TLCOhio

Sydney hotels? From Condé Nast Traveler magazine earlier this fall, they had this headline: “Top 10 Hotels in Australia and New Zealand: Readers’ Choice Awards 2023” with these highlights for Sydney's best: As number one, they had Fullerton Hotel Sydney. At the three, four and five rankings for this region, they had The Langham, Sydney; Four Seasons Hotel Sydney and Park Hyatt Sydney. Ranked second best in the overall region and highest in New Zealand's largest city was the Park Hyatt Auckland. Sixth overall and highest in the western Aussie area was COMO The Treasury in Perth. We stayed in 2014 at the Four Seasons Sydney and enjoyed its great location and classy aspects. Full story at: https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/australia-new-zealand-top-hotels?utm_source=nl&utm_brand=cnt&utm_mailing=CNT_Daily_AM_122323&utm_campaign=aud-dev&utm_medium=email&bxid=5db3f99524c17c23c34ecf3e&cndid=6657468&hasha=e1ca3019f9f535a4b98389997c63b892&hashb=7daf2541a0de702392cfe60ed513a5c2d1d23598&hashc=f541a9e649534cc2931bd57d58d8c2cac2bb8c5d298f722bad5b05cc8ad5ece2&esrc=IDCONDENAST_REGGATE&utm_term=CNT_Daily 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 249,792 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1172051-livesilver-cloud-norway-coastfjords-july-1-16-reports/

Sydney hotels? From Condé Nast Traveler magazine earlier this fall, they had this headline: “Top 10 Hotels in Australia and New Zealand: Readers’ Choice Awards 2023” with these highlights for Sydney's best: As number one, they had Fullerton Hotel Sydney. At the three, four and five rankings for this region, they had The Langham, Sydney; Four Seasons Hotel Sydney and Park Hyatt Sydney. Ranked second best in the overall region and highest in New Zealand's largest city was the Park Hyatt Auckland. Sixth overall and highest in the western Aussie area was COMO The Treasury in Perth. We stayed in 2014 at the Four Seasons Sydney and enjoyed its great location and classy aspects. Full story at: https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/australia-new-zealand-top-hotels?utm_source=nl&utm_brand=cnt&utm_mailing=CNT_Daily_AM_122323&utm_campaign=aud-dev&utm_medium=email&bxid=5db3f99524c17c23c34ecf3e&cndid=6657468&hasha=e1ca3019f9f535a4b98389997c63b892&hashb=7daf2541a0de702392cfe60ed513a5c2d1d23598&hashc=f541a9e649534cc2931bd57d58d8c2cac2bb8c5d298f722bad5b05cc8ad5ece2&esrc=IDCONDENAST_REGGATE&utm_term=CNT_Daily 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 247,560 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1896175-solstice-live-australianzhawaii-many-pix’s-jan-20-feb-3/

Sydney hotels? From Condé Nast Traveler magazine earlier this fall, they had this headline: “Top 10 Hotels in Australia and New Zealand: Readers’ Choice Awards 2023” with these highlights for Sydney's best: As number one, they had Fullerton Hotel Sydney. At the three, four and five rankings for this region, they had The Langham, Sydney; Four Seasons Hotel Sydney and Park Hyatt Sydney. Ranked second best in the overall region and highest in New Zealand's largest city was the Park Hyatt Auckland. Sixth overall and highest in the western Aussie area was COMO The Treasury in Perth. We stayed in 2014 at the Four Seasons Sydney and enjoyed its great location and classy aspects. Full story at: https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/australia-new-zealand-top-hotels?utm_source=nl&utm_brand=cnt&utm_mailing=CNT_Daily_AM_122323&utm_campaign=aud-dev&utm_medium=email&bxid=5db3f99524c17c23c34ecf3e&cndid=6657468&hasha=e1ca3019f9f535a4b98389997c63b892&hashb=7daf2541a0de702392cfe60ed513a5c2d1d23598&hashc=f541a9e649534cc2931bd57d58d8c2cac2bb8c5d298f722bad5b05cc8ad5ece2&esrc=IDCONDENAST_REGGATE&utm_term=CNT_Daily 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 247,560 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1896175-solstice-live-australianzhawaii-many-pix’s-jan-20-feb-3/

Yes! YES!!! Super appreciate ALL of these wonderful visuals and excursion details for your Antartica adventure. Agree, would like to know more on the camera you are using, lens utilized for the "upclose" bird views, editing methods/software, etc., etc. All excellent!! Tell us more. Looking and hoping to do in early 2025 for either the Silver Cloud or Silver Wind for Antarctica. Any staff comments/insights as to if there are any difference or advantages for doing the Cloud versus Wind? Have done four previous sailings on the Silver Cloud before its conversion. Keep it coming! Wonderful. 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 249,792 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1172051-livesilver-cloud-norway-coastfjords-july-1-16-reports/

Appreciate these great questions, helpful postings and follow-ups. From a newspaper in India earlier this month, they had this headline: “5 essential travel tips for first-time visitors to India” by Zarafshan Shiraz with these highlights: “India is a land of contrasts, with a rich and diverse culture that is sure to amaze and captivate visitors from all over the world however, it can also be a challenging place to travel, especially for first-time visitors. This is why it is important to plan your trip carefully and be aware of the potential challenges you may face.” Full story at: https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/travel/5-essential-travel-tips-for-first-time-visitors-to-india-101701763300516.html THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Lisbon, NWSpain, Bordeaux/Brittany: Live/blog, June 2017 from Portugal to France along scenic Atlantic Coast on the Silver Spirit. Now at 34,289 views. Many pictures, details for history, food, culture, etc.: www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2511358

Appreciate the above tip and idea. Out time is limited on this first trip, but it is great sharing for others. Keep it coming!! From Condé Nast Traveler magazine last month, they had this headline: “Best Places to Spend Christmas Around the World" by Caitlin Morton with this sub-headline: "Some celebrations are worth the price of a plane ticket.” Here are their reporting highlights for Tokyo: “Why we go: The city turns the voltage up each year with its winter illuminations, with different districts competing to create some truly sensational displays. Standout illumination sites include the almost 10-foot-tall snow globes with falling snow at Tokyo Midtown and a massive Baccarat crystal chandelier at Yebisu Garden Place. The bright lights are so popular, they stay up well past Christmas day—often through January or February. The one thing to get you in the spirit: One of the most famous illuminations is the Blue Cavern (Ao no Dokutsu) in Shibuya, which is inspired by the blue grottos of the Mediterranean.” Full story at: https://www.cntraveler.com/galleries/2015-12-08/copenhagen-to-quebec-14-cities-that-do-christmas-best?utm_source=nl&utm_brand=cnt&utm_mailing=CNT_Daily_AM_122523&utm_campaign=aud-dev&utm_medium=email&bxid=5db3f99524c17c23c34ecf3e&cndid=6657468&hasha=e1ca3019f9f535a4b98389997c63b892&hashb=7daf2541a0de702392cfe60ed513a5c2d1d23598&hashc=f541a9e649534cc2931bd57d58d8c2cac2bb8c5d298f722bad5b05cc8ad5ece2&esrc=IDCONDENAST_REGGATE&utm_term=CNT_Daily 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 247,560 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1896175-solstice-live-australianzhawaii-many-pix’s-jan-20-feb-3/

From Condé Nast Traveler magazine last month, they had this headline: “Best Places to Spend Christmas Around the World" with this sub-headline: "Some celebrations are worth the price of a plane ticket.” Here are their reporting highlights for Rome: “Why we go: The streets around Rome will be festively alight, sure, but the home to the seat of Catholicism is an excellent option for folks seeking a more sacrosanct Christmas experience. The one thing to get you in the spirit: Hear hymns echoing off the walls of the 1,900-year-old architectural marvel during midnight mass at the Pantheon (December 24 into the 25th). Stay here: Aside from classically designed guest rooms, Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese offers festive amenities like themed dinners at the rooftop restaurant and chauffeured tours of Rome’s holiday lights in a vintage Fiat 500.” Full story at: https://www.cntraveler.com/galleries/2015-12-08/copenhagen-to-quebec-14-cities-that-do-christmas-best?utm_source=nl&utm_brand=cnt&utm_mailing=CNT_Daily_AM_122523&utm_campaign=aud-dev&utm_medium=email&bxid=5db3f99524c17c23c34ecf3e&cndid=6657468&hasha=e1ca3019f9f535a4b98389997c63b892&hashb=7daf2541a0de702392cfe60ed513a5c2d1d23598&hashc=f541a9e649534cc2931bd57d58d8c2cac2bb8c5d298f722bad5b05cc8ad5ece2&esrc=IDCONDENAST_REGGATE&utm_term=CNT_Daily 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 109,836 views. http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1278226

From Condé Nast Traveler magazine last month, they had this headline: “Best Places to Spend Christmas Around the World" with this sub-headline: "Some celebrations are worth the price of a plane ticket.” Here are their reporting highlights for Rio de Janeiro: “Why we go: Who says Christmas has to be about ugly sweaters and hot cocoa? December in Rio is all about enjoying an icy caipirinha on a spectacular beach—with daily temperatures hovering in the 80s. The city also happens to host the world’s largest display of full-sized nativity scenes during its annual Festival de Presépios (“Crib Festival”), found at Jardim de Alah between Leblon and Ipanema. The one thing to get you in the spirit: For the very best display in town, ride a bike around the Rodrigo Freitas Lagoon and enjoy views of the world’s largest floating Christmas tree from every angle.” Full story at: https://www.cntraveler.com/galleries/2015-12-08/copenhagen-to-quebec-14-cities-that-do-christmas-best?utm_source=nl&utm_brand=cnt&utm_mailing=CNT_Daily_AM_122523&utm_campaign=aud-dev&utm_medium=email&bxid=5db3f99524c17c23c34ecf3e&cndid=6657468&hasha=e1ca3019f9f535a4b98389997c63b892&hashb=7daf2541a0de702392cfe60ed513a5c2d1d23598&hashc=f541a9e649534cc2931bd57d58d8c2cac2bb8c5d298f722bad5b05cc8ad5ece2&esrc=IDCONDENAST_REGGATE&utm_term=CNT_Daily 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 247,560 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1896175-solstice-live-australianzhawaii-many-pix’s-jan-20-feb-3/

From Condé Nast Traveler magazine last month, they had this headline: “Best Places to Spend Christmas Around the World" with this sub-headline: "Some celebrations are worth the price of a plane ticket.” Here are their reporting highlights for Quebec City: “Why we go: Quebec City is one of the oldest cities in North America, and its colonial French architecture gives it an unmistakably European feel. The cobbled streets of the Old Town are packed with quaint shops and delicious bistros, all merrily decorated for the holidays. The one thing to get you in the spirit: The Au 1884 toboggan run by Château Frontenac (open from mid-December to mid-March) is one of the city’s oldest traditions—and quite the thrill. Zoom down icy tracks overlooking the city on a wooden sled reaching speeds of up to 45 miles per hour. Stay here: You can’t go wrong with Auberge Saint-Antoine and its lobby fireplace, heated bathroom floors, and a Christmas package that includes a five-course dinner, holiday movie screenings at the in-house theater, and a personal visit from Santa in your room.” Full story at: https://www.cntraveler.com/galleries/2015-12-08/copenhagen-to-quebec-14-cities-that-do-christmas-best?utm_source=nl&utm_brand=cnt&utm_mailing=CNT_Daily_AM_122523&utm_campaign=aud-dev&utm_medium=email&bxid=5db3f99524c17c23c34ecf3e&cndid=6657468&hasha=e1ca3019f9f535a4b98389997c63b892&hashb=7daf2541a0de702392cfe60ed513a5c2d1d23598&hashc=f541a9e649534cc2931bd57d58d8c2cac2bb8c5d298f722bad5b05cc8ad5ece2&esrc=IDCONDENAST_REGGATE&utm_term=CNT_Daily 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 109,836 views. http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1278226

From Condé Nast Traveler magazine last month, they had this headline: “Best Places to Spend Christmas Around the World" with this sub-headline: "Some celebrations are worth the price of a plane ticket.” Here are their reporting highlights for Dubai: “Why we go: Dubai does Christmas the same way Dubai does nearly everything—in true, over-the-top fashion. Catch the tree lightings happening around town, including the ones at Towers Rotana, Fairmont The Palm, and The Irish Village, and then watch the jolly ol’ St. Nicks making a run for it at the Santa Run. And since no visit to Dubai is complete without several shopping sprees, set aside time to stock up on goodies at one of the city’s Christmas markets. The one thing to get you in the spirit: Dubai Mall is an air-conditioned winter wonderland, complete with an ice skating rink and indoor ski slopes at Ski Dubai.” Full story at: https://www.cntraveler.com/galleries/2015-12-08/copenhagen-to-quebec-14-cities-that-do-christmas-best?utm_source=nl&utm_brand=cnt&utm_mailing=CNT_Daily_AM_122523&utm_campaign=aud-dev&utm_medium=email&bxid=5db3f99524c17c23c34ecf3e&cndid=6657468&hasha=e1ca3019f9f535a4b98389997c63b892&hashb=7daf2541a0de702392cfe60ed513a5c2d1d23598&hashc=f541a9e649534cc2931bd57d58d8c2cac2bb8c5d298f722bad5b05cc8ad5ece2&esrc=IDCONDENAST_REGGATE&utm_term=CNT_Daily 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 109,836 views. http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1278226

From Condé Nast Traveler magazine last month, they had this headline: “Best Places to Spend Christmas Around the World" by Caitlan Morton with this sub-headline: "Some celebrations are worth the price of a plane ticket.” Here are their reporting highlights for Copenhagen: “Why we go: According to the World Happiness Report, Denmark is one of the world’s happiest countries, making it a great place to spend the holidays. Things are even jollier at Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens, where antique amusement park rides decorated with lights are surrounded by yet another adorable, alpine village-style Christmas market selling gifts and snacks. The park has also been known to deck out its tree with Swarovski crystals. The one thing to get you in the spirit: Book a table at Restaurant Vita for some andesteg, a traditional Danish holiday dish of crispy, succulent roast duck served with prunes and apples.” Full story at: https://www.cntraveler.com/galleries/2015-12-08/copenhagen-to-quebec-14-cities-that-do-christmas-best?utm_source=nl&utm_brand=cnt&utm_mailing=CNT_Daily_AM_122523&utm_campaign=aud-dev&utm_medium=email&bxid=5db3f99524c17c23c34ecf3e&cndid=6657468&hasha=e1ca3019f9f535a4b98389997c63b892&hashb=7daf2541a0de702392cfe60ed513a5c2d1d23598&hashc=f541a9e649534cc2931bd57d58d8c2cac2bb8c5d298f722bad5b05cc8ad5ece2&esrc=IDCONDENAST_REGGATE&utm_term=CNT_Daily 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 247,560 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1896175-solstice-live-australianzhawaii-many-pix’s-jan-20-feb-3/

From Condé Nast Traveler magazine last month, they had this headline: “Best Places to Spend Christmas Around the World" with this sub-headline: "Some celebrations are worth the price of a plane ticket.” Here are their reporting highlights for Bruges: “Why we go: Europe’s best-preserved medieval city oozes charm year-round, but especially during the holidays. It’s hard to imagine a place more magical as you wander the cobblestone streets, admire the shimmering lights, and warm up with mugs of Belgian hot chocolate in cafés. The one thing to get you in the spirit: Follow the Winter Glow light trail with stops at 10 installations through the historic part of the city center, including lights at the Church of Our Lady Tower and a projection at Gruuthuse. Stay here: Grand Hotel Casselbergh (steps away from the Markt) has inviting touches like exposed wooden beams in the rooms, a lobby bar with a fireplace, and a wellness center located in a 16th-century cellar.” Full story at: https://www.cntraveler.com/galleries/2015-12-08/copenhagen-to-quebec-14-cities-that-do-christmas-best?utm_source=nl&utm_brand=cnt&utm_mailing=CNT_Daily_AM_122523&utm_campaign=aud-dev&utm_medium=email&bxid=5db3f99524c17c23c34ecf3e&cndid=6657468&hasha=e1ca3019f9f535a4b98389997c63b892&hashb=7daf2541a0de702392cfe60ed513a5c2d1d23598&hashc=f541a9e649534cc2931bd57d58d8c2cac2bb8c5d298f722bad5b05cc8ad5ece2&esrc=IDCONDENAST_REGGATE&utm_term=CNT_Daily 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 247,560 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1896175-solstice-live-australianzhawaii-many-pix’s-jan-20-feb-3/

From Condé Nast Traveler magazine last month, they had this headline: “Best Places to Spend Christmas Around the World" with this sub-headline: "Some celebrations are worth the price of a plane ticket.” Here are their reporting highlights for Cape Town: “Why we go: If you’re looking to escape winter during Christmas, you can't do much better than Cape Town—it’s summer in the Southern Hemisphere, after all. You can even visit one (or several) of the South African city’s holiday markets without having to wear a coat and scarf. The one thing to get you in the spirit: They’re not exactly Santa’s elves, but the estimated 2,000 to 3,000 African penguins at Boulders Beach—where you can get close enough to take portrait-mode photos of them—are sure to warm your heart just the same.” Full story at: https://www.cntraveler.com/galleries/2015-12-08/copenhagen-to-quebec-14-cities-that-do-christmas-best?utm_source=nl&utm_brand=cnt&utm_mailing=CNT_Daily_AM_122523&utm_campaign=aud-dev&utm_medium=email&bxid=5db3f99524c17c23c34ecf3e&cndid=6657468&hasha=e1ca3019f9f535a4b98389997c63b892&hashb=7daf2541a0de702392cfe60ed513a5c2d1d23598&hashc=f541a9e649534cc2931bd57d58d8c2cac2bb8c5d298f722bad5b05cc8ad5ece2&esrc=IDCONDENAST_REGGATE&utm_term=CNT_Daily 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 247,560 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1896175-solstice-live-australianzhawaii-many-pix’s-jan-20-feb-3/

Sorry!! Somehow the story highlights and weblink did not get posted early. Here it is now. From the Wall Street Journal in mid December, they have this headline: “A Traveler’s Walking Guide to Sydney’s Buzzing City Center" by Adam H. Graham with this sub-headline: "Sydney’s Central Business District is no longer just a place for work meetings and conferences. It’s hopping with genre-bending restaurants, an absorbing art museum complex and happening hotels that await the wandering tourist, too.” Here are some of their reporting highlights: “The area’s diversions—including a new museum, a bustling Chinatown and a rambling botanical garden—are all tucked into a compact, thoroughly walkable footprint.” A number of options for what to see, where to stay, what to eat, etc., are detailed. Here were some specifics detailed, including: "Art Gallery of NSW North Building: This new stand-alone annex—nicknamed the Sydney Modern—opened in 2022 as part of a $344 million expansion of the Art Gallery of New South Wales (AGNSW). A swooping glass atrium in the entrance teases what’s inside. The expansion nearly doubles AGNSW’s exhibition space, and brings First Nations art front and center." Full story at: https://www.wsj.com/lifestyle/travel/travelers-walking-guide-sydney-central-business-district-be399b88?mod=lifestyle_lead_story THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Panama Canal? Early 2017, Fort Lauderdale to San Francisco adventure through Panama Canal. Our first stops in Colombia, Central America and Mexico, plus added time in the great Golden Gate City. Now at 32,524 views. http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2465580

From Condé Nast Traveler magazine last month, they had this headline: “Best Places to Spend Christmas Around the World" with this sub-headline: "Some celebrations are worth the price of a plane ticket.” Here are their reporting highlights for Sydney: “Why we go: You haven’t seen Christmas lights until you’ve seen Sydney’s Christmas lights. Plus, the holiday season lasts an entire month here (take that, 12 days of Christmas) with 'Sydney Christmas.' The festival features the city’s largest Christmas Tree at Martin Place. The one thing to get you in the spirit: Wonder at the 3,500 twinkling lights at the Strand Arcade or the 85,000 twinkling LEDs at the incredible Pitt Street Mall Canopy of Light. Stay here: Celebrate with a Christmas Day lunch followed by a nap by the rooftop pool (remember, it’s summertime Down Under) at the Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour.” Full story at: https://www.cntraveler.com/galleries/2015-12-08/copenhagen-to-quebec-14-cities-that-do-christmas-best?utm_source=nl&utm_brand=cnt&utm_mailing=CNT_Daily_AM_122523&utm_campaign=aud-dev&utm_medium=email&bxid=5db3f99524c17c23c34ecf3e&cndid=6657468&hasha=e1ca3019f9f535a4b98389997c63b892&hashb=7daf2541a0de702392cfe60ed513a5c2d1d23598&hashc=f541a9e649534cc2931bd57d58d8c2cac2bb8c5d298f722bad5b05cc8ad5ece2&esrc=IDCONDENAST_REGGATE&utm_term=CNT_Daily THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio From late 2018, see “Holy Lands, Egypt, Jordan, Oman, Dubai, Greece, etc.”, with many visuals, details and ideas for the historic and scenic Middle East. Now at 22,294 views. Connect at: www.boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2607054-livenautica-greece-holy-lands-egypt-dubai-terrypix’s/

From Condé Nast Traveler magazine last month, they had this headline: “Best Places to Spend Christmas Around the World" with this sub-headline: "Some celebrations are worth the price of a plane ticket.” Here are their reporting highlights for Sydney: “Why we go: You haven’t seen Christmas lights until you’ve seen Sydney’s Christmas lights. Plus, the holiday season lasts an entire month here (take that, 12 days of Christmas) with 'Sydney Christmas.' The festival features the city’s largest Christmas Tree at Martin Place. The one thing to get you in the spirit: Wonder at the 3,500 twinkling lights at the Strand Arcade or the 85,000 twinkling LEDs at the incredible Pitt Street Mall Canopy of Light. Stay here: Celebrate with a Christmas Day lunch followed by a nap by the rooftop pool (remember, it’s summertime Down Under) at the Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour.” Full story at: https://www.cntraveler.com/galleries/2015-12-08/copenhagen-to-quebec-14-cities-that-do-christmas-best?utm_source=nl&utm_brand=cnt&utm_mailing=CNT_Daily_AM_122523&utm_campaign=aud-dev&utm_medium=email&bxid=5db3f99524c17c23c34ecf3e&cndid=6657468&hasha=e1ca3019f9f535a4b98389997c63b892&hashb=7daf2541a0de702392cfe60ed513a5c2d1d23598&hashc=f541a9e649534cc2931bd57d58d8c2cac2bb8c5d298f722bad5b05cc8ad5ece2&esrc=IDCONDENAST_REGGATE&utm_term=CNT_Daily 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 247,560 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1896175-solstice-live-australianzhawaii-many-pix’s-jan-20-feb-3/

From Condé Nast Traveler magazine last month, they had this headline: “Best Places to Spend Christmas Around the World" by Caitlin Morton with this sub-headline: "Some celebrations are worth the price of a plane ticket.” Here are their reporting highlights for Sydney: “Why we go: You haven’t seen Christmas lights until you’ve seen Sydney’s Christmas lights. Plus, the holiday season lasts an entire month here (take that, 12 days of Christmas) with 'Sydney Christmas.' The festival features the city’s largest Christmas Tree at Martin Place. The one thing to get you in the spirit: Wonder at the 3,500 twinkling lights at the Strand Arcade or the 85,000 twinkling LEDs at the incredible Pitt Street Mall Canopy of Light. Stay here: Celebrate with a Christmas Day lunch followed by a nap by the rooftop pool (remember, it’s summertime Down Under) at the Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour.” Full story at: https://www.cntraveler.com/galleries/2015-12-08/copenhagen-to-quebec-14-cities-that-do-christmas-best?utm_source=nl&utm_brand=cnt&utm_mailing=CNT_Daily_AM_122523&utm_campaign=aud-dev&utm_medium=email&bxid=5db3f99524c17c23c34ecf3e&cndid=6657468&hasha=e1ca3019f9f535a4b98389997c63b892&hashb=7daf2541a0de702392cfe60ed513a5c2d1d23598&hashc=f541a9e649534cc2931bd57d58d8c2cac2bb8c5d298f722bad5b05cc8ad5ece2&esrc=IDCONDENAST_REGGATE&utm_term=CNT_Daily 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 247,560 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1896175-solstice-live-australianzhawaii-many-pix’s-jan-20-feb-3/

Appreciate this great web link and follow-up. Wonderful and useful Internet site. Below is a screen shot for what I just checked as to the Silver Moon's current location. Will be following along, especially as the Silver Moon sails south in early January down the Red Sea. THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

Appreciate this great follow-up from the always savvy Hank. Yes, lots is very fluid for various reasons in the Middle East and in this part of the Eastern Med. Turkey and Istanbul are hoping that they are not caught up in a widening conflict in the Middle East. We will all be watching with interest. THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

Great question as to any other cruise ships operating in this Red Sea and Gulf of Aden region. My following of these various news stories has not mentioned anything about cruise ship being fired upon and/or impacted. My guess and speculation is that there are not now many, if any, cruise ships operating in this Red Sea region or area of the world. The peak load of ships in the Med have now shifted west-bound to the Caribbean or ships doing Alaska going down to Australia/NZ, etc. We will keep checking and following any and all updates. Good luck to midfield anchor with your Jan. 18 boarding of the Silver Moon. THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

From the London/UK Telegraph two days ago, they had this headline: “The 50 winners and losers of travel in 2023” with these highlights for Venice in a negative manner: “It was announced, after years of delays, that tourists visiting Venice would have to pay a €5 (£4.30) entrance fee during busy periods from next spring. The catch? The money won’t go into helping preserve the city or funding infrastructure services, but will instead simply cover the costs of managing the entry fee.” Sad to learn? Full story at: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/travel-truths/winners-losers-travel-holidays/ THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Lisbon, NWSpain, Bordeaux/Brittany: Live/blog, June 2017 from Portugal to France along scenic Atlantic Coast on the Silver Spirit. Now at 34,255 views. Many pictures, details for history, food, culture, etc.: www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2511358

From the London/UK Telegraph two days ago, they had this headline: “The 50 winners and losers of travel in 2023” with these highlights for Portugal as a winner: “Lisbon was named by the UK Post Office as the cheapest city break in Europe, while the Algarve and Porto also picked up wins at the World Travel Awards. For an affordable city break, there’s never been a better time to go.” Being popular is good news. Right? Positive for Lisbon and Porto!! Full story at: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/travel-truths/winners-losers-travel-holidays/ 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 109,194 views. http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1278226

From the London/UK Telegraph two days ago, they had this headline: “The 50 winners and losers of travel in 2023” with these highlights for Turkey: “Despite the devastation of a 7.8 magnitude earthquake in February, the appetite for summer holidays in Turkey remained high. The country saw a 70 per cent rise in visitors compared with pre-pandemic figures, and is set to hit 50 million arrivals in 2023 – meaning it would overtake France as Europe’s second most popular holiday destination, after Spain.” Being popular is good news. Right? Positive for Istanbul and Turkey!! Full story at: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/travel-truths/winners-losers-travel-holidays/ 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 247,292 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1896175-solstice-live-australianzhawaii-many-pix’s-jan-20-feb-3/

Appreciate these follow-ups and added information for the upcoming Silver Moon sailing. The ship is now in Greece and we look forward to learning how things will work out during the critical Jan. 11-12 period when needing to navigate around the Yeman shoreline. From MSN News this morning, they had this headline: “Houthi rebels continue Red Sea attacks despite new US-led coalition” with these highlights: “Yemen’s Houthi rebels continued to attack ships in the Red Sea in retaliation for Israel’s war on Gaza, with at least two vessels and a US destroyer targeted with drones over the weekend. The US military said the USS Laboon shot down four drones launched from Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen towards its position in the southern Red Sea on Saturday and responded to distress calls from two commercial vessels. A Gabon-owned, Indian-flagged crude oil tanker was reportedly hit, while a Norwegian-flagged tanker was targeted but not struck, Centcom said.” Full story at: https://www.msn.com/en-ae/news/middleeast/houthi-rebels-continue-red-sea-attacks-despite-new-us-led-coalition/ar-AA1lY5oO 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 247,292 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1896175-solstice-live-australianzhawaii-many-pix’s-jan-20-feb-3/

From a Wall Street Journal-connected financial news website two days ago, they had this headline: “Cruises will be super-popular next year. Be prepared to fight for a pool chair.” with these highlights: “Get ready for crowded cruise ships: A trade group expects a 21% jump in passengers from 2019. More cruise ships will sail fully booked in 2024 than in 2023. Norwegian and Carnival's parent companies have said they're running low on cabins.” This is good news for the cruise companies and finances, but some passengers might not enjoy these "conditions" and costs as much. Changing times?? Also shared in this report: "If you were hoping for a quiet and peaceful cruise vacation, you might be out of luck — 2024 is shaping up to be the year of mass cruising. Throughout 2023, demand for vacations-at-sea has been steadily accelerating past pre-COVID-19 levels. And interest has yet to wane: Royal Caribbean Group's 2024 bookings are already outgrowing 2019 levels 'by a wide margin,' Jason Liberty, the cruise giant's CEO, told investors in late October." Full story at: https://www.businessinsider.com/cruise-vacation-carnival-disney-royal-caribbean-booking-popular-ships-2023-12 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 249,711 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1172051-livesilver-cloud-norway-coastfjords-july-1-16-reports/