A Silver Shadow Over The World - December 2023 to May 2024

[mysty]

We would be in Tianjin (Beijing), China on April 13 and 14, 2024.  This would be a new port for us.

 

According to http://whatsinport.com for Tianjin:
"The new cruise terminal is located south of the Dongjiang port area of Tianjin or Xingang and covers some 1.2 million square meters. The area developed in the first stage of the building project comprises 700,000 square meters and can accommodate 6 large cruise ships at a time. The actual terminal building itself has a surface area of 59,000 square meters and can handle up to 4,000 cruisers, with a total of 500,000 passengers a year.

Taxi from the cruise terminal to Tianjin city center costs 240 yuan, and takes about 50 minutes. The cruise terminal is NOT in Tianjin, but in Tangku [next to Tianjin]. There’s no bus/train from the cruise
terminal to Beijing airport.
The subway in Tianjin itself is very good. Taxi’s are extremely cheap, just show the driver the place on the map, or the name in Chinese characters.

Use taxis or ship provided transportation. Beijing is about 90 km away, about 700 yuan and can be booked also by a hotel.
Taxi from Tianjin city center to Beijing International airport: 800 yuan, but must be ordered in advance by an hotel. The distance is 137km."

For April 13, 2024 we have booked FORBIDDEN CITY.  The travel time would be 3 hours each way.

 

Visit two extraordinary landmarks in Beijing, the Forbidden City and Beijing Olympic Green, on this full-day journey to this historic city. Your excursion begins with a three-hour transfer by coach from Tianjin to Beijing, the capital of The Peoples' Republic of China. Upon arrival in the city, proceed to the Forbidden City.

FORBIDDEN CITY

Enter through the great gate into the vast complex that has been off limits to the public for over 500 years. Within its walls lies a maze of some 800 palaces built between 1417 and 1420 as the residence of the imperial clan. The 9,000 rooms require a permanent restoration squad that is constantly busy painting and repairing. Feast your eyes on the elaborate architecture, décor and furnishings that make the Palace Museum one of the most visited places in the world. (The huge complex requires an extensive amount of walking.)

TIANANMEN SQUARE

Next, proceed to Beijing's most famous square and the country's national symbol. The enormous square is dominated by the gigantic portrait of Chairman Mao. Since imperial days, Tiananmen Square has provided an impressive stage for declarations to the assembled masses. It was from the giant gate that Chairman Mao proclaimed the People's Republic on October 1, 1949. In modern times, the flag-raising ceremony has become a revered daily celebration.

OLYMPIC GREEN

After having lunch of Chinese cuisine at a local restaurant, proceed to the Olympic Green for a short photo stop. View the unique 'Bird's Nest' and the 'Water Cube', Beijing's intriguing new landmark structures erected for the 2008 Olympics.

Leaving Olympic Green, embark the coach and sit back and relax during your journey to the ship.

 

For April 14, 2024 we have booked THE GREAT WALL OF CHINA.  Travel time would be 3.5 hours each way.

A visit to the Great Wall of China presents a fascinating experience. Built along the rolling ridges of steep mountains, it offers spectacular, even awe-inspiring views, and is surely one of humankind's greatest architectural achievements.

THE GREAT WALL

Departing from the port of Tianjin, begin your excursion with a scenic journey through the countryside to one of mankind's most impressive creation, the Great Wall. During the journey to the Great Wall's Juyongguan Section, your guide's commentary about the country and its people makes for an interesting drive. After having a Chinese-style lunch at a local restaurant near the Wall, begin the afternoon exploration of the Juyongguan Section of the Great Wall.

Nothing quite prepares you for the sight as you approach this part of the Great Wall. Built centuries ago, the wall stretches for over 3,000 miles (4,828 kilometers) and ranks amongst the top wonders of the world. The Juyongguan Section of the Great Wall also enjoys the reputation of being 'The Number One Strategic Pass Under Heaven'.

Leaving the Juyongguan area, embark the coach and sit back and relax during your journey to the ship.

 

[mysty]

Update on the Update regarding the travel insurance issue.  This morning I got an email from our most awesome travel agent.  She had contacted the initial insurer to say that we had found a better option and she told them what the better quote was.  She received an email from the initial insurer saying that they would match the price for their Trip Cancellation/Interruption policy.  Because we would prefer to have everything insured with one company we are going with the initial insurer.  I'm very glad that we got a second quote. 😄

[mysty]

We would be in Ketchikan, Alaska on May 18, 2024.  We have visited this port before.

 

According to http://whatsinport.com:

"Ketchikan has four panamax sized cruise ship berths. They are numbered sequentially from south to north along the downtown waterfront. If the pier is full of ships, you will tender into Ketchikan from the ship. The tenders will drop you right downtown.

The public bus system is superb. It will transport you to all tourist sites. The downtown shuttle is free and with 15 minutes intervals will pass by all cruise berths. All other bus fares are only $1.

 

Misty Ketchikan, the rainiest town in southeast Alaska, is known as the "Salmon Capital of the World." The town offers the perfect blend of activities: spend the morning kayaking in Misty Fjords or hiking up Deer Mountain, then spend the afternoon poking in and out of fantastic galleries and shops. You're bound to visit Creek Street, a row of wooden buildings perched over the water on pilings. Today's brightly painted boutiques once catered to gentlemen seeking the company of "sporting women." The museum at Dolly's House gives you a glimpse into the bawdy ways of frontier life, though Ketchikan's red-light district wasn't shut down until 1953.

Legends of a different sort are recorded on totem poles. Boasting the world's largest collection of Northwest totems, Ketchikan has plenty of places to see these fascinating works of art.

 

Right at the docks, opposite cruise berth 2 there's a low-slung green building (Visitors Bureau), and another opposite berth 3 (Visitors Center). From either of these, pick up a free Walking Tour Map,
which also serves as an excellent map of the entire downtown and cruise docks area."

 

We booked ALASKAN LODGE ADVENTURE & SEAFEAST.

This half-day excursion combines three unique activities into one exciting and delicious expedition.

Depart the pier via coach and enjoy a narrated tour of Ketchikan en route to Clover Pass Resort, the oldest continuously operated fishing resort in the State of Alaska. At Clover Pass, meet your boat crew, who will get you properly outfitted for comfort before boarding an adventure boat. Your first stop will be nearby an active eagle's nest. Then the Captain will navigate his way through bays and inlets as your narrator gives you insight into the local flora, fauna and sea life. Learn about the timber industry and how it shaped the development of Alaska, and get a feeling for life on the island.

Venture past the Back Island Naval Testing Facility, home to some of the most sensitive 'ears' on the planet. Get an insight about their work on cruise ships and Navy Vessels, including nuclear submarines. Keep your eyes open for wildlife as porpoises and seals are frequent visitors along the tour route. During May and September whales are often sighted inside Clover Passage.

 

Your final stop is Silverking Lodge, located in the heart of Grant Island State Marine Park. At this working fishing lodge, you can check out the day's catch as fishermen make their way back from a day on the water. Walk the elevated boardwalk into the heart of the rainforest, get an up close and personal look at the flora and fauna of Southeast Alaska, and take your picture next to the largest known red cedar in the Tongass National Forest.

Finish off your tour under a covered gazebo as you dine on a delectable seafood boil meal of crab, shrimp, clams, mussels, potatoes, onions, garlic, corn, and sausage, all cooked in one delicious pot and served piping hot on your table. And if you still have room, top off your meal with dessert. Before heading back to Clover Pass Resort, take a few minutes to take photos, check out the underwater camera, or soak up the atmosphere around the lodge where you coach awaits to take you back to the ship.
 

[mysty]

The term "panamax sized ships" was new to me.  If you are interested, here is a link to an article on CC by Gwen Pratesi.

 

https://www.cruisecritic.com/articles.cfm?ID=4187

[jpalbny]

1 hour ago, mysty said:

The term "panamax sized ships" was new to me.  If you are interested, here is a link to an article on CC by Gwen Pratesi.

 

https://www.cruisecritic.com/articles.cfm?ID=4187

 

We followed one through in 2013. We were on tiny Silver Explorer and the behemoth was in front of us. The tight clearance in the locks is remarkable. 

 

Now with the new locks they have even bigger "Post-Panamax" ships. 

[jollyjones]

 

In the past (the old locks) I went through a few times on a Panamax ship - you could actually reach out from the promenade deck and touch the lock side.

I was in total awe of the technology and skill that squeezed the ship into the lock, so close but never touching the sides or lock gates.

 

[JoGay]

4 hours ago, jollyjones said:

 

In the past (the old locks) I went through a few times on a Panamax ship - you could actually reach out from the promenade deck and touch the lock side.

I was in total awe of the technology and skill that squeezed the ship into the lock, so close but never touching the sides or lock gates.

 

We went through in 1999 and I remember being amazed how little space there was between the ship and the concrete on the sides.

[mysty]

7 minutes ago, JoGay said:

We went through in 1999 and I remember being amazed how little space there was between the ship and the concrete on the sides.

 

We went through on the Lady Whisper in 2019.  We were following a much larger ship.  It seemed the Lady had oodles of room compared to the ship we were following.

[mysty]

Update on the Update of the Update re Travel Insurance.  Just heard from our glorious TA.  The original insurer (who said they would match CAA) came back with a quote $37 higher.  Not a huge deal but nickel and diming is not cool.  Big issue they want us to sign a form which limits payout for Trip Cancellation/Interruption to a total of $150,000 for all insured if COVID testing positive is the issue.  No mention of this tricky thing with their other quotes.  Since our cruise fares would exceed this limit we are back to CAA which had no such restriction.  I am now fed up to the teeth with the original insurer.

[mysty]

We would be in Wrangell, Alaska on May 17, 2024.  This would be a new port for us.

 

According to http://whatinport.com 

:

"City Dock, also known as the Cruiseship Dock, is a t-shaped dock located at the north end of downtown.

 

One of USA’s oldest settlements, the fur trade brought Russian traders here in the early 1800s. The Americans established a military post in 1868 and named it Fort Wrangell. The town boomed during the great Gold Rush of the late 19th century and Wrangell sported gambling halls, dance halls, booze, and lawlessness. Today, commercial fishing and timber still are the mainstays for Wrangell’s economy. Explore nearby Stikine River home to hundreds of species of migrating birds,
spectacular glacial valleys or watch the bears at Anan Falls rain forest.

 

Not to be missed is the Wrangell Museum located within the James and Elsie Nolan Center. There, visitors may stroll among exhibits that range from large brilliant brass Russian samovars to intricately
executed Tlingit carvings, hand-woven baskets and gold rush memorabilia. Also displayed are ancient petroglyphs (rock carvings) of undetermined age and authorship.  More such rocks may be viewed in the tidewater setting of Petroglyph Beach State Historic Park. A wooden handicap-accessible boardwalk takes visitors to an observation deck which overlooks the beach.

 

Walking and hiking is a favorite Wrangell pastime and a number of trails offer uncrowded forest, shoreline, and mountain options. Short on time? A one-mile stroll from Volunteer Park ballfields leads
through cranberry bogs and muskeg with spectacular mountain vistas."

 

We booked EXPERIENCE WRANGELL.

Discover the highlights of this truly Alaskan town, by coach, and see its colorful history and native culture come to life while visiting the Wrangell Museum and Petroglyph Beach with Kiks Adi Totem Park view and Alaskan Native information.

Departing the pier, you'll make your way to the Wrangell Museum. The local museum houses a rich assortment of over 5,000 historic photos, native artifacts, a collection of Tlingit petroglyphs, and fishing, mining and logging displays.

From here pass through the town and see its historic churches, while on the way, catch a glimpse of a traditional Tlingit Tribal House, and Wrangell's industrious Boat Yard and Harbors. Then, learn about the Stikine River and its significant influence on the development of Wrangell.

Visit Wrangell's famous anthropological sight, Petroglyph Beach. Here you'll see rock carvings dating 4 - 6,000 years old. Enjoy a petroglyph rubbing demonstration before heading back to your ship.

Major points of interest seen on this excursion may include:

Ancient Petroglyphs; Historical Churches; World Class Museum, active scenic harbors and a wealth of Alaskan character.

 

 

There are 9 Selected excursions offered for Wrangell.  They are a tad pricey for our pocket books.  They range from $229 for HIGH COUNTRY EXTREME HIKE (which would definitely do us in) to $469 for ANAN BEAR WILDLIFE VIEWING.  We'll stick with a sedate tour for this port.

[mysty]

To inject a little humour here....this is my current thought about the whole travel insurance issue....

 

 

To be honest "fluff-bums" is much kinder than I have been using lately. 😒

[mysty]

We would be in St John, United States Virgin Islands on December 23, 2023.  This would be a new port for us.

 

According to http://whatsinport.com:

"Cruise ships cannot dock at either of the piers in St. John. Instead, they moor off the coast at Cruz Bay, sending in tenders to the National Park Service Dock, the larger of the two piers, in the middle
of town.

With two-thirds of the island designated as National Park, St. John is the most undeveloped, easygoing and laid back of the three major U.S. Virgin Islands. There are only two major resorts on the island, and the beaches are unspoiled by large hotels or development.

The main industry here is tourism, and there is plenty to do on St. John, despite its small size – just 28 square miles. A nature lover will have no problem keeping busy on St. John. The island offers many different hiking trails, including easy trails for inexperienced hikers or families with young children, to challenging trails for the avid hiker.
Snorkeling is also a favorite activity on St. John. Several of the island's beautiful beaches boast reefs teeming with colorful fish and underwater wildlife. Venture out on your own, or take advantage of a guided snorkeling tour.

 

The most popular way to get around the island is by surrey-style taxi.
Taxis wait at the pier. You can "bargain" for most things on the islands, but the taxi and bus rates are regulated. Taxi rates are charged per person one way.

You can also rent open-sided jeeps. Avis and Hertz both have offices here. Just remember to drive on the left, even though steering wheels are on the left, too."

 

We booked ST JOHN NATIONAL PARK ISLAND TOUR.

Experience the beauty of the St. John during this two-hour panoramic drive around a National Park.

ST. JOHN, USVI

St. John, the smallest and most idyllic of the three United States Virgin Islands, is best known for its dozens of post card perfect white sand beaches, turquoise bays abounding in colorful corals an d rainbows of tropical fish, along with endless vistas of green velvet hills. Only nine miles long and three miles wide, two thirds of the island is the Virgin Islands National Park, so its spectacular beaches and untouched forests will retain their beauty for generations to come while remaining accessible to all.

PANORAMIC DRIVE

Depart the pier in your open -air safari bus for a tour around this National Park to experience first-hand what everyone is talking about. Your two -hour panoramic tour will include several photo stops that will avail you to scenery only imagined through day dreams of your escape to a perfect utopia. Along the way, your knowledgeable driver will provide commentary that will enlighten you about the island's rich history, lush, tropical foliage and its' indigenous wildlife.

 

[mysty]

We would be in Nelson, New Zealand on February 18, 2024.  This would be a new port for us.

 

According to http://whatsinport.com:

"Located an easy 10 minute walk from the city center, Port Nelson provides an ideal base for your exploration of this vibrant region. Regularly receiving the highest annual sunshine hours in New
Zealand, Nelson’s climate is pleasant all year round, allowing easy access to the myriad cafe’s, restaurants, arts and outdoor delights that are on offer.

 

The Miyazu Garden celebrates Nelson's relationship with its Japanese sister city. As soon as you walk through the gate made from old timber recycled from the port, the street noise is screened out with an immediate feeling of enclosure. Still reflective ponds, trickling bamboo spouts and melodic cascades enhance the sense of serenity. Doing a circuit of the garden from the entrance you come first to the Dragon Pond, overhung by Jim's Pine, a weathered and windswept 30 year old bonsai.

 

When it comes to stunning scenery and sea views, you can’t go past the Abel Tasman Coast Track. One of New Zealand’s Great Walks, it passes through golden beaches, coastal forests, with photo
opportunities at every turn. Go for a dip in the water at Onetahuti Beach.

Nelson really steps things up with it's bounty of National Parks. Nelson Lakes National Park is spectacular with mountain ranges, remote lakes and an alpine pass for good measure. Choose from a range of walks, short or long, or do a spot of trout fishing at Lake Rotoroa."

 

We booked DISCOVER NELSON ON FOOT.

Join your guide for a walk through historic Nelson, New Zealand's second oldest city and culture capital. Learn what makes this 'village like' city so attractive to locals as well as international tourists and see why it is a mecca for artists and artisans.

SHUTTLE TRANSFER TO THE CENTRE

Meet your local guide and transfer by shuttle to the center of town (approx. 3 minute drive away). From here your guide will take you on a walking journey, sharing the history of the city and showcasing many of the region's cultural, historic and scenic aspects.

GUIDED WALKING TOUR

Upon arrival, begin your exploration with a gentle walk along the banks of the Maitai river, lined with sculptures and native trees en route to Queens Gardens, a beautiful example of a classical Victorian ornamental park.

 

http://www.nelson.govt.nz/recreation/recreation/parks-and-reserves/queens-garden/

 

Nelson, the sunniest place in New Zealand is a mecca for artists and artisans (over 340 working artists call this region home) and stop will be made at the Suter Gallery, gifted to the people of Nelson by the city's second bishop. Beside the Suter lies Albion Square, home of the original Provincial Government buildings.

Continue along Alton Street, past the protected Nelson Central School, following the Brook Stream (Nelson's original water source) to the beautiful timber homes of 'The Dress Circle' on our way to a well earned cup of tea/coffee at Melrose House. Of 'Italianate' design, Melrose House is one of many large timber houses built in the early years of Nelson and a great spot for quick refreshment.

Afterwards, continue down the Trafalgar Street, taking its name from the 'Battle of Trafalgar,' find the impressive Christ Church Cathedral surrounded in both Maori & European history. Trace the edge of the original shoreline and wander past the cottages of South Street, home to some of the region's earliest settlers.

The tour concludes at the Nelson Visitor Centre from where guests can either take the shuttle bus back to the pier right away. Those guests wishing to spend a bit more time in Nelson city before returning to your vessel are welcome to do so.

[mysty]

We would be in Singapore March 22nd and 23rd 2024.  This would be our third visit to this port. I have posted earlier about some interesting things to see there.

 

According to http://whatsinport.com:

 

"Cruise ships dock at the Singapore Cruise center at the Sentosa Harbourfront, which is connected to the harbor front center. Recently remodeled, the cruise terminal features numerous shops, restaurants, cafes which offer free WiFi for customers and a post office. Finding your way through the labyrinthine complex may be somewhat confusing. Taxis are generally available. HarbourFront has an Metro Station, Bus Interchange and cable car links to Sentosa Island and Mount Faber. All these connections are within easy walking distance of the Cruise center. 

 

In 2012 Marina Bay Cruise Center Singapore was opened. Located at the southern tip of central Singapore, you will appreciate the convenience of being close to the airport and the city center. The
nearest MRT station is Marina Bay, a 10 minute walk. Bus Service 402 will stop by the cruise center from Marina Bay which covers the first four bus stops. The bus stop is located at the coach bay at Level 1. A single fare costs below S$2.00. Please prepare the exact fare as no change will be given. A free shuttle bus is often offered to Marine Sands, a huge shopping and hotel complex. Often the ship's shuttles, sometimes free, will drop right at the Marina Bay MRT station.

 

Singapore is a small country on a small island, but with over four million people it's a fairly crowded city. The center of the city - consisting roughly of Orchard, the Riverside and a chunk of
Chinatown - is known in acronym-loving Singapore as the CBD (Central Business District).
Riverside - (also known as Civil District); Museums, statues and theaters, not to mention restaurants, bars and clubs.
Orchard Road - Miles and miles of shopping malls.
Bugis and Kampong Glam - Bugis and Kampong Glam are Singapore's old Malay district, now largely taken over by mall shopping, although Arab Street in the Kampong Glam area is
well worth a visit for its eclectic mix of unique shops and restaurants.
Chinatown - The area originally designated for Chinese settlement by Stamford Raffles. Now a Cantonese enclave in predominantly Hokkien Singapore.
Little India - A piece of India to the north of the city core.
Balestier, Newton, Novena and Toa Payoh - Budget accommodations and Burmese temples within striking distance of the center.
North and West - The northern and western parts of the island, also known as Woodlands and Jurong respectively, form Singapore's residential and industrial hinterlands.
East Coast - The largely residential eastern part of the island contains Changi Airport and many famous eateries.

Katong is located in the East Coast and is famous for its Peranakan food, such as laksa. Joo Chiat has some well-restored Peranakan houses with characteristic intricate architecture. Also consists
of Geylang Serai, the true home of Singapore's Malays.
Sentosa - A separate island developed into a resort, Sentosa is the closest that Singapore gets to Disneyland.
A relatively short journey takes one to the Marina Bay area and in particular, the Marina Bay laser-light show. This occurs twice-nightly and is an attraction that draws thousands of people, both on the river-boats or sitting and standing on the beautiful esplanade which faces the bay. Here is the famous Singapore ‘Merlion’ and the surrounding area of the Bay is a mass of colour."

 

We booked SIGHTS & SOUND BY NIGHT for March 22nd.

Experience the vibrant and enthralling Singaporean skyline at night during this panoramic, half-day sightseeing excursion via coach and riverboat.

SINGAPORE CITY, GARDENS BY THE BAY

Depart the pier for the panoramic, approximately 30-minute drive through Singapore City en route to the Gardens by the Bay, Singapore's new, iconic, approximately 250-acre (about 101-hectare) horticultural attraction. Located adjacent to the Marina Reservoir, the park consists of three waterfront gardens; the Bay South Garden, Bay East Garden, and Bay Central Garden. With more than 250,000 rare plants in huge domed conservatories, the Gardens by the Bay truly captures the essence of Singapore, the 'Garden City'.

GARDEN RHAPSODY, LIGHT-AND-SOUND SHOW, MUSIC, LIGHTS, 'SUPERTREES'

Upon arrival at Gardens by the Bay, proceed for a viewing of its signature light-and-sound show, the spectacular Garden Rhapsody (weather-permitting). Since 2015, its overall creative vision has been led by award-winning lighting designer Adrian Tan, and one of Singapore's most sought-after music composers and arrangers, Bang Wenfu. During this dazzling show, be captivated by the magnificent sight of the 'Supertrees', and let the music and lights entertain you under the stars.

 

SINGAPORE RIVER, RIVERBOAT-CRUISE, CITY SKYLINE, ESPLANADE, Fullerton Bay Hotel, COCKTAIL

Next, re-board your coach and head to a nearby riverboat. Upon arrival, embark the vessel for a panoramic, approximately 30-minute cruise down the Singapore River, a wonderful way to experience part of what Singapore is all about. Along the way, marvel at the city skyline of Singapore by night, when it's at its most vibrant and enthralling. Afterward, disembark the riverboat and transfer to the Fullerton Bay Hotel for a cocktail. Following your visit, re-board your coach for the short drive back to the pier.

 

We booked GARDENS BY THE BAY & OBSERVATION DECK AT MARINA BAY SANDS for March 23rd.

Singapore's new icon, a 250-acre (101-hectare) horticultural attraction, certainly seems to be the nation's most beautiful with more than 250 thousand rare plants in huge domed conservatories. Visit Gardens by the Bay and see why it captures the essence of Singapore - the premier tropical Garden City - making Singapore a leading global city of the 21st century.

GARDENS BY THE BAY

Depart the pier for the short drive to the Gardens by the Bay, Singapore's new, iconic, approximately 250-acre (about 101-hectare) horticultural attraction. With more than 250,000 rare plants in huge domed conservatories, the Gardens by the Bay truly captures the essence of Singapore, the 'Garden City'.

CLOUD FOREST, FLOWER DOME

Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour through the Cloud Forest, a mysterious world veiled in mist. The approximately 115-foot-high (about 35-metre-high) Crystal Mountain is covered in lush vegetation sourced from tropical highlands, and shrouds the world's tallest indoor waterfall. Stroll by the waterfall meandering through the old forests of conifers and ferns that comprise this unique environment.

Next, step into the Flower Dome, the 2015 Guinness World Record-holder as the world's biggest glass nursery. The Flower Dome replicates the cool-dry climate of Mediterranean regions, and features towering baobabs, succulent plants, and 1,000-year-old olive trees. During a guided tour of the Flower Dome, marvel at its awesome natural beauty, and spectacular and innovative designs.

 

SKYPARK OBSERVATION DECK

Your final stop is at the Marina Bay Sands Hotel. Proceed to the 57th-floor, approximately 650-foot-high (about 198-metre) SkyPark Observation Deck to marvel at the spectacular panoramic views and photo opportunities overlooking the city.

Your tour concludes with a short drive back to the pier.

[lincslady]

Two lovely trips, Mysty - really good for those who have already 'done'  Singapore.

 

Lola

[mysty]

39 minutes ago, lincslady said:

Two lovely trips, Mysty - really good for those who have already 'done'  Singapore.

 

Lola

 

The colours on view for those 2 excursions really attracted me!  I think the gray and white gloom of our long winters serve as enticements to savour colour! 😁

[lincslady]

Yes, Mysty.  I have been to Singapore quite  few times, with DH  working there, though not for quite a while, and it was getting a bit 'samey', but recently they have come up with some lovely looking hotels, gardens, etc.  Much needed new interest.

 

Lola

[mysty]

I was bored this afternoon so I decided I would rifle through our stash of foreign currency to determine what we had in hand for the ports we would be visiting.  Myster did some travel for work before his retirement and some of the currency is from those trips.  We have quite a international representation of currency.  Some we will probably not use in our lifetime like the currency for Bhutan.  We loved our visit there and we will probably not do that again.

We have some currency from Barbados, Singapore, New Zealand, Australia, Japan, China, Hong Kong as well as USD and EURO.  We will need more USD and probably more NZD and AUD.

[gnome12]

1 hour ago, mysty said:

I was bored this afternoon so I decided I would rifle through our stash of foreign currency to determine what we had in hand for the ports we would be visiting.  Myster did some travel for work before his retirement and some of the currency is from those trips.  We have quite a international representation of currency.  Some we will probably not use in our lifetime like the currency for Bhutan.  We loved our visit there and we will probably not do that again.

We have some currency from Barbados, Singapore, New Zealand, Australia, Japan, China, Hong Kong as well as USD and EURO.  We will need more USD and probably more NZD and AUD.

Have you checked whether the bills are all current? Countries update currency on occasion for security reasons. 

[mysty]

28 minutes ago, gnome12 said:

Have you checked whether the bills are all current? Countries update currency on occasion for security reasons. 

 

Yes.  We have checked.  We're good to go!  😁  It's not our first rodeo.

[lincslady]

I would have been very surprised if Mysty had not got this sorted.   We all know her by now.😉

 

Lola

[mysty]

6 hours ago, lincslady said:

I would have been very surprised if Mysty had not got this sorted.   We all know her by now.😉

 

Lola

 

Thank you Lola!  My compulsive need to research can be wearying for others at times.  Myster just smiles and lets me get on with it!  😅

[mysty]

We would be in Bay of Islands, New Zealand on February 9, 2024.  We visited this port in 2016.  In 2016 we took the ferry to Russell.  It was lovely.

 

According to http://whatsinport.com:

 

"There is no dock in the Bay of Islands that can handle cruise ships , so they all anchor in the bay, just off Russell , and tender ashore. Most will tender close to (a pleasant 25-minute walk along the beach) Paihia, but it all depends on what your ship has arranged on the day.

Some take independents to Paihia and ships tours to Waitangi, where there is more room for the buses. A ferry runs from Paihia to Russell and it is only short run across the bay.

Waitangi Wharf has free shuttle buses that will bring passengers to Paihia Wharf.

The tender wharf in Russell is in the middle of the Russell waterfront. If swimming alongside dolphins or trawling for the catch of the day isn't thrilling enough, take a powerboat through The Hole in The Rock. This natural passageway was crafted by salt, surf, and the wind. The opening is around 240 ft wide, but from a distance, it looks really tiny. So hold on tight! Sneaking through it at turbo speed is an exhilarating experience, to say the least!"

 

We booked “HOLE IN THE ROCK” CRUISE.

Sail through the famous 'Hole in the Rock' during this scenic, half-day, catamaran excursion to the Bay of Islands.

BAY OF ISLANDS, CATAMARAN CRUISE

Depart the pier aboard a chartered catamaran for a picturesque, approximately three-hour cruise along the Bay of Islands. Sit back and relax aboard the vessel, which features comfortable indoor and open-deck seating, and a well-stocked cash bar, whilst observing many of the Bay's 144 islands from close quarters.

CAPE BRETT LIGHTHOUSE,CATHEDRAL CAVE FORMATION, PIERCY ISLAND, 'HOLE IN THE ROCK'

Sail past the historic Cape Brett Lighthouse, the only historic lighthouse managed by the Department Of Conservation with its internal workings still in place, and pass the famous Cathedral Cave formation nearby. Your route circles Piercy Island, also known as 'Motukokako Island', at the outermost limits of the Bay of Islands, and sails through the 'Hole in the Rock' (weather-permitting). Perhaps one of the most naturally beautiful sights in all of New Zealand, this 210-foot (about 64-metre) hole at sea level was created over centuries by wind and waves. Be sure to have your camera on hand to capture this awe-inspiring natural wonder.

SEABIRDS, DOLPHINS, PENGUINS

Seabirds and marine life abound in this vicinity; bottlenose and common dolphins are the most frequently encountered marine mammals in the Bay of Islands, and you may see a pod during your journey. You may also see little blue penguins, Australasian gannets, black-winged gulls, red-and-black-beaked gulls, Caspian and white-fronted terns, Buller's, sooty, flesh-footed and fluttering shearwaters, prions, storm petrels and pied shags. On the islands, you are likely to see variable oyster-catchers, dotterels, fantails, pukekos, and tuis.

Your panoramic Bay of Islands cruise concludes back at the pier.

 

[Mr Luxury]

3 hours ago, mysty said:

 

Thank you Lola!  My compulsive need to research can be wearying for others at times.  Myster just smiles and lets me get on with it!  😅

He's a wise man

[mysty]

3 minutes ago, Mr Luxury said:

He's a wise man

 

That's only one of his many good points! 😁  He's also very tolerant of my shenanigans.