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Live/Nautica: Greece, Holy Lands, Egypt, Dubai; Terry/Pix’s


TLCOhio
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These boards encourage us to “write a review”!  Here goes, again, in live, blogging style. Later, you can see links to our previous cruise blogs and posts. Three live/blogs are now over 215,000 views.  Visuals make a big, interesting difference, sharing the beauty and drama from these wonderful and varied regions of the world.

 

Tell us what you like, any questions, suggestions, etc. Don't be shy!! Love the interactive nature of live/blogs, getting feed-back and comments as we travel, etc.  Or, helping answer questions about this ship, these locations, etc.   

 

This cruise is all about ITINERARY!!  We were attracted to the great group of ports, stops and locations being offered.  This sailing, although 20-days long, sold-out fairly quickly.  While we were in Greece in 2006, these are our firsts for Cyprus, Israel, Egypt, Jordan and the Middle East.  Recently, not many cruises have combined key stops in Israel, Egypt and Jordan.  Plus, this timing in the fall worked well, too.

 

Below is a map/layout that I prepared on my MacBook Pro laptop to illustrate this schedule and timing.  This is our first cruise with Oceania.  Their reputation is for excellent food and so far, we have not been disappointed.  Many more details to share, but we will start out a quick mix of different visuals.  Don’t people like “eye candy”??

 

We are just now sailing away from the Greek Island of Rhodes and are on our way to Cyprus.  Tomorrow's weather is supposed to be around 75F, sunny and super pleasant.  That will be much better than the cold and rain of yesterday in Patmos and the cloudy threats of showers today at Rhodes.  Fortunately no rain happened today and we even enjoyed some parts of the day with decent sun.  

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio.

 

SE Asia/Mekong River, Etc.!  Live/blog from early 2018, first adventure through SE Asia, stops in Hong Kong and Bangkok, before exploring all over Vietnam and Cambodia, seven days sailing on the Mekong River. Now at 39,063  views.

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2591474

 

Here is a graphic that I prepared on my laptop that shows exactly where we will be stopping and traveling during this first sailing with Oceania.:

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Here is how nice and shiny the Oceania Nautica looked while in the harbor in Rhodes.  Have sunshine helped much to enjoy parts of today while visiting this large and historic Greek Island.:

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While in Rhodes, here are a couple of quick visual samples.  Plus, the Greek flag!!:

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A big part of today's ship tour was visiting Lindos.  This coastal, historic village is extremely scenic with an amazing castle/acropolis towering over the area.  More pictures from Lindos in the next segment.:

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After driving along the east coast of Rhodes on the way to Lindos, we saw segments of the turquoise sea and enjoyed in the landscape.  This included  orange and lemon groves, classic Greek vineyards and many olive trees.


One of the island's most impressive lookout points is the Acropolis of Lindos, where we went up, UP and UP the 300 steps to experience a panoramic view of serene St. Paul's Bay and nearby areas. Atop the acropolis stand numerous temples, sanctuaries and residences, including the 4th century B.C. Doric temple of Athena Lindia and the remains of the Governor's quarters.  Plus, we also sampled through this historic village, was in their Greek Orthodox Church, etc. 

 

Our past cruising?: We have done eleven different cruises. First was June 2006 on 204-passenger Seabourn Spirit, Athens to Istanbul, enjoying these Greek-Turkish areas. Late July 2008 on the 940-passenger Crystal Symphony, Dover/UK to Stockholm, for the Baltics and Russia. July 2010 on the 296-passenger Silversea Silver Cloud from Copenhagen for Norway’s dramatic coast, above the Arctic Circle, etc.  June, 2011 was from Barcelona for Italy and Croatian Coast, on this same 2850-passenger Celebrity Solstice that we enjoyed for two weeks from Sydney to Auckland in early 2014. In 2015, we escaped the cold winter with 26-days doing a return to the Silver Cloud going up the Amazon River and visiting ten different Caribbean Islands on this back-to-back cruising.  Early 2016 was South Africa, including ten days on the Silver Cloud, plus Botswana.  In March last year, we did 15 days on the 2200-passenger Island Princess through the Panama Canal from Fort Lauderdale to San Francisco.  For June 2017, it was Lisbon/Portugal during eleven days on the Silversea Silver Spirit to Rouen/France with added pre- and post-time for land options in those two great and historic countries.  Earlier this year, it was our first for a river cruise and doing Southeast Asia on Avalon on a ship holding only 33 passengers sailing the Mekong River, plus many other stops before and after this sailing.

 

All six cruise lines are different and generally very good, etc.  What’s best? The honest answer is . . . “It depends!!!”.   Ports, schedules, timing, food, entertainment and prices vary much.  Personally, the biggest plus with smaller ships is being able to better connect with fellow passengers and the staff and avoid the crowded hustle that can happen on larger ships. Our personal priority is driven by THE ITINERARY! We are not “float on a boat” type of folks.  Nothing wrong with doing that.  We just like to see and explore different and interesting areas!!

 

Our later 2019 plan?  Next summer, for our first time, we will be seeing the Western Canada Rockies, Vancouver, Alaska, etc. After that on our priority list would be as first-timers for visiting Galápagos, etc.   

 

THANKS! Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio.

 

Lisbon, NWSpain, Bordeaux/Brittany: Live/blog, June 2017 from Portugal to France along scenic Atlantic Coast.  Now at 26,116 views.  Many interesting pictures, details for history, food, culture, etc.:

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2511358

 

Here is a sample of some of the visuals from our visit to Lindos, its acropolis, the ruins, their scenic/historic resort village, its old church and inside this religious structure that was so movingly decorated in the Greek Orthodox tradition.  Finally, you can see a cute cat guarding the narrow steps and path as we climbed up and UP to the top of this site.:

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As background for our long journey to Greece, we had to fly to and through Chicago O'Hare and London Heathrow.  Big airports, but all was smooth and timely.  Then on to Athens, Greece!!  Long journey!!  But, worth it A few samples from Athens and Delphi will follow.  Plus, much more from the Greek Capital that we enjoyed and experienced.  

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Sydney to NZ/Auckland adventure, live/blog 2014 sampling for "down under” wonders. Exciting visuals with key highlights.  On page 15, post #571, see a complete index for all of the pictures, postings.  Now at 215,301 views.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1974139

 

From the Admirals Club at O'Hare, below is our view for one of the Boeing 787 jets that we will be flying soon.  In the distance at the right, you can see the famed Chicago downtown with its many high-rises.  Super sunny here in Chicago.:

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Below is flying over Heathrow's Terminal 5 as we de departed London for Greece with British Airways.  Second is the sun setting as we approached Athens.:

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YES is for good Greek beer and a nice seafood dish in the Plaka area of historic Athens.:

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Plus, a small sampling of historic sights and sites during our first night in Athens near our hotel in the charming and historic Plaka area.:

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Here is a little more sampling from being in Athens on our first night.  As always, lots of history, character and style for in and around the Plaka area. 

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Norway Coast/Fjords/Arctic Circle cruise from Copenhagen, July 2010, to the top of Europe. Wonderful scenic visuals with key tips. Live/blog at 232,203 views.

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1227923

 

Here is where we dined last night. Athens or Athina Bistrot!!  Great food and hospitality.  Below are two of the super nice and friendly staff there.:

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Here is a night view for our AVA Hotel where we are returning to as our "home" while in Athens.  Love their great location and super helpful staff.  Second is a picture of the Acropolis lighted at night as seen from the roof of our hotel.:

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Here are a couple of typical views from other dining and shopping options in and around the Plaka.  Lots of charm and character in the Plaka!!  But, cool this night as things were not that busy or crowded.:

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For our second night in Athens, we had dinner in the Plaka at the nearby "The Old Tavern of Psaras".  It was a wonderful setting with super excellent food.  Will have more details and visuals later.   Wonderfully enjoying the Greek good, beer and hospitality. 

 

At the strong suggestion by several on the Cruise Critic boards, especially to the credit of cruisemom42, we traveled to Delphi Nov. 16 and were blessed with such a great series of "history" lessons for these many important periods in Greek history, why there is such major importance related to this site, etc.  Very fascinating and highly informative!!!  Did not realize the connections 2500 years ago between the Greeks and Egypt's great historic periods.  Plus, so, so much more.  It takes a little time and effort to reach Delphi, but there is no doubt that it is worth the time in going to this site.  Lots of amazing history from the Greeks and what they gave to us in culture, government structure, athletics, food, etc.  For Julie, there is so much to do and see in Athens.  For us in making our second trip back to Greece, the day-trip to Delphi was a sure-fired winner, especially when traveling with a skilled driver/guide.  At Delphi, the 100 euro cost for a private guide set up in advance was so worth it in order to understand how and why all of this history and artistic achievement fits together.  And connects to today!!!

 

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 242,449 views.

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1426474

 

 

It was a beautiful, sunny day at Delphi, the famed historic site about two-and-a-half hours north of Athens.  Amazing setting in the mountains, overlooking the olive trees and nearby sea.  Great learning experiences with our expert driver (Alex D.) from George's Taxi and Georgios, our knowledgeable guide at Delphi.  Despite other countries stealing so much from Greece over the centuries, there are still many great treasures left there to see and enjoy in this country.:

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14 hours ago, liptastic said:

Terry I am happily following along as always with your excellent live blogs.

Thanks for taking the time and effort to do so, and allowing us to share your cruise.

Have a great time,  Jean.

 

Appreciate Jean's kind comments and the very good question from Silver Spectre.  As we were getting ready to do the climb to the top of the Acropolis of Lindos, there were no donkeys around to offer that option.  Our guide explained that the donkeys would only get us up there, just part way.  Maybe only saving 100 of the 300 steps.  Given that we there during the "off-season" that might be why we did not see the donkeys.  

 

Given that I had had knee replacement surgery in late May, I felt very good that my legs got me up, UP there.  Plus, going back down, too!!  And, we did lots of walking around inside the walled area of Rhodes, too.  My "stamina" is still not at 100%, but most all was going well yesterday to do all of the climbing and walking done yesterday.  

 

THANKS for sharing the Lindos rooftop picture!  You had more sunshine than we did.  BUT, we felt very fortunate to have avoided any rain yesterday.     

 

More later.  We are getting ready to dock now in Cyprus.  First time here!!  And the weather will be super nice.  Have a long 7.25 hour ship tour schedule today.  Will see more "old stuff", plus much scenic and interesting.  

 

Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Amazon River-Caribbean 2015 adventure live/blog starting in Barbados. Many visuals from this amazing river and Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, San Juan, etc.).  Now at 61,483 views:

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2157696

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As we arrived this morning in Cyprus, below are a couple of quick visual samples.  We are dock here in Limassol, Cyprusuntil 7 pm.  We were scheduled to arrive at 10 am, but actually docked around 8:15 am. 

 

For our ship's tour today, here is a preview for what we will be seeing and doing in and around Pafos & Kourion.  We will start by traveling through the foothills where most of the country's vineyards and the orchards of the Phassouri citrus groves are found.  Our first destination is Petra tou Romiou, the symbol of the city of Paphos. Legend tells us that it is here, the goddess of Cyprus, Aphrodite, was born from the foam of the sea and carried by the sea's waves to the coast of Cyprus. Pafos which has become the sacred place where Aphrodite was venerated.
 

The religion of Cyprus in antiquity was that of ancient Greece. While most of the Olympian Gods were worshipped in Cyprus, the most important cult was indisputably that of Aphrodite, the Cypriot goddess. She is the embodiment of the fertilizing dynamism of Love, believed to fertilize the whole of nature and spread happiness. Archaeological evidence and inscriptions bear witness of the existence of numerous sanctuaries and temples dedicated to Aphrodite throughout Cyprus.  Then, we proceed to Pafos, a small harbor town and popular holiday resort. However, in Hellenistic and Roman times Pafos served as the capital of Cyprus. It remains the home of colorful Dionysos mosaics renowned throughout the Mediterranean, picturesque churches, medieval monasteries, museums, countless antiquities and a charming harbor guarded by a small castle. The entire town of Pafos is included in the official UNESCO list of culture and natural treasures of the world heritage.
 

While in Pafos, a visit will be made to the House of Dionysos, famous for the mosaics unearthed during the excavation of a Roman nobleman's villa from the 3rd century AD.  The mosaics here are considered to be the finest mosaics in all the Mediterranean. There will time, whether needed or not, for shopping at the Limanaki area.
 

Departing from Pafos we will make our way to the Beach tavern at Kourion for a lunch consisting of local Cypriot specialties.  Then we will tour the ancient ruins of the city of Kourion, a Greco-Roman site where you can view remaining pavement mosaics, such as those preserved as the four-panel design in the central room at the House of Eustolios. Nearby, is the superb, large Greco-Roman theater built in the 2nd century BC which is still used today for many performances, including ancient dramas.

 

Does this sound good and interesting??  Should offer many nice "photo opportunities", especially given the great weather here today for later November. 
 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

AFRICA?!!?: Fun, interesting visuals, plus travel details from this early 2016 live/blog. At 43,406 views. Featuring Cape Town, South Africa’s coast, Mozambique, Victoria Falls/Zambia and Botswana's famed Okavango Delta.

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2310337

 

Here is view this morning from our balcony as the tug boat is positioning our ship for docking in Cyprus.  Second is the view from the back of the Oceania Nautica Terrace deck as we had breakfast there outside and super enjoyed the morning sunshine.  Beautiful day!!!.:

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From yesterday's ship tour on Cyprus, below are a few of my quick visual samples. Lots of history on this island, including the Hellenistic era, then some ancient Egypt control, plus lots by the Romans, then the Ottoman Empire, etc.  Still going on now is certain of the current tangle of among the British, Greeks and Turks.  Such history here!!

 

The Dionysos mosaics are the most famous here and we experienced lots of those during our touring.  Much of the "old stuff" was destroyed by earthquakes.  Sadly!!  A unique part about Cyprus is how it has had a unique mix from being so close to three different continents, Africa, Asia and Europe.  Cyprus is the third largest island in the Med.  

 

Now getting ready to depart the ship for an overnight stay in Jerusalem.  Our first time in Israel.  Very excited about this two-day private tour we have scheduled.  "Our schedule" is always better than being on a bus with 25-30 other people.  

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Athens & Greece: Many visuals, details for a city with great history, culture and architecture.  Now at 27,880 views.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1101008

 

From our touring around Cyprus yesterday, below are just a few quick samples of the sights and sites.  First is the welcome as we exited the ship by some Greek-style dancers.  Then, one of key coastal experiences with this famous rock sighting.  Finally is a Greco-Roman outdoor theater with scenic water view location.   More details later.:

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Nice overview of your ports. I'll be on the upcoming Oceania world cruise (my second O cruise) and we'll be going to all your ports except Patmos, Sharm and Muscat so I'm looking forward to hearing about the others.

 

Your weather there is a whole lot better than here in Central Ohio! This morning it's 32 degrees and snow...pretty early in the season. So, enjoy the warm weather!  Have a great adventure and Happy Thanksgiving!  🌞

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Glad you're up and running, Terry! Bionic knee and all. Lots of familiar places so far, but Cypress is new to us, and looks like a place we should visit based on your pictures. The rest of your cruise will have a lot of new ports for us, so eagerly looking forward to your upcoming posts.

 

How are you enjoying Oceania so far? We loved our past cruises on O, but haven't been on an O ship since November 2008 in the Med. Our last time on Nautica was in January 2008 from Sydney to Auckland. But - we saw our old friend Nautica again this past September, when she docked behind us in Amsterdam!

 

Spins, I agree that there is a bit of a blue tinge to the pix. Terry much have his filter on, or he's doing something to accentuate the blue water. 

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On 11/21/2018 at 12:43 AM, jpalbny said:

Glad you're up and running, Terry!  Bionic knee and all. Lots of familiar places so far, but Cypress is new to us, and looks like a place we should visit based on your pictures. The rest of your cruise will have a lot of new ports for us, so eagerly looking forward to your upcoming posts.  How are you enjoying Oceania so far? We loved our past cruises on O, but haven't been on an O ship since November 2008 in the Med. Spins, I agree that there is a bit of a blue tinge to the pix. Terry much have his filter on, or he's doing something to accentuate the blue water. 

 

Appreciate these great comments and follow-ups. Yes, those waters were very blue in Cyprus.  Maybe they came off "too blue" with my posting here.  Will re-check my original pictures and follow-up later.  Keep up the great sharing and comments as done above by J.P.  All questions are welcomed.  Don't be shy!!  Yes, are enjoying the Oceania Nautica.  As we knew in advance, the main sleeping room and baths are rather "compact" on this ship originally built in  2000.  We are surviving, but it would have nice to have had large accommodations.  But, we needed to focus much of that potential "budget difference" for doing better, private tours in certain of the key ports.  As mentioned earlier, this cruise and our prime interests are so much about "i

 

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!  In it is early Thursday morning, Nov. 22, as we are cruising the Mediterranean Sea on the way tomorrow to be doing the Suez Canal Transit.  Not sure today that the the dining areas will do anything special or unique to celebrate this special American holiday.  Nothing is posted on the daily "Currents" publication. 

 

Fortunately, we have two "sea days" upcoming.  Need the "rest-and-relax" time!!  It's been a very busy, back-to-back schedule since arriving in Greece on Nov. 14, doing two Greek island and then Cyprus.  

 

And, then there were the past two days doing our first visit to Israel.  WOW!!!  We did, saw and experienced so much significant in Jerusalem and Bethlehem.  Amazing history and religious connections!!  Lots of walking and exploring. Plus, having excellent weather there really enhanced the experience in Jerusalem and Bethlehem.   It will take the next days or so to go carefully through the 600+ pictures taken, plus doing any needed fine-tuning for these many visuals.  Having an excellent private guide and staying overnight in Jerusalem made for a much better, more in-depth experience in order to learn and gain better insights about this area.  Below are just a few "preview" samples of what we saw and did.  Then later today or tomorrow, I will have more detailed coverage. 

 

Upcoming will be the Suez Canal.  As noted below, we did the Panama Canal last year.  That was fascinating.  Being a sea-to-sea, level canal, we do not expect as much with the Suez compared the locks and terrain of Panama.  But, there is still an interesting history and were major construction challenges in building this passage way.  Today, both of the on-ship destination speakers will give presentations on Suez Canal.  As quick background, there were many debates and controversy over its building and how it would best be completed.  The Suez Canal opened under French Control on November 17, 1869.  It provided a gateway from the Mediterranean to the Red Sea. For good or bad, this historic canal enhanced the colonization of Africa throughout the next fifty years and ennabled world commerce in many ways.  This impact was especially seen as oil become a more important product and need.  Currently, this canal still plays a key role in trading and tourism, providing faster access between Asia, the Mediterranean and Europe. 

 

Now as one of the world’s most heavily-used shipping lanes, the canal extends 120 miles between Port Said in the north and Suez in the south, with dredged approach channels north of Port Said, into the Mediterranean, and south of Suez. The canal does not take the shortest route across the isthmus, which is only 75 miles. In its place, it utilizes several lakes: from north to south, Lake Manzala, Lake Timsah, and the Bitter Lakes—Great Bitter Lake and Little Bitter Lake. The Suez Canal is an open-cut, without locks, and, though extensive straight lengths occur, there are eight major bends. To the west of the canal is the low-lying delta of the Nile River, and to the east is the higher, rugged, and arid Sinai Peninsula. Prior to construction of the canal, the only important settlement was Suez, which in 1859 had 3,000 to 4,000 inhabitants. The rest of the towns along its banks have grown up since.   When first opened in 1869, the canal consisted of a channel barely 26 feet deep, 72 feet wide at the bottom, and 200 to 300 feet wide at the surface.  Per britannica.com, In 1870, the canal’s first full year of operation, there were 486 transits, or fewer than 2 per day.   Looking forward to learning today so much more regarding the Suez Canal.  Its original French promoter was also strongly connected to the early days and failed efforts for building the Panama Canal in the late 1800's. 

 

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 25,029 views.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2465580

 

Here are some quick visuals samples, including for both the super famous Dome of the Rock and the Western Wall in the first picture below.  Both are THE most important religious sites for the Islamic and Jewish faiths.  And both are right next door to each other!!  Amazing!!  Yes, many other religious sites were seen and movingly experienced as shown below in a couple of samples.  Many more details and visuals to be shared later.  Fourth reflects just a tiny sampling of the various "market action" available in all four sections of old Jerusalem.  Ready for more?:

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Our first stop in Jerusalem was at the Mount of Olives, a site of special importance for Christianity and the Holy Week events centering around Jesus.  Our weather was super perfect this morning!!  From this area above the various burial sites, we could see in such an excellent manner the Old City and Temple Mount.  This is where the Holy Temple used to stand.  Lesson One about Jerusalem is how many different times by various powers have built and re-built these various walls and structures, including the Golden Gates for entering this main part of Jerusalem.  We were near the route where Jesus walked into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday and we visited the Gardens of Gethsemane.  This site is most famous as the place where Jesus prayed and his disciples slept the night before his crucifixion.  Also near here, we visited inside the Church of All Nations.  It is also known as the Church or Basilica of the Agony.  It is a Roman Catholic church located next to the Garden of Gethsemane. It enshrines a section of bedrock where Jesus is said to have prayed before his arrest. (Mark 14:32-42).

 

The Dome of the Rock in the Old City of Jerusalem was built on the site of a Roman temple  which had in turn been built on the site of the Second Jewish Temple, destroyed during the Roman Siege of Jerusalem.  The site's great significance for Muslims derives from traditions connecting it to the creation of the world and to the belief that the Prophet Muhammad's Night Journey to heaven started from the rock at the center of the structure.

 

Many more still to come from Jerusalem and nearby.  So much to share!!

  

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Lisbon, NWSpain, Bordeaux/Brittany: Live/blog, June 2017 from Portugal to France along scenic Atlantic Coast.  Now at 26,116 views.  Many interesting pictures, details for history, food, culture, etc.:

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2511358

 

First is this overview from Garden of Olives and the view towards the Old City, Temple Mound, the Dome of the Rock, etc.  Amazed as to the number graves you can observed from this location. Plus, shown below are a few other closer views of these structures, including Dome of the Rock and the now closed-up Golden Gates.:

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Here is one view inside of Basilica of the Agony and then two different visuals related to the next-door Gardens of Gethsemane.  Many very old olive trees are in this garden.  Fourth is a view of this Basilica from the roadway from across the valley near the old temple walls.  Sorry for the fence blocking part of the view.:

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To continue highlights from our first day in Jerusalem, below are a couple of visuals from the locations believed to be where the Last Supper happened with Jesus and the site of the burial of King David.  The challenge?  So much of Jerusalem has been destroyed, re-built, etc., etc., over and over again, during many past centuries that exact locations are questionable and older building mostly non-existence.  But, the phrase is used as "tradition says" such-and-such happened here two thousands years ago, etc.  Science and detailed records are now perfectly possible here in Jerusalem. 

 

Then, the start of many pictures from visiting nearby Bethlehem.  This site of the birth of Jesus is not far from Jerusalem.  BUT, going to this location involves crossing the border into Palestine's West Bank, plus switching guides and vehicles.  Somewhat involved and fascinating as we were experiencing a somewhat different part of the Middle East.  It is also a "flash point" seeking a long-term, peaceful solution.  Bethlehem now has a population about about 200,000 people.  Tourism is its biggest industry.  

 

Coming up next will be one of the amazing and moving experiences when we visited Bethlehem's Church of the Nativity or Basilica of the Nativity.  There is only one of these named locations in the world!!

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Dubrovnik!  Nice visual samples, tips, details, etc., for this super scenic location. Over 44,247 views.    

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1439227

 

These two locations are supposedly on the site for where the Last Supper happened and where King David is buried as shown in the second picture.  For King David's site, there are two different segments.  One side for women. The other side only for men.  That is part of the Jewish traditions.:

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Here is another visual of the Old Wall and nearby structures in Jerusalem.  So much old and interesting architecturally here in and around the old sections of this historic city:

 

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Crossing into Bethlehem means entering the Palestine's zone of the West Bank.  Below is a large building graphic of their famed and previous leader. Yasser Arafat.  Second is an interestingly named coffee shop.  Definitely not Starbucks, but cute signage and unique naming??  Below are some additional visuals reflecting the walls and security screening done to separate Israel from its neighbor to the east.  Notice the current U.S. President being featured on the wall?  Many in Israel views these walls as having been very effective in reducing terrorism that existed in the 1990's, while those on the Palestine's side hate them.  Differing opinions?  But, fortunately, while we were there, all was peaceful and safe.

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This Basilica of the Nativity, located in the West Bank's Bethlehem, has a grotto that holds a prominent religious significance to Christians of various denominations as the birthplace of Jesus. This grotto is the oldest site continuously worshipped in Christianity and this Basilica is the oldest major church in the Holy Land.

 

Per Wikipedia, the church was originally commissioned in 327 by Constantine the Great and his mother Helena on the site that was traditionally considered to be the birthplace of Jesus. That original basilica was completed sometime between 333-339. It was destroyed by fire during the Samaritan revolts of the 6th century, and a new basilica was built in 565 by Byzantine Emperor Justinian.  It has seen numerous repairs and additions, especially from the Crusader period.  Over the centuries, the surrounding compound has been expanded, and today it covers approximately 12,000 square meters, comprising three different monasteries: one Greek Orthodox, one Armenian Apostolic, and one Roman Catholic.  We were very fortunate to be able to go down into this grotto and touch the silver star marking the spot where Christ was born.  The private guide we gad for Bethlehem was super skilled and able to help us avoid the long lines and be able to experience our moving visit to this historic site. 

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Kotor/Montenegro:  Exciting visual samples, tips, details, etc., for this scenic, historic location. Over 44,064 views.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1439193

 

Here at Bethlehem's Basilica of the Nativity, here is a part of the main part of its largest room with some of those in line waiting to go down into the grotto under the main worship altar.  Second is a view of main altar that is controlled and decorated in the Greek Orthodox style. :

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The final three views are from inside that grotto that is very crowded as each person seeks to see, touch and/or kiss this silver star.  This includes being able to see the Altar of the Nativity, beneath which is the star marking the spot where tradition says Jesus was born.:

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6 hours ago, TLCOhio said:

 But, fortunately, while we were there, all was peaceful and safe

 

 

Hi Terry,

 

I'm so happy that your visit in our "neck of woods" was peaceful and safe.

 

More than a week ago we had some 500 rockets "flying around" the South of Israel, and I was fearing that your long awaited visit here will be detoured. Soooo glad all went smoothly, and even the weather cooperated.

 

Enjoy the rest of your cruise, warmest wishes,

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6 hours ago, dani negreanu said:

Hi Terry,  I'm so happy that your visit in our "neck of woods" was peaceful and safe.   More than a week ago we had some 500 rockets "flying around" the South of Israel, and I was fearing that your long awaited visit here will be detoured. Soooo glad all went smoothly, and even the weather cooperated.  Enjoy the rest of your cruise, warmest wishes

 

Appreciate these above nice comments and follow-ups from Jean and Dani.  YES, we were very fortunate in Israel with perfect weather and logistics that all came together so very well with our private guide Ofir Horn.  I had followed the "rocket action" from earlier in the month.  When there is time, I will share much more on first impressions from visiting Israel, etc.  

 

It is dark out now and we are starting our sailing down the Suez Canal.  More on that later.  Below have some additional pictures to share from being in Jerusalem and Bethlehem.  Many more interesting images to share. 

 

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 242,705 views.

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1426474

 

From Bethlehem's Basilica of the Nativity, below are two more images.  First is another view inside the main church area.  This gives an ideas as to the large crowds waiting to go down under the Altar to see the small area with the famed silver star.  Second is our expert guide who toured us around in Bethlehem.  He was a fun, interesting character with the skills to make these logistics work smoothly and efficient.  Local "rules" prohibit having your Israel guide being the one to take you around in the West Bank areas.  Yes, we did stop at a gift shop in Bethlehem after completing the Basilica visit.:

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Next are some visuals from the Israel Museum, one of the ten largest in the world.  First is the exterior for the part of their complex where the Dead Sea Scrolls are housed and research has been conducted on this unique artifact related to the Bible, etc..  The final two pictures are of a unique scale model of Jerusalem that allowed our guide to explain the various periods and key developments related to this ancient and historic city.:

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Finally, here is a visual from inside of the uniquely designed "dome" where the Dead Sea Scrolls are housed.:

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Sorry to jump in the middle of the Jerusalem pictures, but we are now in the process of doing our transit of the Suez Canal.  Below are six examples of the various sights, bridges, coastal developments, etc.  Very interesting to see this engineering wonder and to experience how it is operating now after its original opening in 1869. 

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Norway Coast/Fjords/Arctic Circle cruise from Copenhagen, July 2010, to the top of Europe. Wonderful scenic visuals with key tips. Live/blog at 232,523 views.

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1227923

 

Here are six visuals as representative for what we have seen in the past few hours in doing this transiting of the Suez Canal.  We are now about 60% through in doing our passage.  We are now in the middle of Great Bitter Lake.  Many different water crafts are on this waterway, plus a variety of bridges.  One bridge is very new, while another shown below opened and closed with a swinging part on each side of the canal.:

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Now back to Jerusalem!  One of our key and most important decision was to focus on Jerusalem and stay overnight nearby to these historic areas.   Many on the cruise ship went back and forth between day one and day two in Israel.  With our plan, we had the added hotel cost, BUT, we avoided wasting four-to-five hours of wasted time traveling back and fourth between the ship and the heart of Israel. Below are some visuals for the YMCA Three Arches hotel that dates back to the 1930's and is right across the street from the famed King David Hotel.  We would have liked to have stayed at the King David.  But, however, our wallet said no, NO!  It would have been about $800 for one night to stay there.  Our hotel was about $153 and worked very well for our needs. 

  

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Sydney to NZ/Auckland Adventure, live/blog 2014 sampling for "down under” wonders. Exciting visuals with key highlights.  On page 15, post #571, see a complete index for all of the pictures, postings.  Now at 215,665 views.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1974139

 

First is the view from our Three Arches Hotel room in the morning.  Second is part of its interior lobby with the old-world styling.  Third is the front of the hotel with the Christmas tree already decorated and ready for the upcoming holiday season.  Fourth is the view of King David Hotel from our location where we stayed overnight.:

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As we entered Jerusalem, we went through the Zion Gate and examined its security set-up from the "old days" of this walled city.  Second is our group visiting some of Cardo, historic shopping street from the days of old, old Jerusalem.  With this picture, wearing a bright blue shirt, you get to see my face. Sorry about your bad luck.  With us are Amy and Milt from Central Ohio, plus my wife, Penny.  Finally is a view of these covered and somewhat underground shopping areas that are a key part of the old city in Jerusalem.:

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Just completed this afternoon our passage and transit through the Suez Canal.  Below are a mix added visual highlights.  The Suez is very different from the Panama Canal experience.  But, both are very interesting and highly stimulating.  For a ship our size, the typical toll for canal use runs from $150,000 to $300,000.  Not cheap, but if you have a large shipment of goods, this shorter passage time and cost can yield a large savings in fuel and staffing expenses.  

 

Sorry for the above picture duplication.  This new Cruise Critic web set-up has some advantages in posting pictures, but there are a few "twists" that will require some time for adjustment and learning. 

 

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 79,455 views.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1278226

 

Below are a range of added views from traveling among Egypt's Suez Canal today.  The final shot shows one of the pilots waving after completing his work in guiding the ship during its passage.:

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