00794-800x596_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="277" height="208"></a> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0eBm1m3KBgQ/WN2OcPFM0hI/AAAAAAAAjfo/jqSr6pJkqvo/s1600-h/DSC00822-800x6004.jpg"><img title="DSC00822 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC00822 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Wv25z7WZgKg/WN2OfnjgiDI/AAAAAAAAjfs/_-FdQynVDW8/DSC00822-800x600_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="288" height="217"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pjYUDCfcfGQ/WN2OjtYrR2I/AAAAAAAAjfw/WG-yIQ7tzFU/s1600-h/DSC00862-800x5924.jpg"><img title="DSC00862 (800x592)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC00862 (800x592)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-M92jyfQQmTo/WN2OnC9QlTI/AAAAAAAAjf0/nVaim0LHaNk/DSC00862-800x592_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="286" height="213"></a></p> <p>We ended the day back at the souq, and this time explored some of the back alleys. We happened on the street supplying Muslim dresses, many of which were elegant and beautiful. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3xZjM2djm4k/WN2OqnnWFmI/AAAAAAAAjf4/YWYqQ3XQ5BM/s1600-h/DSC00922-800x6004.jpg"><img title="DSC00922 (800x600)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC00922 (800x600)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-v_qgUQFjIbU/WN2OuH2Rs4I/AAAAAAAAjf8/mFGQaKZOvPU/DSC00922-800x600_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="322" height="242"></a></p> <p>Oman provided a glimpse into an interesting and unfamiliar world! </p>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14089147397708468584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5244596902453348211.post-46301012956089442692017-03-27T15:04:00.001-07:002017-03-27T15:04:55.248-07:00… to Mumbai, part deux …<p>… to explore the lesser known sights. After seeing the Gateway to India again, we got the chance to explore the sumptuous Taj Mahal Hotel. After some quick pics of the towering lobby flower arrangements, and the lobby waterfall, we wandered down the corridor to the shops, just opening up for the day. The gleam of the jewelry in the shop windows was blinding! </p> <p> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-57GWCtAmMYA/WNmLE4b2rII/AAAAAAAAjZY/w9z2DWBw8yw/s1600-h/20170319_10163612.jpg"><img title="20170319_101636" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="20170319_101636" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-f3-y18P-h4U/WNmLIkAV-3I/AAAAAAAAjZc/7ZM63Oc7CUE/20170319_1016361_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="132" height="231"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-y3mR5RPT5-4/WNmLMaNrW-I/AAAAAAAAjZg/gQtUXvspe30/s1600-h/20170319_0952588.jpg"><img title="20170319_095258" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="20170319_095258" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_-4oJhUluvs/WNmLSzUIeLI/AAAAAAAAjZk/loflUSIuHM4/20170319_095258_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="401" height="228"></a></p> <p> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fa4Sy8wGH3o/WNmLXDJRyXI/AAAAAAAAjZo/vtsYxFaC2QU/s1600-h/20170319_1022405.jpg"><img title="20170319_102240" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="20170319_102240" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BWDDai-zIHo/WNmLaqBU0LI/AAAAAAAAjZs/tkKJcPA9-HM/20170319_102240_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="124" height="224"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-L0FYPGcIbyQ/WNmLd5FpQcI/AAAAAAAAjZw/BFAFv6NnTsY/s1600-h/20170319_1033384.jpg"><img title="20170319_103338" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="20170319_103338" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MBN_qKXhh58/WNmLheXqCnI/AAAAAAAAjZ0/WRO0Z5ZW6EE/20170319_103338_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="122" height="220"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-z4rQq3DQomc/WNmLk_2mXfI/AAAAAAAAjZ4/CElkUvKaO-E/s1600-h/20170319_1018024.jpg"><img title="20170319_101802" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="20170319_101802" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LI5Q4dBYpCY/WNmLoV01EII/AAAAAAAAjZ8/0A7gLL2YFyA/20170319_101802_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="286" height="216"></a></p> <p>We had free time to shop in the “CIE” stores, government-run shops selling high-priced artisanal products. We set our sights instead on finding a tiffin (lunch box). The guide steered us to a grocer in the Majestic Hotel. Off we went, with no idea of how far the hotel was. Block after block - still no hotel. Thinking we missed it, we asked directions; it was in the next block. The hotel was no longer majestic, and the grocery store nowhere in sight. A street vendor kindly pointed out the entrance, through the arch, hidden under a tarp. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-83m9DjoZfLk/WNmLs-stviI/AAAAAAAAjaA/cKJ5-dpccEE/s1600-h/20170319_1239476.jpg"><img title="20170319_123947" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="20170319_123947" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-J5aX6jBLf8w/WNmLwZV6lcI/AAAAAAAAjaE/wsWPWMyD-rk/20170319_123947_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="208" height="365"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Gdwn_gJGtog/WNmLzRtrpgI/AAAAAAAAjaI/KfOm61MKuq8/s1600-h/20170319_1239174.jpg"><img title="20170319_123917" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="20170319_123917" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cS1W4svkH_s/WNmL3CNh01I/AAAAAAAAjaM/KrtrSmg0jWw/20170319_123917_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="208" height="367"></a> </p> <p>The tiffin selection was overwhelming – what to choose when there were so many sizes and shapes? We took the two smallest sizes, admiring the exotic groceries – and Gandhi presiding over the snacks! </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5-YhIRkW4Js/WNmL6m3vR5I/AAAAAAAAjaQ/vQ7U4Z6YvS0/s1600-h/20170319_1104385.jpg"><img title="20170319_110438" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="20170319_110438" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ofC_UeYUcbA/WNmL-BCY7eI/AAAAAAAAjaU/qrXOUTNVUno/20170319_110438_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="300" height="179"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3jw6tm0Hq9U/WNmMBzauwDI/AAAAAAAAjaY/ujZYSF2zFCs/s1600-h/20170319_1104305.jpg"><img title="20170319_110430" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="20170319_110430" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7F_E8O1rp_g/WNmMFlaYBZI/AAAAAAAAjac/6lEtBfOsFCw/20170319_110430_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="246" height="183"></a></p> <p>On the walk back, we snapped some quick pics. Imagine being the manager of a McDonald’s in India where it is illegal to kill a cow … what are your alternatives? Cheese and corn, anyone? … The friendly pan vendor offered us a taste. Or how about some Happy Corn? </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT7vJs5qiSKJAL5Tphy7DSX5GicyOXX0dVoT9mjQ0xQLYTwPiZKqBrQ8l8s2C77V2DEaPfQmfmMZ2tcUs9kREeWH3gztPzj5fuFq0YAuu1Yg6HXNI8s3qL3xhoq7rzMwn6uTGx78IK6tY/s1600-h/20170319_1119534.jpg"><img title="20170319_111953" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="20170319_111953" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--_A-10vf-go/WNmMM8TYiCI/AAAAAAAAjak/TDqbAEJscFM/20170319_111953_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="177" height="287"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WP_f2Acxenk/WNmMQfNtKWI/AAAAAAAAjao/IpsYC4TnXCE/s1600-h/20170319_1135014.jpg"><img title="20170319_113501" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="20170319_113501" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BvGSglEOmvM/WNmMTdirZ3I/AAAAAAAAjas/XHWAWDjRpDM/20170319_113501_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="169" height="297"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-o1Nf-0ES-i4/WNmMWm3YSvI/AAAAAAAAjaw/QFb-p6dIAG4/s1600-h/20170319_1119194.jpg"><img title="20170319_111919" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="20170319_111919" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZGp4P2Hvm0k/WNmMZ_hS8LI/AAAAAAAAja0/NIDtHrgmv9w/20170319_111919_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="189" height="298"></a></p> <p>And one final note for future visitors …</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-afx2_JQbrEE/WNmMdS8ExkI/AAAAAAAAja4/y72wkIMuR_0/s1600-h/20170319_1217303.jpg"><img title="20170319_121730" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="20170319_121730" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-m8fQWfYVZUs/WNmMg8mTikI/AAAAAAAAja8/XWbcNFASGbY/20170319_121730_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="220"></a></p> <p>What a city! </p>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14089147397708468584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5244596902453348211.post-80632625597641378402017-03-26T13:33:00.001-07:002017-03-26T13:33:21.503-07:00… exotic and mystical Mumbai …<p>… for an overnight stay in this city of 25 million souls, 55% of whom live in the slums. We had a bad container port berth, delaying the immigration process for several hours, with everyone still on board until almost noon. We started at the Gateway to India, a large arch to welcome visitors to the city. Across the street is the fabled Taj Mahal Hotel. We were swarmed at the Gateway by young men wanting to take our photo and print it out on the spot – on battery operated printers they carried with them. We had to see it in action! Driving through Mumbai is a mix of new and old, rich and poor. Grand old British buildings shine, still a big part of Mumbai’s appeal. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nCDz4utMk-E/WNgfbKwxQdI/AAAAAAAAjVQ/XepUUkynz9A/s1600-h/DSC09731%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC09731" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC09731" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XPM_qM4VuTk/WNgfgiilVMI/AAAAAAAAjVU/tBv-kEMNrLY/DSC09731_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="277" height="208"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yZxAd3QAAQc/WNgfm0e7ckI/AAAAAAAAjVY/odfk1FCIknI/s1600-h/DSC09732.jpg"><img title="DSC09732" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC09732" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wOuKuMxrrOI/WNgftz4DFII/AAAAAAAAjVc/9C7o31ffFww/DSC09732_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="289" height="213"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qh8M0nwMkVo/WNgfxzLUlBI/AAAAAAAAjVg/ObbpDvYKOW4/s1600-h/DSC09736%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC09736" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC09736" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jTC3pNVPCSE/WNgf15kh0SI/AAAAAAAAjVk/xb_LVCIQimc/DSC09736_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="190" height="252"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Hjz9djSyEWM/WNgf9xQ1Q4I/AAAAAAAAjVo/a4Zl-D-himM/s1600-h/DSC09740%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC09740" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC09740" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bJZtR1T_B4w/WNggDnXAxzI/AAAAAAAAjVs/zfSTV_KqgjQ/DSC09740_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="189" height="252"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLNOX0g71GAk8e3FugKwUClrcK64AGpsaBkagv28RjUIXcEIY6zwapZIJRWJzgrFHQXAgZqpU5sWhrrcsRhOVGWdhyjib_x3EAEG1H6vGNlfjUp8n77Fuv4TzxkbI-28xqfCpNkyEmZA4/s1600-h/DSC09752%252520%2525282%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC09752 (2)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC09752 (2)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UG3Gh65-RCs/WNggMaKp5kI/AAAAAAAAjV0/TEfhkEqqfFc/DSC09752%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="167" height="250"></a></p> <p>We stopped for photos at the majestic Victoria Station, and saw one street corner with mounds of used textbooks, provided for poor students to use. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-b2Q1isiSmiI/WNggRA7UYUI/AAAAAAAAjV4/tSrVldxo80c/s1600-h/DSC09818.jpg"><img title="DSC09818" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC09818" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OBuS5l3Mzwk/WNggVv1R3aI/AAAAAAAAjV8/pGJeYsFTl6E/DSC09818_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="278" height="208"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qM4MmKjG79Y/WNgggU0zcBI/AAAAAAAAjWA/EeFhD2AeQNQ/s1600-h/DSC09794.jpg"><img title="DSC09794" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC09794" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oNm8k4K7YIs/WNgg1ZXnwuI/AAAAAAAAjWE/6V49Su_HFpc/DSC09794_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="270" height="204"></a></p> <p>We got off the bus at the Churchill Train Station. Here we were lucky to see two dabba-wallas, the intrepid men who carry lunches from homes to offices for 200,000 people a day, returning with the empty tiffins, or lunch pails, each marked with an inscrutable code that ensures it’s delivered to the proper owner. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oY87A8kjqLg/WNghdY7SFiI/AAAAAAAAjWI/cesA-87pT9A/s1600-h/DSC09862.jpg"><img title="DSC09862" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC09862" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KW3h3XlUYnI/WNgh5kWZnTI/AAAAAAAAjWM/GD6O3BrABcE/DSC09862_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="274" height="212"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-T2ce5z6L4kI/WNgifNyHfDI/AAAAAAAAjWQ/YIWDlNxRnnU/s1600-h/DSC09865.jpg"><img title="DSC09865" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC09865" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LcCi_m3hutg/WNgi0R0c13I/AAAAAAAAjWU/3e2VTvGAKrY/DSC09865_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="282" height="212"></a></p> <p>We boarded a local train (not rush hour!), riding it to the Mahalakshmi Station for a view of the Dhobi Ghat – the place where laundry has been done for a hundred+ years in Mumbai. Seeing clean laundry flapping on hundreds of twisted lines was an amazing experience. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5s6l5Qsxa5w/WNgjarv_4EI/AAAAAAAAjWY/RTw1RZsqs8o/s1600-h/DSC09874.jpg"><img title="DSC09874" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC09874" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7AqGFzm0fDs/WNgjuS4mAjI/AAAAAAAAjWc/5KJuKVGbOMc/DSC09874_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="281" height="212"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lqzN9D1yhOM/WNgj1JXMqWI/AAAAAAAAjWg/s4R-CqT0aFY/s1600-h/DSC09880.jpg"><img title="DSC09880" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC09880" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--cErP-1L0ak/WNgj6fLVygI/AAAAAAAAjWk/baxtbjAZDEI/DSC09880_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="284" height="214"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OxLUTbQhjTE/WNgkhW_RAFI/AAAAAAAAjWo/3q05mr_YfhE/s1600-h/DSC099073.jpg"><img title="DSC09907" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC09907" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-81pznr7rL5w/WNgkta1biNI/AAAAAAAAjWw/gyx8vQL8Wb8/DSC09907_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hJd_p2164kM/WNgkxk95d7I/AAAAAAAAjW0/b5gDresdxCA/s1600-h/DSC09911%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC09911" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC09911" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qB_30eOLjy0/WNgk5Vg--9I/AAAAAAAAjW4/MtdCZJxCmLw/DSC09911_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="320" height="182"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jiJDcVly2_Q/WNgk-6VrBWI/AAAAAAAAjW8/02PMmKdSilo/s1600-h/DSC09913.jpg"><img title="DSC09913" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC09913" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Zpe31IP7KE8/WNglDiNLGyI/AAAAAAAAjXA/RzNsN1kSlxg/DSC09913_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="276" height="208"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_7p9_7LJFKg/WNglIKra1LI/AAAAAAAAjXE/pziGmSCQV3w/s1600-h/DSC09921%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC09921" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC09921" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Dix0iAVowVE/WNglMxH77_I/AAAAAAAAjXI/OqBRQta7O68/DSC09921_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="275" height="207"></a></p> <p>Our tour ended with a visit to Gandhi’s Mumbai house, now a museum, home to a large set of dioramas chronicling Gandhi’s life. It was very touching to see first-hand his simple room. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JWX5Z517jhQ/WNglRafakgI/AAAAAAAAjXM/QEdMiUTSfLo/s1600-h/DSC09993%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC09993" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC09993" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iV3qQkalZLI/WNglVUmeRhI/AAAAAAAAjXQ/1nWUiDYspOc/DSC09993_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="193" height="256"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BJn5UuwA-eI/WNglbaPhi-I/AAAAAAAAjXU/vfZragjXfBM/s1600-h/DSC00021.jpg"><img title="DSC00021" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC00021" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-L7tqS_ZK_HY/WNgli0m0B-I/AAAAAAAAjXY/qbBze0Obr5M/DSC00021_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="345" height="260"></a> </p> <p>It was a very good day! </p>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14089147397708468584noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5244596902453348211.post-34207800432420483542017-03-25T09:49:00.001-07:002017-03-25T09:49:02.915-07:00… Colombo, Sri Lanka …<p>… for one of our most unusual adventures: a brisk walking tour through the old part of Colombo on a meltingly hot 95 degree day. Our guide was Mark Forbes, a Sri Lankan photographer and author who loves his city. The bus dropped us at Pettah Market, an incredible mix of sights, sounds, and smells. Mark warned us before leaving the bus that if we heard “side, side, side!” we should immediately head out of the way because it meant a heavily laden porter was coming through with limited sightlines and no brakes! Far from an occasional occurrence, it happened constantly, so we dodged potholes, rubble, and curbstones to dive toward self-preservation. A single porter can move nearly a ton! </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NYYn4mTwc6c/WNadd59lrOI/AAAAAAAAjP8/OHeIBuHa_Ww/s1600-h/DSC09231%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC09231" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC09231" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HY5nwPeFHy0/WNadl4DT0cI/AAAAAAAAjQA/DZmjSDsYNK4/DSC09231_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="282" height="213"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2isE9i0Yj8s/WNadqKKm2kI/AAAAAAAAjQE/xUbpMMia1LY/s1600-h/DSC09239%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC09239" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC09239" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Ppd7cmtctt0/WNadtrxogoI/AAAAAAAAjQI/oonyWP6kW6E/DSC09239_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="287" height="217"></a></p> <p>Pettah Market has four cross streets, each selling something different: vegetables, spices, textiles, and artificial flowers. The vegetable market’s greens, purples and oranges gave way to tiny spice stalls, and then a profusion of silks, cottons, and lace. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VNSkxNp73P4/WNadxQpmYxI/AAAAAAAAjQM/2qcA1wH6FAc/s1600-h/DSC09270%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC09270" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC09270" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-D66fC7QnHis/WNad1XudSqI/AAAAAAAAjQQ/mb8IoJlPFwU/DSC09270_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="338" height="255"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fl-K3nEGE0w/WNad4j732zI/AAAAAAAAjQU/4WQjrvfBJ88/s1600-h/DSC09283%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC09283" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC09283" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ULewIk6_3eE/WNad8irC7FI/AAAAAAAAjQY/x3LXxw3H4gQ/DSC09283_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-l7JJCwiCgl0/WNad_-apAKI/AAAAAAAAjQc/uKf38kHz_ug/s1600-h/DSC09269%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC09269" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC09269" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OscH4mxg0aw/WNaeEFnijsI/AAAAAAAAjQg/Cy2nkLH-7nM/DSC09269_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jfI_J-zvbL8/WNaeH4dSlcI/AAAAAAAAjQk/cj1a82A6lqw/s1600-h/DSC09278%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC09278" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC09278" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-788cAbdAdQA/WNaeMI9kqqI/AAAAAAAAjQo/QyMmb3mrNUY/DSC09278_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="342" height="239"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sG3LQbqEmbY/WNaeP4OelZI/AAAAAAAAjQs/8e6Z_Q39G-I/s1600-h/DSC09298%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC09298" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC09298" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-We8C6WJSEPM/WNaeUhOHHkI/AAAAAAAAjQw/2ngVcS8BYZo/DSC09298_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="262" height="198"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-49uxMi6FyRw/WNaeZdErtvI/AAAAAAAAjQ0/ERhMT1eqiRg/s1600-h/DSC09299%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC09299" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC09299" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KOsoZ2WUGjc/WNaeeSn1CmI/AAAAAAAAjQ4/rWwi63ji7cM/DSC09299_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="273" height="206"></a> </p> <p>We walked past Colombo’s striking red and white mosque with its fanciful turrets, then stopped at a Hindu temple.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sPca_MZgN6E/WNaeighSRPI/AAAAAAAAjQ8/8DTCKaxgNts/s1600-h/DSC09355%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC09355" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC09355" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hZbu7137N4w/WNaeo7hGcWI/AAAAAAAAjRA/R8faJMb1xkI/DSC09355_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="177" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FBo_zO1bMps/WNaestdw_-I/AAAAAAAAjRE/RJfyjmX-E8I/s1600-h/DSC09358%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC09358" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC09358" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Rb9zwuYDGeY/WNaev2dYQkI/AAAAAAAAjRI/pJo-SV1NifM/DSC09358_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SnWAnmkSJwk/WNae0Nihw9I/AAAAAAAAjRM/ZzrgNO5PS94/s1600-h/DSC09415%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC09415" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC09415" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hZLj2DyyYZM/WNae5yY76YI/AAAAAAAAjRQ/tIkvcmwgXmg/DSC09415_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a></p> <p>Sensing that we were fading, Mark bought us fresh coconuts – warm but refreshing. Mark explained that Colombo was caught in the country’s civil war, which ended only in 2009; the city was targeted by terrorist attacks for several years after that. Only in the last few years has it begun rebuilding, restoring the historic buildings which remain. We stopped at the Grand Oriental Hotel, where once resumes and bank balances were required to get a room; they fed us cookies and tea, no references needed. The balcony provided a great view of the Amsterdam in the port!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-B_EUl9m8ql0/WNae9rYTkBI/AAAAAAAAjRU/e-vRvOOv6rA/s1600-h/DSC09397%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC09397" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC09397" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-K3tv_4sBPcA/WNafBvmzLiI/AAAAAAAAjRY/kqdlupU2YSw/DSC09397_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="193" height="262"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Rc8S_5hR0gA/WNafFqB3_sI/AAAAAAAAjRc/tyhfTGXGYd4/s1600-h/DSC09409%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC09409" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC09409" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tCBAxKlbhbU/WNafMAbKDlI/AAAAAAAAjRg/i2I6GX4yIA4/DSC09409_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="350" height="259"></a></p> <p>The tour continued with the historic Cargill’s Department Store, which may become a new Raffles Hotel; the Colombo clock tower and original lighthouse; and the Old Dutch Hospital, now a collection of upscale restaurants, shops and a spa. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Fzw3O2z9rSA/WNafQ1_svNI/AAAAAAAAjRk/G2j2uvm6vZw/s1600-h/DSC09427%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC09427" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC09427" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-U68aROOZ0iM/WNafVcApyoI/AAAAAAAAjRo/bRX6s4rdvqg/DSC09427_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="373" height="243"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9djhF0JDCr0/WNafauM9rZI/AAAAAAAAjRs/mvaVeir_CY0/s1600-h/DSC09478%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC09478" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC09478" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-a96sxrbFDSg/WNafenPj4eI/AAAAAAAAjRw/IXhtyBR8cyA/DSC09478_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="173" height="244"></a></p> <p>We hope for a bright future for Colombo and Sri Lanka!</p>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14089147397708468584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5244596902453348211.post-14194814943142327032017-03-21T12:45:00.001-07:002017-03-21T12:45:04.308-07:00… to Kuala Lumpur …<p>… also known as KL. The capital of Malaysia, KL is bursting at the seams, a blend of old British colonialism and modern technology. The country is ruled by a rotating group of Sultans; each rules for five years before the next Sultan’s turn. The country’s main export used to be tin; however, the tin mines are now mostly closed, and the land used for new towns and cities. Malaysia has a “My Second Home” project, which encourages foreigners to buy property under very favorable terms, contributing to a building boom. But it’s hot and humid year round …</p> <p>Our first stop was the new King’s Palace, an ornate structure, guarded by mounted horsemen with unfazeable horses! The timing was perfect to see the changing of the guard. Independence Square with its huge flagpole commemorates the fight for independence – and is a cricket field!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Bte61ISSrd0/WNGAoZUjvxI/AAAAAAAAjM8/zdVAW7mbsbs/s1600-h/DSC086231.jpg"><img title="DSC08623" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC08623" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5fTVB6iPFdQIHykljFDbvIrI4nxgSE3kbNO_yQIJzZ3EPRFh6MRcmk15jIacaoTdis0jJQ-LSAx4W2GIGauP15JrtKdrouGVWO3qr3U0ExAOxbFwGPHH4u6j8sdhFyTnws1_LXP1v1W4/?imgmax=800" width="352" height="265"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bXReUfNUKoA/WNGAxId6YUI/AAAAAAAAjNE/Gj_4YGrU4H8/s1600-h/DSC086314.jpg"><img title="DSC08631" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC08631" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AZJ6T_itX74/WNGA08UTZlI/AAAAAAAAjNI/3H3KyotU3nw/DSC08631_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="162" height="264"></a> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KccQLBfNy3Q/WNGA4SzLMBI/AAAAAAAAjNM/pgiYMtvYazU/s1600-h/DSC073584.jpg"><img title="DSC07358" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiml5TTw3OPJPmBtgvBMhnPe7UAOlPaLmnCy881HJm4iehnrb3vvKu_Mua24hI6sk43LTYP0eTRmlQcbDcOS-aajHsgifac6FWFBmSNmNupMQV702LzhmIWKFWgSCLc-sAjnxtR5PtuDbE/?imgmax=800" width="321" height="242"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-v0h48lFypH4/WNGA-y7VeII/AAAAAAAAjNU/6JntEktbw-Q/s1600-h/DSC086835.jpg"><img title="DSC08683" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC08683" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KYTp02LPAvs/WNGBCMAzg1I/AAAAAAAAjNY/vWPB7Cj_PGI/DSC08683_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="178" height="245"></a> </p> <p>A brisk walking tour took us through Jalan Petaling, a busy and crowded street market. It was morning, and vendors were setting up shop when we arrived.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-N8yY2epd5zE/WNGBGIGsesI/AAAAAAAAjNc/O59UJjb4wAw/s1600-h/DSC087474.jpg"><img title="DSC08747" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC08747" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-al0ZMVUbNRg/WNGBKEua8vI/AAAAAAAAjNg/DiYqCaWfDSs/DSC08747_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="339" height="255"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mu9FWCdxU5U/WNGBNsTdWwI/AAAAAAAAjNk/jnsneNqrKWg/s1600-h/DSC087604.jpg"><img title="DSC08760" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC08760" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-O5xoMcz7FEk/WNGBRcUv7vI/AAAAAAAAjNo/Nt38XDx4umo/DSC08760_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="208" height="259"></a></p> <p>We passed a Chinese temple, and stopped at a Hindu temple. As luck would have it, a Hindu procession passed us as we left. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-87zY1iWJu9U/WNGBWnkuliI/AAAAAAAAjNs/6zaLUOK24zo/s1600-h/DSC088226.jpg"><img title="DSC08822" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC08822" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HuKsFHFKMbs/WNGBaf51xYI/AAAAAAAAjNw/UqddfqQzx1A/DSC08822_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="387" height="291"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SYj6ci_p8Ls/WNGBdhz7LHI/AAAAAAAAjN0/lWdKT1MZtP0/s1600-h/DSC087794.jpg"><img title="DSC08779" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC08779" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5XKQrE16y7s/WNGBhUvNcEI/AAAAAAAAjN4/0_dnXvggR-g/DSC08779_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="177" height="303"></a> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nzo-Hfu1Z8s/WNGBnQWocUI/AAAAAAAAjN8/P_RC3ZDbe0s/s1600-h/DSC087926.jpg"><img title="DSC08792" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC08792" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xpOtw7I2tIU/WNGBrKxW5-I/AAAAAAAAjOA/ayWNqyKvuJI/DSC08792_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="353" height="262"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EzL0rgeX-2I/WNGBv5X1gSI/AAAAAAAAjOE/TfWW6Yht-pQ/s1600-h/DSC088265.jpg"><img title="DSC08826" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC08826" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-K6KDT7wkVhU/WNGB0bPfn0I/AAAAAAAAjOI/qjryhvsTOYc/DSC08826_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="197" height="261"></a></p> <p>We stopped at Sin Sze Si Ya Temple, the oldest Chinese temple in Kuala Lumpur. Burning incense is important to the faith, and temple workers busily rolled incense packets for the faithful. Looked like they already had more than enough …</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TJjll-Xypbk/WNGB6vgyl6I/AAAAAAAAjOM/pW7rj6RjVWk/s1600-h/DSC088445.jpg"><img title="DSC08844" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC08844" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-k4nwx1YMkvk/WNGB-XhyDaI/AAAAAAAAjOQ/hiS5gqoZyZo/DSC08844_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="358" height="269"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aQ_CWm0d-Gk/WNGCCNbPJBI/AAAAAAAAjOU/FCD-uI9iLnI/s1600-h/DSC088504.jpg"><img title="DSC08850" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC08850" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9CXYmBUV41g/WNGCG-8afZI/AAAAAAAAjOY/fB5XsbVB5mI/DSC08850_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="203" height="269"></a> </p> <p>Indoor, air-conditioned Central Market was next. It was about 95 degrees and 95% humidity outside, so this was a really welcome respite. And I learned how to use my singing bowls for space clearing … </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xZ7Dz2VgtFg/WNGCKZ8QXkI/AAAAAAAAjOc/F2CS9eFKTYE/s1600-h/DSC088744.jpg"><img title="DSC08874" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC08874" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Nck8HdKNeD0/WNGCOBJ3F7I/AAAAAAAAjOg/zroV4r78Ukk/DSC08874_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="308" height="232"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wcxNTkiV_AI/WNGCR_ChLDI/AAAAAAAAjOk/mJf9Q2jmF38/s1600-h/DSC088773.jpg"><img title="DSC08877" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC08877" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dQUNnid74-I/WNGCVoSg96I/AAAAAAAAjOo/C3A9YpSAl7E/DSC08877_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="233"></a></p> <p>Now mid-afternoon, the bus dropped us famished sightseers at Traders Hotel, near the iconic Petronas Tower. After a few pictures, we consumed a Malaysian buffet lunch with gusto! The yellow watermelon was fabulous!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QMrg3-fgxO4/WNGCZdzSH_I/AAAAAAAAjOs/-tEDN5iVuTM/s1600-h/DSC074374.jpg"><img title="DSC07437" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07437" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Dy_w0tpjsXE/WNGCcws8t8I/AAAAAAAAjOw/pxEo5SJcEPI/DSC07437_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="196" height="260"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHlCzVQUsQ5VULioHL7GzmoEqRsTwAUCNxJEmY5SucY6IA5ooLa0sirortjCSWBda6kTbX10fzlL0f2nkuH64k0BL43M7lFCXKn8lK6U5xvn-XPGStlUU9DB4XtW8HJRysEI-XxS0RR3w/s1600-h/DSC089327.jpg"><img title="DSC08932" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC08932" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2dVFh8At3Ok/WNGCoLCYyOI/AAAAAAAAjO4/3eeacRadhxI/DSC08932_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="341" height="257"></a> </p> <p>The final stop was the Selangor Pewter Factory, where we watched a woman rhythmically tap twice in each spot and then rotate the cup, to produce the following result:</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4ECuj_dTNLE/WNGCrSCyu2I/AAAAAAAAjO8/VVvsjE1ChzI/s1600-h/DSC074534.jpg"><img title="DSC07453" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07453" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XaZPrgeQPdo/WNGCvPsRaKI/AAAAAAAAjPA/_AwaM2bo11c/DSC07453_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="252" height="335"></a> </p> <p>It was a very full day!</p>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14089147397708468584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5244596902453348211.post-58422447105791006722017-03-18T11:04:00.001-07:002017-03-18T11:07:12.361-07:00… to Singapore for an overnight stay …… Singapore is known for the grand old Raffles Hotel and its signature drink, the Singapore Sling. Unfortunately, the hotel’s restaurant and bar are currently closed for renovations, so no Singapore Slings on this trip! The city is safe for tourists at all hours of the night and day, and we had two days to explore. We had only one excursion planned, a night time tour the first day. Unfortunately, Frank strained his back getting into a taxi the first day. We had planned to meet up with a group of crafters at a Singapura Plaza, a very nice mall, to shop at Spotlight, a large department store with a huge crafts department. We found the store, and then explored the rest of the mall; Frank spent time trying out high-end massage chairs in an effort to ease his back – and we returned to the ship with a new portable massage unit.<br />
The next day, Frank saw the ship’s doctor, who prescribed a muscle relaxant and pain pills. Thus fortified, we set up by cab for Bugis Market (pronounced boogies!), a must-see destination in Singapore. The market was very empty because it was morning. It’s open 24 hours a day, with night being the busiest time. We sampled some deep-fried sweet potatoes and bananas.<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gR-jkEAF69M/WM1z8ww4mXI/AAAAAAAAjJQ/k3EIyixboSE/s1600-h/DSC084634.jpg"><img alt="DSC08463" border="0" height="263" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-b0LDa3vfP2I/WM10DcZl6RI/AAAAAAAAjJU/m-pe-p0X1tE/DSC08463_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC08463" width="198" /></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FQrPI6Sz6pM/WM10JgarfiI/AAAAAAAAjJY/CZ5_TP0k4PY/s1600-h/DSC084404.jpg"><img alt="DSC08440" border="0" height="261" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-auJx59TqOHE/WM10OERjvJI/AAAAAAAAjJc/PfobF_96T34/DSC08440_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC08440" width="352" /></a><br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QcHx1iSrTqo/WM10STnn4pI/AAAAAAAAjJg/FxQb0wIsz64/s1600-h/DSC084414.jpg"><img alt="DSC08441" border="0" height="206" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-U7VUWTthS-E/WM10Wm2YH9I/AAAAAAAAjJk/4IhJHlNABI0/DSC08441_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC08441" width="273" /></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aye2gjL-jOc/WM10a-wfWGI/AAAAAAAAjJo/2zLMvcIG110/s1600-h/DSC084474.jpg"><img alt="DSC08447" border="0" height="198" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-43no7M_eDV0/WM10fVydBAI/AAAAAAAAjJs/kBLMxop_ARE/DSC08447_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC08447" width="262" /></a> <br />
The taxi driver told us about a Chinese temple near Bugis, and we went there next. The temple fronted on the street, and was filled with hundreds of different deities. Several seemed to be connected to fortune-telling. <br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ALFrmlBHGgQ/WM10kRXdU8I/AAAAAAAAjJw/XUYIckrWnBc/s1600-h/DSC084576.jpg"><img alt="DSC08457" border="0" height="198" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1yMpfQDopsk/WM10t4EOaoI/AAAAAAAAjJ0/lxG1Lz6Jn7E/DSC08457_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC08457" width="262" /></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cmaCLOIE7j8/WM10z3N1IkI/AAAAAAAAjJ4/9ST_ScJ5cg4/s1600-h/DSC084594.jpg"><img alt="DSC08459" border="0" height="202" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_FT1VhkMoic/WM106HvfkuI/AAAAAAAAjJ8/oaXPfefdghE/DSC08459_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC08459" width="268" /></a><br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cGkiDdllnZI/WM11Go1vkAI/AAAAAAAAjKA/q3U48cBokdM/s1600-h/DSC084524.jpg"><img alt="DSC08452" border="0" height="197" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-d7tgLF_hSHI/WM11LHwoTEI/AAAAAAAAjKE/xGKKIzHEt4I/DSC08452_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC08452" width="266" /></a><br />
Also near Bugis was a McDonald’s, advertising the “next hot Korean star,” a meal consisting of a Seoul spicy beef or chicken burger, kimchee fries, and a peach fizz drink. To Frank, this sounded like a challenge! Fortunately, the kimchee for the fries came in the form of a seasoning packet to be added to the fries in a paper bag and shaken. But the burger was preseasoned – and hot!<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-F60MZPJxwYQ/WM11Pxm_PQI/AAAAAAAAjKI/RUXv1LH4q3w/s1600-h/DSC084613.jpg"><img alt="DSC08461" border="0" height="244" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ftVPp2wQ4vA/WM11TsXB4II/AAAAAAAAjKM/VmuR3pmGsxU/DSC08461_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC08461" width="184" /></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qZ6dvdKjsrc/WM11W3313EI/AAAAAAAAjKQ/pRgyKR689Mo/s1600-h/DSC084653.jpg"><img alt="DSC08465" border="0" height="244" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mqJ-9OvSVuQ/WM11aq3Q9wI/AAAAAAAAjKU/LyKJhfb9Edg/DSC08465_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC08465" width="184" /></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SmkKEZ2CSiI/WM11fEyXiCI/AAAAAAAAjKY/GjSA4xBGgOQ/s1600-h/DSC084683.jpg"><img alt="DSC08468" border="0" height="244" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1LTQ0O1LX9Q/WM11jHCzGZI/AAAAAAAAjKc/ESJDLGeGUZc/DSC08468_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC08468" width="184" /></a><br />
Hearty meal consumed, we did a little more sightseeing before returning to the ship. Some of my favorite sightings … <br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SzMsOKpkZxE/WM11n9jWOxI/AAAAAAAAjKg/6s4hCDMdq7I/s1600-h/DSC085004.jpg"><img alt="DSC08500" border="0" height="258" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-w6HzDHMlgNM/WM11sDwJ0MI/AAAAAAAAjKk/qRtDTtKG_Y8/DSC08500_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC08500" width="343" /></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1CEmLzC_21I/WM11wR5ttaI/AAAAAAAAjKo/xAnkSbUeEbA/s1600-h/DSC085094.jpg"><img alt="DSC08509" border="0" height="263" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3DXMVtKiPvQ/WM115ehJwcI/AAAAAAAAjKs/T_Fq7hxTsGU/DSC08509_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC08509" width="198" /></a><br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RUGFrdcqSR8/WM1193tUZ2I/AAAAAAAAjKw/LNC-I74R67s/s1600-h/DSC085034.jpg"><img alt="DSC08503" border="0" height="244" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wcm7RG6RE2c/WM12FTx__YI/AAAAAAAAjK0/ONmxd2M48CQ/DSC08503_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC08503" width="324" /></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-02r0VHFYj3Q/WM12Jq4kPeI/AAAAAAAAjK4/6LBVSTrS4Ug/s1600-h/DSC085083.jpg"><img alt="DSC08508" border="0" height="244" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-K6qroGXmp0o/WM12PDK67JI/AAAAAAAAjK8/KahZDVFBTIw/DSC08508_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC08508" width="211" /></a><br />
Singapore has some of the most striking modern architecture in the world. Its most striking building is the Marina Bay Sands Hotel and Casino, with a boat-like top resting on three pillars. The building also houses a shopping mall, and is an amazing sight, day or night. <br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PAtB3A7YuNU/WM12VkZGSZI/AAAAAAAAjLA/Jlv1ZNlAbUo/s1600-h/DSC082865.jpg"><img alt="DSC08286" border="0" height="257" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tX4r-6inqU0/WM12ZhQeg2I/AAAAAAAAjLE/ZCIWF4IomCg/DSC08286_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC08286" width="579" /></a><br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mYDiH1ysMKA/WM12dq_U2DI/AAAAAAAAjLI/kyElQZm0qAc/s1600-h/DSC083514.jpg"><img alt="DSC08351" border="0" height="202" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1j-pf_bt4Js/WM12hPSl_kI/AAAAAAAAjLM/sNgnWTZY4pk/DSC08351_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC08351" width="277" /></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-L44DRsShgkU/WM12pxryR6I/AAAAAAAAjLQ/C_qh-5JtFIo/s1600-h/DSC083564.jpg"><img alt="DSC08356" border="0" height="204" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BPCtTUnMM2Y/WM12udZTi_I/AAAAAAAAjLU/fGE06DuZX00/DSC08356_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC08356" width="275" /></a>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14089147397708468584noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5244596902453348211.post-91675306896645486952017-03-17T05:13:00.001-07:002017-03-17T05:13:35.187-07:00… to Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon …<p>… an old city being remade into a bustling commercial center with 11 million people. We booked a transfer into the city, which means we were dropped in the center of Saigon after an hour’s ride from the port. Motorbikes were everywhere – with seemingly few restrictions. </p> <p> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-y7gL39JBuOo/WMvRLd8D95I/AAAAAAAAjGQ/IPEYD19amTQ/s1600-h/DSC07757.jpg"><img title="DSC07757" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07757" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JV1x8Ymg08U/WMvRP2V6oeI/AAAAAAAAjGU/5sdZXSOkESs/DSC07757_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="273" height="204"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tS5rVXeWNr0/WMvRThxly8I/AAAAAAAAjGY/IWv2W_MIfW4/s1600-h/DSC07641.jpg"><img title="DSC07641" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07641" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WRQ6Hqar1jg/WMvRaZbQn9I/AAAAAAAAjGc/rF_Okzi0wfI/DSC07641_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="280" height="200"></a> </p> <p>Tiny businesses filled both sides of the road to the city. The oddest shops were sheds filled with hammocks, providing a rest for weary bike riders. Reaching Saigon, we climbed the Bitexco Financial Tower to its futuristic Saigon Sky Deck for a great look at the city. (The Sky Deck is the bump near the top.) On one side of the river, the city was all modern highrises; on the other, a mass of tiny houses.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QqKijOdLExY/WMvReZzgL8I/AAAAAAAAjGg/J1WHjbG94Iw/s1600-h/DSC07794%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC07794" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07794" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3QTnRIG9gss/WMvRiS22SVI/AAAAAAAAjGk/2BHOTfu1NF0/DSC07794_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="201" height="267"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8Zv-nSAPPbY/WMvRmaAVymI/AAAAAAAAjGo/N6eBmx7Vr_s/s1600-h/DSC07805%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC07805" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07805" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OKTOkkatd_k/WMvRrbU5QiI/AAAAAAAAjGs/GfZbJrGae48/DSC07805_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="365" height="275"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hM_PTejEFEs/WMvRv8EM6JI/AAAAAAAAjGw/WXLBjH0yYyA/s1600-h/DSC07810%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC07810" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07810" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pb4mJaSVYqw/WMvR0Hrmu0I/AAAAAAAAjG0/x6vBOrEtmwo/DSC07810_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="340" height="256"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3xNgPrLZ1ko/WMvR3y0R9iI/AAAAAAAAjG4/L708PzE3nTE/s1600-h/DSC07831%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC07831" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07831" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-63RuvhrQo0s/WMvR7mhOe4I/AAAAAAAAjG8/T4vBEuMQCMU/DSC07831_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="199" height="258"></a> </p> <p>We walked along the city’s wide pedestrian walkway, seen in the picture above, trying to stay in the scarce shade, heading toward the big Ho Chi Minh statue in front of the Reunification Palace. Beyond the Palace was the Notre Dame Cathedral, and across the street from the Cathedral was the Old Post Office, now painted yellow, and still in use today. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lq3FWLAyqKA/WMvR_fQYcUI/AAAAAAAAjHA/MlgJF9njx2A/s1600-h/DSC07857%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC07857" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07857" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-o1XcaMUfnUA/WMvSC0FAe0I/AAAAAAAAjHE/fMtm1He6LkI/DSC07857_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="339" height="255"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1Jot5hI7VVs/WMvSGSb4O5I/AAAAAAAAjHI/2NL4dgqd0XM/s1600-h/DSC07893%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC07893" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07893" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-seG3x-HDqsI/WMvSJ3MMXGI/AAAAAAAAjHM/2Uvxn-x9fb8/DSC07893_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="194" height="257"></a></p> <p> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eSuxQ4p5P3Y/WMvSNmkUMlI/AAAAAAAAjHQ/mJzL9y_Ewwg/s1600-h/DSC08010%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC08010" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC08010" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aAskdWSCWjo/WMvSRZNTS_I/AAAAAAAAjHU/fgjc7tykNqI/DSC08010_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="262" height="194"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5xCPhaaOppM/WMvSVOiJ4aI/AAAAAAAAjHY/g_NSU249VFM/s1600-h/DSC07871%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC07871" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07871" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6XiNjMab7MI/WMvSZIAxu5I/AAAAAAAAjHc/jaxv3zDly4g/DSC07871_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="279" height="196"></a></p> <p>The Ho Chi Minh statue was bordered by the national flower, the beautiful lotus. We checked out the shops in the Post Office and then opted for lunch – not at Popeye’s, Burger King, Carl’s Jr. or Dunkin’ Donuts, clustered nearby – but at the Post Office Cafe. We envisioned Vietnamese or French food, but settled for the cafe’s pasta and pizza! After lunch we walked around center city, stopping in the little stores along the way. Lacquer-ware boxes, including those inlaid with crushed egg shells, were everywhere. We found a small street market, selling fruit, vegetables, meat and fish – as well as everything else. Cars and trucks pushed through the narrow street, and a school bus picked up students! Most interesting were the people on the street. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9qCQRz6iKBA/WMvSctmgUkI/AAAAAAAAjHg/zDP38-UO90o/s1600-h/DSC07842%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC07842" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07842" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_Nt3__uby_s/WMvSgU0jByI/AAAAAAAAjHk/icGogIZURUI/DSC07842_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="363" height="257"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bQdb25DJWPU/WMvSkKZeDcI/AAAAAAAAjHo/a7qSuuftYO0/s1600-h/DSC07895%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC07895" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07895" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OuIc-5SPSIw/WMvSoKBWo_I/AAAAAAAAjHs/6TmIJqFewiU/DSC07895_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="182" height="244"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yXeB3eKOVPU/WMvSsFNQKzI/AAAAAAAAjHw/SGMShSCzNvQ/s1600-h/DSC07843%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC07843" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07843" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UvK0-6fa0Fo/WMvSwHr-_YI/AAAAAAAAjH0/EH7YRLtOmxE/DSC07843_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="352" height="258"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uLI2nH2xRNQ/WMvS2o-KgHI/AAAAAAAAjH4/CkBVdEnvIfw/s1600-h/DSC07883%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC07883" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07883" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IapxpR2E3Yw/WMvS6kpN5kI/AAAAAAAAjH8/Yd8H0XmUlVg/DSC07883_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="187" height="255"></a> </p> <p>Saigon – a city of contrasts at the intersection of old and new, like so many Asian cities.</p>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14089147397708468584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5244596902453348211.post-38734187145738749552017-03-10T06:44:00.001-08:002017-03-10T06:44:32.568-08:00… to Nha Trang, Vietnam …<p>… in search of beach glass. When we were in Nha Trang in 2012, our excursion ended at a beach with 10 minutes of free time. We wandered onto the beach, stunned to find a bonanza of well-tumbled beach glass and smoothed china and pottery shards. We filled a small bag, and vowed to come back. </p> <p>Nha Trang has miles of beautiful beaches, decorated with fantastic topiary trees: squares, triangles, even a Dairy Queen twist! Everything is spotless, with flowers blooming in profusion on the streets and in the many public parks. Motorbikes are everywhere, with riders wearing face masks, gloves, heavy socks and sometimes heavy coats to protect themselves from the sun. It was about 90 degrees that day … Chiclos, bike-powered taxis, were available, but never when we needed one. </p> <p> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Zxk7xF0yD6w/WMK6al-7zyI/AAAAAAAAjAo/Si3wj5UXAgo/s1600-h/DSC07561%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC07561" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07561" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ykqpEy0U43w/WMK6fGF70xI/AAAAAAAAjAs/NMLRqNS_1to/DSC07561_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-c2FDTeGpMTE/WMK6igcX4YI/AAAAAAAAjAw/JjEr1JKWkuM/s1600-h/DSC07570%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC07570" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07570" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5r8bUGElHxQ/WMK6mP0SVhI/AAAAAAAAjA0/AiWN9ov10s0/DSC07570_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4fUWjle9LUA/WMK6qB_mQjI/AAAAAAAAjA4/RyyOBMyvZqc/s1600-h/DSC07596%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC07596" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07596" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-29_t5ReNDqs/WMK6ufQbXUI/AAAAAAAAjA8/Fsu8ESjPVWM/DSC07596_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="160" height="241"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-b2Umaowp69c/WMK6yBMXFMI/AAAAAAAAjBA/_cRArduoi_I/s1600-h/DSC07546%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC07546" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07546" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZGE2G8tJKZk/WMK61nJE2JI/AAAAAAAAjBE/IKMjPUrv_kA/DSC07546_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="256" height="193"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nszuw4snDkk/WMK66JiTn_I/AAAAAAAAjBI/kHbd-NhE5DM/s1600-h/DSC07568%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC07568" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07568" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ez8loNJgpwE/WMK6-VIf3FI/AAAAAAAAjBM/pEMQ0rxcLEI/DSC07568_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="286" height="192"></a></p> <p>Neither of us brought cell phones, and we just couldn’t get a picture with the entire Nha Trang Peace Monument. Street vendors sit on teeny tiny little stools on the curb, selling a wide variety of food. It was just before Women’s Day and the street was decorated to celebrate. </p> <p> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sNpME5hv2qw/WMK7CYKHbtI/AAAAAAAAjBQ/PbAyhSqCu48/s1600-h/DSC07562%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC07562" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07562" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sky87puAToM/WMK7GPLndOI/AAAAAAAAjBU/UMio8wAks6c/DSC07562_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="342" height="258"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JovEDqdFfZw/WMK7JpSZKBI/AAAAAAAAjBY/NevYCyFSC6Q/s1600-h/DSC07579%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC07579" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07579" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NJAzgGhjoVQ/WMK7NbNH7RI/AAAAAAAAjBc/9v0qwi9pZ8k/DSC07579_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="193" height="256"></a></p> <p> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-i6xUPKoeWVY/WMK7RcTStUI/AAAAAAAAjBg/sarQYbjJa9s/s1600-h/DSC07577%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC07577" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07577" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-f3PdCHJHSts/WMK7VCpSFCI/AAAAAAAAjBk/lbSE2El2g1k/DSC07577_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="338" height="254"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mFwEjCnr3Es/WMK7YrC6IJI/AAAAAAAAjBo/_YWPJ1DwFX8/s1600-h/DSC07580%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC07580" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07580" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-L59PPeD4gzI/WMK7cS683RI/AAAAAAAAjBs/WdW8mD3sOZE/DSC07580_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="195" height="259"></a> </p> <p>We unfortunately had no idea of exactly where on the long stretch of beach we were dropped last time. So we started walking where the shuttle bus left us. Finding nothing, except this mussel shell heart. We were ready to give up after about 30 minutes, when suddenly Frank found the first piece of glass, and then another and another. We hit a spot where the conditions off shore were perfect to throw glass and pottery up on the beach. </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoGVy4KMxicVBHWDLcEsrKlU_BRHLQGuY4qPk-aQzChiD5NVoUNGSJMuCow04EfnywDTaNtgu1eXyxP31BJOy_TR9yWPUY71qs6TyYB_NgSi2pXyTfaIdvzB1ts9Qn9Ggnzxggj4A3Fx0/s1600-h/DSC07552%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC07552" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07552" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-clleWgKYeRg/WMK7kLnVtHI/AAAAAAAAjB0/c8NICtSMFro/DSC07552_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="264" height="187"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CnHPpqWysPs/WMK7oB2uvcI/AAAAAAAAjB4/KgKN7zfFJsk/s1600-h/DSC07624%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC07624" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07624" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPMeG9Iqm8LoFGwo66Y9pSplsknU_9S_nhMAZ9tVlAabssnekeVWrv6uMZjGXiVMZ5kAR2Yhoa-0l35e0Qh24kih1POTi_avj4SDnKso7yzc63pNll-PQnT7QgrOjp3Od97rrgaO9uuCk/?imgmax=800" width="285" height="187"></a></p> <p>Two hours later, roasted by the blazing sun, we stowed our treasures and called it a day. Then we learned how far we had walked in a few hours along the beach … Taking our time, we shopped in the little stores along the way back to the shuttle bus. It was a totally satisfying day. We were docked across the harbor from a cable car taking people to a resort on the other side. Before the ship could leave, the cable car had to be stopped and the wires tightened so the ship could pass safely under them. What a close fit!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-a_5Rkap66sQ/WMK7vkmP0CI/AAAAAAAAjCA/V1o3JkmVawQ/s1600-h/DSC07494%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC07494" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07494" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7Mvpz4XX-6w/WMK7zPP1yYI/AAAAAAAAjCE/YZfBCq1ZUn4/DSC07494_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="447" height="336"></a></p>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14089147397708468584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5244596902453348211.post-77533470776957328372017-03-09T03:53:00.001-08:002017-03-09T03:53:10.242-08:00… to the Chi Lin Nunnery in Hong Kong …<p>… and the spectacular Nan Lian Garden. It was a quick walk to the subway from the ship’s new berth, and we hopped on the red line, switched to the green line, and got off at Diamond Hill. The Nan Lian Garden is a block from the subway, but a world away aesthetically. Opened in 2006, the Garden and adjoining nunnery were designed in Tang Dynasty style by Chi Lin. Although so recently constructed, the complex is currently being evaluated for inclusion as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a treat for the senses: meticulously pruned topiary trees, magnificent rocks placed precisely in the landscape, water features including lily ponds, a lake and several large waterfalls – with a restaurant behind one of them! Five large timber structures include the aptly named Pavilion of Absolute Perfection, a golden pagoda in the middle of the Lotus Pond. We loved the garden’s rockery, a large building housing huge rock specimens. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-b1Drjw-2Jlw/WMFAngszoyI/AAAAAAAAi-o/YQB4EHf2uIw/s1600-h/DSC072205.jpg"><img title="DSC07220" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07220" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6n9VLqU0VmY/WMFAsaZpNjI/AAAAAAAAi-s/qyGAtQuy-SQ/DSC07220_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="272" height="205"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2SNBM1L9YCE/WMFAyV2B7fI/AAAAAAAAi-w/XMTOP4RRJIk/s1600-h/DSC072344.jpg"><img title="DSC07234" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07234" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-n5xd_GoED-Q/WMFA2Azi3WI/AAAAAAAAi-0/GMsMfADuQtQ/DSC07234_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="265" height="200"></a> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-egnyJtLviU4/WMFA5voWJuI/AAAAAAAAi-4/8hWrxSXIGGY/s1600-h/DSC072405.jpg"><img title="DSC07240" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07240" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ncq2kcFrNfc/WMFA9-KLn8I/AAAAAAAAi-8/-kYPyelXQ9Q/DSC07240_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="273" height="206"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-x8z2YGUfq48/WMFBBsOcQTI/AAAAAAAAi_A/VM1BCIoSKIE/s1600-h/DSC072455.jpg"><img title="DSC07245" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjbbG4M3x0zVAWplwK8uC09iysplfx0CwYtQ8X7BH10O20RChqXfiN9TEj6e7Tuz6HYa4JA81F7eQ1IUi0AadH9qy9JhBuGmzElNKFzpI4L74Va2ISHT9Q-s6x3rx9kMjy5keCmLVGcvI/?imgmax=800" width="281" height="212"></a></p> <p> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DGPPgxPVG8U/WMFBLTnLJFI/AAAAAAAAi_I/DsDUWrXMPE8/s1600-h/DSC072316.jpg"><img title="DSC07231" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07231" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yTtONiXWhJU/WMFBQ5xBnaI/AAAAAAAAi_M/e6Cpv1SExvA/DSC07231_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="270" height="201"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wtbH-C3WQlM/WMFBVm5GFUI/AAAAAAAAi_U/y7wiJt-cs3Y/s1600-h/DSC073035.jpg"><img title="DSC07303" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07303" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NYsn2CgfvR8/WMFBZCkubZI/AAAAAAAAi_Y/wbGzmjYN6Eo/DSC07303_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="261" height="197"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-exFomMLsEII/WMFBdOy9HQI/AAAAAAAAi_g/ypvi85FZ9JI/s1600-h/DSC072576.jpg"><img title="DSC07257" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07257" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-r0XUYsV2EGY/WMFBkCcQmpI/AAAAAAAAi_k/sVJJJh7ytKY/DSC07257_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="288" height="217"></a></p> <p>Access to the Chi Lin Nunnery is through the Garden, over a walkway that unseen actually crosses a busy Hong Kong street. Lily ponds with fat carp lead up to the main halls with seven beautiful large golden Buddhas (no photos allowed).</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-u9em78RPFHk/WMFBpLHb_qI/AAAAAAAAi_o/hqfBdTvalg8/s1600-h/DSC072774.jpg"><img title="DSC07277" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07277" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8lGl2mI48VM/WMFBs5VKMuI/AAAAAAAAi_s/B3_n1jbHv98/DSC07277_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="268" height="201"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lL6e6jcT8VQ/WMFBxqV5n3I/AAAAAAAAi_w/KsZt6W7CWg0/s1600-h/DSC072804.jpg"><img title="DSC07280" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07280" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pmRIAdYiOJU/WMFB2MRNC1I/AAAAAAAAi_0/87s4Qh5Rwbw/DSC07280_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="269" height="203"></a> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--yKfk58iq1Q/WMFB6aW1lsI/AAAAAAAAi_4/ZwKmSAE6x5o/s1600-h/DSC072904.jpg"><img title="DSC07290" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07290" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-H9LP024PgWA/WMFB-mB79DI/AAAAAAAAjAA/_Eoz2Ax0iLo/DSC07290_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="274" height="206"></a></p> <p>We took the subway back to the Mong Kok station for a quick stroll through the Ladies Market. We left the market to find a battery for Frank’s camera. Success! We decided to say farewell to Hong Kong with a nice lunch at the Peninsula Hotel, one of Hong Kong’s great hotels. Chesa, their Swiss restaurant, was recommended by friends; what a great choice! Here’s Frank sampling the best cheese fondue we’ve ever had. Hong Kong - we’ll be baack! </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rngJ9_l-Tu8/WMFCCd-3CRI/AAAAAAAAjAE/CwM6iVm9ATs/s1600-h/DSC073305.jpg"><img title="DSC07330" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07330" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fAM6AGRZXYw/WMFCIk7xX0I/AAAAAAAAjAI/cf4z3nVNTRQ/DSC07330_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="284" height="214"></a></p>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14089147397708468584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5244596902453348211.post-49628439460220927532017-03-08T06:33:00.001-08:002017-03-08T06:33:13.829-08:00… to fascinating Hong Kong …<p>… without much of an itinerary – except to find some jewelry making or bead stores. It worked out well; we took the Star Ferry from the ship’s shuttle bus drop off point to the other part of Hong Kong – and then realized that the address we needed was actually back across the water. So we hopped on arguably the best subway in the world using our newly-acquired Octopus cards. We rode to a stop recommended by a fellow passenger – and found ourselves in an outdoor flea market worthy of Pennsylvania! New and old stuff happily comingled – and there were several bead stores on the street as well, which had the needed things. The sidewalk butcher shops were a surprise – especially one where the hog was being butchered right behind the counter, a foot away from the customers. No matter what part of the pig you wanted, it was available! There were long lines at most of these shops, with meat hanging on the sidewalk. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uvy0AS0KYME/WMAUW83tk2I/AAAAAAAAi8k/gGde-BblNEg/s1600-h/DSC069173.jpg"><img title="DSC06917" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06917" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-m2gc9QH6dMo/WMAUbpRqF6I/AAAAAAAAi8o/5Tc8llFzXSo/DSC06917_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FaiubvNNMRU/WMAUfck5HjI/AAAAAAAAi8s/LKAuSwGRJUo/s1600-h/DSC069153.jpg"><img title="DSC06915" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06915" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vZ35W8c7Psk/WMAUjX55pyI/AAAAAAAAi8w/RPbWQpu9_j4/DSC06915_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_d4pvnLzNgk/WMAUnIw-n3I/AAAAAAAAi80/kNtFBN8DwAo/s1600-h/DSC069163.jpg"><img title="DSC06916" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06916" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0XangnTGfZ4/WMAUqt4N0NI/AAAAAAAAi84/_n0BdhgxX9I/DSC06916_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a></p> <p>A large crowd had gathered at one place and we eagerly squeezed in for a peek; surprisingly, it was just a few turtles in a small plastic tub!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9eWNWckUlzA/WMAUwcN6WAI/AAAAAAAAi88/Yrz1yMhNpK0/s1600-h/DSC069214.jpg"><img title="DSC06921" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06921" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7d7ZbRBXEPE/WMAU0vJGOZI/AAAAAAAAi9A/LnlRb-A-qWo/DSC06921_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="347" height="261"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--69wMfhGEzY/WMAU4PSwa4I/AAAAAAAAi9E/vjicfhn0VcQ/s1600-h/DSC069314.jpg"><img title="DSC06931" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06931" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-H8T28OWUX0s/WMAU8UMy1pI/AAAAAAAAi9I/XZQmMy00Nn0/DSC06931_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="197" height="261"></a></p> <p>Back at the ship, we had a quick hamburger by the pool before an excursion to see Hong Kong by night. We rode the Hong Kong double decker tram, the only double decker trams in the world, through the heart of downtown. It was a blast! We sat up top and enjoyed every minute of the unique perspective, sorry when it was over. Hong Kong is tied with Mumbai for the highest population density; however, its population is crowded into a mere 1100 square kilometers. Because 75% of that land is designated greenland, people are squeezed even tighter, most living in high rises. There’s always something interesting to see – a golden dragon at a busy intersection, or one of Hong Kong’s famous night markets !</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-a4hgZaMJe0Q/WMAVA70mVdI/AAAAAAAAi9M/a2RcAJgN0CI/s1600-h/DSC069644.jpg"><img title="DSC06964" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06964" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2hOShcVXses/WMAVFKoir1I/AAAAAAAAi9Q/n9G0DnhPiIE/DSC06964_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="264" height="199"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ghf-cz8Fa8c/WMAVIziUW5I/AAAAAAAAi9U/aHw_SFnUc7U/s1600-h/DSC069944.jpg"><img title="DSC06994" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06994" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VhnQq3cMiqY/WMAVMfl0jTI/AAAAAAAAi9Y/lQd6JUumtv4/DSC06994_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="258" height="194"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bYiH70-sO7c/WMAVQHnI-DI/AAAAAAAAi9c/IGRU_jGI_e0/s1600-h/DSC070294.jpg"><img title="DSC07029" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07029" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vjQyAlYR3Qc/WMAVT-dWbII/AAAAAAAAi9g/mYyHMBo93Jg/DSC07029_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="282" height="212"></a> </p> <p>From the double decker tram we took the tour bus through “No More Excuses” tunnel, so called because the ferry stoppage for the night used to be a convenient excuse for businessmen not returning home at the end of the day. Then we rode the extremely crowded Victoria Peak incline to the top. It was an exceptionally clear night, leading to big crowds eager for a view of the city skyline, ranked #1 in the world. Transcendent! </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lf-zbbWwzH0/WMAVXWA3mWI/AAAAAAAAi9o/YZrOvcP0HI4/s1600-h/DSC071054.jpg"><img title="DSC07105" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07105" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qjkZ82wzlYk/WMAVbctyYoI/AAAAAAAAi9s/EIpljV32JrI/DSC07105_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="273" height="206"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-na6gTdyrfKc/WMAVfL7KHjI/AAAAAAAAi9w/0YaLluhvw-g/s1600-h/DSC071124.jpg"><img title="DSC07112" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07112" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iQlxpbfmteg/WMAVi3HaCYI/AAAAAAAAi90/iMUmeA3W6b0/DSC07112_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="265" height="200"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PU1Z_MDfuEk/WMAVtFLatjI/AAAAAAAAi94/BGbOWAjp-fc/s1600-h/DSC071294.jpg"><img title="DSC07129" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07129" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfMYn_fYh9bNqbqBEzzX66mvYwE859ekdzDkJ5ZAfvdIfY5rtaAIxvYW2sxoB1bv9DbYnRPRkZ7E-HpxJcYlKoQBFjPe6lp0V4TwIdcNPeepi8T1qVzzWRIb5I2VUVCoGAlNCZe7jXtzk/?imgmax=800" width="265" height="200"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Xzl21Ss9byw/WMAV8YLjYoI/AAAAAAAAi-A/fZ_i8eAlmYs/s1600-h/DSC071424.jpg"><img title="DSC07142" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07142" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jwhkugzCI7o/WMAWAnzPzkI/AAAAAAAAi-E/el5kGKa6oPA/DSC07142_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="267" height="201"></a></p> <p>Fortunately we took the tour bus down – after the crush going up, none of us relished the thought of the crowd going down. </p> <p>We overnighted in Hong Kong in an unusual arrangement – the ship was berthed in one location the first day, then moved that night about 11 pm to a new and much preferred berth for day two. We watched the move from our balcony as glittering Hong Kong glided past. </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6V09FI38w3FluYq3bRSWCjmSgpa1zLwKyXQSxNixH_Dyt77UOgzvI6a4IdC94AoPM5y7kXBDVsfLecdw6QZwvR_rBrbBNCyQhKRFniZ8LNZlRZCguYM-n8vC1YWqJNaApUNaD6wEtvcU/s1600-h/DSC071725.jpg"><img title="DSC07172" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC07172" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-d3zNZR1tonE/WMAWIwn0IqI/AAAAAAAAi-M/WW7rcRzqPVU/DSC07172_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="447" height="336"></a></p> <p>An excellent day in one of the world’s coolest cities!</p>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14089147397708468584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5244596902453348211.post-8825439229600428192017-03-07T02:29:00.001-08:002017-03-07T02:29:19.073-08:00… to Zhujiajiao watertown …<p>… part of Shanghai but outside of the city. Pronounced roughly jew-juh-jow, this watertown has been transformed into a tourist attraction by the government. Four watertowns still exist in Shanghai, with 14 total in China. The towns are criss-crossed by canals and bridges, some quite ancient. The effect is very picturesque, like a little Venice of the East. Not many people live full-time in Zhujiajiao, instead coming into town to open up small shops selling souvenirs and food to tourists. Prices were very reasonable, and the food – with a heavy emphasis on various types of candies – is delicious. Our only frustration was the need to stay together as a group with no time to explore the little alleys or sample the food being offered. The first picture is a typical canal, with canal boats tied up. The second was taken in a shop selling combs made from various types of horn. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UTYZKZBP-lU/WL6J5dNtXPI/AAAAAAAAi3Y/v62Bq4nnZdo/s1600-h/DSC063095.jpg"><img title="DSC06309" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06309" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WLIVe0vC8Ak/WL6J-bbRb6I/AAAAAAAAi3c/GFo5u6-nBV8/DSC06309_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="285" height="215"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Wt3ri_OFJc8/WL6KCZEP_9I/AAAAAAAAi3g/iEdwrjQ2dYg/s1600-h/DSC063274.jpg"><img title="DSC06327" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06327" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pQySZiJ5fzU/WL6KGZXgy1I/AAAAAAAAi3k/41MavjSC1KM/DSC06327_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="286" height="216"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wZJkgla2gC4/WL6KLWk0rGI/AAAAAAAAi3o/UaLEJllDUEc/s1600-h/DSC063304.jpg"><img title="DSC06330" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06330" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-o6SaH9-x5_U/WL6KO9RE8YI/AAAAAAAAi3s/pa_s4DlDrbs/DSC06330_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="282" height="212"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sYyt0PKP400/WL6KSv1DOLI/AAAAAAAAi3w/l66Vc7QK1Nk/s1600-h/DSC063494.jpg"><img title="DSC06349" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06349" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-y5LGCz09P1w/WL6KWBH_HnI/AAAAAAAAi30/UqbdkpSWMFM/DSC06349_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="282" height="212"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NHvkuB_TlX8/WL6KaBHwb2I/AAAAAAAAi34/XPT1aM3Oj7Q/s1600-h/DSC063695.jpg"><img title="DSC06369" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06369" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--yfonOfitAA/WL6KeHflNJI/AAAAAAAAi38/rLpat9i37V4/DSC06369_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="277" height="209"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-N4U8OzDwi_s/WL6KhuD5f7I/AAAAAAAAi4A/qd84i-98S0I/s1600-h/DSC063554.jpg"><img title="DSC06355" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06355" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VnunuKCgg7w/WL6Kl5fUGxI/AAAAAAAAi4E/qtFfSH1snDw/DSC06355_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="268" height="202"></a></p> <p>For our book-loving friends – a unique outdoor sales display. And the cutest little girl, who was sweeping the steps when we came upon her. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FQk31Qt84n4/WL6KpltPeqI/AAAAAAAAi4M/kxtLyor6g1Y/s1600-h/DSC063984.jpg"><img title="DSC06398" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06398" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XMUBQLLvmjI/WL6KtXDBPPI/AAAAAAAAi4Q/og-FGlmHbOg/DSC06398_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="345" height="260"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-K_myXnczJ5Q/WL6Kw2cMIYI/AAAAAAAAi4U/dJWC6NwHWFs/s1600-h/DSC064104.jpg"><img title="DSC06410" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06410" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xzG8jjI5rjc/WL6K0vvEAHI/AAAAAAAAi4Y/p_hRlFWC9Ow/DSC06410_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="197" height="261"></a></p> <p>Beautiful rambutan fruit, and another canal picture. </p> <p> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FAAKX6T0Myw/WL6K4XvVZ9I/AAAAAAAAi4c/8vmmEs0NwVM/s1600-h/DSC064144.jpg"><img title="DSC06414" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06414" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EJ9I9txbH1Q/WL6K8q5FuKI/AAAAAAAAi4g/wfPz0wdTVWI/DSC06414_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="280" height="211"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Kck1efIKJKM/WL6LBzqmPcI/AAAAAAAAi4k/Yzc3K-C31nY/s1600-h/DSC064734.jpg"><img title="DSC06473" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06473" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QOpDS6OsG84/WL6LFmI2sPI/AAAAAAAAi4o/yctchyes-Iw/DSC06473_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="280" height="211"></a></p> <p>Truly a beautiful place! We next had the best lunch we’ve had in China, followed by a visit to a silk factory – actually, a demonstration showroom. The factories have all been relocated to the outskirts of town. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PhqxMR1Jgg8/WL6LJXJEkdI/AAAAAAAAi4s/p68Z8ylvPHE/s1600-h/DSC066684.jpg"><img title="DSC06668" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06668" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-W8kSXG-LShk/WL6LMwFRx9I/AAAAAAAAi4w/Wgb6RaZfO2Q/DSC06668_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="280" height="211"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UYMAgq9ldes/WL6LTIvEw3I/AAAAAAAAi40/RYZnVtsPqi8/s1600-h/DSC067065.jpg"><img title="DSC06706" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06706" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HhWDu89VKJ0/WL6LXk-sNwI/AAAAAAAAi48/F2HvOop52LI/DSC06706_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="286" height="216"></a> </p> <p>Had to close with a picture of something we have seen everywhere in China – laundry hanging out to dry. On busy streets, even in the watertown, laundry is everywhere. The Chinese use bamboo poles which seem to keep the clothes from flying away in the sometimes stiff breeze. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-f8Ixm8TXxV4/WL6LbYxS8hI/AAAAAAAAi5A/3jioCD4bb6w/s1600-h/DSC066765.jpg"><img title="DSC06676" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06676" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-B3fI9Fjl37E/WL6LfN-FmKI/AAAAAAAAi5E/unshb38_71E/DSC06676_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="298" height="224"></a></p>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14089147397708468584noreply@blogger.com0