TLCOhio

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!:

Below is more from our first full day in Delhi and then starting our second day in the capital of India. We started in the morning of the second full day visiting Humayun's Tomb for Mughal emperor, Mirza Nasir al-Din Muhammad. It was started in 1558 and designed by Persian architects. It was the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent. It was also the first structure to use red sandstone at such a large scale. The tomb was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993. THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Love the Caribbean? Here are popular posts/links with thousands of views with much info for . . . . Grenada https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2179927-grenada-pixs-fun-experiences-jan2015/page/2/#comment-66823149 Or, Aruba: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2178325-aruba-pixs-fun-experiences-feb2015/page/3/#comment-66677721 Our first full day's dinner in India was at this location and my dish is shown below. Yes, I love "sauce" in general and also the tasty options in this country. I like dining delights with some degrees of spicy, not too much!! We were carefully when ordering to not have things be too overly spiced. Our ideas for "spicy" are different than those in India. Warning, be careful when ordering.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) At Humayun's Tomb for where I posted earlier visuals, here are more samples/examples to give a sense for its size, scale and quality. The second visual shows our expert guide Parveen Paul explaining how this was built a century before and served as a model/inspiration for the more famous Taj Mahal. Fourth is an interior sample to illustrate as to how intricate and detailed could be marble carvings and decorations done for these buildings around and near this historic tomb.: We also visited that morning the Agrasen Ki Baoli, a 60-meter long and 15-meter wide stepwell in New Delhi, near Connaught Place. It is believed that it was originally built by the legendary king Agrasen and was rebuilt in the 14th century. This location as a water source supposedly goes back thousands of years.:

Did not realize till this visit to India, all of the various aspects connected with and related to the Hindi and other religions. This includes for the Jain-connected segment. Their monks take five main vows: non-violence, truth, not stealing, chastity and non-possessiveness. They have a predominantly lacto-vegetarian lifestyle. According to Wikipedia, Jainism is one of the oldest religions still practiced today. Also at this location shown below, the Digambara school of Jainism has a traditional monastic practice of neither possessing nor wearing any clothes. Either good news or bad news as we did not observe such practices, nor have any pictures to illustrate those ways of activity. THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Lisbon vs. Porto? Many different Portugal tips, options, ideas, visuals, etc. with near 29,000 views at: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2558841-lisbon-vs-porto-which-best/page/7/#comment-66782296 The Jain Temple or Naya Mandir is a historic temple in Old Delhi. Raja Harsukh Rai, a treasurer in the Mughal Empire, constructed this large and highly-ornate temple in 1807. There is also an older Jain temple near the Red Fort. This Jain part of the Hindi faith has certain of their practices are little "different" as our guide explained and detailed. At this temple, the details and design aspects were unique and amazing! My visuals do not do justice to what we personally experienced!: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) Yes, this Old Delhi Chandni Chowk had beads, jewelry options, including higher-end items as the third visual documents from our visit inside this custom shop. Nice, classy buying potentials were available. Just get out your credit card!!: Here are more examples for the wide range of food items available and being offered in the Old Delhi Chandni Chowk.: Many "porters" was busy and used in this market to move merchandise in and out. This included placing large items on top of the heads of those doing this logistical work.:

Old Delhi and its market areas were a photographer's dream. Lots of color, interesting people, historic charm, unique architecture, various styles, etc. That first full day in India, I took over 500 pictures. Do you understand why my Nikon was so busy and active? Lots to share. See below. 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-65530134 Or, Dominica: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2169714-dominica-love-our-experience-pictures-etc/page/3/#comment-66637276 Among the most photographically stimulating are shops with nuts, spices, etc. Seen below are two examples, including when our skilled guide was explaining background to my wife in this one location.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) Many colorful fruit and food items were offered at various locations in the Old Delhi markets.: Many varied clothing styles and types were available, including for the famed wedding events in India.: Here is one nearby religious, architectural location, plus a visual of our two cycle drivers who took around to explore parts of these market areas in Delhi.:

From the London/UK Telegraph this weekend, they had this headline: “Step aside Turkey – Portugal is the best-value European destination this summer" with this sub-headline: "An annual holiday-price report has singled out Portugal for a good value break, with France and Italy performing poorly.” Here are some of their reporting highlights: “For the last two years we have been heralding Turkey as the best-value destination for a summer holiday in Europe. No longer. Step forward instead, Portugal. According to the latest Post Office Annual Holiday Costs Barometer, which compares the price of a shopping basket of holiday essentials in 40 destinations around the world, the Algarve now has the lowest prices in Europe.” The the cost of hotels and flights are not included for this annual survey, so it is hard to make overall comparisons. However, it is generally good news for Portugal and tourists. Full story at: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/europe/portugal/portugal-summer-holiday-low-cost/ 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 London/UK Sunday Times this weekend, they have this headline: “Swap Stellenbosch for this underrated South African wine region" with this sub-headline: "The Hemel-en-Aarde valley, 90 minutes from Cape Town, is one of the country’s most beautiful areas with fewer crowds and stays that are half the price of the more touristy wine routes.” Here are some of their reporting highlights: “Hemel-en-Aarde means 'heaven and earth' in Afrikaans, and the title is justified — the hills that hug the valley are so high you can see nothing but sky beyond. This lesser-known wine region is southeast of Cape Town, behind the historic seaside town of Hermanus, between the Klein river and Babilonstoring mountain range, surrounded by nature reserves, with distant views of Walker Bay. The best bit? Unlike the busy wine routes of Franschhoek, Stellenbosch and Paarl, it’s mostly empty of cars and people. The drive alone is worth it. We take the scenic route from Cape Town along Clarence Drive, also known as the start of the Overberg whale route, with frequent viewpoints where you can spot marine wildlife, including southern right whales and humpbacks from June to November, when they come into shallow waters to give birth.” Full story at: https://www.thetimes.co.uk/travel/destinations/africa-travel/south-africa/hemel-en-aarde-underrated-wine-route-n9r0nxj93 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!”

Appreciate this great follow-up from our Florida/RI neighbor. We have done two cruises with Celebrity and get "it" as to the various trade-offs, pro-con factors, etc., among the different lines and cruise brands. Having just completed a Silversea Mumbai to Singapore sailing, we experienced a few "dumb decisions" by the "bean-counters" in Monaco and Miami. But, on board, in general, the quality level was high and enjoyable. As always, great ports, exciting itineraries, nice/small ships and excellent staff makes a key difference/advantage for Silversea that other lines cannot always match. THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Lisbon vs. Porto? Many different Portugal tips, options, ideas, visuals, etc. with near 29,000 views at: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2558841-lisbon-vs-porto-which-best/page/7/#comment-66782296

Now, finally and hopefully, we will have more to finish with added visuals and details from Old Delhi's famed market or Chandni Chowk. This is one of the oldest and busiest markets in India. It is located close to the Old Delhi Railway Station and Red Fort. This hyper-busy market was built in the 17th century by the Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan, and designed by his daughter. The market was once divided by canals to reflect moonlight. As mentioned earlier, it remains one of India's largest wholesale markets. It is more than just retail sales to individual buyers/shoppers. There are many old mansions, most built by wealthy Muslims, in this historic area. Many have been converted to retail shops at the ground level and housing/apartments above. Or, those upper areas are used to store many of their various products and items for sale below in these shops. Also, many of these older structures are not in the best conditions as time has taken its toll or restoring can be challenging and costly. Lots of "eye candy", history, charm and culture is here. Uniquely . . . totally fascinating!!! 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 For Old Delhi's market area, here are three visuals to illustrate the people, intensity, variety, etc., that exists and attracts large numbers. Nothing is boring or bland here. Fun to explore!!: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) This is an example of a unique shop catering to the "wedding trade". People give money to those newly married, but it needs to be new, crisp bills, assembling together nicely. That's what he offers. Special?: The Red Fort monument is located at the eastern end of Chandni Chowk. Historically, it served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors. Emperor Shah Jahan commissioned construction of the Red Fort in 1639 when he decided to shift his capital from Agra to Delhi. Is that real history?: Many interesting parks, fountains, sculptures, etc., are around and about as we explored around in large, busy and sprawling Delhi.:

As a follow-up on Japan, our Kamakura guide, Makayla S., lives closer to Yokohama and shared much about the second-largest city in Japan by population. Its 2020 population is 3.8 million and it lies on Tokyo Bay, south of Tokyo. A major economic, cultural, and commercial hub, Yokohama was one of the cities to open for trade with the West following the 1859 end of the policy of seclusion and has since been known as a cosmopolitan port city. Yokohama is the home of many Japan's firsts in the Meiji period, including the first foreign trading port, European-style sport venues, English-language newspaper, confectionery and beer manufacturing, daily newspaper, gas-powered street lamps (1870s), railway station (1872) and power plant (1882). Yokohama developed rapidly as Japan's prominent port city following the end of Japan's relative isolation in the mid-19th century. Yokohama is the largest port city and high-tech industrial hub in the Greater Tokyo Area. Makayla describes Yokohama as having nice waterfront areas and many other aspects worthy of visiting. Love to go there and see more. THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

Great to hear from our Arizona friend that you are planning for Japan next April with SS. Just found out this week that one of our good friends is now booked for the Silver Nova late next March to do the circumnavigation of Japan. Nice new SS ship and lots of interesting stops in and around Japan, plus a short period for a stop in South Korea. Prices are not cheap for that 14-day cruise. He was in the Air Force back in the 1960's and had much time in Japan, mostly in the far north area. Back then, he also visited Kamakura and loved it at that time. Another friend has a booking to do a land tour of Japan later this year. As mentioned earlier, seeing and sampling other parts of Japan is vital. You want to see Tokyo. It is new, dynamic, interesting, fast-moving, loaded with shopping and dining options, etc. BUT, the more historic, less urban and highly-cultured areas, such as we did in Kamakura, are important to sample, explore and experience. A great deal of history and unique traditions exists in Japan. JAPAN HISTORY/TRADITIONS?: One of the first items discussed with our guide Kumi was about the 1853 expedition by Commodore Matthew Perry as a tool to force an end to Japan's 220-year-old policy of isolation and to open Japanese ports to American trade. Yes, it was kind of "gunboat diplomacy" but it led to the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and the western powers. From Wikipedia, they noted: "Between 1790 and 1853, at least twenty-seven U.S. ships, including three warships, visited Japan, only to be turned away." It also help end the shogunate control and the restoration of the Emperor. Following the expedition, Japan's trade route openings with the world led to the cultural trends that intermixed Japanese culture and influenced arts with Europe and America. And, then the rest is history, plus more, including World War II, etc. Living in Central Ohio near four of Honda's plants (the first to come to the U.S. of the Japan manufactures), plus as multiple decades driver of Honda vehicles and as a long, long time user of Nikon cameras, Sony technology, etc., the many aspects of the "Japan Story" is very fascinating and personally connected. Definitely would like to go back to Japan, explore that country and its many/varied areas much more. More to come, soon, from India. Have finished going through most of the hundreds and hundreds of pictures taken there. Picked out the "Best of the Best" and have fine-tune them accordingly. Just need to complete putting it together and posting. Sad and sorry to hear that the May Silver Moon Singapore to Mumbai sailing has been scrubbed by Silversea. Finally??!! It took SS a long, long time to finally decide and then notify all of the frustrated customers left hanging as to whether or not this and others cruises would happen. And, what was offered to those being cancelled? Fair or unfair? The Red Sea/Yemen problem has been there since October 2023 and does not seemed to being solved soon. Unfortunately. Glad that we got in most of our long-planned Mumbai to Singapore cruise in these interesting and exotic areas of the world. 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 74,510 views: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2076101-live-amazon-river-caribbean-many-pix’s-terryohio/

Appreciate this "news/personnel" item from Dolcevita Diva and agree with the follow-up questions from Power Point that there is something not quite right as to what a VP Transformation might mean actually to BENEFIT Silversea customers. Right or wrong? How do we know the honest reality as these happenings inside and at the top with Royal Caribbean? How will the quality be maintained for Silversea? At reasonable prices/value?? From the Wall Street Journal late Friday afternoon below are the charts for the three major cruise lines during the most recent five trading days. Generally up and mostly positive. Also below are the charts for Royal Caribbean and the other two corporation values since the first of this year. At some point soon, Royal Caribbean will need to report how money scrubbing various stops in Israel, Egypt, the Middle East, etc., has cost them. Plus, the high costs for needing to circumnavigate Africa without passengers with the Silver Moon, etc. Not cheap or easy to "re-engineer" those routings, scrub bookings, pay extra fuel and staffing costs, etc. THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Summer 2019 Calgary, Jasper/Banff National Parks, Western Canada Rocky Mountaineer rail adventure, Vancouver, sailing up to Alaska on Silver Muse, post-cruise excursion to Denali, etc. Many visuals, Our firsts in these scenic areas! Now at 20,907 views. Live/blog: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2682584-live-terryohio-silver-muse-alaska-canadarockies-pix’s/ Here are the Wall Street Journal charts for the past five trading days. During this period, Royal Caribbean hit a 52-week high. The stock market seems to like and value RCL at the higher levels.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) Here are the WSJ charts for these three cruise companies since early January 2024. March has seen a recovery from the February slide.:

Dining? Many options and potentials in Tokyo and Japan. We had a "mix" of different options, both in this country, plus earlier during the wide range of travels in India, Singapore, on the Silver Moon, etc. 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 111,649 views Near the Sensō-ji Temple, we had lunch at a traditional Japanese dining place where we took off our shoes to enter. Below you can see the fish and other items that I enjoyed. Second is the chef preparing food with third being an example for the unique design/decorations at this location.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) Our guide, Kumi, tried at lunch to educate us as to how chopsticks are used. She make an excellent effort, but we were not the best students and/or quickest learners.: For our last evening in Japan, we desired a "change of pace" with a hip place with Aussie connections near our Gate Hotel in the Ginza called METoA Cafe & Kitchen. I started out with a cold local beer. My wife had a very tasty chicken and avocado "pizzetta". Kind of Italian, but on a taco! She loved it. I had "paddle burgers". That's three different "sliders" with one each of creole chicken, pulled pork and beef steak. Next to our table were two different couple who were interesting, including one from the US stationed at a nearby military base, plus his girl friend from Puerto Rico. The other couple were a combination from France and Italy. Interesting discussions/background with these younger folks sitting near us.: Here was one of the more cute visuals snapped by guide Kumi with the background saying loudly . . . "we are in Japan".:

To complete with the Tokyo Skytree, the Temple and the nearby Nakamise-dōri shopping street on the approach to the temple below are a few more visuals. This more than 800-feet long shopping stretch was started in the early 18th century. During the 1923 Great Kantō earthquake many of the shops were destroyed, then rebuilt, only to be destroyed again during the bombings of World War II. The street has approximately 89 shops and was super busy and crowd to walk its long distance. 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 249,338 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1896175-solstice-live-australianzhawaii-many-pix’s-jan-20-feb-3/ Along this crowded and busy Nakamise-dōri shopping street, here are a couple examples for the variety of different items and food treats being available. In the third picture, our guide, Kumi, captured a picture of me photographing this food craftsman cooking up his dining treat.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) Here is another example of the human-power, tourism-focused carts operating near this temple. Second is a closer view and different angle for the Tokyo Skytree.: Near the Skytree, there was a shopping area that featured UK items, fresh baked treats, etc. Its name? Penny Lane. Same as my wife's name. Fun find in Tokyo!!: From earlier at the Tokyo Tsukiji Outer Market, Kumi shows me "in action" when my wife was sampling the cooked egg delight at this busy market. Finally, here is here picture of the two of us at this historic temple to prove that we were really visiting and enjoying.:

Sensō-ji is the focus of Tokyo's largest and most popular festival, Sanja Matsuri. This event takes place over three to four days in late spring. During World War II, the temple was bombed and destroyed during a March 1945 air raid on Tokyo. The main hall was rebuilt 1951–58. 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 250,812 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1172051-livesilver-cloud-norway-coastfjords-july-1-16-reports/ Below are a wider sampling of visuals from our visit on a perfect weather day for this popular and historic Sensō-ji temple in Tokyo.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!)

Next we moved to the area in and around the Tokyo Skytree. This broadcasting and observation tower in the Sumida area of Tokyo became the tallest tower in Japan in 2010 and reached its full height of 2,080 feet in March 2011. This makes it the tallest tower in the world. It is the third tallest structure in the world after Merdeka (2,227 ft) and the Burj Khalifa (2,722 feet) per Wikipedia. As shown below, is the headquarters of Asahi, the domestic beer and beverage manufacturer, that is riverside in Sumida, across from Sensoji Temple in Asakusa. Asahi has its golden flame sculpture on the Super Dry Hall. Sensoji Temple was originally ompleted in 645 and is Tokyo's oldest. It was built to honor Kannon, the goddess of mercy. 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 258,259 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1362155-solstice-livefirst-timer-reportspix’s-italycroatian-june-7-19/ Below shows the towering Tokyo Skytree, the nearby Asahi tower with its unique roof toping and golden flame nearby. Second shows the Sensoji Temple and the major, long shopping area leading up to that religious complex. Third is one of the human-powered carts for riders in their traditional costumes.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) Here is another view/angle of the Skytree. Plus, more nearby sights and shopping activities, etc. Busy, busy area here!!: This is a closer view of the Sensoji Temple. It is one of the most widely visited religious site in the world with over 30 million visitors annually, per Wikipedia. Adjacent to the temple is a five-story pagoda, the Asakusa Shinto shrine and many shops with traditional goods in the Nakamise-dōri. Second shown below is one of the many visitors here dressing in traditional clothing. Our guide told us many of those so dressed here were visiting from outside of Japan.:

Below are a few general items from our time in Tokyo, including its impressive and complex subway, train, public transit systems. . 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 In traveling the subways and trains of Japan, people using their phones is very, very common as the below visual illustrates. Second is my wife and guide Kumi enjoying the ride on these busy mass-transit lines. These lines and operations were very clean, well-managed, timely, etc. But, Busy, Busy!!: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) This is just one sample of the many, many shopping options and offerings in and around in Tokyo. This is especially true as it ties in with the various commercial buildings, the connected lower-level subway stations and connectors. It's a very multi-level infrastructure in Tokyo. Navigating ALL of this as a first-time would be very challenging!!: At our Gate Hotel in the Ginza, this our chef preparing a meal. This hotel had a nice, open, fourth-floor patio with an overview of the nearby commerce, building and transportation systems.: From the Ginza area, this visual summarizes the unique and innovative architecture, including sign displays that have shifted more digital.:

Next in Tokyo was visiting the Hama-rikyū Gardens. Opened to the public in 1946, these large landscaped garden are surrounded by a seawater moat filled by Tokyo Bay. It was remodeled as a public garden on the site of a villa belonging to the ruling Tokugawa family in the 17th century. At the center is a teahouse, reached by two bridges, plus tree groves and fields with flowers for every season. In 1654, Tokugawa Tsunashige, the younger brother of Shōgun Tokugawa, reclaimed this land from the bay and built a villa and garden. Lots of history here, plus it is all surrounded by tall 20th and 21st Century high-rises, etc. Many stone walls and other historic connections are located here. This was a nice "change of pace", especially after visiting the busy food market and what we would see later at a hyper-busy religious temple/shopping area. 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 Hama-rikyū Gardens in Tokyo, here is a small sampling for the water features, bridges, structures, trees, history, etc., that is located here. Nice and refreshing break in the middle of a massive urban environment.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!)

For our last full day in Tokyo on Monday, March 4, with expert guide Kumi, our first visit was to the Tsukiji Outer Market in a district adjacent to the site of the former Tsukiji Wholesale Fish Market. These few blocks of wholesale and retail shops were an amazing experience involving fresh and processed seafood and produce alongside food-related goods. Plus, the people and humanity interacting, shopping, sampling, etc. A visit to Tsukiji Outer Market is amazing. Was it crowded and super busy? Yes!! Was it fun and faascinating? Yes, yes!! Need proof? See my sampling of the "visual evidence" shown below. THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Summer 2019 Calgary, Jasper/Banff National Parks, Western Canada Rocky Mountaineer rail adventure, Vancouver, sailing up to Alaska on Silver Muse, post-cruise excursion to Denali, etc. Many visuals, Our firsts in these scenic areas! Now at 20,907 views. Live/blog: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2682584-live-terryohio-silver-muse-alaska-canadarockies-pix’s/ From our exploring of the Tokyo Tsukiji Outer Market, here is an initial group of visual samplings. Customers were lined up, buying, eating and liking so it all so very much. Look interesting?: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) Here was a shop that was super popular preparing an egg dining delights that in the second picture has Kumi and my wife enjoying. Yes, I tasted, too, and super loved.: Here is more showing how busy and varied were the many food and cooking-related items available at this sprawling Tokyo market.:

Part of the "rest of the story" for Kamakura is about its various shops, homes, human-scale, etc., compared and contrasting to the our time dealing with the overwhelming urban complexities of Tokyo. Glad we did BOTH during our two and a half days in Japan. Yes, Japan is just more than Tokyo. See more "evidence" below. 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 22,515 views. Connect at: www.boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2607054-livenautica-greece-holy-lands-egypt-dubai-terrypix’s/ At one of the many shops in Kamakura, we noticed a crowd lined up. First, he is taking a piece of octopus to place it with other food materials in a heated press to create a local dining delight. Then, steam and pressure are super applied. He pops it out. And, finally, here is the customer happy to have this unique, compressed, very flat and super thin food item. No, sorry, this did not cause us to try this local dining option.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) For cat-lovers, including several of our good friends, below was a cute sign in a window in Kamakura. Do not know the wording says or means, but this was fun and interesting.: From our train car on the way back to Tokyo, here are a couple of residential living in this part of Japan.: From our rail car, here was one of the many religious symbols/statures seen along our route.: At one of the rail stations along our return train route, here was a group of women dressed in traditional clothing. Interesting?:

As to the Giant Buddha, below are some additional visual views/angles that I have not previously posted. It measures 43.8 feet tall and weighs approximately 267,000 pounds. The length of face is 7 feet 9 inches. The statue dates from around 1252. It is hollow and its interior can be visited. Per Wikipedia, the current bronze statue was preceded by a giant wooden Buddha, completed in 1243 after ten years of construction. The hall was destroyed by a storm in 1334, was rebuilt and damaged by another storm in 1369, then rebuilt again. The last building housing the statue was washed away in the tsunami resulting from the Nankai earthquake of 1498. Since that time, the Great Buddha has stood in the open air. That's a long, long history!! Pictures do not capture the size and majestic impact of this site, especially with its hilly, wooded background/setting. 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 32,945 views. http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2465580 Here are three additional angles/view of the awesome Giant Buddha in Kamakura. Notice the lovely sunny, blue skies? What a treat to be in these historic/religious locations with perfect weather.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) Before visiting the Giant Buddha, here was my lunch at a nearby local, traditional dining establishment in Kumakura.:

Sorry to be posting so much from visiting Hasedera Temple in Kamakura. BUT, there was so much there, including getting close to famed cherry blossom trees. Kamakura, being only an hour away from Tokyo, is a charming coastal town often called the "Little Kyoto" because of its ancient temples and shrines. There are 65 of them here! Much to see and enjoy in Kamakura. We loved this day-trip and "change of pace" from busy, urban Tokyo. This exclusion gave us more perspective as why coming back to Japan and exploring it other locations and rural areas would be very worthwhile. 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 34,686 views. Many pictures, details for history, food, culture, etc.: www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2511358 Here is more from visiting Hasedera Temple in Kamakura. Like the flowering cherry blossom tree and its colorful setting?: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) Here are some of the cute and large Koi fish present in the landscaping here. Plus, second, the bamboo growths here as a part of their varied and interesting grounds. And, more pretty floral aspects at this temple in this third visual below.: At this religious site, here is my wife with our expert guide, Makayla S., from Tours-by-Locals, with the main part of this Shrine in the background. Having two different, super skilled guides made a huge positive difference from learning about and understanding more as to Japan long and unique history, culture and values.: From the higher part of this shrine, here was the coastal view for Kamakura with its scenic location. Loved seeing all of the sailboats out on the waters.: Nearby to this temple was an interesting shop with a wide variety of crafts offered. But there was a mirror in their window that allowed me to capture a bit of a self-portrait.:

Appreciate these kind comments and follow-up from kej1. Glad you have done much in India, Singapore and Japan. If my posting on these areas miss anything major, please feel free to share more. Kamakura is one of Japan's ancient capitals, along with Kyoto and Nara. Kamakura served as the location of the Kamakura shogunate, 1185 to 1333. It was the first military government in Japan history. It is most known for its historical sites with Hasedera Temple and the Great Buddha being the two we visited and loved so much. Need proof and evidence as to why? Lots of visuals to follow. Hasedera Temple is the Buddhist temple with a nice variety of points of interest on its lovely grounds. The main deity here is Kannon, the goddess of mercy. The temple’s gardens are spectacular, including a manicured dry landscape garden and a Benzaiten cave where you can you can light candles or place small statues. When you go to the upper level of the gardens, you see various statues and fascinating religious-related aspects. Walking to the edge of the grounds at the higher level, you can see a great view of coastal Kamakura. As one of the most famous Buddha statues in Japan, Kotoku-in or the Giant Buddha, built in the 13th century, is Kamakura’s most well-known symbol. During the Kamakura period, both Nichiren Buddhism and Rinzai Zen Buddhism originated here making this image as the city’s most famous famous for that of a Buddha. The Big Buddha, known as Daibutsu, is sitting peacefully under the sky, as the building around it was washed away in a tsunami centuries ago. While it is largely green now after having been exposed to the elements, Daibutsu used to be covered in gold. This site is very imprressive and moving based on our visit on a beautiful, sunny day in early March. THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Dubrovnik! Visual samples, tips, details, etc., for this super scenic and historic location. Over 53,483 views. http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1439227 From visiting Hasedera Temple in Kamakura, here are only a few of our many, many visual highlights experienced and loved.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!)