Host Bonjour

Congrats and Happy Birthday! 🎂 Thanks for sharing your celebratory images with us. If you're inclined, please create a bit of a photo journal for us, it'd be great to see more from the journey! 😎

These are the best photos, you see all the emotions, hard work, sacrifice in those frames. While capturing memorable shots of great action on the pitch or wherever in any sport is a special talent, it's possible other photographers will get the same shot (or something very similar). Not so common are these shots, like the one you caught after the match: they both knew what it took for her to get to that moment, so it must have been an incredible capture. What a phenomenal honor! For you and the Munster players: they have one of the most powerful rituals in sport preserved by you, and for you, it speaks to the depth of your artistry. Well done you. I hope you're still out there making work, if not still at matches (I get how that could be intense to keep up for years and years) somewhere that makes you feel good. Work like this needs to be out there and seen. 🤩🤩 Glad you're here among us to share stories!

This New York Times article by Ben Ryder Howe (I've shared as a gift so hopefully it won't be behind a paywall, but the Times tends to allow 5 articles per month for free) is about the family that operates the mail boat and was so interesting. Sorry about the long link, this is how it loaded 🙂 https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/03/business/maine-mail-boat-covid.html?unlocked_article_code=uk0vV8SSyjfljVvAIGllV_3zhOG9dGGX8xtUDkLZ0PJ4_YGTSb0cFZe8CuwsXjjEH7FIwwTCCggDMw7nYK6aF7WnNqVWhk_txhtoDaHMsDSKpqwyBMRMtP-aEiHfrfR0Ouzh_AZ9o74bqto1Z9QFdAL6lJjRY79xiMHKUUNvbyBiSTKi_lDbjt4ksUp6BC05pWdQe4JL3sl9ZR10AMcV_jmYCr4TaLPbcCk4BNm-H0av4Zi5IDj0YxT3IswhnWhqII1EaK9bRU0S35vhTrgaJNtGcfFhVX1nFR4GbhKDwlbcJVE2YN00NLcnxNwcP12B4I93_EbL7gN8rmzhyoygjQ&smid=url-share

This is brilliant on so many levels! I guess the only way they can ID their cases would be to sticker them up big time, otherwise a black case is a black case (filled with pricey kit 😂). It kind of looks like a golf course (I hadn't noticed before) with that super close cut grass, lovely trees, and possibly a hint of a sand trap on the left side. Still can't figure why you'd need that many cameras and lenses, but with short and long range outdoor shots, maybe it might come into play on a big par 5? If he's trying to land a big gig and wants an opportunity to capture shots for a portfolio, maybe that's why all the gear? But yeah, I remember seeing a photography "dream" type contest on TV, one in particular was a woman who wanted to be a sports photographer, so she was set up with about 3-4 top end Nikons (can't remember the year, so not sure which models) and an array of lenses, all of which she had slung around her, not unlike this guy though slightly less encumbered. Minus the kneepads, binoculars, and I think he's hauling his tripod? She went to shoot basketball and got some great shots. Can't remember if she got the job. Hats off to you as this is such a challenging type of photography to be great at because it's not about just taking photos, it's about finding the moments and the soul of the players/team, and doing it lightening quick, even anticipating moments and then getting a technically amazing shot that tells a phenomenal story. There must be some interesting stories in Rugby, and especially Irish Rugby ☘️... I believe it's just about everything in Ireland. Colleen

Oh no! Take care of yourself Dave. Lovely collage recapping the day.

Thanks Terry! 🙂 The New York Times Story by: Motoko Rich, Tokyo Bureau Chief Photos by: Andrew Faulk

It reminds me of how the turtles are in such jeopardy once they are hatched and must get quickly from the beach into the sea because they have no protection. It sounds like you might be a life-long (or long time) FL resident... another person once told me the same thing, that they're really comfortable around them, etc, even swam in the canals that they were in. My aunt had one as a pet, but that was a long time ago (I think it was a thing for a short time!) until it obviously got too big) and I wonder what it is about crocodiles being a bit more persnickety? You're absolutely right about everything working in its order in nature, which is actually quite amazing. We have the wonderful new Eurasian Eagle Owl living free in Central Park, folks wondered that it would struggle on its own as it was born in the zoo... I don't know why they fretted? Flaco is quite fine, living his best life, knew exactly how to owl in the park. 😂 Truly appreciate the thoughtful details too, thank you 🙂 Colleen

The hi-res images must be stunning, these still lifes are beautiful and the detail on the macro image is pretty nice, even at a compressed size. Love the classic scene. Keep them coming 🙂 Colleen

Kind of almost has it's full size head and those wispy hair-like feathers. Thanks for the amazing bird photos. Yes, I deliberately left out the gator😂 (great pic) they just creep me out to infinity...but that's a me problem!

Sorry everyone, I didn't pin week 13... not sure how that got away from me, but hope the posting and photography kept up! 🙂 📸 Colleen

This is due to a nationwide political protest, and while there may be an occasional strike in Paris or elsewhere in France from time to time, this is more atypical and in response to a change in the national pension system. It's similar in scale to the Yellow Vest protests in 2018 (Gilet Jaunes) which were also nationwide. Bit of an extreme statement, though name a densely populated city (with a trash issue as depicted due to an atypical strike) that doesn't have a vermin problem, and good luck with that. They all do, and they all work hard to combat the problem. Perhaps more should let cats roam around as in Istanbul, and I think some cities have tried this, but it seems impossible to keep up with the problem, for any number of real reasons. Being from a major city, I almost never notice, but I get how it can be disarming for many people. When I do notice, it's not wonderful, but they don't get in my way (it's usually only on train tracks, or they're squashed dead somewhere in the street) as they don't seem to want to be around people anyway. It doesn't detract from ALL of the other great things about one particular city, in this case, Paris, which is generally so worth visiting, but, as is often discussed here on this board, not often recommended as a day trip. If it's the only time one thinks they'll ever be in France, then we can understand and by all means, do it. Or watch the truly fun and inspirational animated film Ratatouille to get a whimsical perspective of Parisian rats. Anyone can cook. Cheers 🙂

Hi debbrilacy, You may get more replies if you specify where you'll be porting, will it be Le Havre or Marseille or Monte Carlo or?? Where are you interested in visiting? It might be helpful to use the search function on this board using words related to your interests and several posts will appear. Likewise with places you may be interested in visiting: Paris, Rouen, Honfleur, D-Day Beaches, Aix, Nice, Èze... And yes, these excursions are generally less expensive than the cruise line excursions. Along the Côte d'Azur (for example), it's quite easy to DIY by train or, renting a car if you preferred, but the train would be most affordable. For other places in France, and those with particular history like D-Day, most everyone seems to go with Overlord Tours, if you'll be at Le Havre. The community will chime in with answers if you share a few more details :)

Can confirm that members may name the tour companies of tours they have taken in response to an inquiry from another member about excursions/tour companies recommendations only. 🙂 A topic may not be started in order to recommend any private company or paid guide. (as a reminder 😉 ) If the tour or excursion has not yet happened, but has been booked, the company may not be recommended, even if they've been lovely to work with so far. Upon return from your cruise, you are welcome to share your experience with other Cruise Critic members who have asked for advice. Cruise Critic appreciates your understanding and your wonderful contributions to the community. 🙂 Colleen

Has to be a sports or events photographer, though you'd think he'd use bags to transport the cameras and lenses into a venue, in these times perhaps it either takes too long to get through a security check, or pac/unpack, or both. So instead, you wear it all in? It's the knee pads that have me thinking he's going to work and be stuck in that position for a while, but perhaps while near the job, he wanted to capture something. Always on the lookout for a good shot.

Congrats and have fun with the new camera Dave 🙂 Thanks for the great review, it sounds like you're going to love this camera. There's always a little bit of an adjustment with navigating the setup/menus, but it's gone before you know it. (Unless changing cameras every year, which I guess then the changes are less noticeable?? I should ask a brand ambassador...) Looking forward to seeing your new images. As @KYBOB mentioned, I would definitely always carry extra batteries AND a charger; as the specs in the cameras become more...advanced (people make movies and videos with them) they're going to continue to use more power at a faster rate. It adds a little to the camera bag, but avoids any frustration if you're out and suddenly can't get a shot. (Extra cards too, we'll expect a photo review of Alaska 😉 ) Enjoy, look forward to the new hockey and skating images! Colleen

Glad you found us, welcome to the forum. Hope you'll stick around even after your trip and share your travel images and other photography tips, images and of course, if you've got questions. The old Minolta must have been wonderful 😉 Colleen

(continuation of JSR's Iceland report, part 2B)

Quite thoughtful and considerate 🙂 though since it's a continuation of a similar conversation, it would have been ok to post in the topic. Many members of the community enjoy a nice voluminous topic they can scroll through, especially when it comes to food. We've got quite a barn-burner over on the Italy topic for food/dining. Often we'll pin a popular or frequently posted topic to the top of the forum for easy access and searches, or just as a starting point: from the sticky post, one could then always use our search tool and look for posts from one community member, or use terms to seek info located within the sticky topic. Thanks again for being so considerate to the other OP. Looks like you've got plenty of non-fish options! I'm usually growing scales anytime I'm anywhere by the sea, especially if they've got fish I've not tried, or fish that's not easy to get where I live, but that's why it's good to know there are options. 🙂

There still are minimums here too in certain places. It might not necessarily be in accordance with POS terms & agreements for the vendors, but it is a legit cost of doing business for the merchants and so as a cost, it can add up. Also, for whatever reason, as much as I'm routinely waving my phone to pay these days, in an odd moment I sometimes finding myself grabbing for bills... I guess usually in smaller places like bodegas and what not.. and they've all mostly got tap and pay terminals too. Who knows? Honestly, in summer here, down in the subway or stuck somewhere on a busy road in traffic, it's amazing to find someone selling dollar waters out of an ice cold cooler, and that was no different in Rome or Hong Kong or the Carib, so having the cash is critical. I always keep around the same amount of walking around money on me as I would at home (and aware of how to replenish if needed), which is not much, but enough for basics or a small unplanned thing. I've had my bag stolen only in my home city, (in bar section of a restaurant during happy hour) and it was half my fault for where I had it. That was the one and only time in decades on four continents. (Also, Midtown wasn't yet the glam factory it is now.) Cards are optimal, but the Apple or Google pay (or fill in the comparable...) even better, since you don't have to unzip anything and pull out a card, plus, if you've got the phone set up right with security, someone can't grab your phone, unlock it quick and start spending: at least not fast enough for you to lock the cards attached to the Apple or Google pay and shut it down. Make sure you have decent phone replacement insurance!

Almost always going to get one in a restaurant (including a printed receipt to sign), even with take-away, because.... there's space for the tip. Welcome to America. Many restaurants, especially fast casual or cafe type places here use the newer technology like Square or something similar with proprietary digital terminals for check out that also include the signature line and options for tip %. Yes, absolutely cannot stand this but.... we have threads on various Port boards where tip culture questions are discussed, if anyone is interested. This is not the place 😂 So, I'd say that a visitor would still expect, especially if there are food/hospitality purchases, expect to be still signing in these instances. Other merchants might not have upgraded their equipment, which usually is a risk to them and can cost money/fees, but so it goes. I remember being in total envy upon my first visits overseas, after discovering the ease with which payments were made by popping the card into a wireless, handheld device tableside to pay the tab. And here we are at last... it is what it is. Good to do the financial set up/planning before you go: call to alert banks (if suggested on their statements/website), try the app, look into using virtual cards if available, know the difference between using debit/credit at ATMs, and the different fees involved in overseas transactions: which, if any apply with your bank? Sounds like a lot, but if you've done the prep work it goes rather smoothly once your underway.

Love hearing about great reads that center on/around destinations, makes for wonderful planning–sometimes one discovers something intriguing to include or seek in their wanderings–or also, to read upon return, thus extending the journey, build on the experience (plan for the next?) Don't worry too much about an off-topic... back on the old Independent Traveler boards, and on other Ports boards here, books, film/television, music, food, all these types of things can factor into planning and so within measure, make for valuable discussion when thinking about your journeys: pre or post! We even have a sticky topic on the Italy Port board, always happy to add something similar somewhere if the community is interested in trying it out on another board, so long of course, as we're sticking to the CC terms etc etc. (You all know the drill by now 😉 ) Thanks again for the literary update, and especially all the helpful travel links with credits. Fair use rules are experiencing interesting challenges these days, and AI creative apps are running amuck, so it's practical to share with everyone properly credited. Sign of the times. Keep well everyone, Colleen

Thanks Terry 🙂 for sharing this 2/26/23 Istanbul Travel Microsoft News Explorers Away piece by: Carley Rojas Avila Story by Carley Rojas Avila

I was curious about your question and so I did a google search for Santorini catamaran cruises. I now understand why you, or practically anyone–especially someone less comfortable being IN the water, would reasonably ask the question. Nearly all of the beautiful, scenic promo images on the website are of the catamarans moored just offshore, which is pretty common for these types of boats (and traditional sailboats) because they'll usually have deeper keels. There's also no real bulkhead on the shore, can't blame them, and so they're moored when not in use. Smaller boats at the shoreline with low bottoms are used to bring guests to the catamarans, which have stairs on the aft (rear) of each hull...so the smaller boat would be brought up to the aft of the catamaran for folks to board. It's stable, and if it made you feel safer, you could always request a vest to wear while you went from one boat to the other, then decide to leave it off during your cruise, or close at hand. It might help if they described the boarding process a bit better, perhaps mention it if you do the tour. And come back to let us know how it was. We're looking for reports to share with members now that cruising is fully back 🙂

Take the dinner cruise. I'd say maybe check the tide charts to see what time hide tide might be when you'll be there, but otherwise, tbh I couldn't tell you how high or low the tide was when I took my Seine cruise (first Paris visit, gone sooo many times) and nearly didn't take the cruise, but got coaxed into it. I remember everything else, including getting dunked on from a bridge by some local kids who were having fun pouring stuff onto the boats. Why not? It was funny and it wasn't anything nefarious. It was beautiful, I could see things (I am NOT tall) and ultimately very glad I was convinced to go. It was evening and gorgeous. Maybe the ONLY thing that would give me pause is whether or not the boat was enclosed? Is there enough outside space? Sometimes if the glass is too reflective, it can be difficult to see out when it's dark, however there are bright lights along the river bank that illuminate most of the prominent landmarks, and just in general. If there's nice weather, it's nice to be outdoors, and also to be able to listen to them describe what you're passing by (not all of the structures are as obvious for their history) But otherwise, and I completely understand and respect (💙) why our legendary, illustrious community members have smartly recommended advised as they have. I'd say stick with your plan. Splitting the cruise and dinner will add extra time, planning, and navigating to your already brief amount of time in the city. I think what makes the most sense here is consolidating and compromising: it will be a decent meal (not an exciting menu, typical french 3 course plat du jour sort of menu) in a spectacular setting. And that's perfectly fine. If you wanted Michelin level, we could each send our ideas, or a hidden gem. But that means going somewhere else in the city, making a reservation and, it can and probably will take more time to get through the meal...usually a pleasure, but not if you've got a limited amount of time. It's an amazing experience, but that means you'd have to eliminate something else. Why cut stuff from a bucket list trip? Again, these worldly, wise, and wonderful travelers are not wrong, we'd be lost without their invaluable contributions on these boards!! 👏 My perspective is as a person who has traveled (often solo) and likewise fit in/lived as a local (and native of one of the biggest tourist cities in the world, so I see both sides) there are times when practicality and enjoyment do merge without disaster or disappointment: I have experienced this, and as well enjoyed many unexpected, wonderful surprises along the way. Paris is even lovely when it rains, so I wouldn't worry about that. I've even become a sucker for the Circle Line in NYC at sunset. Started going with any visiting friends and came to love it. I've done two HoHos as well, in London and Berlin. London because of the size/layout: I needed to visualize the zones before I could start my wandering. Berlin: it did not look so much different from after the war, from the wall and the East, with rebuilding construction everywhere: I had no hardhat in my bag. I've always liked the 8th though I haven't stayed there (but didn't avoid it for any reason)... I stayed in lots of different arrondissments, there's something about walking in parts of the 8th that is lovely–always went there for a stroll. As is riding the metro, and you can work it into your plans to jump on certain lines, many are quite cool though not necessarily convenient, if you list where you plan to go, we can talk about using the metro (also a time saver on your visit) but you do want to see above ground. Without knowing your sightseeing, I'd say the 7 line (pink) Opéra, direction Mairie d'Ivry, the entrance at Opéra Garnier is recognizable in so many films and television shows. You could then transfer from the 7 to the 6 line (light green) at La Motte Picquet Grenelle, direction Charles De Gaulle Étoille, bringing you to the Arc de Triomphe and the Champs Élysées, after crossing on the Bir-Hakeim bridge (stop Champs du Mars, the park across from the Eiffel Tower and within sight of Les Invalides), where at this point the metro is above ground...just a different perspective, and you've had a quick circuit through the Left Bank. Also important to note that there is not much time between metro stops, so mind the stations! With all this said, who knows, maybe you'll feel like so many of us have after visiting Paris and get drawn back again and again. And again, the info above is spot on: but I think what you want will work out fine. It has its way with you, the city does...you won't even realize it's happening. 😉 Super excited for your first trip to Paris...it'll be unforgettable.

Thanks Terry for sharing this NY Times piece with text by Andrew Ferren and photographs by Emilio Parra Doiztua. 🙂