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

[mysty]

Continuing on with gins from the countries on our itinerary.....

 

Mexico -http:// https://ginraiders.com/article/build-your-bar/best-mexican-gins-roundup/ - Toast to Cinco de Mayo With These 5 Unique Mexican Gins

 

1. Condesa Clasica Gin - This brand is operated by an all-female team
2. Mezcal Gin MG
3. Granicera Perfil Cítrico Gin
4. Gracias A Dios Agave Gin
5. Onilikan Mexican Gin

 

China - https://medium.com/@mersolluo/gin-in-china-4fc419f219a8 

"Gin is a more complicated sell in China since it is not widely recognized and not driven by age statements, like whisky and Cognac. As more Chinese look for premium, hand-crafted tastes in their alcohols, opportunities are opening for many distillers. "

 

https://www.drinkmagazine.asia/2018/07/27/whats-shaking-with-chinas-craft-gin/ - What’s shaking with China’s craft gin?
"Gin has been one of the fastest growing categories in the spirit world for the past two years.  That growth has been replicated in countless markets around the world, and been largely driven by craft distilleries, as consumers take greater interest in provenance and variety. But what about China? Is it a promising market for its own craft gin?"

 

https://peddlersgin.com/
1. SHANGHAI GIN
2. BARREL AGED GIN
3. Salted PLUM GIN

 

https://www.porcelaingin.com/
1. Porcelain Shanghai Dry Gin
2. Porcelain Mandarin Gin

 

https://crimsonpangolin.com/
1. Crimson Pangolin Jungle Edition
2. Crimson Pangolin Peach Rose Edition
3. Crimson Pangolin Black Goji Edition
4. Crimson Pangolin Oak Barrel Edition

 

Colombia - https://theginisin.com/region/colombia/
" When you think Colombia and spirits— often rum comes to mind. Many of the first distilleries to branch into gin production in Colombia started out as rum distilleries."

 

1. Selva Gin -http:// https://www.selvagin.com/our-gin
2. Dictador - https://dictador.com/product/colombian-ortodoxy-gin/

 

Singapore - https://www.theginguide.com/singapore-gin.html
"Singapore is home to the Singapore Sling, a gin based cocktail created in the early 1900s. The country a lot of historical connections to gin due to transportation of spices, including clove and nutmeg which were introduced to the island by Sir Stamford Raffles in 1822. Nonetheless, the first gin distillery in Singapore was only opened in 2018."

 

Brass Lion Distillery - https://brassliondistillery.com/
1. Pearl Jasmine Gin
2. Butterfly Pea Gin
3. The Singapore Dry Gin
4. Pahit Pink Gin
5. Navy Strength Gin
6. Barrel Aged Gin

 

Tanglin Gin Distillery - https://tanglin-gin.com/
1. SINGAPORE GIN
2. ORCHID GIN
3. BLACK POWDER GIN

 

As I was researching gins I stumbled on a site that provides gin reviews by country........https://www.theginguide.com/gin-reviews-by-country.html

 

I found a gin from Vietnam.....Sông Cái is the first 100% Vietnamese-owned endeavor of its kind.
https://www.songcaidistillery.com/
1. SÔNG CÁI VIỆT NAM DRY GIN
2. SÔNG CÁI VIỆT NAM FLORAL GIN
3. SÔNG CÁI VIỆT NAM SPICED ROSELLE GIN

 

And the gin exploration continues.....
 

[mysty]

Next on the side gig list comes the United States.

 

 https://www.theginguide.com/american-gin.html 

 

"The US gin industry has grown significantly in recent years, ranging from traditional styles to the distinctive and bold styles that American gins are becoming well known for. As such a large and diverse county with a wide range of landscapes, botanicals and cultures, American distilleries are producing an impressive variety of gins. Many traditional distilleries that were making dark spirits are beginning to distill gin, while other distilleries have launched in the past decade that are dedicated to gin or focusing on gin production while ageing other spirits. And of course the US is also renowned for cocktails and mixology, with many classic and contemporary cocktails having their roots in the US, and the cocktail culture has helped gin to be enjoyed in a wide range of servings."

 

Many distilleries in America are open to visitors for tours and tastings, especially on the east coast and west coast:

Caledonia Spirits Distillery - Vermont
Copper Works Distilling - Seattle
Durham Distillery - North Carolina
FEW Spirits Distillery - Chicago, Illinois
Golden Moon Distillery - Colorado
Great Lakes Distillery - Wisconsin
Green Hat Distillery - Washington DC
McMenamins Edgefield Distillery - Portland, Oregon
New York Distilling Co - New York
One Eight Distilling - Washington DC
Philadelphia Distilling - Philadelphia
Spirit Works Distillery - Sebastopol, California
Still 630 Distillery - St Louis, Missouri

 

https://www.forbes.com/sites/karlaalindahao/2022/12/29/best-gins-made-in-america-2022/?sh=2e325a7059a1 - 15 Of The Best All-American Gins To Try Right Now

1. Junipero Gin
2. Back River Gin by Sweetgrass Winery & Distillery
3. Pomp & Whimsy Gin Liqueur
4. Philadelphia Distiling's Bluecoat American Dry Gin
5. Barr Hill Gin by Caledonia Spirits
6. Watershed Distillery's Four Peel Gin
7. St. Augustine New World Gin
8. Freeland Spirits Gin
9. Gray Whale Gin
10.  The Revivalist Dragon Dance Jalapeno-Infused Gin
11.  Golden Moon Gin
12.  Black Button Distilling's Citrus Forward Gin
13.  St. George Dry Rye Gin
14.  Dorothy Parker Rose Petal Infused Gin
15.  Conniption Navy Strength Gin by Durham Distillery

 

This site has additional information........https://theginisin.com/region/united-states/

 

Now we come to Canada.  Not much helpful on this site but it's better than nothing https://www.theginguide.com/canadian-gin.html

"Canada is home to some very colourful gins. One of the first on the gin scene in the UK was Ungava, a bright yellow gin comprised of locally foraged botanicals. Another good example is Empress Gin, a beautiful indigo gin, made with butterfly pea flower that reacts with the citric acid in tonic and turns from a deep blue purple into pink."

 

Some distilleries in Canada are open for tours and/or tastings, and they are wonderful experiences for gin lovers living in or visiting these areas:
Cirka Distillery - Quebec
Dairy Distillery - Ontario
Eau Claire Distillery - Alberta
Ironworks Distillery - Nova Scotia
Park Distillery - Alberta
Reid's Distillery - Ontario
Sheringham Distillery - British Columbia
Spirit of York Distillery - Ontario
Victoria Distillers - British Columbia

 

https://www.todocanada.ca/2023-world-gin-awards-these-are-canadas-best-gins/ -  2023 World Gin Awards: These Are Canada’s Best Gins

 

Classic Gin:
Gold Winner & Country Winner: Reid’s Distillery, Toronto, Ontario– Reid’s Gin
Silver Winner: Ampersand Distilling Co., Duncan, BC — Gin
Bronze Winner: Last Best Brewing & Distilling, Calgary, Alberta — Fortunella

 

Contemporary Gin:
Country Winner: Last Best Brewing & Distilling, Calgary, Alberta — Afterglow

Gold Winners:
Last Best Brewing & Distilling, Calgary, Alberta– Afterglow
Reid’s Distillery, Toronto, Ontario — Reid’s Spiced Gin

Silver Winner:
Barrelling Tide Distillery, Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia — Tide Gin
Anohka, Parkland County, Alberta — Orange Bloom Dry Gin

Bronze Winner:
Compass Distillers, Halifax, Nova Scotia — Gin Royal
Antidote Distilling Co., Port Alberni, B.C. — Black Gin
The Newfoundland Distillery Company, Clarke’s Beach, NL — Seaweed Gin

 

Flavoured Gin:
Gold Winner & Country Winner: Dunrobin Distilleries. Ottawa, Ontario — Earl Grey Gin
Silver Winner: Victoria Distillers, Sidney, B.C. — Empress 1908

 

London Dry Gin:
Gold Winner & Country Winner: Gnu Craft Spirits, Calgary Alberta — The Gnu Normal

Silver Winners:
Last Best Brewing & Distilling, Calgary Alberta — First Love
Anohka, Parkland County, Alberta — Tempest Dry Gin

 

Matured Gin:
Gold Winner & Country Winner: Distillerie des Marigots, Caplan, Quebec — Récif gin vieilli
Silver Winner: Compass Distillers, Halifax, Nova Scotia — Noon Gun Gin

 

Old Tom Gin:
Gold Winner & Country Winner: Giants and Gentlemen Gin, Ontario — Old Tom New Gin

 

This site provides more Canadian gin options.......https://theginisin.com/region/canada/

 

This concludes the voyage of gins.  

[mysty]

The excursions have now been posted for Brisbane.

 

Mid Land Program - Duration: 5 Days

Embark on a unique journey from the Sunshine State of Queensland to the Wine State of South Australia during this six-day overland adventure. Terra Australis (latin for south land) was the original name given to this island continent before Australia became its name and it is on-board the Great Southern Rail that you will experience the most diverse landscapes across three states in this 'great southern land'. Witness bustling cities pass by, the sandy shores of the beautiful east coastline, the red desert outback and the rolling hills of Adelaide and its surrounds. Feel the adventure, feel the culture, and with premium touches everywhere you turn, feel a little bit ex-terra.

 

It looks like this may be the train voyage - https://www.journeybeyondrail.com.au/packages/great-southern-brisbane-to-adelaide/

 

And this link describes the Platinum class - https://www.journeybeyondrail.com.au/onboard-experience/platinum-service/

 

World Cruise Collection - MANTA RAYS OF LADY ELLIOT ISLAND (BNE-L)
Brisbane, Australia
Enjoy a day at Lady Elliot Island located on the Southern Great Barrier Reef on this full-day World Cruise Collection excursion. Experience one of the most pristine sections of Australia's Great Barrier Reef from above as well as from below the water all in one day. Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Scenic Flight, Lady Elliot Island, Great Barrier Reef, Mantra Rays, Marine Life, Glass Bottom Boat, Snorkeling, Lunch, Free Time

 

Selected Excursion - (3)

MOUNT TAMBORINE EXPERIENCE (BNE-E)
Brisbane, Australia
Depart Brisbane for an unforgettable journey through the dramatic landscapes of the Gold Coast Hinterland. Ascend Mt. Tamborine for freshly baked morning tea followed by a guided walk through a National Park rainforest towards Curtis Falls. The next stop along your route will be at the Tamborine's Art and Crafts Street, Gallery Walk. Before returning to the ship, visit one of the region's wineries to sample Australian vintages and stroll around the vineyard. Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Gallery Walk, Mt. Tamborine, Rainforest Waterfalls, Flora and Wildlife, Wine-Tasting, Gold Coast Hinterland

 

STRADBROKE ISLAND ADVENTURE (BNE-K)
Brisbane, Australia
Discover the exquisite scenery and beaches of one of the hidden jewels of Brisbane during this panoramic excursion to North Strandbroke Island. Your full-day excursion includes a scenic transfer by coaster vehicle and ferry-ride to the island, pristine landscapes, morning tea with lunch and much more. Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Ferry-Ride, North Stradbroke Island, Morning Tea, Hidden Lakes, Pristine Landscapes, Lunch

 

STRADBROKE ISLAND BY RIB-BOAT (BNE-N)

 

Included Excursion - (5)

BRISBANE SIGHTS & LONE PINE SANCTUARY (BNE-A)
Brisbane, Australia
Enjoy a brief city tour of Brisbane as well as Visit Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, the world's first and largest koala sanctuary, with over 130 koalas. Get close to a koala and over 130 free roaming kangaroos and wallabies, all in beautiful, natural settings. Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Brisbane City, Parliament House, Treasure Building, City Hall, Old Customs House, South Bank Parklands and Cultural Centre, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, Mt. Coo-tha

 

LEISURELY BRISBANE (BNE-B) or LEISURELY BRISBANE (BNE-BB) (morning or afternoon)
Brisbane, Australia
This panoramic tour will explore Queensland's capital city, Brisbane. Pass highlights including Parliament House, the Treasury Building, Customs House, Cultural Centre, the magnificent Brisbane Botanic Gardens and many other historical and landmark properties. Enjoy a brief photo stop on Mt Coot-tha after climbing 230 meters above sea level for an unequalled view over the sleek skyscrapers of the city of modern Brisbane and the picturesque suburban areas from the lookout. Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Parliament House, the Treasury Building, Customs House, Cultural Centre, Botanic Gardens, Mt Coot-tha lookout

 

GOLD COAST ON YOUR OWN (BNE-H)
Brisbane, Australia
Relax and unwind on the beautiful Gold Coast of Australia at your leisure during this self-guided sightseeing tour. Your full-day excursion passes Brisbane en route to the Gold Coast. Upon arrival, ample free time is made available for sunbathing and swimming on the white-sand beaches, and shopping and dining on your own. Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Gold Coast, Free Time, Shopping, Dining, Beaches, Swimming, Sunbathing, Outer Suburbs

 

HOME OF THE CROCODILE HUNTER (MOA-A)
Brisbane, Australia
Take a sneak peek into Australia's busiest wildlife hospital and hear all about the conservation efforts of the onsite team. Then get ready for the ultimate wildlife adventure at Australia Zoo, packed with plenty of hands-on wildlife encounters and exciting daily wildlife shows. The founder was Steve Irwin nicknamed "The Crocodile Hunter", an Australian zookeeper, television personality, wildlife expert, environmentalist and conservationist. Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Australia Zoo, Local Wildlife, Wildlife Shows, Wildlife Hospital Sneak Peek

[HappyLadyTravels]

Thanks Mysty. Did you see the date this excursion starts? Price? 

[HappyLadyTravels]

3 minutes ago, HappyLadyTravels said:

Thanks Mysty. Did you see the date this excursion starts? Price? 

 

3 minutes ago, HappyLadyTravels said:

Thanks Mysty. Did you see the date this excursion starts? Price?  I see that it starts Feb  27th.

 

 

[mysty]

Just now, HappyLadyTravels said:

Thanks Mysty. Did you see the date this excursion starts? Price? 

 

Which excursion Happy?  The price for the mid voyage is not listed. You would need to call.  It will be somewhat pricey based on the Platinum Class train fare.   All excursion are from Brisbane on February 27th.  The World Cruise Collection : Manta Ray's of Lady Elliot Island is priced at $1,499 USD.

[HappyLadyTravels]

7 minutes ago, mysty said:

 

Which excursion Happy?  The price for the mid voyage is not listed. You would need to call.  It will be somewhat pricey based on the Platinum Class train fare.   All excursion are from Brisbane on February 27th.  The World Cruise Collection : Manta Ray's of Lady Elliot Island is priced at $1,499 USD.

Thanks again, I found the details.  Sound like a lot of beach time, sand time. I've called my TA for pricing, but this is probably not meant for me.  I leave on a beach, and never go in the water 🙂

[drron29]

Boy that Lady Elliott island day trip is expensive. $USD1499 is $A2300. A private tour from Brisbane to Lady Elliott island is half that price.

https://ladyelliot.com.au/day-tour-ex-brisbane-redcliffe/

 

Unfortunately the day trips depart too early to be able to do it from the ship. It gives you a little more info onthe day's activities on the Island.

[mysty]

2 minutes ago, drron29 said:

Boy that Lady Elliott island day trip is expensive. $USD1499 is $A2300. A private tour from Brisbane to Lady Elliott island is half that price.

https://ladyelliot.com.au/day-tour-ex-brisbane-redcliffe/

 

Unfortunately the day trips depart too early to be able to do it from the ship. It gives you a little more info onthe day's activities on the Island.

 

Thank you @drron29 !  I'm finding that all the excursions not on the included excursions list are pricey!  Maybe to subsidize the included ones.

[mysty]

Further to my previous post.....

In 2019 we had $5,500 on OBC.  $2,000 pp from Silversea and $1,500 from our travel agent.  No excursions were included at that time.  We took all the excursions we wanted and left the ship owing nothing.  We had haircuts and a dinner at La Dame and came out even.

 

For 2024, we have $1,000 pp from Silversea and $1,000 from our travel agent for a total of $3,000.  We have booked 5 "Selected Excursions" and our current total is $2,470.00.

 

EXPLORE & TASTE OAHU’S NORTH SHORE
Honolulu,
United States of America - TOTAL : $398.00

 

GASTRONOMIC EXPERIENCE OF WAIKATO REGION
Tauranga,
New Zealand - TOTAL : $498.00

 

PUKEITI GARDENS & OKURUKURU WINERY
New Plymouth,
New Zealand - TOTAL : $258.00

 

AN EVENING AT THE ROYAL PALACE
Benoa, Bali,
Indonesia - TOTAL : $518.00

 

TOKYO BY NIGHT WITH TEPPANYAKI STYLE DINNER
Tokyo,
Japan - TOTAL : $798.00

 

Obviously our choice to book these excursions!  However, the prices seem rather high for the actual experience.

[Grand Duchess]

16 hours ago, mysty said:

Next on the side gig list comes the United States.

 

 https://www.theginguide.com/american-gin.html 

 

"The US gin industry has grown significantly in recent years, ranging from traditional styles to the distinctive and bold styles that American gins are becoming well known for. As such a large and diverse county with a wide range of landscapes, botanicals and cultures, American distilleries are producing an impressive variety of gins. Many traditional distilleries that were making dark spirits are beginning to distill gin, while other distilleries have launched in the past decade that are dedicated to gin or focusing on gin production while ageing other spirits. And of course the US is also renowned for cocktails and mixology, with many classic and contemporary cocktails having their roots in the US, and the cocktail culture has helped gin to be enjoyed in a wide range of servings."

 

Many distilleries in America are open to visitors for tours and tastings, especially on the east coast and west coast:

Caledonia Spirits Distillery - Vermont
Copper Works Distilling - Seattle
Durham Distillery - North Carolina
FEW Spirits Distillery - Chicago, Illinois
Golden Moon Distillery - Colorado
Great Lakes Distillery - Wisconsin
Green Hat Distillery - Washington DC
McMenamins Edgefield Distillery - Portland, Oregon
New York Distilling Co - New York
One Eight Distilling - Washington DC
Philadelphia Distilling - Philadelphia
Spirit Works Distillery - Sebastopol, California
Still 630 Distillery - St Louis, Missouri

 

https://www.forbes.com/sites/karlaalindahao/2022/12/29/best-gins-made-in-america-2022/?sh=2e325a7059a1 - 15 Of The Best All-American Gins To Try Right Now

1. Junipero Gin
2. Back River Gin by Sweetgrass Winery & Distillery
3. Pomp & Whimsy Gin Liqueur
4. Philadelphia Distiling's Bluecoat American Dry Gin
5. Barr Hill Gin by Caledonia Spirits
6. Watershed Distillery's Four Peel Gin
7. St. Augustine New World Gin
8. Freeland Spirits Gin
9. Gray Whale Gin
10.  The Revivalist Dragon Dance Jalapeno-Infused Gin
11.  Golden Moon Gin
12.  Black Button Distilling's Citrus Forward Gin
13.  St. George Dry Rye Gin
14.  Dorothy Parker Rose Petal Infused Gin
15.  Conniption Navy Strength Gin by Durham Distillery

 

This site has additional information........https://theginisin.com/region/united-states/

 

Now we come to Canada.  Not much helpful on this site but it's better than nothing https://www.theginguide.com/canadian-gin.html

"Canada is home to some very colourful gins. One of the first on the gin scene in the UK was Ungava, a bright yellow gin comprised of locally foraged botanicals. Another good example is Empress Gin, a beautiful indigo gin, made with butterfly pea flower that reacts with the citric acid in tonic and turns from a deep blue purple into pink."

 

Some distilleries in Canada are open for tours and/or tastings, and they are wonderful experiences for gin lovers living in or visiting these areas:
Cirka Distillery - Quebec
Dairy Distillery - Ontario
Eau Claire Distillery - Alberta
Ironworks Distillery - Nova Scotia
Park Distillery - Alberta
Reid's Distillery - Ontario
Sheringham Distillery - British Columbia
Spirit of York Distillery - Ontario
Victoria Distillers - British Columbia

 

https://www.todocanada.ca/2023-world-gin-awards-these-are-canadas-best-gins/ -  2023 World Gin Awards: These Are Canada’s Best Gins

 

Classic Gin:
Gold Winner & Country Winner: Reid’s Distillery, Toronto, Ontario– Reid’s Gin
Silver Winner: Ampersand Distilling Co., Duncan, BC — Gin
Bronze Winner: Last Best Brewing & Distilling, Calgary, Alberta — Fortunella

 

Contemporary Gin:
Country Winner: Last Best Brewing & Distilling, Calgary, Alberta — Afterglow

Gold Winners:
Last Best Brewing & Distilling, Calgary, Alberta– Afterglow
Reid’s Distillery, Toronto, Ontario — Reid’s Spiced Gin

Silver Winner:
Barrelling Tide Distillery, Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia — Tide Gin
Anohka, Parkland County, Alberta — Orange Bloom Dry Gin

Bronze Winner:
Compass Distillers, Halifax, Nova Scotia — Gin Royal
Antidote Distilling Co., Port Alberni, B.C. — Black Gin
The Newfoundland Distillery Company, Clarke’s Beach, NL — Seaweed Gin

 

Flavoured Gin:
Gold Winner & Country Winner: Dunrobin Distilleries. Ottawa, Ontario — Earl Grey Gin
Silver Winner: Victoria Distillers, Sidney, B.C. — Empress 1908

 

London Dry Gin:
Gold Winner & Country Winner: Gnu Craft Spirits, Calgary Alberta — The Gnu Normal

Silver Winners:
Last Best Brewing & Distilling, Calgary Alberta — First Love
Anohka, Parkland County, Alberta — Tempest Dry Gin

 

Matured Gin:
Gold Winner & Country Winner: Distillerie des Marigots, Caplan, Quebec — Récif gin vieilli
Silver Winner: Compass Distillers, Halifax, Nova Scotia — Noon Gun Gin

 

Old Tom Gin:
Gold Winner & Country Winner: Giants and Gentlemen Gin, Ontario — Old Tom New Gin

 

This site provides more Canadian gin options.......https://theginisin.com/region/canada/

 

This concludes the voyage of gins.  

Switzerland has a few too https://ullrich.ch/de/schweiz-land-gin/

 

[mysty]

6 hours ago, Grand Duchess said:

Switzerland has a few too https://ullrich.ch/de/schweiz-land-gin/

 

 

Thank you @Grand Duchess !  This gin exploration has been a real education! 

[mysty]

There are a number of World Cruise Collection excursions on offer for this adventure.  I mentioned the one available in Brisbane earlier.

 

WORLD CRUISE COLLECTION: HINDU TEMPLE CEREMONY (DPS-004)  - $259.00 USD
Benoa, Bali, Indonesia
Discover the Hindu culture and traditions of the Balinese people during this immersive World Cruise Collection sightseeing tour. Your half-day excursion visits the Mertasari Sanur Temple. Meet the locals, wear a sarong and sash, make a prayer offering, end enjoy a prayer ceremony, refreshments, and a Bumbung Dance Performance. Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Benoa, Mertasari Temple, Sarong-and-Sash-Wearing, Preparation of Prayer Offerings, Prayer Ceremony, Refreshments, Local Specialties, Bumbung Dance Performance. Start: 15:30 Duration: 3 Hours 15 Minutes

WORLD CRUISE COLLECTION: HIDDEN GEMS PHOTOGRAPHY JOURNEY (SIN-Q) - $299.00 USD
Singapore, Singapore
Discover the hidden gems of Singapore through the eyes of our award-winning photographer during this immersive World Cruise Collection tour. Your half-day excursion features photography composition, camera settings, and expert advice whilst photographing the city, skyline, and renowned landmarks from breath-taking vantage-points. Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Singapore, City Skyline, Gardens by the Bay, Cloud Forest, Flower Dome, Marina Bay Sands Hotel Observation Deck, Esplanade, Merlion Park & Statue. Start: 15:00 Duration: 4 Hours 30 Minutes

 

WORLD CRUISE COLLECTION: KUCHING, PENANS & ORANGUTANS (KCH-K) - $449.00 USD
Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia 
Newly-designed especially for our valued World Cruise guests, your World Cruise Collection tour begins with a scenic, approximately 35-minute drive to Kuching. The capital of Sarawak, Kuching is nestled on the banks of the languid Sarawak River. The city offers picturesque landscape with lush greenery, scenic riverfront views, and heritage trails dotted with charming colonial architecture. Kuching is also renowned for its rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality, which stem from the harmonious co-existence between diverse ethnic groups.  Start: 10:00 Duration: 7 Hours 45 Minutes

 

WORLD CRUISE COLLECTION: PRIVATE HOME FINE ART COLLECTION (SGN-N) - $199.00
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Drive to the Home Museum located in the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh City. During your World Cruise Collection tour enjoy a special visit of Mr Tran Hau Tuan's private collection of fine artifacts and paintings . Indochina Fine Art (1925-1945), War Time Fine Art (1945-1985), Southern Art before 1975, Renewal Fine Art (1985-2000) and Contemporary Art (2000-present). Enjoy a tea time and art conversations with the host of the house before the return drive to the ship. Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Mr Tran Hau Tuan's Private Fine Art Collection, Tea Time and Art Conversations. Start: 09:00 Duration: 6 Hours

 

WORLD CRUISE COLLECTION: COME HORSE RACING (HKG-009) - $449.00
Hong Kong, China
Your World Cruise Collection Tour will take you to the Happy Valley Race Course, after approximately 30 minute transfer from the pier. On arrival proceed to the "Members Enclosure". The Private Boxes offer international buffets with the best Western and Oriental food including unlimited pouring of house spirits, house wines, beer and soft drinks. All Private Boxes provide the best views of the racetrack. Happy Valley is a piece of living history that has been around for nearly as long as the city itself. Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Happy Valley Race Course, Dinner. Start: 17:15 Duration: 5 Hours

 

WORLD CRUISE COLLECTION: PRIVATE VISIT AT JAPANESE NORTHERNMOST WINERY (OTR-S) - $399.00
Otaru (Hokkaido), Japan
Visit Japan's Northernmost winery and taste Japanese wines with lunch during this World Cruise Collection tour. Meet the owner of the winery and explore the vineyard and brewery with explanations. Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Japan's Northernmost Winery, Winery/Brewery Tour, Lunch with Winery's Original Wines. Start: 10:00 Duration: 4 Hours 30 Minutes
 

[lincslady]

My DH had an outing with Hong Kong friends to Happy Valley, and loved it - I suspect especially the food and drink!  I was jealous that I was not with him on that trip.

[mysty]

2 minutes ago, lincslady said:

My DH had an outing with Hong Kong friends to Happy Valley, and loved it - I suspect especially the food and drink!  I was jealous that I was not with him on that trip.

 

I would definitely have been green with envy Lola!  It's lovely that he got the opportunity to visit Happy Valley though.  

[lincslady]

Obviously it does no have the educational content of most of these special tours, and is more a light relief from all the important educational stuff, and one off chances to see special places.

 

I was with him when we were the special guests at a fabulous dinner at the Hong Kong Country Club.  The only problem was that I was sitting next to the host, and it turned out that almost all of the courses involved crab cooked in different ways.  I am sufficiently allergic to crab that I would have been obviously ill before the end of the meal, so had a quick decision.  Decided to just play around with what was on the plate, and pretend to eat some.  Luckily, my host spotted the ruse, and got the staff to bring me a completely different dinner, with no seafood, with a minimum of fuss.  (He was a top Surgeon in HK, so very used to dealing with problems).  About my worst social event problem ever.

 

Lola

[mysty]

40 minutes ago, lincslady said:

Obviously it does no have the educational content of most of these special tours, and is more a light relief from all the important educational stuff, and one off chances to see special places.

 

I was with him when we were the special guests at a fabulous dinner at the Hong Kong Country Club.  The only problem was that I was sitting next to the host, and it turned out that almost all of the courses involved crab cooked in different ways.  I am sufficiently allergic to crab that I would have been obviously ill before the end of the meal, so had a quick decision.  Decided to just play around with what was on the plate, and pretend to eat some.  Luckily, my host spotted the ruse, and got the staff to bring me a completely different dinner, with no seafood, with a minimum of fuss.  (He was a top Surgeon in HK, so very used to dealing with problems).  About my worst social event problem ever.

 

Lola

 

You've had some wonderful experiences Lola!  Well done on the unobtrusive avoidance of the crab!  Soul of discretion you are! 😁  One of my worst social event problems happened in high school (when many social ooops happen).  I was invited as a blind date to a Key Club (an all male club at the time) dinner.  My date had difficulty attaching my corsage.  We were seated at the head table (he was an officer of the club).  After the main course the head table gents stood to introduce themselves and their dates.  In his turn my date rose,  introduced himself then realized he didn't know my name.  I whispered it to him then rose as he introduced me.  As I stood up my corsage fell off into my dinner plate.  I think I went stop light red!

 

Link to Key Club......https://www.keyclub.org/about/ .

Edited August 11, 2023 by mysty

[lincslady]

That was a good one ,Mysty, and everything is so much worse when you are a teenager, of course.  At least by the time you are 50 or so you realise these things get forgotten by everyone else pretty quickly.

[mysty]

2 minutes ago, lincslady said:

That was a good one ,Mysty, and everything is so much worse when you are a teenager, of course.  At least by the time you are 50 or so you realise these things get forgotten by everyone else pretty quickly.

 

And at 70 you could not care less!  😅

[mysty]

The lead up to our grand adventure will hit a number of ports in the Caribbean.  Time to research interesting foods to try in those ports.  First up in Bequia, St Vincent & The Grenadines.

The information presented here comes by way of https://www.inspiringtravel.co.uk/other-shores/tasting/what-to-eat-st-vincent-grenadines/  - 9 Things to Eat in St Vincent & The Grenadines by JOANNE ROBINSON.

 

"In St Vincent and the Grenadines, food is a massive part of the culture, with delicacies reflecting the island’s past and its location in the heart of the Caribbean."

 

1. Breadfruit
Roasted breadfruit and fried jackfish is the national dish of St Vincent and the Grenadines, and no trip to this tropical island paradise would be complete without sampling it at least once.

Tasting like potatoes but descending from the same tree as the mulberry and the jackfruit, breadfruit itself is unlike anything you’ll find on British shores. Aside from jackfish, it can also be mashed with garlic and oil, or with coconut and banana leaves.

 

2. Madongo dumplings
Made from native arrowroot along with nutmeg and coconut, madongo dumplings are a specialty that you’ll only find in St Vincent and the Grenadines.

This is largely because arrowroot isn’t grown anywhere else, with St Vincent one of the only places that cultivates the flour for trade.

 

3. Hairoun Beer
You’ll find the Hairoun Brewery north-east of Kingstown, where it has been brewing its eponymous beer since the mid-1980s. Also known as the St Vincent Brewery, Hairoun Beer is now a household name across the islands, which means you’re likely to find it on most menus and behind most bars during your visit.

Taste-wise, expect a light, pale gold beer without much head, and get ready for citrus notes to fill your nose. A perfect beer for the sunshine island, we think.

 

4. Rum
Rum is a Caribbean staple, and you’ll drink the best of it during your holiday in St Vincent.

A history of sugar plantations fueled rum production, and although growing bananas has become more popular in recent years you’ll find that the local interest in the island’s favourite spirit is still going strong too.

Sunset Rum produced here and with a few different varieties including the famous Sunset Very Strong Rum, Captain Bligh XO and Sunset Rum Punch, which comes highly recommended from both islanders and visitors alike.

 

5. Buljol
A Caribbean classic, buljol is a salad usually made from shredded cod or saltfish, peppers, tomatoes, oil and onions. Eaten cold, and sometimes for breakfast, there are various versions of this traditional dish, and you’ll find differences in flavour and ingredients in neighbouring locales such as Trinidad. We think they’re all equally as delicious and suitably brimming with local flavours, though. A perfect lunchtime dish to eat al fresco as the Caribbean sun beams down.

 

6. Callaloo Soup
A local favourite in St Vincent and the Grenadines, callaloo soup is one for the health-conscious amongst you. Served everywhere from weddings and functions to street food stalls, there are many variations possible: you might find beef, soup or crab meat versions.

The main ingredient is a local leaf vegetable, the exact nature of which will vary from recipe to recipe. Garlic, onion, pepper, potatoes and coconut milk are key, and you might also find cassava and yams too, amongst other possible ingredients.

 

7. Seafood
St Vincent’s cuisine is based around seafood, which makes sense – these are islands, after all! Red snapper is a favourite, and you’ll find unusual options including mahi mahi, pilot whale, bonito and kingfish amongst more familiar flavours such as tuna, squid, octopus and lobster. Flavours are hot here and you’ll find that spicy fish is common, as are fried and baked dishes and hearty stews.

 

8. Banana Fritters
Like your breakfast sweet?

You’ve come to the right place. Bananas are grown in abundance on St Vincent, so it makes sense that they’re an important part of the island’s culinary offering. Banana fritters are easy to make with oil, flour and sugar, making them a favourite home comfort of Caribbeans both at home and across the world.

 

9. Discover produce at Kingstown’s Friday and Saturday market
If you really want to eat locally whilst you’re holidaying in St Vincent, food market heaven can be found on Friday and Saturday in Kingstown.

Grab your tote bag and head down to the market, where you’ll find all the ingredients you could possibly need to whip up a feast of Vincentian cuisine, from seafood to vegetables to spices.

[drron29]

Give me a Jamaican pattie any day. even better with a scotch bonnet inside.

[mysty]

16 minutes ago, drron29 said:

Give me a Jamaican pattie any day. even better with a scotch bonnet inside.

 

I had to look up both the Jamaican pattie and the scotch bonnet.   😁  The pattie sounds awesome.   The scotch bonnet sounds very,  very hot!  You do enjoy the spice of life drron!

[mysty]

Next up on the exploration of foods to try brings us to Fort-de-France, Martinique.  The information presented here comes by way of https://www.tripsavvy.com/top-foods-to-try-in-martinique-5090509 - The Top 10 Foods to Try in Martinique by Dana Givens.

 

"Martinican cuisine is a vibrant blend of the cultures that make up the island—African, French, South Asian, and Creole. As such, the food culture in Martinique combines numerous spices and distinct flavors that make it stand out. Creole cuisine is what locals eat daily and their delicacies contain elements of several different cultural influences to create unique, flavorful dishes that stand out during a French West Indies trip. "

 

01 Boudin
Boudin—a traditional blood sausage—is a part of Martinique's classic cuisine and is commonly served as an appetizer. You will see two versions: boudin blanc and boudin creole. Boudin blanc is made from seafood like prawns, sea conch, and fish while boudin creole is typically made with pork, pig's blood, along with various spices.

 

02 Chatrou
Chatrou (octopus) is an everyday treat you will see on restaurant menus across Martinique that tastes best served in two types of dishes. The first way is fricassée de chatrou, a traditional octopus stew made with a blend of spices in addition to lemon, onions, and tomatoes. The second way is served as ragout de chatrou, a rice dish with lentils, chopped yams, and a side of beans that is a popular option for takeout for a quick meal on the go. 

 

03 Accras de Moure
When in Martinique, it is impossible to go anywhere and not see someone selling these fritters for a quick bite. This appetizer is commonplace in most Caribbean countries with their recipe. In Martinique, they are called accras de moure, usually filled with salt fish fried in batter. You can find them everywhere around the island, from restaurants and street vendors in the streets of Fort-de-France, but Mama's Snack in the Fort-de-France spice market sells delicious fritters for around 5 euros to enjoy for lunch or a quick appetizer.

 

04 Lambis/Conch Stew
Lambis, also known as conch or sea snail, is a seafood delicacy known around the island and seen throughout Caribbean cuisine. Conch can be enjoyed in several ways, but one of the most frequent dishes you will see is conch stew.

 

05 Blanc Manger Au Coco
Blanc manger au coco is a popular Martinican dessert that you will frequently see in restaurants and small bakeries. Similar to the French dish of blancmange, the sweet creation is made from a thick paste of honey, coconut milk, and vanilla powder that is served cold with a side of fruits or almonds.

 

06 Stuffed Crab
Seafood is prevalent around the island, and one of those delicacies that are famous among locals is the stuffed crab. Stuffed crabs (crabe farci) are a popular carry-out dish that can be enjoyed on the go or in a casual restaurant served as an appetizer. The plate is usually served in a plastic shell with a mixture of flavors that will warm your taste buds without overwhelming.

 

07 Grilled Sea Bream (Doradé Grille)
Sea bream (doradé) is very common throughout Martinique, so you can expect to see it on the menu in most restaurants. Typically the fish is grilled on a charcoal grill and is served with rice, potatoes, or salad marinated in basic seasonings with lime juice.

 

08 Colombo
Colombo is an iconic Martinican dish and is a must-have to try while on your vacation. The curry-based delicacy is rooted in the island's strong Indian and Hindu community. The dish can be made with different meats, with chicken or lamb Colombo being the most common. The meat is typically served with rice, stewed beans, lentils, plantains, and vegetables in a curry sauce.

 

09 Smoked Chicken
Barbecue specialties are in abundance throughout the Caribbean and you'll often encounter scenes of small clouds of smoke from a charcoal grill with an assortment of vegetables and meats. A staple on Martinican menus, smoked chicken (poulet boucané) is grilled chicken with sugarcane syrup to create a tasty combination of savory and sweet. 

 

10 Homemade Sorbets & Ice Creams
There's nothing better than a cold refreshment on a hot, sunny day, and while in Martinique, you have to sample a homemade sorbet and ice creams. While you can get ice cream almost anywhere, Martinique is known for its local makers and delicious creations. You can expect to see flavors like sugar cane, cassava, lychee, rum banana, and passion fruit. 

 

As I posted earlier, we booked A Taste of Martinique for the excursion here.  We will visit the Prisca restaurant where we will learn how to prepare traditional fritters.  Chef Prisca will also prepare various French-West Indian aperitifs. Following the cooking class we will sample the freshly-made, traditional specialties and homemade cocktails.

[mysty]

The wait for these cruises is killing me!  We're at 127 days to sail away for the Holiday Cruise.  To keep myself amused I started playing with wardrobe options.  I am beginning with the formal nights.  We probably won't go to many but Myster does graciously accede to a few.  Here is what I came up with.....

 

 

 

I bought the sleeveless velvet dress in 2005 ($20.00 on sale at Orvis) for our first cruise.  It was on Celebrity when they had real formal nights. The bronze tie top was purchased 2 months ago at a consignment shop for $40.00.  The necklace (and matching earrings) were bought a few weeks ago for $6.00 at the "Antiques" Market.

 

I am bringing a sequined long dinner coat and a different necklace to give me another option with the dress.

 

@JSR you might be interested in this as an illustration of my answer to your question about formal night.

[mysty]

This is the sequined coat and the necklace (with matching earrings) that I will wear with the navy dress above.  The coat is vintage and was bought on etsy.com for about $25.00.  The necklace and earrings were purchased at a dress shop in Carleton place for about $30.00.