TLCOhio

14 hours ago, DavyWavey70 said:

They require full payment a ridiculous amount of time ahead and refuse any refunds even when they have cancelled the cruise themselves.  I Sat through torturess hours listening to my partner fighting them tooth and nail to refund cruises that they had cancelled themselves in the lockdown and with no result. 

YES!  YES!!!  That "pay up in full way ahead" is one of my big, big hang-ups about considering Viking.  Also, have had friends who had to hassle for getting proper credit on re-booking after a booked-and-paid cruise was scrubbed during the Covid period.  

Will be interested to see as Viking adds more ocean cruise ships if and when they "get real" with their payment policies and other financial practices.  

It will be interesting to see as Ritz-Carlton and others go after the more upscale, smaller ship market if Viking's offers and options evolve.  PLUS, we are all waiting till when the next recession hits and how deep it impacts consumer decisions/spending.  

Sorry, not a Gin and Tonic guy, so I have no opinions as to that special subject.  Am more of a frozen margarita guy as the below visual shows from our February 2024 Silver Moon, Mumbai to Singapore adventure.  Anyone remember super wonderful Jeffrey from past Silversea sailings?

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

AFRICA?!!?: Fun, interesting visuals, plus travel details from this early 2016 live/blog. At 56,161 views. Featuring Cape Town, South Africa’s coast, Mozambique, Victoria Falls/Zambia and Botswana's famed Okavango Delta.

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2310337

4 hours ago, RetiredandTravel said:

Thanks Terry.  I don't want to be misinterpreted on my comments.  I'm only discussing our own preferences and joking some.  We've looked at Viking many times and although Viking has some exellent characteristics have decided that it doesn't offer what we are looking for.  My comments weren't intended to be condescending towards anyone or Viking. 

Don't worry, R&T.  All of us have had experiences and options, likes and dislikes, etc.  All are entitled to express comments, share pro/con factors and make follow-ups.  No cruise line is 100% perfect, nor fitting exactly for each individual's preferences, budget and style.  

From the Wall Street Journal late Friday afternoon after the stock market closing, below are the charts for the three major cruise lines.  

Things, trends and patterns look very different for each of these corporations.  Why and how?  Clearly the markets and traders did not appreciate the position and direction for Norwegian after hearing their mid-week quarterly financial report.  

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

Athens & Greece: Visuals, details from two visits in a city and nearby with great history, culture and architecture.  Now at 64,639 views.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1101008

Here are the Wall Street Journal charts for the most recent five days of stock trading with the current "Big Three" cruise companies.  For Norwegian, things did not "bounce back" on Thursday or Friday.:

(Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!)

For its first few days on the NY Stock Exchange, Viking moved up, UP, UP!!  Will that trend continue?  For how long?  Should Viking be included for future postings?:

For comparison, here is the broader S&P 500 chart for this past week.  Looks rather "rocky" and fast-changing?:

8 hours ago, UKCruiseJeff said:

Today was chicken in white wine sauce with mash and peas!  

Appreciate these wonderful dining delights and all of the tasty follow-ups.  

Anyone ready for their "Golden Years"??

BUT, where's the Gold?  At the end of a rainbow??

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

22 hours ago, RetiredandTravel said:

Terry I think Viking is closer to SS than the large ships, not sure about the river component.  We don't care for Viking's food & wine offering (NO Champagne😡except for seperate purchase is my understanding).  They do have an expedition cruise to the Great Lakes we have on our radar.  If I recall one analyst felt NCLH was more recession resistant because of the high mix of premium/luxury ships.  It will be interesting to see how Viking trades vs its rivals.  Not sure.

Appreciate from R&T and highplanesdrifters these great follow-ups and comments.  Agree that Viking will be worth watching and considering.  For us, it is all about itineraries, interesting port stops/options, etc.  From friends who have done Viking Ocean, there are various pro/con factors to consider.  As Viking adds more Ocean ships with that 900-passenger size, we will be watching with interest.  Plus, checking as to what reasonable "value" in pricing will be offered.  Lots of variables!!   

From MSN News and this financial news website this morning, they had this headline: “Why Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Stock Was Tumbling This Week” with these highlights: “Some investors just can't be pleased. That seemed to be the dynamic at work this week with Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, whose stock was sinking this week despite quite a decent quarterly earnings report. According to data compiled by S&P Global Market Intelligence, as of early morning Friday the share price was more than 16% underwater week to date.  It seems as if the company was the victim of outsize expectations. Perhaps that isn't so surprising given the persistently high demand in the travel industry in these early years after pandemic lockdowns.”

Here is more from their comments about NCLH:  "Sentiment in Norwegian stock wasn't helped by a clutch of price target cuts from several of those analysts -- even though none was drastic.  Susquehanna's Christopher Stathoulopoulos lowered his price target to $18 per share from the previous $21, for example, while maintaining a neutral recommendation. Wells Fargo prognosticator Daniel Politzer also kept his neutral stance in cutting his price target to $19 per share from $21."

Is "neutral" good enough for the cruise line future?  Or, is it a sign seeing dark, negative clouds looming over the croppy seas' horizon?

Full story at:

https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/markets/why-norwegian-cruise-line-holdings-stock-was-tumbling-this-week/ar-AA1o5rID?ocid=BingNewsSearch

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

Amazon River-Caribbean 2015 adventure live/blog starting in Barbados on the Silver Cloud for 26 days. Many visuals from this amazing river and Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, San Juan, etc.).  Now at 75,085 views:

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2076101-live-amazon-river-caribbean-many-pix’s-terryohio/

On 4/30/2024 at 11:22 AM, RetiredandTravel said:

I found the Viking Prospectus to have some interesting information.  Viking may be a decent proxy for the luxury market.   It's not what I call true "luxury" but from a laymans perspective I guess it is. . . Cheers!!

YES!!!  Much of interest from the Viking filings and where things go as they add more ships for their Ocean sailing offerings.  With a size of 900 passengers, they are not an exact, direct competitor to Silversea, Regent and Seabourn.  BUT, close enough to be of interest to see their offerings, pricings and options.  

From the Wall Street Journal's Barron's and MSN News this afternoon, they had this headline: “Viking Stock Sails Higher In Trading Debut” with these highlights: “Viking Holdings stock is cruising higher in its debut.   Shares of the luxury cruise operator opened at $26.15, above its initial public offering price of $24. It’s currently up 10% at $26.44.  The company has a market valuation of $11.3 billion based on that opening price and more than 431 million in shares outstanding. The company raised $1.54 billion, the most money among U.S. initial public offerings this year. Shareholders Canada Pension Plan Investment Board and private equity group TPG also offered more than 53 million shares, an upsize of the initial plan.”

Full story at:

https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/markets/viking-prices-ipo-at-24-cruise-operator-picks-interesting-day-to-go-public/ar-AA1nYq6N

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

Venice: Loving It & Why??!!  Is one of your future desires or past favorites? See these many visual samples for its great history and architecture.  This posting is now at 112,709 views.

From the Reuters newswire and MSN News this morning, they had this headline: “Cruise operator Norwegian's Q1 revenue miss overshadows raised outlook” with these highlights: “Shares of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings fell more than 12% after the operator's downbeat first-quarter revenue overshadowed a raise in annual profit forecast on Wednesday.  Expectations for cruise operators have generally become high after strong booking trends and demand drove up their results and shares last year.   Shares of Norwegian and its rival Carnival have seen their growth temper from those highs, in part due to concerns around cost pressures and their brands' exposure to the Middle East conflict.”

Here is a good take-away summary point from this reporting: " 'The challenge for NCLH shares this year and likely today as well is that RCL has set a very high bar with several massive beat & raises this year,' said Truist Securities analyst Patrick Scholes."

As added notes from my listening this am, here is more as stated by the Norwegian CEO and CFO:   There was lots of interest and discussions as related to new builds, future growth, etc.  NCHL grew capacity 8% while increasing prices and bookings.  “Yield growth is strong.”  On board revenue is up and strong.  For the Spring of 2025, they have scrubbed all Red Sea sailings and middle-east.  See much "pricing strength", broad-based demand in all geographic areas.  They admit "cutting the fat" for food, marketing; but claimed they are pushing better logistics, not cutting quality of food.  Doing more on private islands saying customers love the experience.  Demand is still strong.  View consumer as “very healthy”.  

In three weeks they will have a bigger investor call/conference on May 20.  They are not worried on Viking Ocean growth or competition.  They ducked a little for answering or detailing how new-build ship construction inflation will be affecting their future bottom line.  

Questions?  Reactions?  Will their stock rebound later this week, later this month?

Full story at:

https://www.msn.com/en-gb/travel/news/cruise-operator-norwegians-q1-revenue-miss-overshadows-raised-outlook/ar-AA1nZrL5

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio   

Sydney to NZ/Auckland Adventure, live/blog 2014 sampling/details with many exciting visuals and key highlights.  On page 23, post #571, see a complete index for all of the pictures, postings.  Now at 250,088 views.

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1896175-solstice-live-australianzhawaii-many-pix’s-jan-20-feb-3/

At 10 am today, the top executives of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings held their quarterly conference with the financial analysts.  Just completed listening live to this reporting session, including the various questions and answers from the Wall Street pros.  Overall, the top NCLH brass were optimistic and very upbeat.  They view consumers as booking, spending and being "very healthy" financially.  More on some of those added specifics later.  

From the Wall Street Journal and one of their financial news website this morning, they had this headline: “Norwegian Cruise’s stock falls after revenue missed, despite record bookings” with these highlights: “Passenger ticket revenue jumped but missed expectations while onboard spending rose more than forecast.  Shares of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. slumped Wednesday, after the cruise operator beat first-quarter profit expectations and raised its full-year outlook amid continued record demand, but missed revenue expectations for the first time in seven quarters.  'We kicked off 2024 with impressive momentum, with record bookings in the first quarter propelling us to continue our all-time high booked position and an unprecedented level of advance ticket sales,' said Chief Executive Harry Sommer.”

Why such a super harsh, negative reaction by the market traders??  See this chart below for the morning trading from the Wall Street Journal.  Both Royal Caribbean and Carnival were down by 3% this morning.  

Full story at:

https://www.marketwatch.com/story/norwegian-cruises-stock-falls-after-revenue-came-up-a-bit-short-despite-record-bookings-0c1e22ff

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

Norway Coast/Fjords/Arctic Circle cruise from Copenhagen, July 2010, to the top of Europe. Scenic visuals with key tips. Live/blog at 251,299 views.

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1172051-livesilver-cloud-norway-coastfjords-july-1-16-reports/

Here is the link to that March 2022 Travel+Leisure guide mentioned for Jaipur and its many options, historic background, etc.:  

https://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-guide/jaipur-india

Of importance, they also shared: "Jaipur is only 167 miles from New Delhi, but it is an entirely different world. Instead of a complicated labyrinth of roads, the city is built on a street grid that makes it easier to navigate than Delhi or Mumbai. Jaipur is a place to explore the palaces of pre-colonial India, dive deep into Indian history, and relax in world class hotels."

Also as what was shared earlier was more on the "pleasure palace".  It is Jal Mahal . . . "a majestic palace rising from the center of Man Sagar Lake. This palace seems to float on top of the glassy water, but a close look shows it's partially submerged. Just one of its five stories is now visible."  The building isn't accessible, but you can catch a glimpse of its former glory from shore side.

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

Athens & Greece: Visuals, details from two visits in a city and nearby with great history, culture and architecture.  Now at 64,639 views.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1101008

From Conde Nast's March 2022 Travel+Leisure magazine, they had this headline:   "India's Iconic 'Pink City' Continuously Voted One of the Best in the World".  

They detailed: "Jaipur is a destination filled with beautiful palaces, a rich history, and luxury hotels.   Jaipur is continuously named one of the best cities in the world by Travel + Leisure readers. A city of sprawling palaces, it's also home to ornate architectural masterpieces and sweeping views of lush green hills and idyllic lakes. It is the first planned city in India and has earned UNESCO World Heritage status for setting an exceptional example of indigenous city planning. And its streets feel a little more manageable than the congested labyrinths of New Delhi and Mumbai, especially for first-time visitors to India."

Great and nice summary.  Below are more visual to prove why we loved Jaipur so very much.  Questions?  Reactions?

In doing my various posting on Cruise Critic, i noticed this morning that I just hit the level of 26,000 total posts. Appreciate those who have followed along, offered encouragement, comments and added their insights and experiences.  Keep it coming!!  Don't be shy with any and all questions. 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

Amazon River-Caribbean 2015 adventure live/blog starting in Barbados on the Silver Cloud for 26 days. Many visuals from this amazing river and Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, San Juan, etc.).  Now at 75,085 views:

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2076101-live-amazon-river-caribbean-many-pix’s-terryohio/

Here is a sampling of various sights, activities, buildings, etc., as we moved around colorful Jaipur.:

(Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!)

As we went to dinner in Jaipur, here was a wedding event space next door to our dining location.  Colorful and interesting??  Second is a visual of a performer in the courtyard of our dining location.:

These two sunset visuals merit repeating.  First is the Albert Hall Museum with its sampling of the Rajasthan's royal past and heritage.  This museum was built during the late 19th century.  Across the street is a statue of a past Rajasthan ruler on a horse.  Love sunset visuals that work well with the dramatic lighting.:

To continue sharing how much and why we super loved Jaipur, this Nov. 29, 2018. summary from the New York Times Travel Section details much.  It is linked at:  

https://www.nytimes.com/2018/11/29/travel/what-to-do-in-jaipur.html

The headline is "36 Hours in Jaipur" with this sub-headline: "In India’s Pink City, the streets are filled with palaces, temples and, sometimes, cows. Eat like royalty, shop for jewelry and find a weekend’s worth of bliss amid the commotion."    

Here are some of their reporting highlights:  "Nearly 300 years ago, an enlightened maharajah with a penchant for jewels and an eye for architecture built a planned city amid the arid hills of northwest India. Called Jaipur after the city’s founder, Jai Singh II, it arose on a grid of urban sectors not just for royal palaces, but for the workshops of artisans recruited to establish a new commercial hub. These days, gem cutters, jewelry designers and garment-makers are still flourishing in one of India’s most popular tourist and shopping destinations. This is a city where the royals, to this day, occupy a wing of the City Palace, and where mid-rise towers and a new subway system are muscling in on a proud past. Street markets are awash in color and handicrafts, and Hindu temples can be found nearly every 100 yards. Though the streets seethe with beeping and belching traffic, tourists and dung-dropping cows, you can find bliss amid the commotion.  Jaipur is known as the Pink City, built with sandstone and blushed with paint in 1876 to welcome the Prince of Wales."

Here is how they summarized the Hawa Mahal, or Palace of Winds:  "The five-story facade of protruding bays with lattice stonework and 365 windows is said to have been built as a screen for the women of the royal court so they could watch unobserved the parades of soldiers and elephants below. It’s a steep climb to the top, where it’s only one room deep, but the view and being ensconced in cupolas mimicking Krishna’s crown are worth it."

While we only drove past the Palace of the Winds, not going inside and/or climbing up, it is an amazing sight and site.  Love this below visual view that was posted earlier.  
 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

Venice: Loving It & Why??!!  Is one of your future desires or past favorites? See these many visual samples for its great history and architecture.  This posting is now at 112,709 views.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1278226

Here is my five-star, super wonderful view of Jaipur's Palace of the Winds.  The structure was built in 1799 by the Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, grandson of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, the founder of the city.  Love the amazing colors and architecture style?:

(Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!)

On the way back into Jaipur after visiting Amer, this large lake has a nice "pleasure palace" located in this scenic setting.:

After touring Jaipur's City Palace, we experienced several craft-related visits and tours.  This included my wife getting involved in the art of printing designs on fabric.  These three visual show part of the process with the cut wood designs and then the final results.:

Yes, they have carpet stores in India and Jaipur.  Lots of nice options, but at home we already have various nice, oriental-style carpets, including two purchased in Istanbul in 2006.  Plus, down-sizing is in our future and we did not need more "stuff".  But, good looking!!:

Here are a few more for the various crafts and skills of Jaipur.  This includes two from a location where stones are ground, polished, etc., into nice jewelry, etc.  The staffs were nice and friendly, even though we were not purchasing.  Just looking, enjoying and learning!!  The NY Times profile noted: "Jaipur is a global center for cutting and polishing precious and semiprecious gems.":

Glad our UK expert/friend has made it to Africa.  Had a chance this am to catch up as to your always interesting and honest reporting.  

Appreciate all of these efforts and follow-ups, especially the visuals.  Keep it coming.  Sorry the Amazon River was not more exciting.  From our 2015 adventure up and down the Amazon River on the Silver Cloud, it is a "different" area compared to the wider port varieties and experiences in the Caribbean, Med, etc.  We loved that trip but have warned others that it is different than what some others seek and enjoy most.  

Looking forward to learning more as to the various Africa stops.  

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

Amazon River-Caribbean 2015 adventure live/blog starting in Barbados on the Silver Cloud for 26 days. Many visuals from this amazing river and Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, San Juan, etc.).  Now at 75,085 views:

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2076101-live-amazon-river-caribbean-many-pix’s-terryohio/

From the New York Times on Thursday and yesterday, there were two different stories detailing certain of the current economic factors now playing out.  

First, this headline: “Bets on Rate Cuts This Year Are Fading Away" with this sub-headline:  "Stubborn inflation has led traders to forecast far fewer rate cuts by the Federal Reserve than just a few months ago.” 

Here are some of their reporting highlights yesterday for this interest rate analysis: “At the start of 2024, investors expected the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates substantially this year as inflation cooled. But price increases have been surprisingly stubborn, and that is forcing a rethink on Wall Street.  Investors and economists are questioning when and how much Fed policymakers will manage to cut rates — and some are increasingly dubious that Fed officials will manage to lower them at all this year.  Inflation was coming down steadily in 2023, but that progress has stalled out in 2024.”

Second is this key summary headline from Thursday: “U.S. Growth Slowed in First Quarter, but Inflation Remained a Bug" with this sub-headline: "Gross domestic product, adjusted for inflation, increased at a 1.6 percent annual rate in the first three months of the year.”

For this second report, here are some added highlights: “The U.S. economy remained resilient early this year, with a strong job market fueling robust consumer spending. The trouble is that inflation was resilient, too.  Gross domestic product, adjusted for inflation, increased at a 1.6 percent annual rate in the first three months of the year. That was down sharply from the 3.4 percent growth rate at the end of 2023 and fell well short of forecasters’ expectations.”

Interest rates and economic growth?  With higher than hoped inflation rates?  is that a clear picture of the future?

Full stories at:

https://www.nytimes.com/2024/04/26/business/economy/fed-rate-cut-forecast.html

https://www.nytimes.com/2024/04/25/business/economy/us-economy-gdp-growth.html

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio   

Barcelona/Med: June 2011, with stops in Villefranche, ports near Pisa and Rome, Naples, Kotor, Venice and Dubrovnik. Great visuals with key highlights, tips, etc. Live/blog now at 258,970 views.

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1362155-solstice-livefirst-timer-reportspix’s-italycroatian-june-7-19/

From the Wall Street Journal charts late Friday, below are the stock moves for the three major cruise lines.  Unlike in many week, these three stocks had somewhat different moves and patterns during these five trading days.  

On Thursday, Barron's had this headline: "Royal Caribbean Earnings Tick All the Boxes. The Stock Is Sailing Higher."

Why?  Trends?  Meanings?  Future moves?

From the Wall Street Journal Thursday, they had this headline: “JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon Gives a Soft Landing Long Odds" with this sub-headline:  "Jamie Dimon says the U.S. consumer is in good shape right now, but a huge fiscal deficit and geopolitical challenges make him cautious about the future. ”

The general consensus is that interest rates are not going to be cut quickly and that there are longer-term questions for when, if and how deep of an economic "adjustment" will happen.  Any good predictions?  Or, guesses?

Full story at:

https://www.wsj.com/video/series/in-depth-features/jpmorgan-ceo-jamie-dimon-gives-a-soft-landing-long-odds/6C29CE62-8388-4293-A57B-2A13D986C87D?page=1

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

Abu Dhabi vs. Dubai?  Many different UAE tips, options, ideas, visuals, etc. with more than 20,000 views at:  https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2521493-abu-dhabi-vs-dubai-procon-factors/page/5/#comment-66634467

During this past week's five-day period, here are the charts for the three major cruise lines.  Things were steady and upward for Royal Caribbean.  More mixed for Carnival and Norwegian?:

(Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!)

For the past 30-day period, this below chart gives a different perspectives as to the slide and then rebounding for Royal Caribbean during this time period.:

From a Wall Street Journal-related financial news website this morning, they had this headline: “Royal Caribbean Climbs In Buy Zone, Hikes Outlook On Strong Demand” with these highlights: “Cruise giant Royal Caribbean Group swung higher early Thursday after clearing first-quarter estimates and hiking its outlook on a huge wave of demand. RCL stock jumped higher in a buy zone during premarket trade.  Royal Caribbean reported adjusted earnings of $1.77 per share, improving from a loss of 23 cents per share last year. Total revenue leapt 29% to $3.73 billion.  Royal Caribbean says it continues to be in a record booked position, with rates for 2024 sailings even further ahead of 2023 levels than they were at the beginning of the year. ”

At early afternoon today, the overall market was down significantly, but RCL was up, UP.  

Full story at:

https://www.investors.com/news/royal-caribbean-rcl-stock-buy-zone-earnings/?src=A00619&refcode=aflMarketWatch

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

Love the Caribbean? Here are two popular posts/links with thousands of views with much info for . . . . Grenada   

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2179927-grenada-pixs-fun-experiences-jan2015/page/2/#comment-66823149

Or, Aruba:  https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2178325-aruba-pixs-fun-experiences-feb2015/page/3/#comment-66677721

Here is more from our exploring at the City Palace in Jaipur.  

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio   

Sydney to NZ/Auckland Adventure, live/blog 2014 sampling/details with many exciting visuals and key highlights.  On page 23, post #571, see a complete index for all of the pictures, postings.  Now at 250,088 views.

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1896175-solstice-live-australianzhawaii-many-pix’s-jan-20-feb-3/

Designed in the style of a Mughal audience hall, the Diwan-e-Aam, the Sabha Niwas, is the receiving hall within the City Palace. It has multiple cusped arches supported by marble columns with a painted plaster ceiling.  Look regal and royal?   Nice rug like you have at home?  On the walls of this hall and nearby are large format paintings of the past Maharajas of Jaipur.:

(Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!)

Although posted earlier at the start of this live/blog, this visual is worth repeating as a part of the City Palace coverage.  Here is my wife with a couple of the uniformed personnel at this historic site.:

Here are more of the varied architectural and artistic wonders to be seen and experienced at the Jaipur City Palace.:

At the City Palace, we caught this "entertainment" segment with these colorful puppets, exciting music, etc.  First is a still picture of the puppets.  Second is an action video with drum sounds, etc.  Click on the video in the middle to start and listen to the fun!:

On 4/22/2024 at 4:00 PM, highplanesdrifters said:

I'm going to go out on a limb a say I speak for all the lurkers and future lurkers.  Keep em coming! 😃    Elephant experience looks amazing.

Appreciate these great comments and follow-ups. YES, the elephant experience was both "up close and personal", plus amazing and very warmingly-connected to these awesome creatures.  With just my wife and I, it was so much easier to experience compared to be in a group of 15-25 people.  Or, an even larger group.  

From inside Jaipur, we shift our focus to the City Palace, a royal residence and former administrative headquarters for the rulers of the Jaipur State, Rajasthan.  

Construction started around 1727 at the time of the establishment of the city of Jaipur under the reign of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II.  He moved his court to Jaipur from Amber. Jaipur remained the capital of the kingdom until 1949—when it became the capital of the present-day Indian state of Rajasthan—with the City Palace functioning as the ceremonial and administrative seat of the Maharaja of Jaipur.  

When India gained freedom from the British rule in 1947, most of the various Maharaja rulers and families around the country lost out, those in Jaipur managed to maintain property, power and position.  This City Palace gives an interesting sampling for those past "days of prestige" and their adjustment to more modern times.  The palace complex has many buildings, various courtyards, galleries and offices of the Museum Trust.  We toured the museum and saw much around this location.  Many visuals below and more to come from Jaipur, the easy to love city with so much history and artistic style. 

Maharaja Ram Singh sided with the British in the Uprising of 1857, establishing himself with the Imperial rulers. Much of Jaipur, including the City Palace, are stucco painted the color pink and since that time the city has been called the "Pink City".The change in the color style was to honor the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII) on his visit.  Now that color has become a trademark of the Jaipur.

Just a little mix of history and style??  For those who have visited Jaipur, feel free to share what you loved most there, suggested for others as "must see", etc.  

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio   

Norway Coast/Fjords/Arctic Circle cruise from Copenhagen, July 2010, to the top of Europe. Scenic visuals with key tips. Live/blog at 251,299 views.

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1172051-livesilver-cloud-norway-coastfjords-july-1-16-reports/

Here are a couple initial views of the various structures as we entered Jaipur's famed and popular City Palace.:

(Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!)

During our time at the Jaipur City Palace, there was a little parade/ceremony.  Not sure what and why, but things looked cute and interesting.  Jaipur is colorful!!!  Right?:

Inside the City Palace Museum, our skilled guide provided more background as to the past rulers of this region of India.:

Here are more samplings of the various buildings in the City Palace.  This includes for the use of the pink color and the various, unique stylings.:

5 hours ago, RetiredandTravel said:

Viking IPO

https://www.renaissancecapital.com/Profile/VIK/Viking/IPO

Appreciate this follow-ups about Viking's move with their IPO.  Great question by highplanesdrifters!!  It will be interesting to follow and see how this move impacts the other cruise line stocks.  

From Bloomberg and MSN News this morning, they had this headline: “Cruise Operator Viking Sets Price Range for $1.1 Billion IPO” with these highlights: “Viking Holdings and its existing shareholders are seeking to raise as much as $1.1 billion in a New York initial public offering, with the cruise operator looking to go public as the travel industry rebounds from its pandemic-era slump.The company and the investors are offering 44 million shares between $21.00 and $25.00 per ordinary share.  A revival in cruise bookings has sparked a boom in the sector, with shares in Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. doubling in value over the past year while Carnival Corp. has jumped more than 50%.”

Full story at:

https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/other/cruise-operator-viking-sets-price-range-for-1-1-billion-ipo/ar-AA1nrMUR

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

Lisbon vs. Porto?  Many different Portugal tips, options, ideas, visuals, etc. with nearly 30,000 views at:   https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2558841-lisbon-vs-porto-which-best/page/7/#comment-66782296

1 hour ago, highplanesdrifters said:

Thanks Terry for sharing.  Keep em coming.

Appreciate this above kind comment.  And, encouragement for more!!  BUT, be careful what you wish for and seek.  Have more to share.  Hopefully, it continues to be interesting and informative.  

After exploring all over the impressive royal palace/fort, we headed to visit to the elephant rescue camp at Dera Amer.  Their website is:  www.deraamer.com  We had lunch here and did an interaction with rescued elephant, plus walking around the nearby wilderness areas, seeing other creatures, etc.  

Yes, the two elephants are treated very well here in their "retirement".  Not saddles places on them.  No riding by tourists.  It is mainly one caretaker showing lots of love and personal "connection" with the main elephants we fed, got to know, etc.  Lovely, deeply personal experience that was so wonderful.  

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

Barcelona/Med: June 2011, with stops in Villefranche, ports near Pisa and Rome, Naples, Kotor, Venice and Dubrovnik. Great visuals with key highlights, tips, etc. Live/blog now at 258,970 views.

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1362155-solstice-livefirst-timer-reportspix’s-italycroatian-june-7-19/

This one elephant has a "keeper" and friend who interacted daily.  He share background on this elephant, its life, the differences for African versus Asian elephants.  Plus, being able to get "up close and personal" with the magnificent creature.  Then in his bare feet, he went up to the top and be able to take the elephant on a walk through the nearby wilderness areas.:

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Both my wife and I fed this elephant bananas.  Later, my wife gave the elephant a "treat" of sugar cane.:

Another staff member showed us how the turban is wrapped around the head.:

Here was the peacock strutting around during lunch at this location.:

Here was the cute camel at this location.:

34 minutes ago, Sketty1616 said:

So we are going on our very first cruise on 5/16, Seward to Vancouver. Not just our first SS cruise, but our first cruise period.  Since we are first-timers, what is one thing we need to try, experience, do, ask for, that a first-timer might not otherwise know they need to do? Thanks!

Congratulations for doing your first cruise and especially with the many wonderful options and potentials for Alaska, Vancouver, etc.  

As detailed below, in reverse order, we did in the summer of 2019, Vancouver to Alaska on the Silver Muse.  Check out my live/blog below for many visuals, options to consider, etc.  

Here are some tips for cruising and this adventure to the USA's 49th State.  

1. Before and after your cruise, what are you doing?  Will you spend time at the end of the cruise in Vancouver?  It's a super wonderful and charming city.  We had three days there prior and it works out so well.  We also did a Denali through Silversea.  Also, wonderful.  Tell us more as to your before and after plans.  

2. Weather?: Be prepared and flexible.  In May for your cruise, things can be challenging with cold, rain, snow, etc.  Good luck.  Prepare accordingly.  

3. Shore excursion?:  Have you researched your various port tour options for these various Alaska stops?  What are you planning and for which types of excursions are you most interested?  There is much of interest to do in these areas.  Hopefully you will do more than just walk off of the ship and explore around what is nearby in each port.  Below are some visuals for the air tour we did in Juneau that was totally amazing!!  Flying over the glaciers, stopping for lunch at a salmon fry, seeing a bear up close, exploring some of the old forest areas, etc.  Totally wonderful and thrilling.  

4. Ship options, dining?:  Tell us most about your personal interests, travel style, dining loves, etc.  These Silversea ships have many options.  Plan and prepare ahead.  Try new things.  

Look through my live/blog.  Happy to share more and answer any and all added questions.  Don't be shy!!!  Lots of people on these CC boards are very experienced and happy to share much more, respond to your info needs, etc.  

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

Summer 2019 Calgary, Jasper/Banff National Parks, Western Canada Rocky Mountaineer rail adventure, Vancouver, sailing up to Alaska on Silver Muse, post-cruise excursion to Denali, etc.  Many visuals, Our firsts in these scenic areas!  Now at 21,312 views. Live/blog: 

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2682584-live-terryohio-silver-muse-alaska-canadarockies-pix’s/

In Juneau, we super enjoyed the amazing experience for doing an air tour over five glacier, landing for a salmon lunch, seeing a bear, walking in a unique wooded area, etc.  Great fun and excitement!!:

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Here is the welcome to Ketchikan.:

In Skagway, here is one sample of its style and interesting architecture/history.:

This one visual gives a small sample for the vibrance of Vancouver.  So much charm and character there to enjoy.:

Using my second camera body and the wider-angle lens, below are some added visual samples from Amer/Amber Palace outside of Jaipur. 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

Love the Caribbean? Here are two popular posts/links with thousands of views with much info for . . . . Grenada   

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2179927-grenada-pixs-fun-experiences-jan2015/page/2/#comment-66823149

Or, Aruba:  https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2178325-aruba-pixs-fun-experiences-feb2015/page/3/#comment-66677721

This is an overall view for one of the higher-level courtyards at the Amer/Amber Palace.:

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At this highly-decorated building in this complex, here is another angle/view, plus the second visual showing a wedding couple enjoying the beautiful day with a twirling, dance picture.:

Here, as I recall, is part of the second courtyard, Diwan-E-Aam (Hall of Public Audience) where the ruler held sessions to hear the public's requests, interests and needs.:

Yes, there were nice gardens as a part of the palace for the royals to have added areas for relaxing and enjoying.  Second is another view from the upper palace down to the lake and surrounding hills/mountains.  You will notice some of the elephants returning down the hillside.:

Sorry, still not done sharing more for the Amer or Amber Fort.  It is believed to have first been established in 967 AD, when Raja Alan Singh, a ruler of the Chanda clan of Meenas, settled here. Later in 1592, Raja Man Singh, a ruler of the Kachwaha Rajputs, built upon the remains of the earlier structures.  This became the grand residence of the Rajput Maharajas and their families. Over the next 150 years, the fort and palaces were further expanded, with Rajputana successors such as Sawai Jai Singh adding many elements of architecture to it.

More to come!!  You are duly warned and prepared. 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio   

Abu Dhabi vs. Dubai?  Many different UAE tips, options, ideas, visuals, etc. with more than 20,000 views at: 

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2521493-abu-dhabi-vs-dubai-procon-factors/page/5/#comment-66634467

Here is more for the architecture, style and design at the Amer/Amber Palace.:

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Nearby to the Amer Palace, here are couple examples for the colorful entertainers and also a nearby religious site observed as we traveled.:

To continue the questions/concerns for how these elephants are treated and respected at Amer Palace, this a closer look at the decorations placed on this animal.  Colorful, but excessive?  Or, not?:

As exiting Amer, here were camels used to pull carts used in transportation.:

Also during our Amer exiting, here is an interesting combination as a motorcycle rider waves to us with a decorated elephant in the background.:

The Amer/Amber Fort/Palace has so much that is unique and fascinating.  No wonder it attracts such large crowds and significant visitor interest.  Below is more visual evidence/sampling to reflect the beauty and history there.  

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio   

Lisbon vs. Porto?  Many different Portugal tips, options, ideas, visuals, etc. with nearly 30,000 views at:  

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2558841-lisbon-vs-porto-which-best/page/7/#comment-66782296

Here are several more visuals to reflect the various artistic and design details that can be experienced at this historic site outside of Jaipur where the ruling families were housed and from which they controlled these territories in this portion of India.:

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At the higher levels of this sprawling palace complex, they had a "women's gallery" where the females that were a part of the ruling families could observe (at a "safe" distance) the various activities at the levels below.  In these times, women from these families were not to be seen and involved.  These two visuals below show an Indian resident using this vantage/observation point above the lower levels of this palace.  Notice the artistic design to protect their identities from being seen by those below?  Then in the second visual, she turns and gives me a nice, friendly smile!  Like?:

Here is the view from this "women's gallery" down to the lower levels at the Amber/Amer Palace.:

At the Amber/Amer Palace/Fort, the primary courtyard, Jaleb Chowk. is where the ruler's soldiers assembled and paraded.  Up higher are various interior buildings for the royals, including one with walls covered in intricate mirror work using glass imported from Belgium.  See a visual below featuring my wife in that unique setting. 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

Love the Caribbean? Here are popular posts/links with over 20,000 views with much info for . . . .

Barbados:  https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2179164-barbados-50th-birthday-our-pixs-experiences-feb2015/page/3/#comment-65530134Or, Dominica:  https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2169714-dominica-love-our-experience-pictures-etc/page/3/#comment-66637276

Here is a view of the large, initial, lower Amer Palace courtyard where soldiers would parade.  In the background are the impressive mountains in the distance with fortifications at the top of these high location.:

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Here is a visual of the staircase from the Jaleb Chowk courtyard going up to the higher-level areas of the palace.:

At the higher palace level, here is one of the highly-decorated palace buildings.:

Here are three different visuals of the many and unique interior wall designs and decorations inside of these palace rooms.:

From a higher level of the palace, here is a view down to the lake and a garden area at its lowest level.:

This is a closer view of the elephants taking visitor up to the main level of this Amer Palace.:

One of the top attractions to visit in the Jaipur area is Amber Fort or Amer Fort located in a small town 6.8 miles from Jaipur.  Situated high on a hill, its setting and views are dramatic and very interesting.  It is not just sitting there on a flat, boring site.  There are large ramparts and a series of gates and cobbled paths.  

The fort overlooks Maota Lake, the main source of water for the Amer Palace. Some of its buildings have the influence of Mughal architecture.  It is constructed of red sandstone and marble, featuring a palace laid out on four levels, each with a courtyard.  Plus, various walls, towers and defensive position being up above the palace to defend this royal location.  

More than 1.8 million visitors tour annually and in 2013, Amer Fort, along with five other forts of Rajasthan, were declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites.  Per Wikipedia, the Amber Fort was originally built by Raja Man Singh. Jai Singh I expanded it in the early 1600's.  Construction started in 1592. Improvements and additions were made by successive rulers over the next 150 years, until the Kachwahas shifted their capital to Jaipur during the time of Sawai Jai Singh II, in 1727.  Lots of history here!!

As added background for the Royal Heritage Haveli where we stayed in Jaipur, it is a converted 18th-century Rajasthani hunting lodge. The family-run hotel has the feel of a personal estate, with croquet on the lawns, spa, dining and drinks on an elevated level overlooking the grounds and buildings.  It is decorated in the Indo-Mughal style with bright frescoes, sweeping archways and intricate tile.  It was built in the 1700's by His Highness Madho Singh Ji of Jaipur, After 250 years as a Royal retreat, it opened its doors as a boutique hotel.  
Now owned by the Maharaj Jai Singh of Jaipur, it is is run by his niece and her husband. 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

Canada 2022/2023: Scenic visuals, details from Canada Maritimes (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Cape Breton Island).  Plus, new from Aug. 2023, exploring historic/charming Quebec City.    Visual/Info Summaries:

www.flickr.com/photos/196555480@N08/albums

As we approached the Amber or Amer Palace/Fort, here is one of the first views with the lake at the front/lower level.  Next is a closer visual for a portion of this sprawling palace/fort, including showing elephants taking visitors up to the higher levels.  The final two visuals show these elephants closer.  There is serious debate as to the pro/con factors for using elephants in this type of tourism activity.  We did not ride the elephants.  In addition to the ethical questions for using elephants in this way, I was warned that riding an elephants can be very rough and bumpy.  True or not?:

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Here is an interesting and unique decorative gate seen near this palace/fort site.:

Here is an example for the various decorative goods displayed and solid near this historic site.  Second is a local musician seen as we climbed up to the main parts of the palace areas.  Lots of "local color" and artistic style!:

Here are only two of the many visuals showing various walls, towers and fortification surrounding this Amber Palace near Jaipur.  They were serious about protecting the ruling families here in India.:

Now, we move to the "Main Event" as one of the top, best "stars" during our visit to India.  It is JAIPUR!!

Some of the pre-cruise options from Silversea and other tour firms did not offer a chance to see Jaipur.  Or, they did this amazing city and location in too short of a time frame and/or with logistics that were not very appealing.  

Why is Jaipur so much of a must-see?  Many of my visuals will verify its attraction, history and charm, plus below is more background and details.  

Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan where this Royal family still has a huge presence and position that uniquely continued after India gained freedom and independence from British rule in 1947.  Jaipur is known as the “Pink City” for its walled, pink-hued cluster of buildings.  Jaipur is a microcosm of India’s color and bustle with imaginative architecture.  Plus, an intermingling of their historic past and the 21st Century current world.  Jaipur has a population of 4.5 million, the tenth largest city in India. Jaipur is also called the "Paris of India".  The city is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites Amer Fort and Jantar Mantar.

Jaipur was the setting for the film Best Exotic Marigold Hotel and its sequel.  This movie followed the adventures of a group of senior European ex-pats who retire to Jaipur and in the process discover their true selves.  Located 167 miles from New Delhi. Jaipur was founded in 1727 by the Kachhwaha Rajput ruler Jai Singh II, the ruler of Amer, after whom the city is named. It was one of the earliest planned cities of modern India. 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio   

Early 2020, many visuals and details from New Zealand/South Pacific in going from Auckland to French Polynesia.  This includes Bora Bora, Fiji, NZ experiences, etc:  Live/blog:

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2735732-live-terryohio-“new”-regatta-south-pacificnz-pix’s/

Here are four quick samples for the architecture and style of Jaipur with its colorful gates and unique building designs.  Like the pink gates?  Jaipur is "feast" to stimulate the eye and brain.  AND, to warm the heart for photographers like me.  Lots to soak up and enjoy!!:

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For our two nights in Jaipur, we stayed at the Royal Heritage Haveli.  Now privately operated, it was a former hunting lodge of the ruling family on the edge of the then existing town.  Below is its pool and a couple samples for its colorful, flowering grounds.  Compared to the Oberoi and Taj hotels, this gave us another sampling for the wide variety of upscale and unique hotel options in India.: