TLCOhio

YES, have a suggestion based on recent, March 2-5 experiences doing three nights in Tokyo after completing a Mumbai to Singapore Silver Moon cruise/adventure. It was the Gate Hotel Tokyo by Hulic. Clean, modern hotel that has a super, great location in the busy, exciting Ginza. It is eight miles from the Tokyo Haneda International Airport. Access from Ginza station is only one minute away.(Ginza line, Marunouchi line, Hibiya line, Chiyoda line, plus access to a range of nearby rail options). It has a rooftop terrace/bar, plus dining options there. It gains high TripAdvisor ratings. Many dining, shopping, etc., options are nearby. My live/blog below, starting near the top of page five, has many visuals and options to consider for Tokyo, Kamakura, etc. Be ready! Hotels are not cheap in Tokyo and some locations are at decent distance from their fast, efficient (but complex) transit system. And, we hit a weekend when the Tokyo Marathon was happening. That added to the costs and challenges. Let us on these CC boards know any and all added questions about Japan. THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio India to Singaore 2024: Live/Blog with many visuals, including “Golden Triangle”, Japan, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Malaysia: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2992045-live-terryohio-india-to-signapore-silver-moon-rising-pix’s/ In the Ginza near our hotel, here is one example for the night action/excitement.: Nearby in Kamakura, to help build for the excitement in visiting Japan, here is the Great Buddha and an early cherry blossom flowering.:

Interesting data/background from our Florida/RI friend as to those just doing "Float on a Boat" as their cruise plan/objective. We are the port-intensive types, but I understand others with a different goal. From the Wall Street Journal, below is their mid-day chart and headline showing how the overall market dropped down, DOWN so sharply today. The three cruise lines fell today in a similar negative manner. THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

Appreciate this excellent question and the great, insightful follow-ups. Having just completed a Feb. 11-29 Silver Moon, Mumbai to Singapore experience, there were many super positives, including as to the nice ship, excellent staff, generally very good food quality, etc. But, VALUE is a legitimate question and concern. We fortunately booked ten months ahead, had a good price by planning/acting so early, had a nice upgrade from our guarantee suite, etc. HOWEVER, the "bean counters" in Monaco and Miami played "cheap" and stupid in certain ways with failing to deliver on the promised "Silversea luxury" during our three days in Mumbai. Our shore tours through Silversea were generally OK and not too packed/crowded. But, there were a few goofs on the tours that reflected poor management/oversight by Silversea. Now, looking ahead, it is much harder to find "value" as prices have been jacked up so very, very much. That's part of an overall cruise industry "greed game" to make up for losses/borrowing due to Covid shut-downs. However, long-term, Silversea needs to keep the "balance" reasonable. Will it happen or not? THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio India to Singaore 2024: Live/Blog with many visuals, including “Golden Triangle”, Japan, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Malaysia: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2992045-live-terryohio-india-to-signapore-silver-moon-rising-pix’s/

Here is a MSN link to a longer version of this Barron's story with these added details as to what might be coming from Viking: “In late February, Viking Holdings announced it had filed a confidential registration statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission related to its proposed initial public offering. The company, known for its upscale river cruises, didn’t disclose the number of shares or potential price range of its planned IPO.” Here is more from their reporting about the overall market: "Over the past 12 months, Carnival has risen 61%, Norwegian has floated 58% higher, and Royal Caribbean has more than doubled with a 115% rise. The S&P 500, in comparison, has risen 30% over that span. That broad-based strength speaks to how all segments of the cruise industry are bustling." Another key insight reported was: "Cruises aren’t popular with all travelers, but part of the recent swell of bookings comes amid several factors working in their favor. Inflation and airport delays mean that many travelers are skipping hotels and airplanes in favor of sailing from a port near their home. In addition, cruise packages often include food and activities, giving guests a simple number for budgeting." Full story at: https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/markets/cruise-demand-is-hot-investors-will-soon-have-a-new-way-to-play-it/ar-BB1kRjx3 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 249,552 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1896175-solstice-live-australianzhawaii-many-pix’s-jan-20-feb-3/

From the Wall Street Journal's sister publication of Barron's early this morning, they had this headline: “Cruise Demand Is Hot. Investors Will Soon Have a New Way to Play It” with these highlights: “Long ago, Vikings pillaged and plundered. Today, Viking cruise ships make their profits from much more sedate voyages, and the company hopes to soon go public amid a surge in sailing demand.” Viking going public and being on the stock market could be interesting to follow. More options for investors? More information about their profits, ships being full (or not), etc.? Early this am, Royal Caribbean was moving up, UP in early trading! Both Carnival and Norwegian were up about 1% early this am. A future, long-term trend? Full story at: https://www.barrons.com/articles/viking-holdings-cruise-stock-ipo-2f281e54?adobe_mc=MCMID%3D77626320452482689262797225847612851544|MCORGID%3DCB68E4BA55144CAA0A4C98A5%40AdobeOrg|TS%3D1711979709 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 250,914 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1172051-livesilver-cloud-norway-coastfjords-july-1-16-reports/

From the Travel Section of the London/UK Telegraph earlier this month, they had this headline: “How to spend a supersized weekend in Dubai" with this sub-headline: "From audacious architecture to glittering glamour, an insider travel guide to the City of Gold.” Here are some of the reporting highlights by their destination expert Sarah Hedley Hymers: “Dubai is often described as Las Vegas without the casinos. It certainly likes to do things on a grand scale. Supersized hotels, buffets, malls, amusement parks, aquariums, designer cars and luxury yachts are all commonplace. Expect to crane your neck looking up at the world’s tallest building — the Burj Khalifa — and then score a dizzying number of Instagram likes with a photo taken in front of the world’s largest flower arrangement (five million blooms set in the shape of an Airbus A380 plane, thanks to the Dubai Miracle Garden). Don’t be afraid of the heights, mega brunches or the 16-lane Sheikh Zayed Road that is the spinal column of Dubai.” Many tips, potentials, ideas, etc., are outlined in this profile. Much to consider and research. Full story at: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/middle-east/united-arab-emirates/dubai/articles/dubai-travel-guide/ THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Canada 2022/2023: Scenic visuals, details from Canada Maritimes (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Cape Breton Island). Plus, new from Aug. 2023, exploring historic/charming Quebec City. Visual/Info Summaries: www.flickr.com/photos/196555480@N08/albums

From the Travel Section of the London/UK Telegraph earlier this week, they had this headline: “Why April is such an appealing time to be in Dubai" with this sub-headline: "The month of Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr is a fascinating time to experience the emirate.” Here are some of the reporting highlights by their destination expert Sarah Hedley Hymers: “With Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr the highlights of April, join the locals in breaking the daily fast at iftar feasts around Dubai and embrace the generosity of the season by creating gifts for friends and family. Bukhoor (a type of incense) makes an ideal gift and perfumer Oo La Lab, located in art hub Alserkal Avenue, offers bakhoor-making masterclasses. Find out more about the history of Dubai, born on the waters of this creek, at the Once Upon A Time Museum, hidden inside Jumeirah Mosque. The mosque offers guided tours and an intimate insight into the Islamic faith.” Full story at: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/explore-dubai/things-to-do-in-april/ THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio India to Singaore 2024: Live/Blog with many visuals, including “Golden Triangle”, Japan, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Malaysia: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2992045-live-terryohio-india-to-signapore-silver-moon-rising-pix’s/

While personally, I am not into the breadmaking details/process, I so love the visuals posted by Jeff. Looking great and so tasty. Keep it coming!!! Makes me hungry and wanting to enjoy in person. Wanted also to give a strong shout-out to Jeff about his favorite location of Singapore. Earlier this month at the end of our Silver Moon sailing from Mumbai, we spent three days in Singapore. Loved it!!! Totally unique history, architecture, development, food, charm and character. Need proof and evidence? Below are just a little sampling from my many visuals. Much more on the live/blog connected below. We were amazed by the greenery, creative urban development, lack of traffic congestion, dining potentials, shopping, etc. BUT, the costs are not cheap there. Fascinating City-State!! THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio India to Singaore 2024: Live/Blog with many visuals, including “Golden Triangle”, Japan, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Malaysia: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2992045-live-terryohio-india-to-signapore-silver-moon-rising-pix’s/ First on our private tour in Singapore earlier this month, we explored various areas, including Little India, the Arab Quarter (including the Mosque shown below), lunch in Chinatown, going to the top of the Marina Bay Sands hotel that is the local architectural icon and also pictured below at the top-level pool.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) In the evening, it was the Gardens by the Bay and their spectacular light and music show. Look amazing? It was!! At the right lower, is one of the three towers of the Marina Bay Sands complex with their roof-top pool we visited earlier, etc.: Below was part of the view from our river ship in the Marina Bay area with the Sands in the background. Much was Taylor Swift music!! Live or recorded? Not 100% sure, but it would be fun if she did do it live, as reported locally, for us sailing in this dramatic setting. She was there and doing six live concerts that sold out in three hours.: Finally, here is their famed Lion spitting out water with some of the lighted architecture in the background along their waterfront. Finally, we finished at the historic and highly-rated Fullerton Hotel for drinks (Singapore Sling, of course) before going back to the ship to finish packing and getting our luggage put out in the hallway. Yes, the Singapore Sling was not invented at the Fullerton, but we still felt the history and enjoyed this luxury hotel environment. Our JW Marriott is right across the street from the Raffles Hotel, where the Sling was invented. Lots to see and explore there in Singapore.:

Appreciate this excellent and wise follow-up from our Florida friend. Both items/rules can be very true. However, good or bad, it is hard figure out the "timing" as to how you are able to plan and achieve that spending of your last dime on the day you die. Challenging??!! How do we do that? From the Wall Street Journal late yesterday, below are their charts for the three different major cruise lines during the most recent five trading days. On Thursday, Royal Caribbean hit a new 52-week high!! The other two companies have some distance to go before hitting highs for the past 12 months. Also below are the charts for how these three companies have moved, up and down, during the past 36 months. By my "analysis", Royal Caribbean has performed and rebounded best. Correct? This past week, RCL hit a three-year high. The other two companies are long, long ways from achieving such a 36-month peak. Other reactions and comments? Added insights and future predictions? 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 258,326 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1362155-solstice-livefirst-timer-reportspix’s-italycroatian-june-7-19/ These WSJ charts show how the three cruise ship stocks performed during the past five days of trading. Thursday was a big UPPER! But, things slid back down on Friday.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) Here are the WSJ charts for the three major cruise lines over the past three years. Very different patterns and history affecting these three companies as to how the Wall Street experts/traders have rated/valued these firms. Royal Caribbean seems to have fared the best. Right? Or wrong?:

Congrats on your 50th and super loved the shrimp visuals. Keep it coming. Wonderful sharing. THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

From the Washington Post this morning, they had this headline: “Covid changed how we spend: More YOLO splurging but less saving" with this sub-headline: "Doom spending. Soft saving. YOLOing. Whatever you call it, it’s clear covid has changed the way Americans think about spending.” Previously, I had never heard of YOLO. How about you? It means: “you only live once”. Learned something new and interesting this morning thanks to this story. Here are some of their reporting highlights: “Whatever you call it — doom spending, soft saving, YOLOing— the coronavirus pandemic has changed the way Americans spend money. They are saving less but vacationing more and booking lavish trips years in advance. Spending on international travel and live entertainment surged roughly 30 percent last year, five times the rate of overall spending growth. Meanwhile, the personal savings rate is at lows not seen since the Great Recession. And the spending spree has continued into 2024. Consumers spent $145.5 billion more in February than they did the month before — much of that on services.” It seems that much of the high levels of future cruise bookings is based on this YOLO effect. Right or wrong?? Full story at: https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2024/03/29/consumer-spending-savings-yolo-us/ THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Love the Caribbean? Here are popular posts/links with over 20,000 views with much info for . . . . Barbados: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2179164-barbados-50th-birthday-our-pixs-experiences-feb2015/page/3/#comment-65530134Or, Dominica: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2169714-dominica-love-our-experience-pictures-etc/page/3/#comment-66637276

From the Wall Street Journal yesterday, they had this headline: “S&P 500 Clinches Best Start to Year Since 2019" with this sub-headline: "Resilient corporate profits, enthusiasm around AI and hopes that the Fed will cut rates have given investors plenty of reasons to keep on buying,” Here are some of their reporting highlights: “Many investors had high hopes going into 2024. The market’s robust first-quarter rally still managed to surprise them. Everything from stocks to gold marched to new records. The S&P 500 gained 10% in the first quarter, its best start to the year since 2019. Any weakness in the stock market hasn’t lasted more than a few sessions, with investors buying the dip and sending the index to 22 all-time closing highs.” Yes, the cruise lines have benefited much from this overall stock value upswing. But, what goes UP, sometimes will fall back? To economic reality/adjustment? When and how?? Full story at: https://www.wsj.com/finance/stocks/the-s-p-500-is-poised-for-best-start-to-year-since-2019-0ffbf02a?mod=investing_news_article_pos4 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

From the New York Times Travel Section coming this weekend, they have this headline: “36 Hours Mumbai” with these highlights: “Mumbai appears as much a dream as a city. Sprinkled with the stardust of Bollywood, the Hindi-language film industry that bases itself here, and studded with billionaires, India’s hyperkinetic metropolis, known as Bombay until 1995, feels like a place where anything is possible. Amid tight pandemic lockdowns, Mumbai turned into one of the world’s great construction sites, trying to remake itself with new towers, subway lines and bridges. Take in the dizzying juxtapositions — while discovering experimental performances in former textile mills and serene, ancient caves a short drive from the urban chaos — in a city guaranteed to look different again the next time you visit.” Many different options are mentioned for what to see, where to eat, hotels, shopping, etc. One location that we visited was mentioned with these specifics: "Mani Bhavan, the former home of Mohandas K. Gandhi, is now a museum that preserves details of his spartan life, underscoring his emphasis on self-reliance. Spinning wheels and floor seating in his preserved, spartan bedroom provide a window to his belief that the route to Indian independence could come only through discipline and self-reliance." Also cited where we stayed for three days was: "The Taj Mahal Palace, an ornate hotel open since 1903, looks over the Arabian Sea and the historic Gateway of India arch. A memorial in the lobby commemorates the terror attack at the hotel in 2008." Full story at: https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2024/03/28/travel/things-to-do-mumbai.html THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio India to Singaore 2024: Live/Blog with many visuals, including “Golden Triangle”, Japan, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Malaysia: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2992045-live-terryohio-india-to-signapore-silver-moon-rising-pix’s/ Or, as an alternative use this five-term Google search Live Terry/Ohio India Silver Moon to find it with the full title of “Live, Terry/Ohio, India to Signapore, Silver Moon Rising, Pix’s!”

From the New York Times Travel Section coming this weekend, they have this headline: “36 Hours Mumbai” with these highlights: “Mumbai appears as much a dream as a city. Sprinkled with the stardust of Bollywood, the Hindi-language film industry that bases itself here, and studded with billionaires, India’s hyperkinetic metropolis, known as Bombay until 1995, feels like a place where anything is possible. Amid tight pandemic lockdowns, Mumbai turned into one of the world’s great construction sites, trying to remake itself with new towers, subway lines and bridges. Take in the dizzying juxtapositions — while discovering experimental performances in former textile mills and serene, ancient caves a short drive from the urban chaos — in a city guaranteed to look different again the next time you visit.” Many different options are mentioned for what to see, where to eat, hotels, shopping, etc. One location that we visited was mentioned with these specifics: "Mani Bhavan, the former home of Mohandas K. Gandhi, is now a museum that preserves details of his spartan life, underscoring his emphasis on self-reliance. Spinning wheels and floor seating in his preserved, spartan bedroom provide a window to his belief that the route to Indian independence could come only through discipline and self-reliance." Also cited where we stayed for three days was: "The Taj Mahal Palace, an ornate hotel open since 1903, looks over the Arabian Sea and the historic Gateway of India arch. A memorial in the lobby commemorates the terror attack at the hotel in 2008." Full story at: https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2024/03/28/travel/things-to-do-mumbai.html THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Kotor/Montenegro: Various visual samples, tips, details, etc., for this scenic, historic location. Over 55,462 views. http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1439193

Appreciate these nice ratings/comments from Irvington, Lirio, etc. Keep it coming, plus any questions or info needs. As added background for the Taj Mahal, this ivory-white marble mausoleum is on the right bank of the river Yamuna in Agra. Commissioned in 1631 by the fifth Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan (1628–1658) to be the tomb of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, it also houses the tomb of Shah Jahan himself. The tomb is the center of a 42-acre complex. It includes a mosque and a guest house, formal gardens, a crenellated wall, etc. Construction of the mausoleum was mostly completed in 1643, but work continued on other aspects of the project for another 10 years. Based on the cost at that time, it would equal a contruction budget today of $498 million, per Wikipedia. The construction project employed some 20,000 artisans. The Taj Mahal was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 for being "the jewel of Islamic art in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world's heritage". It is regarded by many as the best example of Mughal architecture and a symbol of India's rich history. The Taj Mahal attracts around 5 million visitors a year. Taj Mahal is believed to be derived from the Persian and Arabian words meaning "crown" and "palace". THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio AFRICA?!!?: Fun, interesting visuals, plus travel details from this early 2016 live/blog. At 55,939 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 Here are a couple of different views of the Taj Mahal than previously posted. Third shows the two of us here and a sampling of the massive numbers visiting on this day. Big, BIG crowds, mostly from India, not international.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) These five visuals better show the DETAILS for how intricate are the various design elements on and at the Taj Mahal. It is more than just the dome!! The craftsmen of those days were highly skilled, even without the sophisticated tools and techniques of today. Plus, beautiful, too!! Right?: The minarets, each more than 130 feet tall, display the designer's desire for symmetry. They are working minarets, a traditional element of mosques, used by the muezzin to call the Islamic faithful to prayer. Each minaret is divided into three equal parts by two working balconies that ring the tower.:

Yesterday, Royal Caribbean rose and hit a 52-week trending high. Things continue, up, UP and UP!! See the Wall Street Journal chart from this afternoon below. THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

Appreciate this interesting follow-up from DD and this Royal Caribbean job opportunity. Should we apply? Right now this RCL stock is going up and things seem good with its continued financial recovery. Easy job now? BUT, where will things be in a year or two? From a financial news site connected with the Wall Street Journal this afternoon, they had this headline: “Carnival Earnings Due Amid Travel Wave; Royal Caribbean In Buy Zone” with these highlights: “Carnival reports Q1 results early Wednesday amid a strong start to the 2024 travel season for cruise lines. CCL stock is basing ahead of results while rival Royal Caribbean (RCL) is trading in a buy zone at record highs. Cruise lines are riding a wave of bookings to kick off 2024. Royal Caribbean in late February hiked its 2024 earnings guidance, citing stronger-than-expected vacation demand.” Also, this was of interest from their reporting: "Carnival (CCL) in at the end of January announced it is almost sold out for the first half of the year after seeing record booking volumes since November. However, the company expects to take a 7-8 cent per share hit to its adjusted 2024 earnings due to rerouting around the Red Sea conflict." How much will the "hit" be to Royal Caribbean from its Middle East scrubbing and the related re-routings around Africa, etc.?? Full story at: https://www.investors.com/news/carnival-earnings-royal-caribbean-buy-zone/?src=A00619&refcode=aflMarketWatch THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio India to Singaore 2024: Live/Blog with many visuals, including “Golden Triangle”, Japan, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Malaysia: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2992045-live-terryohio-india-to-signapore-silver-moon-rising-pix’s/

Appreciate this follow-up from our Chicago neighbor. Glad these posts have been of interest and help. As mentioned earlier, don't be shy with any comments, questions, posting of added information, etc. Always helps to share and know what is of value and interest. Love the sharing!! Below are some visuals as we were traveling from Delhi to Agra. This offers another sampling of India and makes the point that there is lots of agriculture in this country. Not all of India is high-density, urban areas. 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 64,147 views. http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1101008 As we drove south to Agra, here was a typical view. Agriculture is significant as in a country with 1.4 billion people, food must be produced. Our guide indicates that India has improved significantly in its production and does well in being able to fed its vast population.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) Along this expressway going to Agra, there were a number of interesting sights as goods and people are moved around in this nation.: Within Agra, here are a couple of views as we traveled. Many tuk-tuk's, motorcycles, etc., used to move goods and people.: When ordering and/or selecting food in India, you might see an item marked as "boneless". That can be good as many times the lamb, chicken, fish, etc., might have bones needing to be "navigated" and/or picked out. Buyer beware as to what you want or seek to avoid!: At the place where we stopped for a mid-trip break, this sign was cute and fun.:

From the Oberoi website, here are some of the key summary points as to this city and its highly-rated hotel: "The capital of the Mughal Empire in the 16th and 17th centuries, Agra is home to three UNESCO world heritage sites: the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and the ancient city of Fatehpur Sikri; all of which are legacies from Mughal times. Located just 600 metres from the Taj Mahal, the Oberoi Amarvilas is inspired by Mughal palace designs; with fountains, terraced lawns, reflection pools and pavilions." From their hotel website, they also note about their neighbor: "The Taj Mahal is often described as 'poetry in marble'. " 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 74,671 views: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2076101-live-amazon-river-caribbean-many-pix’s-terryohio/ At the Oberoi Amarvilas as the sun was setting and evening approaching, we had a super pleasant surprise. Outside there was a music and dancing performance presented in their spectacular outdoor/pool area. Here is a still picture with three dancing performers.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) Here is a 29-second video sampling of the music and dancing that we observed from the balcony of our room at the Oberoi Agra hotel.: DSC_3241 2.MOV

For staying overnight in Agra at Oberoi Amarvilas, it was beyond just being wonderful and great. Need evidence? See proof below. The front grounds are ultra impressive as you enter and the lobby lounge is designed around a glorious view of the Taj Mahal. Then up to our room? This might be the most spectacular hotel where we have ever stayed. What a view from the balcony? What could be better, especially with the wonderful sunny, clear weather both days. 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 74,671 views: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2076101-live-amazon-river-caribbean-many-pix’s-terryohio/ Here are a couple samples for the welcoming as we entered the Oberoi Amarvilas and the style/class of its facilities, grounds and staff.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) The Oberoi Amarvilas lobby where we checked in? Looking good?: Then from our balcony room at the Oberoi Amarvilas, what could be better? Like the lighting of this outdoor area as the evening commences?: Here are some interior examples from the Oberoi Amarvilas. Then, some more of the friendly, helpful staff. And, then breakfast visuals the next morning, including my Eggs Benedict. Just like at home every day?:

Now we return to completing the reporting for our "Golden Triangle" adventure. We departed early on the way to Agra and the "Taj". We would be staying overnight in Agra at Hotel Oberoi Amarvilas. www.oberoihotels.com/hotels-in-agra-amarvilas-resort/. From our super luxury Oberoi balcony room, we had BOTH sunset and sunrise views of this famed landmark. Spectacular!!! Do my earlier pictures and these below prove it? Emperor Shah Jehan, fifth of the Mughal emperors was devoted to his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, her name meaning literally "jewel of the palace". She died at the age of 39 giving birth to their fourteenth child. The Shah envisioned a memorial that would surpass anything the world had ever seen. Thousands of laborers and skilled craftsmen from Persia, Turkey, France and Italy were commissioned to construct this incredible masterpiece. Some have commented . . . the Taj Mahal is . . . in all of the world's history, humanity has never created anything so beautiful. True? For some added history, George Curzon, 1st Marquess Curzon of Kedleston (1859-1925) was Foreign Minister under Lloyd George and Viceroy of India from 1899 to 1905. India’s first prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru said that “After every other Viceroy has been forgotten, Curzon will be remembered because he restored all that was beautiful in India.” While Viceroy, Curzon both protected and led much to restore the "polish" and beauty to the Taj Mahal. Lord Curzon, writing soon after his first encounter, described the Taj as “The gem of man’s handiwork, without flaw or blemish, exquisite, irresistible, impossible to criticize, incapable of improvement, the most perfect structure in the world.” As a caution, be aware in your planning that the Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays. Also: All of India is on India Standard Time, ten and a half hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (nine and half ahead of Eastern Daylight Time). Agra is on the banks of the Yamuna river about 140 miles south-east of New Delhi. With a population of 1.6 million, Agra is the twenty-third most populous city in India. Agra's notable historical period began with the Mughals. Agra was the foremost city of the Indian subcontinent and the capital of the Mughal Empire during that period. 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 111,797 views. This visual of the Taj Mahal was posted early on this long thread. But, since it might be one of my "Best of the Best" pictures, I repeat/recycle it here. As you can tell, we had perfect, sunny weather this day with clear, enjoyable skies.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) These give more of the exterior angles, plus a sampling as to how large were the crowds visiting on this day. Most of those here this day were from India, not international travelers. Shown second is river where this famed icon is located.: Here are a couple of interior/detailed design aspects for the Taj Mahal. It is much more than just the dome and an overall "look". Every design aspect was crafted with care and expertise!: And, the surrounding buildings, many done in red sandstone, are also dramatic and amazing as this one below demonstrates that we walked though in going to the central, white marble structure that is so famous.: From the balcony of our Oberoi room, below are both a sunset view and an early morning sunrise visual. What can be more amazing for a photographer or visitor?:

In preparing, I read the 480-page, highly-detailed "Freedom at Midnight" book. It covers the period leading up to, around and after Aug. 15, 1947, when the UK handed India back to the native populations. But, it became two countries, Pakistan and India. And, as the say, the rest is history!! This book was strongly suggested by a good friend whose father was William B. Saxbe, the U.S. Ambassador to India in the 1970's. His tip was a great one!! Fascinating reading as this 1975, non-fiction book centers around all of the events leading up to the Indian independence movement and partition. Much is covered for the last year of the British Raj when Lord Mountbatten was the last Viceroy of British India. It goes up through the death and funeral of Mahatma Gandhi. The author's style really "takes you there" to understand so very well the long and tangled history of this highly-populated sub-continent with its battles between Hindus and Muslims, plus the Sikh religions and interests, etc., etc. The parts about the colorful and extravagant lifestyles of the various Indian princes brings out another key part of their history and traditions that might be forgotten or missed. Much is about the reasons and fatal results from the partition of British India into India and Pakistan based on the centuries of religious differences and mistrusts. Then, there was the terrible bloodshed that followed. Also pictured on the cover above are Jawaharlal Nehru and Muhammad Ali Jinnah, two of the key leaders during those challenged times. Much background is also included going to back 1599 when the first Queen Elizabeth authorized the initial exploring by the British to India as a way to get around high Dutch prices for spices. This book was an inspirations for the 2017 film Viceroy's House, starring Hugh Bonneville and Gillian Anderson. Many details are also outlined for how the British played off the various sides to keep control of this highly-diverse area with its many factions and deep religious divisions. And the wealth and riches?? Yes, the history for India is complex and fascinating. This helps better understand the vastness of the British colonial empire at its peak and the "twists and turns" involved over those centuries. Highly recommended reading for this book and other sources to better appreciate so much as to the "why" and "how" for India today, its future and in the past. 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 249,552 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1896175-solstice-live-australianzhawaii-many-pix’s-jan-20-feb-3/

On India, things have changed much in that country during the past couple of decades. Why and my source of background information? Below you can see me on the left pictured with former Ohio Governor Richard Celeste at a recent luncheon here in Columbus last Spring. He was the U.S. Ambassador to India, 1997-2001, plus during 1963-67, he worked as a young man out of Yale and Oxford for the Ambassador in India, 1963-67. He was also Peace Corps Director 1979-81 and President of Colorado College 2002-2011. Lots of interesting experiences!! And now at age 86, he is still incredibly quick, responsive, savvy and skilled. Celeste was most recently in India for most of the month of January, 2023, and shared at this Columbus luncheon some interesting updates for the current conditions in India. As many know, India is just now passing China to be the largest in the world at around 1.4 billion people (in an area only about one third the size of the United States). From other media reports, India will in the next couple of years pass Germany to become the third biggest economy in the world, trailing only the U.S. and China. Here are more specifics as to what the former Ambassador shared: The median age in India is now 28.7 compared to an older 38.7 age in China. He views that "youth and energy", plus more freedom, being a major plus as to why India will be passing China in many categories for the future. He also noted that 43 new airports have been built in India, 587,000 km of new highways, 43% of their energy comes from green sources, etc. I talked more with the former Governor/Ambassador to gain additional insights, tips and ideas. He wisely suggested I connect with his wife, Jacqueline Lundquist, who was super helpful given that she was "First Lady" at the India U.S. Embassy and continued after those four years in New Delhi to travel and do business in this country. Jacqueline hooked me up with Ganeve Rajkotia in India who operates Himalayan River Runners and Nexxtop India. You can Google either company, see more on this firm and their options. Their email is nexxtopindia@gmail.com and you can mention that TLCOhio suggested them. I looked at several options for our pre-cruise touring in the Golden Triangle. Ganeve and their suggestions/options were best, plus them being very response, skilled, knowledgeable, creative and reasonable for what we could and did do during these six days after arriving in Delhi and before flying Jaipur to Mumbai for our cruise. The rest is "history" and gained us excellent, life-long memories. Great connections!! And, hopefully ALL of these various visuals help verify and prove our high satisfaction. By the way, if you are going to do the "Golden Triangle" well and stay in nice properties, etc., it is not cheap. It costs some money. BUT, how often are you going to explore these busy and historic areas? Since it will be only once in your life, then do it rightl in a highly-personal manner that is well-paced and enjoyable. In Ohio, I know well and also talked in greater detail with a friend who is the son of former U,S, Ambassador William B. Saxbe, serving there in the mid 1970's. His father has passed away, but his son still follows issues there closely and was very, very helpful. From others who have been there more recently, we were told there is still much poverty and challenges in India, but the middle class is growing in that country and the history/culture/architecture are still amazingly super World Class!!. But, lots of people. As one person from India once told me in Switzerland, "You are never alone in India!" More later as to the research and other prep work/readings done to learn more and be ready to explore India. 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 250,914 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1172051-livesilver-cloud-norway-coastfjords-july-1-16-reports/

Finishing in Delhi, below is more about traffic in this busy, crowded and sprawling urban mix. Plus, more about the Taj Mahal New Delhi hotel. We spent three nights at the Taj Delhi and were very impressed, including having access to the Taj Club for breakfast and afternoon tea. This hotel had wonderful, lavish grounds and nice views from our 11th floor location. Here is a summary from what the London Telegraph said about this highly-rated hotel: “If India’s capital city should have a destination hotel this is it. Its prestigious location marks it within easy reach of most attractions and the airport. Renowned Taj service, a large outdoor pool and three excellent restaurants just add to the pleasure of staying here. If the pink sandstone, 11-storey hotel does not arrest attention initially, once inside, the vast reception and lounge area is impressive – with highly polished floors, a domed roof and heady natural scents from a profusion of gigantic floral displays. All around are attentive smiling staff and a genteel bustle from the cream of Delhi society – as well as Western and Indian business folk – quietly meeting and greeting each other. A grand intricately carved marble staircase leads down to the pool and restaurants.” YES, the staff were all super wonderful and very responsive at this hotel with 230 luxury rooms. 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 258,326 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1362155-solstice-livefirst-timer-reportspix’s-italycroatian-june-7-19/ Traffic is an excellent topic/question for Delhi and India. There's lots of it and it's super busy!! Plus, being somewhat out of control. The picture below gives a small sampling. Lots of cars, tuk-tuk's, motorcycles, etc. Not many traffic lights, drivers are ignoring lane markings and more. Crazy is a quick summary. But, things moved and flowed, kind of and uniquely. Super glad we were not driving there in this fascinating chaos. BUT, we did not see any accidents and/or fender-benders. It all "works" in an amazing and unique manner that is hard to imagine and describe.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) At the Taj Mahal New Delhi, we super loved being at a room level where we had access to their Taj Club with its excellent service and delightful food, including shown in the second picture doing the Afternoon Tea with fun and interesting options, plus a great view from its high location.: Here is the Taj Mahal New Delhi's main dining area, including one evening when I had a curry dish with lots of excellent, tasty sauce.:

Below are more from Delhi, including a variety of religious sites and other nearby locations in this large and spread-out urban area. 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 Below is what I believe to be Gurdwara Bangla Sahib. It is one of the major Sikh gurdwaras or houses of worship. It was first built in 1783 and is situated near Connaught Place.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) There are Christian churches in Delhi. This is the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, a Roman Catholic complex near Connaught Place. Construction began in 1930, financed by colonial officers of the British Empire designed by a UK architect in the Italian style. That's quite a combination here in India.: We passed the gates for what was the huge complex from where the British Viceroys ruled over India until the 1947 Independence. Now, it is the home for India's President, more of the ceremonial leader. The India Prime Minister is actually in charge of the national government.: Near the President's Estate, this is the Gyarah Murti, a monument commemorating the country's struggle for independence under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi with an ensemble of eleven statues, ten represent people from diverse sociocultural, religious and economic backgrounds.: One of my favorite beers in India was this Kingfisher Light. Nice, smooth and refreshing!: