TLCOhio

Great background about the lack of "night life" and things being pretty quiet in the evenings after dinner. Galapagos is on our future "to-do" list!! Appreciate these insights and this helpful details. THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

Below is the third and final sampling of my 2001 Cuba visuals. This includes for travel out beyond Havana. Lots to see, do and experience in and around Havana. We also visited a scenic park area west of Havana, plus in going to Varadero. Also called Playa Azul (Blue Beach), it is a resort town in the province of Matanzas, Cuba. Varadero Beach is rated one of the world's best beaches in TripAdvisor's Traveler's Choice Awards since 2019, ranking at number two. Beautiful, busy beach area!! 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 240,748 views. www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1974139 We visited Ernest Hemingway's home outside of Havana where we saw things as it existed in his study and living residence when the Nobel Prize winner was writing many of his famed literature works. It was called "Finca Vigia" and he lived here during the 1939-60 period. Like Hemingway's Key West home (that we have visited twice), it is now a museum. The Cuba home was constructed in 1886. It was here where Hemingway wrote The Old Man and the Sea (1951) about a fisherman who lived in the nearby town of Cojimar.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) We loved the live music in Cuba. It was everywhere!! Fun! At one lunch shown below, this group was doing "Guantanamera". It is one of the most famous Cuban songs and is translated as “(The Woman) from Guantánamo.”: Here are a couple more Havana visual samplings, including for an outdoor market where they took American currency on sales.: Here is the view of coastal area at and near the famed Bay of Pigs landing site. Second is a nearby old plant site with a couple of train locomotives used at one time in connection with sugar cane production. At this site during the Bay of Pigs invasion attempt, Fidel Castro was based and directed the military operations against those seeking to land and start a revolution against him and his rule.:

Below is part two of my visual sampling of the many sights and experiences connected with Cuba from our March 2001 visit. 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 245,853 views. www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1227923 This is Catedral de San Cristóbal in Old Havana. As the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese, Christopher Columbus’ remains were kept in this cathedral between 1796 and 1898 before they were taken to Seville's Cathedral. This structure was built between 1748 and 1777.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) Here are a couple of different "street scenes" to observe and experience in lively and interesting Havana.: Across from the cigar building, here is the dome of the Cuba National Capitol.: Interesting lady posing for a picture in Havana.:

Here are some of my thoughts and reaction from my March 2001 visit there in Cuba. Most important to me, it was about Cuba and its unique people, history, music, style, weather, etc., etc. In connection with a professional/library group, I had the opportunity to visit on this island for one week. It was an amazing experience for someone who enjoys learning more about history, architecture, culture, etc. As just a few of my pictures will document, there is much to see and enjoy in Havana and nearby. Then, there are other areas of Cuba where we got to see other parts of this island's scenic beauty, the Bay of Pigs landing site, spectacular beach resorts, nature areas to the west of Havana, Hemingway's home, etc. Overall with Cuba, much is about its history as a key part of the Spanish "New World" center of operations and the architecture in this famed city. Being there and supporting the Castros and their brutal rule was certainly not ideal. But, the people of Cuba are very interesting and spirited with their abilities to face life and survive. We can hope that the re-opening up of this country will provide a very special experience for those visiting. The main challenge is that just a one-day cruise stop in Havana does not allow enough time to see its many, many unique and special features. 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 255,730 views. www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1426474 Among my March 2001 Cuba visual highlights, first is the historic Hotel Nacional de Cuba that was opened in 1930 and had restorations done during the 1990's. This is the hotel where most of the top celebrities staying during Havana’s peak years.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) Here are two of my photo samples from the lavish outdoor show at the Tropicana Club featuring 200 music and dance performers. At this lush tropical gardens in Havana's Marianao neighborhood, the show was totally amazing. Music in Cuba is one of the "best of the best" highlights from visiting there.: Below is my visual of the exterior of the historic building housing Partagas Cigars. This is a company known for fine Cuban, handmade cigars. It is one of the oldest cigar brands in the world. Their product has been produced in the same factory in Cuba, in virtually the same way, for 150 years. Second is an interior view of the production process when we visited there in 2001.: Here is inside of a classroom where we visited during our tour. Second is an example of the many older cars seen in and around Havana. Pictured with the car is a member of our group of library-related people doing this cultural visit allowed at that time.:

Great question to be asking by Lois. Istanbul is a very, very large and sprawling area. Complicated logistics to consider. My recollection when we docked there in 2006 is that you are at a decent distance from the main tourist areas of Istanbul. Good luck with your planning and prep for amazing and historic Istanbul. THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

Nice sharing from New Zealand. Keep it coming!! Love the people and scenic areas of NZ. THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

Snow?? We've got about three inches right now here in Central Ohio. Need proof and evidence? See below!! 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/ For our snow today in Columbus, see below at the bottom of our driveway. I used the EGO electric snow blower to clear out a pathway down and then we received some four-legged visitors. The second visual is looking across our wooded ravine to a neighbor's home.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) Here are some closer views of our visiting deer. I assume they were looking for food on this snowy day. In the background are some of our Christmas decorations that are still up.:

Watching the exciting Cincinnati at Buffalo Bills game right now on CBS-TV. It's snowing there in that part of New York State. The Jags played well yesterday against a very good Kansas City team. Wow!!! The Eagles really kicked butt yesterday evening against the weak-looking NY Giants. Snow?? We've got about three inches right now here in Central Ohio. Need proof and evidence? See below!! 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/ Did we get snow today in Columbus? Yes!! See below at the bottom of our driveway. I used the EGO electric snow blower to clear out a pathway down and then we received some four-legged visitors. The second visual is looking across our wooded ravine to a neighbor's home.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) Here are some closer views of our visiting deer. I assume they were looking for food on this snowy day. In the background are some of our Christmas decorations that are still up.:

More on Tasmania? From MSN News earlier this month they had this headline: “Travel bucket list 2023: 10 unique travel destinations.” Here are some of their highlights: “Hobart, Australia: There are few destinations where travellers can climb a mountain, head to the beach, and visit a world-class art gallery all in one day, and Hobart is one of them. The capital of Tasmania is the southernmost capital in Australia, and the weather is unbelievably good all year round. Framed by the incredible Mount Wellington with the River Derwent flowing through, adventure seekers can explore the region via kayak, abseiling, or even surfing. Visitors can enjoy world-renowned artwork at the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA). With its ferries, fishing boats, and floating pier, the natural charm of Hobart is undeniable.” Full story at: https://www.msn.com/en-in/travel/news/travel-bucket-list-2023-10-unique-travel-destinations-across-the-world-take-your-pick/ar-AA16cuvV 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 31,728 views. http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2465580

More on Montenegro and nearby to Kotor? From MSN News earlier this month they had this headline: “Travel bucket list 2023: 10 unique travel destinations.” Here are some of their profile highlights: “Budva, Montenegro: For travellers searching for a sun-soaked beach vacation on crystal clear waters, the town of Budva in western Montenegro is one of the destinations to visit in Europe in 2023. Located on the coast of the Adriatic Sea, Budva boasts a 22-mile winding coastline known as the Budva Riviera with a strip of beautiful golden sandy beaches. For those seeking adventure, explore Boka Bay on Mamula Island, Blue Cave, and Lady of the Rocks Tour. Budva’s medieval old town features cobbled streets dotted with charming restaurants where visitors can enjoy fresh grilled seafood including the local favourite – octopus.” Full story at: https://www.msn.com/en-in/travel/news/travel-bucket-list-2023-10-unique-travel-destinations-across-the-world-take-your-pick/ar-AA16cuvV 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/

From the Food Network and MSN News Friday, they had this headline: “Trip Advisor’s Top Food Travel Destinations for 2023” with these highlights for Hanoi being in their Top Ten listing: “If you’re looking for affordable and delicious food, look no further than Hanoi, Vietnam. Known for its bustling streets and vibrant food scene, Hanoi has made a name for itself as a food capital in Asia.” Full story at: https://www.msn.com/en-ca/lifestyle/travel/these-are-trip-advisor-s-top-food-travel-destinations-for-2023/ar-AA16zKta 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/

From the Food Network and MSN News Friday, they had this headline: “Trip Advisor’s Top Food Travel Destinations for 2023” with these highlights for Lisbon being in their Top Ten listing: “Tinned fish aficionados, this is your sign! Lisbon is known for romanticizing the tinned fish lifestyle, and although it’s now a TikTok trend, let’s remember who discovered it first. Being a coastal city, Lisbon offers the best in seafood, seafood and more seafood – our favourite.” Full story at: https://www.msn.com/en-ca/lifestyle/travel/these-are-trip-advisor-s-top-food-travel-destinations-for-2023/ar-AA16zKta 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 245,853 views. www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1227923

From this popular on-line website, they had this headline: “Tripadvisor Best of the Best Places to Travel in 2023” with these highlights: “Cuba is the No. 1 Trending Destination in the world for 2023; this category reveals destinations with the greatest year-over-year growth in interest on Tripadvisor, indicating new hotspots on the rise. Since the U.S. eased some travel restrictions in May, and with the addition of new direct flight routes, appetite among travelers for Cuba has been surging on Tripadvisor. Known for old-world architecture and rich history, the island offers fascinating opportunities for cultural exchange.” As a part of their summary, they also linked and spotlighted "Don't miss: wander around the charming streets of OLD HAVANA" through this link: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g147271-d149029-Reviews-Old_Havana-Havana_Ciudad_de_la_Habana_Province_Cuba.html Agree!! Old Havana is amazing with its people, architecture, music, etc. Full top 2023 options story at: https://www.tmcnet.com/usubmit/2023/01/18/9744941.htm 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 21,541 views. Connect at: www.boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2607054-livenautica-greece-holy-lands-egypt-dubai-terrypix’s/

From MSN News yesterday by Alicia Miller, they had this headline: “10 best places to travel in 2023” with these highlights: “It might be home to some of the world’s most impressive ancient history, but this year Egypt is on the must-visit list thanks to its newest attraction: the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza. Years in the making, this will be the world’s largest archaeological museum and contain countless treasures, including the finds from Tutankhamun’s tomb (which, as it happens, was discovered exactly a century ago). In Giza, witness the grandeur of the pyramids; explore the statuesque Abu Simbel in Aswan and, in Luxor, discover the glory of the pharaohs.” At the start of this summary, the writer correctly notes: "We all know that the last couple of years haven’t exactly been ‘normal’ when it comes to travel. But the good news is that this year - finally - holidays are properly back with a bang." As detailed in the live/blog connected below, we super loved in 2018 our two days spent in and around Luxor, the Valley of Kings, lunch sailing on the Nile, etc. Full story at: https://www.msn.com/en-us/travel/news/the-10-best-places-to-travel-in-2023/ar-AA16ArWp 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 21,541 views. Connect at: www.boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2607054-livenautica-greece-holy-lands-egypt-dubai-terrypix’s/

From MSN News yesterday by Alicia Miller, they had this headline: “10 best places to travel in 2023” with these highlights: “Basking under rays in the south Caribbean Sea, Aruba is a hot ticket this year. This compact Dutch-influenced island has all you’re probably looking for in a Caribbean break, from beautiful soft beaches to fresh seafood. Because the island is small, you can see the sights - from capital Oranjestad to the rambling Arikok National Park - in hardly any time at all, which leaves plenty of time for R&R on your sun-drenched lounger. Pack a few page-turner novels and settle in at west-facing Eagle Beach, low-key and perfect for sunset hour, or Palm Beach, lined with resorts. When it’s time for a bit of refreshment, hit the water. Hadicurari Beach in the north of Aruba is known for its winds, making it ideal for windsurfers and kite surfers. Or you can approach the waves more gently, signing up for a sunset boat trip instead.” At the start of this summary, the writer correctly notes: "We all know that the last couple of years haven’t exactly been ‘normal’ when it comes to travel. But the good news is that this year - finally - holidays are properly back with a bang." Full story at: https://www.msn.com/en-us/travel/news/the-10-best-places-to-travel-in-2023/ar-AA16ArWp 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/

From Forbes magazine earlier this month, they had this headline: “Best Places To Travel In 2023” with these highlights by writer Caroline Lupini to spotlight Botswana: “From the vast expanse of the Kalahari Desert to the lush forests of the Okavango Delta, there is something for everyone in Botswana. One of the main reasons to visit Botswana is to see the incredible wildlife that can be found here—Botswana is known as one of the best safari destinations in Africa. That said, visiting Botswana comes at a price. Similar safaris in other countries (like South Africa) are often much less expensive, so it’s a perfect destination to consider using some rewards or credit card benefits to help make the trip more affordable.” We enjoyed our 2016 visit to Botswana, especially seeing the amazing wildlife, natural settings, etc. Full story at: https://www.forbes.com/advisor/credit-cards/travel-rewards/best-places-to-travel-2023/ 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/

From Forbes magazine earlier this month, they had this headline: “Best Places To Travel In 2023” with these highlights by writer Katie Seemann to spotlight Curaçao: “If you’re looking for an under-the-radar Caribbean destination to visit this year, add Curaçao to your vacation wish-list. Along with Aruba and Bonaire, Curaçao makes up the last third of the ABC Islands, a group of Dutch Caribbean islands located off the coast of South America. Situated just below the hurricane belt, one of the benefits of visiting Curaçao is the very low risk of hurricanes or large tropical storms. In addition to beautiful beaches, Curaçao is known for excellent scuba diving and of course, its namesake orange-flavored liquor. When you’re there be sure to check out the capital city of Willemstad to see the colorful buildings and vibrant murals the town is known for. This is also where you’ll find the Queen Emma Bridge, a pontoon-style pedestrian bridge that you can actually ride while it opens and closes.” We enjoyed our 2015 visit to Curaçao and the ABC's, especially seeing the architecture there on this Dutch island, the Queen Emma Bridge, etc. Full story at: https://www.forbes.com/advisor/credit-cards/travel-rewards/best-places-to-travel-2023/ 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/

From Forbes magazine earlier this month, they had this headline: “Best Places To Travel In 2023” with these highlights by writer Daniel Pöhler to spotlight Cyprus: “Cyprus is the island of cats: They are literally everywhere. Many Cypriots and tourists take loving care of the felines and have set up feeding and water stations at restaurants, hotels or along the road. If you are more interested in marine life, you can discover sea turtles while snorkeling or diving. These animals are threatened with extinction, so please keep a respectful distance. Cyprus is divided: Legally, the whole island belongs to the Republic of Cyprus, but Turkish troops have occupied the north since the 1970s. The capital Nicosia is also divided, with a UN-controlled neutral zone in the middle. You can take a break there at The Home Cafe next to an abandoned hotel practically in No Man’s Land.” We enjoyed our 2018 visit to Cyprus, especially seeing the historic and coastal areas, etc. Full story at: https://www.forbes.com/advisor/credit-cards/travel-rewards/best-places-to-travel-2023/ 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 21,541 views. Connect at: www.boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2607054-livenautica-greece-holy-lands-egypt-dubai-terrypix’s/

From Forbes magazine earlier this month, they had this headline: “Best Places To Travel In 2023” with these highlights by writer Ben Nickel-D’Andrea to spotlight Tasmania, Australia : “Breathtaking scenery with beaches, forest, mountains and plenty of unique wildlife await anyone heading to Tasmania. An often skipped Australian state, it remains packed with adventure and relatively secluded. If hearing the haunting screams of a Tasmanian devil is what you’re into as well, head to the many sanctuaries, where these endemic marsupials are protected, to see them up close and learn more about them.” We enjoyed our 2014 visit to Tasmania, especially seeing the great scenery, beaches, visiting a wildlife sanctuary, etc. Full story at: https://www.forbes.com/advisor/credit-cards/travel-rewards/best-places-to-travel-2023/ 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 32,974 views. Many pictures, details for history, food, culture, etc.: www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2511358

From Forbes magazine earlier this month, they had this headline: “Best Places To Travel In 2023” with these highlights to spotlight Rotorua/New Zealand : “Rotorua is the adventure capital of New Zealand’s North Island, with activities ranging from Class V whitewater rafting to bungee jumping to a one-of-a-kind pedal-powered 'Shweeb Racer.' But the city’s also more than that: learning about Māori culture is especially easy here thanks to a wide range of experiences. The city’s dramatic nature is also all-around, with geysers, mud pots and other geothermal features all within city limits.” We enjoyed our 2014 visit to Rotorua, especially learning more about the Māori culture. Full story at: https://www.forbes.com/advisor/credit-cards/travel-rewards/best-places-to-travel-2023/ 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 49,932 views. http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1101008

From Forbes magazine earlier this month, they had this headline: “Best Places To Travel In 2023” with these highlights to spotlight Porto by Sami Allen: “It’s easy to see why so many eyes are set on this Northern Portuguese city. You can expect great food, even better wine and affordable prices, not to mention tile-studded architecture and views of the ocean from the plethora of 'miradouros,' a spanish word that means, 'overlooks' throughout the city. Some to-do’s on every proper Porto bucket list? Grab dinner and a Fado show anywhere, take an all-day tour of the Douro Valley wineries and enjoy tastings and lunch along the way and check out the many museums (like The Museu Nacional do Azulejo) showcasing the city’s rich history.” Full story at: https://www.forbes.com/advisor/credit-cards/travel-rewards/best-places-to-travel-2023/ 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 255,730 views. www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1426474

Appreciate these great postings, pix's and follow-ups from Davey. Very inspiring for us to have India high on our future, to-do list. Keep it coming!! THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

Below are some more of my Bruges visuals and some historic background as to what makes Bruges so fascinating. Please share any of your memories, tips, pictures, experiences, etc., from visiting here. From Wikipedia, here are a few highlights for additional, recent history about Bruges: "In the second half of the 19th century, Bruges became one of the world's first tourist destinations, attracting wealthy British and French tourists. In World War I, German forces occupied Bruges. However, the city suffered virtually no damage. The city was occupied by the Germans from 1940 during World War II and was again spared destruction. After 1965, the original medieval city experienced a 'renaissance'. Restorations of residential and commercial structures, historic monuments, and churches generated a surge in tourism and economic activity in the downtown area. International tourism has boomed, and new efforts resulted in Bruges being designated European Capital of Culture in 2002. It attracts some eight million tourists annually." 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 100,049 views. http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1278226 The historic and scenic main town square in Bruges is super scenic and has lots of outdoor dining options, activities, etc. When Bruges was at its peak, it was considered the top commercial city in the world! Like Amsterdam, Bruges is sometimes referred to as the “Venice of the North". Bruges was already included in the circuit of the Flemish cloth fairs at the beginning of the 13th century. The city's entrepreneurs reached out to make economic colonies of England and Scotland's wool-producing districts. The statue of Jan Breydel and Pieter de Coninck, the leaders of the uprising against the French in 1302, can be seen on the central market square. Starting around 1500, the ship channel, which had given the city its prosperity, started silting. The city soon fell behind Antwerp as the economic flagship of the Low Countries. Its power and wealth faded after that point until tourism came to revive and bring back its past glories. The historic center of Bruges has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) Bridges are super interesting in Bruges, both during the day and at night.: First, here is an example of the unique rooflines in the main square of Bruges. We ate at one of the outside places on this square with all of its soaring buildings. Just super loved the setting, beer, soup, mussels, bread, etc.! Second is another sample for the roofs and building along the canal waterways.: Here is a closer look at the statue of Jan Breydel and Pieter de Coninck, the leaders of the uprising against the French in 1302. Grab your swords! Who would want to mess with these two?:

Yes, appreciate this follow-up from our travel neighbor in Maryland. The "good news" about Bruges is that it does not and has not changed. It is like history frozen in a time capsule. Right? Below are the first of two different groups of my visuals from visiting Bruges in the Spring of 2007. Many visit here during a nearby cruise port stop. We were staying a week in Paris and did an over-night day-trip via train up to Belgium, including Brussels, Ghent and Bruges. We stayed overnight in Bruges, being able to sample the town in the evening. We had lunch outdoors on the main square, super enjoying soup, bread, beer and mussels, etc. Great setting and dining delights. 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 240,748 views. www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1974139 Waterways are a key feature in Bruges. Take one of the canal boat tours as a way to sample, up close, the character and charm for this historic city.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) Architecture is a key reason to visit Bruges. Below are just a couple of samples for what is here to experience and enjoy. More design/style samples of the many buildings will be posted next.: Many interesting shops exists in Bruges. Below is just one sample. Look unique and inviting?: Below are a couple more visual samples from Bruges. Notice the Belgium flag in front of this historic building on the main square? Yes, doing a horse-down carriage is an option for touring here. Notice the chocolate shop? Yes, those tasty treats are amazingly wonderful here!!:

From the Wall Street Journal late this afternoon, they had their charts reflecting the stock market trends during this past week for the three major cruise companies. As happened with the overall market, things were down significantly on Wednesday and Thursday. But today, Friday, surprise, things bounced back nicely. Does this make or mean a longer-term trend? Any good guesses for what happens next week? 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/