Live, Terry/Ohio, India to Singapore, Silver Moon Rising, Pix’s!

[TLCOhio]

On 4/22/2024 at 4:00 PM, highplanesdrifters said:

I'm going to go out on a limb a say I speak for all the lurkers and future lurkers.  Keep em coming! 😃    Elephant experience looks amazing.

 

Appreciate these great comments and follow-ups. YES, the elephant experience was both "up close and personal", plus amazing and very warmingly-connected to these awesome creatures.  With just my wife and I, it was so much easier to experience compared to be in a group of 15-25 people.  Or, an even larger group.  

 

From inside Jaipur, we shift our focus to the City Palace, a royal residence and former administrative headquarters for the rulers of the Jaipur State, Rajasthan.  

 

Construction started around 1727 at the time of the establishment of the city of Jaipur under the reign of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II.  He moved his court to Jaipur from Amber. Jaipur remained the capital of the kingdom until 1949—when it became the capital of the present-day Indian state of Rajasthan—with the City Palace functioning as the ceremonial and administrative seat of the Maharaja of Jaipur.  

 

When India gained freedom from the British rule in 1947, most of the various Maharaja rulers and families around the country lost out, those in Jaipur managed to maintain property, power and position.  This City Palace gives an interesting sampling for those past "days of prestige" and their adjustment to more modern times.  The palace complex has many buildings, various courtyards, galleries and offices of the Museum Trust.  We toured the museum and saw much around this location.  Many visuals below and more to come from Jaipur, the easy to love city with so much history and artistic style. 

 

Maharaja Ram Singh sided with the British in the Uprising of 1857, establishing himself with the Imperial rulers. Much of Jaipur, including the City Palace, are stucco painted the color pink and since that time the city has been called the "Pink City".The change in the color style was to honor the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII) on his visit.  Now that color has become a trademark of the Jaipur.

 

Just a little mix of history and style??  For those who have visited Jaipur, feel free to share what you loved most there, suggested for others as "must see", etc.  

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio   

 

Norway Coast/Fjords/Arctic Circle cruise from Copenhagen, July 2010, to the top of Europe. Scenic visuals with key tips. Live/blog at 251,299 views.

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1172051-livesilver-cloud-norway-coastfjords-july-1-16-reports/

 

Here are a couple initial views of the various structures as we entered Jaipur's famed and popular City Palace.:

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During our time at the Jaipur City Palace, there was a little parade/ceremony.  Not sure what and why, but things looked cute and interesting.  Jaipur is colorful!!!  Right?:

 

 

 

Inside the City Palace Museum, our skilled guide provided more background as to the past rulers of this region of India.:

 

Here are more samplings of the various buildings in the City Palace.  This includes for the use of the pink color and the various, unique stylings.:

 

 

 

 

[TLCOhio]

Here is more from our exploring at the City Palace in Jaipur.  

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio   

 

Sydney to NZ/Auckland Adventure, live/blog 2014 sampling/details with many exciting visuals and key highlights.  On page 23, post #571, see a complete index for all of the pictures, postings.  Now at 250,088 views.

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1896175-solstice-live-australianzhawaii-many-pix’s-jan-20-feb-3/

 

Designed in the style of a Mughal audience hall, the Diwan-e-Aam, the Sabha Niwas, is the receiving hall within the City Palace. It has multiple cusped arches supported by marble columns with a painted plaster ceiling.  Look regal and royal?   Nice rug like you have at home?  On the walls of this hall and nearby are large format paintings of the past Maharajas of Jaipur.:

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Although posted earlier at the start of this live/blog, this visual is worth repeating as a part of the City Palace coverage.  Here is my wife with a couple of the uniformed personnel at this historic site.:

 

Here are more of the varied architectural and artistic wonders to be seen and experienced at the Jaipur City Palace.:

 

 

 

At the City Palace, we caught this "entertainment" segment with these colorful puppets, exciting music, etc.  First is a still picture of the puppets.  Second is an action video with drum sounds, etc.  Click on the video in the middle to start and listen to the fun!:

 

 

[TLCOhio]

To continue sharing how much and why we super loved Jaipur, this Nov. 29, 2018. summary from the New York Times Travel Section details much.  It is linked at:  

https://www.nytimes.com/2018/11/29/travel/what-to-do-in-jaipur.html

 

The headline is "36 Hours in Jaipur" with this sub-headline: "In India’s Pink City, the streets are filled with palaces, temples and, sometimes, cows. Eat like royalty, shop for jewelry and find a weekend’s worth of bliss amid the commotion."    

 

Here are some of their reporting highlights:  "Nearly 300 years ago, an enlightened maharajah with a penchant for jewels and an eye for architecture built a planned city amid the arid hills of northwest India. Called Jaipur after the city’s founder, Jai Singh II, it arose on a grid of urban sectors not just for royal palaces, but for the workshops of artisans recruited to establish a new commercial hub. These days, gem cutters, jewelry designers and garment-makers are still flourishing in one of India’s most popular tourist and shopping destinations. This is a city where the royals, to this day, occupy a wing of the City Palace, and where mid-rise towers and a new subway system are muscling in on a proud past. Street markets are awash in color and handicrafts, and Hindu temples can be found nearly every 100 yards. Though the streets seethe with beeping and belching traffic, tourists and dung-dropping cows, you can find bliss amid the commotion.  Jaipur is known as the Pink City, built with sandstone and blushed with paint in 1876 to welcome the Prince of Wales."

 

Here is how they summarized the Hawa Mahal, or Palace of Winds:  "The five-story facade of protruding bays with lattice stonework and 365 windows is said to have been built as a screen for the women of the royal court so they could watch unobserved the parades of soldiers and elephants below. It’s a steep climb to the top, where it’s only one room deep, but the view and being ensconced in cupolas mimicking Krishna’s crown are worth it."

 

While we only drove past the Palace of the Winds, not going inside and/or climbing up, it is an amazing sight and site.  Love this below visual view that was posted earlier.  
 

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 112,709 views.

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

 

Here is my five-star, super wonderful view of Jaipur's Palace of the Winds.  The structure was built in 1799 by the Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, grandson of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, the founder of the city.  Love the amazing colors and architecture style?:

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On the way back into Jaipur after visiting Amer, this large lake has a nice "pleasure palace" located in this scenic setting.:

 

After touring Jaipur's City Palace, we experienced several craft-related visits and tours.  This included my wife getting involved in the art of printing designs on fabric.  These three visual show part of the process with the cut wood designs and then the final results.:

 

 

 

Yes, they have carpet stores in India and Jaipur.  Lots of nice options, but at home we already have various nice, oriental-style carpets, including two purchased in Istanbul in 2006.  Plus, down-sizing is in our future and we did not need more "stuff".  But, good looking!!:

 

Here are a few more for the various crafts and skills of Jaipur.  This includes two from a location where stones are ground, polished, etc., into nice jewelry, etc.  The staffs were nice and friendly, even though we were not purchasing.  Just looking, enjoying and learning!!  The NY Times profile noted: "Jaipur is a global center for cutting and polishing precious and semiprecious gems.":

 

 

 

[TLCOhio]

From Conde Nast's March 2022 Travel+Leisure magazine, they had this headline:   "India's Iconic 'Pink City' Continuously Voted One of the Best in the World".  

 

They detailed: "Jaipur is a destination filled with beautiful palaces, a rich history, and luxury hotels.   Jaipur is continuously named one of the best cities in the world by Travel + Leisure readers. A city of sprawling palaces, it's also home to ornate architectural masterpieces and sweeping views of lush green hills and idyllic lakes. It is the first planned city in India and has earned UNESCO World Heritage status for setting an exceptional example of indigenous city planning. And its streets feel a little more manageable than the congested labyrinths of New Delhi and Mumbai, especially for first-time visitors to India."

 

Great and nice summary.  Below are more visual to prove why we loved Jaipur so very much.  Questions?  Reactions?

 

In doing my various posting on Cruise Critic, i noticed this morning that I just hit the level of 26,000 total posts. Appreciate those who have followed along, offered encouragement, comments and added their insights and experiences.  Keep it coming!!  Don't be shy with any and all questions. 

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Amazon River-Caribbean 2015 adventure live/blog starting in Barbados on the Silver Cloud for 26 days. Many visuals from this amazing river and Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, San Juan, etc.).  Now at 75,085 views:

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2076101-live-amazon-river-caribbean-many-pix’s-terryohio/

 

Here is a sampling of various sights, activities, buildings, etc., as we moved around colorful Jaipur.:

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As we went to dinner in Jaipur, here was a wedding event space next door to our dining location.  Colorful and interesting??  Second is a visual of a performer in the courtyard of our dining location.:

 

 

These two sunset visuals merit repeating.  First is the Albert Hall Museum with its sampling of the Rajasthan's royal past and heritage.  This museum was built during the late 19th century.  Across the street is a statue of a past Rajasthan ruler on a horse.  Love sunset visuals that work well with the dramatic lighting.:

 

[TLCOhio]

Here is the link to that March 2022 Travel+Leisure guide mentioned for Jaipur and its many options, historic background, etc.:  

https://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-guide/jaipur-india

 

Of importance, they also shared: "Jaipur is only 167 miles from New Delhi, but it is an entirely different world. Instead of a complicated labyrinth of roads, the city is built on a street grid that makes it easier to navigate than Delhi or Mumbai. Jaipur is a place to explore the palaces of pre-colonial India, dive deep into Indian history, and relax in world class hotels."

 

Also as what was shared earlier was more on the "pleasure palace".  It is Jal Mahal . . . "a majestic palace rising from the center of Man Sagar Lake. This palace seems to float on top of the glassy water, but a close look shows it's partially submerged. Just one of its five stories is now visible."  The building isn't accessible, but you can catch a glimpse of its former glory from shore side.

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Athens & Greece: Visuals, details from two visits in a city and nearby with great history, culture and architecture.  Now at 64,639 views.

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

[TLCOhio]

Appreciate those with patience and interest as the things at work, home and with family got busy and distracting in May.  It's now early June and I am seeking to finish with a couple of "loose ends" from our Jaipur experiences.  AND, then move for much more in-depth coverage from our three days in Mumbai. 

 

Many more fun visuals and details to share from India.  As always, any and all questions, requested sharing and comments are welcomed.  Don't be shy!!  The only "bad question' is for what is not asked.  

 

From MSN News and this news website two days ago, they had this headline: “Best places to visit in Jaipur in 2024” with these highlights: “Jaipur, known as the Pink City, is is famous for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or just want to go on a shopping spree, Jaipur has something to offer.”

 

A number of the locations we visited or saw are detailed, plus this timing tip/summary: "The best time to visit Jaipur is from October to March. During these months, the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. The temperature ranges from 15°C to 25°C, making it comfortable to explore the city's attractions."

 

Full story at:

https://www.msn.com/en-in/travel/news/best-places-to-visit-in-jaipur-in-2024/ar-BB1nJVdP?ocid=BingNewsSearch

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

AFRICA?!!?: Fun, interesting visuals, plus travel details from this early 2016 live/blog. At 56,903 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

 

At one of our evening dining locations in Jaipur, they had a theme highlighting and celebrating the sport of polo.  We forget that India is the birthplace of modern polo. Not the British!!  Surprised to learn?  The food was good and we enjoyed the mix of Indian and colonial atmosphere.:

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Here are some more visuals from staying in Jaipur at the Royal Heritage Haveli, a converted 18th-century Rajasthani hunting lodge. First is a view of their landscaped grounds.  Second is a night view from the roof-top, outdoor dining area.  Third is that dining area with lighted fires at night as we enjoyed dinner. Fourth is one of its old, historic wooden doors.:

 

 

 

 

For our suite at the Royal Heritage Haveli, the bathroom was not boring and/or small.  Does not look like a Marriott or Holiday Inn back in the USA.  Second is what the hotel staff put on my wrist when checking out as a memory from visiting and staying there at this historic location.  It's still on my wrist and brings back wonderful memories from our stimulating visit to Jaipur.:

 

 

On the way to the Jaipur airport for our flight to Mumbai, we observed this interesting and unusual display.  Lots of color and stimulation in India!!  Nothing too shy and boring.  Pictured second are the aircraft tails for Air India planes like what we used for our trip to Mumbai.  Like the aircraft colors and design?:

 

[TLCOhio]

Mumbai?  Here is some of my notes and background for this major "star" that defines much for its important to this country that is now the world's largest in population.  

 

Known as Bombay until 1995, Mumbai is the capital of Indian state Maharashtra and the financial center of India. As of 2024, Mumbai is second only to Delhi as the most populous metro city in India.  It is the ninth-most populous in the world with metro Mumbai being now nearly 22 million people.  Tokyo’s metro population is number one at 37 million, while Delhi’s metro size is the world’s number two at 34 million.  On this early 2024 adventure, we spent a decent amount of time in three of the world nine largest cities. 

 

Mumbai has a deep natural harbor and an ancient fishing history across its seven islands that were under the control of successive local rulers before being part of the Portuguese Empire.  Then in 1661, things evolve to East India Company control as the dowry of Catherine from Portugal when marrying Charles II of England.

 

The Portuguese were actively involved in the foundation and growth of their Roman Catholic religious orders in Bombay. The English were in constant struggle with the Portuguese given the strategic natural harbor and its safety from land attacks. By the middle of the 17th century the growing power of the Dutch Empire forced the English to acquire a station in western India.   The opening of the Suez Canal in 1869 transformed Bombay into one of the largest seaports on the Arabian Sea.  

 

Mumbai is now the financial, commercial and entertainment capital of India. Per Wikipedia, Mumbai is one of the world's top ten centers of global financial flow, generating 6.16% of India's GDP, 25% of its industrial output, 70% of its maritime trade and 70% of its capital transactions.  The city is also home to the famed Bollywood cinema production operations.

 

Until the 1970’s, Mumbai owed its prosperity largely to textile mills and the seaport, but the local economy has diversified to include finance, engineering, diamond-polishing, healthcare and information technology.  The Bombay Stock Exchange is the oldest stock exchange in Asia.  As of 2022, Mumbai is home to the eighth-highest number of billionaires of any city.
 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio   

 

Lisbon, NWSpain, Bordeaux/Brittany: Live/blog, June 2017 from Portugal to France along scenic Atlantic Coast on the Silver Spirit.  Now at 35,716 views.  Many pictures, details for history, food, culture, etc.:

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

 

After landing at the Mumbai airport, we headed to the main part of this large and sprawling metropolitan area.  But, first we need to cross over the Bandra-Worli Sea Link.  This signature structure required ten years for construction and is a 3.5 mile long, 8-lane wide, cable-stayed bridge that links Bandra in the Western Suburbs of Mumbai with Worli in South Mumbai. It is the longest sea bridge, as well as the 5th longest bridge in India. Opened in 2010, its peak height is 413 feet.  Is this an impressive welcoming to Mumbai?:

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Here is an initial sampling for some of the new and olde building we experienced as we drove to our Taj Mahal Palace Hotel.  Like this variety of various architectural styles and periods?:

 

 

 

 

 

Edited June 8 by TLCOhio

[TLCOhio]

Here are a few more samples of the various descriptions and comments about Mumbai that I pull together prior to our visit.  

 

Called a “spicy destination of colour and chaos”, Mumbai is a vibrant “collision of contrasts and culture” that is also known as the “City of Dreams”.  The city’s colonial heritage brings a wealth of diverse religious traditions together with Muslims, Zoroastrians, Christians and Hindus living side by side.

 

Per the Times of India about Mumbai:  “endorses living on the edge” and “has become the muse of authors across the world”, “the most cosmopolitan city in India.”  Also shared: “apart from the usual attractions, many just want to get a first-hand on experiencing life in the fast lane and to witness waves of humanity getting on with their life” and “Mumbai is like any world city with madness and the method in madness that ensures people find calm in chaos.”

 

From Fodors:  Mumbai is a city of extremes, where slum-dwelling strivers making dollars a day serve Bollywood stars and industrial billionaires. It's a 24-hour city and a beautiful city of silver towers when viewed by twilight from the Bandra-Worli Sea Link bridge.   Sensory overload is the name of the game. 

 

From London’s Times:  “Mumbai is the city, Bombay is the emotion”.  “This city wears its heart — an inimitable blend of soul, style and swagger — on its sleeve.”

 

More to come from the various Mumbai markets, buildings, history, etc.  

 

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 33,406 views.

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

 

Here are a few more visuals samples from our initial drive into Mumbai from the airport to the Taj Mahal Palace hotel.  Many different styles, history and designs.  Always interesting and full of character!!:

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From our room in the Taj Mahal Palace Tower hotel room, here was a view of the older portion of this historic site, plus some of the adjoining coastal areas.  Second is looking in another direction as the sun is getting ready to set during our first evening in Mumbai.:

 

 

[TLCOhio]

Across from our hotel was another Mumbai landmark.  It's the Gateway of India, completed in 1924.  This monument forms the symbolic entrance to British India.

 

Located on the waterfront at an angle, opposite the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, it overlooks the Arabian Sea.  The Gateway of India was built to commemorate the arrival of British King George V, on December 2, 1911.  He was the first British monarch to visit India. Construction, however, did not begin until 1915.  The monument commemorates the legacy of British colonial rule.  

 

The Gateway's arch has a height of 85 feet with its central dome being 49 feet in diameter.  The central dome is surrounded by four turrets.  NY Times summarized: “fine example of the Mughal-meets-Gothic style of architecture known as Indo-Saracenic.”   The Gateway is also the monument from where the last British troops left in 1948, following Indian independence a year earlier.

 

Below is a night visual of this monument, plus two other of my views/angles for this India/Mumbai landmark.  Nice to have it so close to where we were staying for three nights.  

 

 

 

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio 

 

From late 2018, see “Holy Lands, Egypt, Jordan, Oman, Dubai, Greece, etc.”, with many visuals, details and ideas for the historic and scenic Middle East. Now at 22,818 views.  Connect at:

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2607054-livenautica-greece-holy-lands-egypt-dubai-terrypix’s/

[TLCOhio]

Appreciate the nice and kind follow-ups from Tothesunset.  Keep it coming!!.  

 

Below samples more of the history, architecture and character of Mumbai.  This includes Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, formerly named for Queen Victoria.  It is a historic railway station and UNESCO World Heritage Site.  The terminus was designed by a British architectural engineer in an Italian Gothic style.  Construction began in 1878 and was completed in 1887, the year marking 50 years of Queen Victoria's rule.

 

Featured visually is much about one of our first highlights visited in Mumbai.  Crawford Market (officially Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Mandai) is one of South Mumbai's largest and most famous markets. The building was completed in 1869, and originally named after Arthur Crawford, the first Municipal Commissioner of the city.  The market was later renamed to honor an Indian social reformer. The market is situated opposite the Mumbai Police headquarters, just north of Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus railway station. In 1882, the building was the first in India to be lit up by electricity.  

 

This sprawling market has everything from a wide variety of fresh produce and spices to pets, clothes and jewelry.  The market was designed by a British architect to represent a blend Victorian Gothic architecture with indigenous elements. It has a 15-meter high skylight designed to allow the sunlight to brighten up the marketplace.  Part of the interior art/design was done by John Lockwood Kipling (the father of novelist Rudyard Kipling).   The Kiplings lived and grew up right nearby to this market complex.  

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Summer 2019 Calgary, Jasper/Banff National Parks, Western Canada Rocky Mountaineer rail adventure, Vancouver, sailing up to Alaska on Silver Muse, post-cruise excursion to Denali, etc.  Many visuals, Our firsts in these scenic areas!  Now at 21,728 views. Live/blog: 

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2682584-live-terryohio-silver-muse-alaska-canadarockies-pix’s/

 

This is the Brihanmumbai municipal corporation building, constructed 1894-1893.  Like the domes and style of this era?:

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Here is a portion of Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus.  Sorry this is not of better quality, but it was snapped as we quickly traveled past in our vehicle.  Did not get a chance to go there and spend more time exploring its unique exterior and interior with eighteen loading areas for local and long-distance trains.:

 

Here are a variety of visuals from exploring around the large and interesting Crawford Market in Mumbai.  Shown in two of the pictures are a couple on our ship from New Hampshire.:

 

 

 

 

Here is my wife, Penny, at a shop in Crawford Market where she purchased a number of different spices.  Fun, interesting and helpful to learn more about the wide range of spices produced in India!!:

[TLCOhio]

Another must-see option in Mumbai is Dhobi Ghat.  It is an open-air laundry  constructed in 1890.  The washers, known as dhobis, work in the open to clean clothes and linens from Mumbai's hotels and hospitals.   There are rows of open-air concrete wash pens, each fitted with its own flogging stone. claimed to be the world's largest outdoor laundry, Dhobi Ghat is a very popular attraction among foreign tourists.  It is located next to Mahalaxmi railway station on the Western Railway suburban line in southern Mumbai.

 

We traveled via the Church Gate Station to board a local train for the ride to Mahalakshmi Station in going to Dhobi Ghat.  The Church Gate railway station was built in 1870.  It is the southernmost terminus of Western Railway line of Mumbai suburban railway. It transports over four million people from their suburban homes to their work.

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio   

 

Early 2020, many visuals and details from New Zealand/South Pacific in going from Auckland to French Polynesia.  This includes Bora Bora, Fiji, NZ experiences, etc:  Live/blog:

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2735732-live-terryohio-“new”-regatta-south-pacificnz-pix’s/

 

Here are four visual samples from Dhobi Ghat, the famed open-air laundry in Mumbai along side one of the major rail lines.  Busy location that is unique.:

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Here are some visuals from boarding at the Church Gate Station and riding this train.  Fortunately, we were riding after the peak community times when this station would be more crowded.:

 

 

 

 

 

Across from the train station, we saw people bringing in lunch packages from suburban homes to feed those working in the more dense main business areas of South Mumbai.  Interesting local custom.:

[TLCOhio]

More variety and life in Mumbai?  Below the "hits" keep coming.  Much more to share for and from this vibrant city.  

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio   

 

Canada 2022/2023: Scenic visuals, details from Canada Maritimes (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Cape Breton Island).  Plus, new from Aug. 2023, exploring historic/charming Quebec City.    Visual/Info Summaries:

www.flickr.com/photos/196555480@N08/albums

 

Outside of the Crawford Market, here is how large items are transported going into and/or out of this busy sales/supply area.:

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Here is an added sampling for sights, buildings, selling, etc., in Mumbai.:

 

 

 

 

[TLCOhio]

Khotachiwadi is an urban village featuring of 18th-century Portuguese houses,  conforming to the old-Portuguese style architecture.  There used to be 65 of these houses, but that number has now been reduced to 28 old buildings as new skyscrapers go up in the historic area.  Most of the current residents there now descend from the original inhabitants of Mumbai.

 

From Architectural Digest magazine in July 2021, the summarized this historic area as: "Mumbai's most beautiful neighbourhood".   You can link their story at: 

https://www.architecturaldigest.in/story/the-history-and-stories-from-mumbais-most-beautiful-neighbourhood-khotachiwadi/

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio   

 

Love the Caribbean? Here are popular posts/links with over 20,000 views each with much information for . . . .

Barbados:  https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2179164-barbados-50th-birthday-our-pixs-experiences-feb2015/page/3/#comment-65530134Or, Dominica:  https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2169714-dominica-love-our-experience-pictures-etc/page/3/#comment-66637276

 

In this 18th-century Portuguese historic area, here is a sampling from our visiting there.  Third is a couple who are long-time residents in this Portuguese-connected area of mostly wooden houses and structures.:

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Inside this Portuguese house, we toured and learned more about this history and designs connected with this area of Mumbai.:

 

 

 

 

Outside of this Portuguese home, here is our guide answering questions from my wife during our tour.  Contrary to the current assumptions, the history and connections for India are more than just associated with the British colonial rule and development.  The Portuguese conquests and power were the first Europe connections to and control in parts of India.  The Dutch followed later in parts of India and then the British control dominated over these various areas.:

 

[TLCOhio]

Mumbai's largest wholesale flower market is Dadar Flower Market, a colorful cornucopia of multi-hued marigolds, red roses and pink and purple asters.  Boxes and boxes of different flowers. The scent-filled air is wonderfully.  

 

In this maze of 600 stalls, there are plenty of overflowing, round woven baskets and other containers that yield a feast for photographers like me being busy snapping the sights and capturing this amazing experience.  Like what is shown below?

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio   

 

Lisbon vs. Porto?  Many different Portugal tips, options, ideas, visuals, etc. with more than 30,000 views at:   https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2558841-lisbon-vs-porto-which-best/page/7/#comment-66782296

 

Here is a small sampling of the many, many interesting and exciting visuals to be experienced at this Mumbai flower market.:

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[TLCOhio]

Marine Drive is a three-kilometer promenade along this natural bay. At the northern end of Marine Drive is Girgaon Chowpatty and the adjacent road links Nariman Point at southern tip. Marine Drive is also known as the Queen's Necklace when viewed at night.  Most of the buildings erected by wealthy Parsis were constructed in an art deco style, popular in the 1920’s and 1930’s. Many hotels are along this drive, most prominent being the five-star Oberoi.

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio   

 

Abu Dhabi vs. Dubai?  Many different UAE tips, options, ideas, visuals, etc. with more than 21,600 views at:  https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2521493-abu-dhabi-vs-dubai-procon-factors/page/5/#comment-66634467

 

Along Marine Drive, here are three different views highlighting the buildings, beach, people, etc., that are observed along this scenic route.:

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As we moved from our Taj Mahal Palace Hotel to different Mumbai locations during these three days, below are a couple of visual samples.  Yes, there was traffic and various busy activities/sights to observe.  But, traffic was not as bad and congested as experienced in Delhi.  Why?  Part of the reason is that in the more developed and high-rise populated South Mumbai region, they do not allow the Tuk-Tuk vehicles to operated.  Below is our skilled bus driver navigating these busy streets.  Yes, in India, like in the UK, the drive on the left wide of the roadways.  Like how the bus is decorated with colorful balloons in the second picture?:

 

[TLCOhio]

Architecture in Mumbai??  Most of the designs blend Gothic, Victorian, Art Deco, Indo-Saracenic and Contemporary styles. Many buildings, structures and historical monuments remain from the colonial era. Per Wikipedia, Mumbai, after Miami, has the second largest number of Art Deco buildings in the world.

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio   

 

Enjoy the Caribbean? Here are two popular posts/links with thousands of views with much info for . . . . Grenada   

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2179927-grenada-pixs-fun-experiences-jan2015/page/2/#comment-66823149

Or, Aruba:  https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2178325-aruba-pixs-fun-experiences-feb2015/page/3/#comment-66677721

 

Here are just three of my visuals representing the dozens and dozens of high-rise late 20th and early 21st century structures rising up in Mumbai.  Many striking office, condo and apartment buildings.:

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Here is just one of the many Gothic/Victorian or neoclassical style buildings in Mumbai.:

 

This is another angle for one of the many art-deco buildings in Mumbai.:

 

 

Near our Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, this shopping location reflects what I would call a colonial-style design.:

[TLCOhio]

Mani Bhavan was Gandhi's Bombay base from 1917 to 1934. It is now a permanent museum and memorial to the Mahatma (October 1869 – January 30, 1948). The mansion belonged to Revashankar Jagjeevan Jhaveri, Gandhi's friend and host in Mumbai. It was from Mani Bhavan that Gandhi initiated the Non-Cooperation, Satyagraha, Swadeshi and Home Rule Movements, as well as his decision to abstain from drinking cow's milk in order to protest the cruel and inhuman practice of phookan meted out to milch cattle common during that period.  In November 2010, US President Barack Obama visited here.  

 

This multi-floor location has various photographs, letters and displays, plus a library that constitutes a museum to Gandhi’s historic life.  On the second floor and pictured below is the room that Gandhi used during his stays here featuring the mat where he would sleep.  

 

As mentioned earlier from reading the comprehensive book “Freedom at Midnight”, I learned much about Gandhi’s major role in India’s history, plus watching highly-rated movies such as “Gandhi” multiple times.  To be this close to “Real History” is amazing.  Also, when visiting South Africa and Durban in 2016, we connected more with his history there of legal work and pushing for freedom and justice.  We also forget that he studied and learned the English law from three years in London.  Quite a unique and significant connection with a person who shaped much in the world with his strategy of peaceful protest!!

 

You can visit this website: 
https://www.gandhi-manibhavan.org/
 to learn more.  
 

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 259,782 views.

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1362155-solstice-livefirst-timer-reportspix’s-italycroatian-june-7-19/

 

Here is the front/overall view of the home that became the Gandhi Museum, Mani Bhavan.:

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Here is the bust/relief of Mahatma Gandhi at this center/home/museum.:

 

Here is the second-floor room where he slept when visiting in what was then called Bombay.:

 

Here are two samples of his correspondence (including this letter written in 1939 to the then German leader) and one of his messages/sayings.  Notice the spinning wheel symbol at the bottom of the second item?:

 

 

Here are just a few of the many photographs and the 3-D displays reflecting Gandhi's long history.  This includes at the bottom for an early rail action against race-based rules in South Africa and at one of his many legal trials in India against the British rulers.:

 

 

 

[TLCOhio]

Temples?  Yes, we saw many in India and these other nations.  

 

First to shown below is Babulnath Temple.  It was built for the first time by a Hindu merchant of that time, going back around 800 years in history. A bigger and the current temple was built in 1890 with considerable height, but a lightning strike in the 1960’s damage to the spire to lower its height of the present temple.  Until the 1980’s, the Babulnath Temple was one of the tallest structure and locations in Mumbai.  Consider one of the most iconic Shiva temples in Mumbai, Babulnath has intricately carved interiors, plus pillars and a ceiling featuring elements from Hindu mythology.

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio   

 

Norway Coast/Fjords/Arctic Circle cruise from Copenhagen, July 2010, to the top of Europe. Scenic visuals with key tips. Live/blog at 252,516 views.

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1172051-livesilver-cloud-norway-coastfjords-july-1-16-reports/

 

At the Babulnath Temple, below are some exterior views .:

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Here are three of the interior views within this historic and highly-decorated temple.:

 

 

 

Outside of this temple, there was this group doing various chants and religious activities connected with this site.:

 

Outside of Babulnath Temple, here is a 23-second video giving a sample of the chants and showing more of the exterior structures.:

 

From a distance, this is the top part of the Shri Siddhivinayak Temple, dedicated to Lord Ganesh, the elephant-headed God.  This is a very rich and popular/crowded temple surrounded by dense urban development.:

[TLCOhio]

One of the newer and very impressive sites visited was the Sri Sri Radha Gopinath Hare Krishna Temple.   Hare Krishna is a branch of Hinduism and has more than 400 temples worldwide. Utilizing marble and sandstone, it involves intricate carvings, etc.  It was built in the 1970’s.  It is modeled after 17 temples of Vrindavan, which were built by wealthy landlords and kings from Rajasthan.

 

More information can be obtained at: 

https://iskconchowpatty.com/about-temple/

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio 

 

Sydney to NZ/Auckland Adventure, live/blog 2014 sampling/details with many exciting visuals and key highlights.  On page 23, post #571, see a complete index for all of the pictures, postings.  Now at 251,334 views.

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1896175-solstice-live-australianzhawaii-many-pix’s-jan-20-feb-3/

 

This exterior view was posted earlier, but merits repeating and recycling with the two religious persons walking in front.:

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Here is a view for some of the intricate exterior detail/design craftsmanship.:

 

From the large, second-floor hall, here are samples for what is there at both ends of this large room and with participants there.:

 

 

 

 

[TLCOhio]

Earlier I had posted about this historic hotel where we stayed for three nights in Mumbai.  From the London Telegraph, they summarized:  “Taj Mahal Palace is a historic landmark hotel and opulent oasis of calm in the amiable chaos of Mumbai. The original building is a seven-tiered wedding cake of gothic, Greco-Roman, Islamic and Rajasthan architecture topped by a glittering Florentine dome. The extravagant interiors are adorned with Italian marble floors, Belgian chandeliers and 4,000 works of art, most of them antique.”   This hotel has hosted Kings, celebrities and presidents, plus been the site for many films and documentaries.

 

There are six floors in the Taj Mahal Palace and twenty floors in the Taj Mahal Tower.  First opened in late 1903, it celebrated its 120th anniversary right before we arrived in mid February 2024.  

 

Below are some more visuals from in and around this interesting and unique hotel complex.  

 

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 114,664 views.

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

 

Here are two different views not previously posted of the main hotel dome and of the adjoining/connected, built in 1972 Tower Hotel wing.:

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In the lobby, as we were approaching Valentine's Day, these large floral displays require daily maintenance and freshen-ups.  It keeps the staffs busy!!:

 

In the older, historic area, this is a part of the stairs, open atrium.  Second is a statute in this area.  And, if you look carefully, you can see in the mirrored background, this photographer hard at work.  Maybe?:

 

 

For the older, historic part of the hotel, there is this outdoor patio area with the pool nearby.:

 

Near the front entrance, these two horses added some charm and character to the Taj Mahal Palace.:

 

Part of the style and class for this hotel was having added "touches" such as this musician performing live in the lobby.:

[TLCOhio]

Bonus Time?  Here below are a few extra "Eye Candy" samples for the super historic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel in Mumbai.  

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Here is another, better angle for this hotel's pool and patio area.  Yes, it would be nice to enjoy lunch or dinner out here.  But with the late schedule adjustments by Silversea and their required circumnavigation around the southern part of Africa, they could only "afford" per corporate "bean counters" to give us lunch and dinner inside a large, boring ballroom and with a average buffet set-up.  This outdoor Taj Mahal Palace venue seemed to be more fun and exciting!:

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The breakfasts at this hotel were better and more customized as the hotel chef here made things to order.:

 

In the newer lobby area that connected the historic hotel with the 1972 Tower addition, here are some visuals samples for its reception desk and some of the decor and design touches here at this top-rated hotel.  Nothing looking too shabby??:

 

 

 

 

In the older part of their hotel lobby, here was another of their floral creations for Valentine's Day celebrations.:

[TLCOhio]

Getting ready and close for wrapping up our Mumbai experiences over three days.  Below are some varied views and added visuals from a city that is BOTH large and not boring/bland.  Questions?  Comments?  Don't be shy!  Happy to share more.  

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Amazon River-Caribbean 2015 adventure live/blog starting in Barbados on the Silver Cloud for 26 days. Many visuals from this amazing river and Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, San Juan, etc.).  Now at 75,813 views:

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2076101-live-amazon-river-caribbean-many-pix’s-terryohio/

 

 

Near the popular and super busy Shri Siddhivinayak Temple, we observed outside both the highly-regarded cattle and ladies selling various floral and other offerings.:

 

 

 

On the grounds of the Babulnath Temple was this colorful display with an old tree behind it.:

 

 

Buses in India can be very full, plus there are many motorcycles amid the busy traffic scene.:

 

As we traveled in Mumbai, there were various outdoor art and monuments to observe and enjoy.:

 

[TLCOhio]

People??  Yes, there are millions here in Mumbai and as the below visuals verify, there is a wide variety of types, style and interests here in this economic and business center for India.  

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Athens & Greece: Visuals, details from two visits in a city and nearby with great history, culture and architecture.  Now at 65,931 views.

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

 

On the grounds of the crowded Shri Siddhivinayak Temple, there were not just lots of people, plus many different shops selling a wide variety of goods. These three visuals give a sampling for the various people and this busy place in Mumbai.:

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Here is another interesting intersection in Mumbai with its architectural designs and details.:

 

Within the historic hallways of the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, they are had a couple of areas with pictures of various famous people who have visited and stayed at this hotel.  Some of these visuals included former President Obama, HRH Prince William and Princess Kate, TV star Oprah Winfrey, Hillary Clinton, actress Sharon Stone, Vogue Editor Anna Wintour, Apple CEO Tim Cook, etc.  Plus, at the bottom of this glass case, they had a sign-in book autographed by famous visitors here.  But, I did not notice space for our pictures to be included.  Should I call and ask?  Or, send them one of our pictures for inclusion within these showcases?:

 

In the reception lobby of the older, historic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, this visual shows two of the staff members with the highly-decorated ceiling and light fixture above.  Classy setting?:

 

[highplanesdrifters]

On 6/11/2024 at 10:29 AM, TLCOhio said:

But, I did not notice space for our pictures to be included.  

 

I'm sure it's just an oversight.  I'd not embarrass them by calling. Just send the pictures.😁

[TLCOhio]

Remember the famed Frank Sinatra song from 1958 with these fun words: "There's a bar in far Bombay. Come on and fly with me, let's fly, let's fly away."  YES!!  When walking our dog yesterday, that song was on my favorites play-list and it is wonderful to make note for its "Come Fly with Me" involving this famed city in India.  

 

From Travel+Leisure magazine in late January, they had this headline: “15 Best Places to Visit in India” with these highlights: “Historic, glitzy, and positively gargantuan, Mumbai is easily one of India’s most cosmopolitan destinations. This city by the sea is the nation's financial and entertainment capital, and while you’re unlikely to rub shoulders with Bollywood stars here, you're sure to see a lot of impressive attractions in very little time. Marvel at the grand Indo-Saracenic architecture at Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, or see thousands of clothes hanging out to dry at Dhobi Ghat, the world's largest open-air laundry.”

 

For Jaipur, this T+L profile noted: "The capital of Rajasthan and one-third of North India’s popular Golden Triangle tourist route, Jaipur is a must-visit for those who llove architecture and shopping. The Pink City offers a rich cultural heritage, stunning andmarks like Amber Fort, vibrant bazaars, and intricate handicrafts. Many of Jaipur's key attractions are found in the historic walled part of the city, which became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019."

 

For Agra, T+L summarized: "Many travelers to India put the 17th-century Taj Mahal at the top of their list. This white marble mausoleum is easily India’s most recognizable structure — and it’s one of the New Seven Wonders of the World."

 

Full story at:

https://www.travelandleisure.com/best-places-to-visit-in-india-8550824

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

AFRICA?!!?: Fun, interesting visuals, plus travel details from this early 2016 live/blog. At 56,903 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

 

As we did our sail-away from Mumbai on the Silver Moon, here is the view for a portion of this large city, including the Taj Mahal Palace and Tower.  This air quality was not ideal this day, causing the overcast look from this sailing position.:

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In the central part of the Silver Moon, here is one of my visuals for the sweeping design and look of this stairway area. .:

 

While on the Silver Moon, here was the graphic on the suite TV screen for our routing.: