Well here it is on Friday, we went to Montserrat today. All I can say WOW! What an amazing spectacular, spiritual place. I was certainly moved. We spent all day there. Our day started at 8:45 on the Metro. We got on the Montserrat train and took the aerial cable car up. We rented audiofones but really it was unneccessary.
We did take the funicular (small railway car up and down the slope to visit the Black Madonna's origins. The name is a misnomer as the reason she is called that is because people believed that over the years of burning candles, that the fumes turned her black. Not true, according to a small museum, testing validated that it wasn't smoke that turned her from her original white but lead poisening from the lead paint on her. Sometime over the 13th century she started turning brown. So they eventually painted her brown. Then as the centuries continued, she was turning darker so the decision was made to paint her black. Which she now is. Still, the cathedral is amazing. We stood in line for about 50 minutes and we finally climbed and all three of us, Ken, Christie and myself touched the orb and I said a quick prayer for my friend who passed away.
Later, we walked a bit up the mountain. Saw some AMAZING panoramic views and did some slight hikes. I even got to post some postcards!
The trip was great. I will post some more later. We had a small problem trying to get our friend, Pam to Barcelona thanks to Mother Nature. That's another story in itself.
Anyway, as of now, she is set to come in on Sunday, 1 day late but at least she's going to be here. Hooray. Talk to you all later.
Friday, August 17, 2007
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Thursday, August 16, 2007
OK all, I know that I posted that I cried when I was standing in the middle of the Sisten Chapel, while I didn't have my wide angel, I was able to get this shot. The picture is very deceiving and DOES NOT DO THE Chapel justice. It was very dark and gloomy and I needed to stay very still in order to catch it. I was able to get about 50% of my pictures clear and sharp so I will be posting more later. This is just the front part of the chapel in front of the alter with a 3 wall view. AGAIN, keep in mind that the picture does not do it justice. HOWEVER, that being said - its jaw-droppingling gorgeous.
Adios!
P.S. - its nice to be able to say that again.
P.S. - it is now raining in Barcelona after having a wonderful day yesterday. So any guesses on who the weather follows:
Hey all - here it is on Thursday morning, got a wake-up call from the family. They landed at LAX on time - 7:30 pm PST time. That was fine, but after the fiasco with the umbrella and no it didn't make it. But after they got down to baggage, turns out that bags didn't make it. They all had waited more than 2 hrs and lo and behold, turns out that the WHOLE plane's luggage did not make it. So add that icing to the cake.
Go figure - I knew it was too good to be true. We had no problems on the way up on British Airways but coming back, guess our bags didn't want to come home.
So after I spoke with the family, our son Andrew told our prima diva of a dog that we were coming home, he said that she waited at the door for the next 2 hrs. He called just as the plane was taxi-ing in. So Isis sat at the door for the next 2 hrs. She just about ignored everyone else but licked Steve to death. I hope that I get that reception when I get home in September.
So, after that I contemplated taking a shower but ended up falling back asleep. Woke up at 10:15 and took a shower. Our bathroom has a towel warmer which is great!!! A glass sink and a washer and dryer all in one unit. Now if we can just figure out how to use it! LOL I will later, my suitcase demands it! PHEW! Steve stuck some of my dirty clothes in at the last minute and when I opened it up - voila - smoked salmon! ROTFL.
Oh yeah - forgot to mention, on Air France, the baggage limit was 20 kilos instead of 40 which means that my 33 but the guy at the counter put 31 kg (he had a nice smile) which they only charged me - 96 Euros! That's ok - the flight to Barcelona was full but the seats were really nice. No meal as on the way to Paris from Barcelona but some nice pretzels and salty chips with a cute small can of coke.
Later on after arriving, Ken, Christie and myself walked down to El Cortes Ingles, got some groceries and I showed them where the Hard Rock Cafe was. We ate there, it was my 1st time eating there and so I picked up the obligatory t-shirt and 1 magnet bottle opener.
I quickly told Christie about the awesome farmer's market and we decided that we would attempt that before we join the ship.
Right now, I am sitting in my room, hair wet and the day seems to be gloomy with a bit of wet. UMM.....looks like Steve wasn't the weather dropper - it may have been me. Now, if Norwalk, CA gets gloomy and rainy after having a heat wave, as most of the US seems to be doing, we all know that it was both of us! However, as Megan said, I would rather have had it cold than hot.
So, we are contemplating what we are doing today and I will go and make myself some yummy PB&J! Hey - its protein! (But whatever I do - I DO need to get a suitcase for my souvenirs!!!)
Check in later!
Adios!
Go figure - I knew it was too good to be true. We had no problems on the way up on British Airways but coming back, guess our bags didn't want to come home.
So after I spoke with the family, our son Andrew told our prima diva of a dog that we were coming home, he said that she waited at the door for the next 2 hrs. He called just as the plane was taxi-ing in. So Isis sat at the door for the next 2 hrs. She just about ignored everyone else but licked Steve to death. I hope that I get that reception when I get home in September.
So, after that I contemplated taking a shower but ended up falling back asleep. Woke up at 10:15 and took a shower. Our bathroom has a towel warmer which is great!!! A glass sink and a washer and dryer all in one unit. Now if we can just figure out how to use it! LOL I will later, my suitcase demands it! PHEW! Steve stuck some of my dirty clothes in at the last minute and when I opened it up - voila - smoked salmon! ROTFL.
Oh yeah - forgot to mention, on Air France, the baggage limit was 20 kilos instead of 40 which means that my 33 but the guy at the counter put 31 kg (he had a nice smile) which they only charged me - 96 Euros! That's ok - the flight to Barcelona was full but the seats were really nice. No meal as on the way to Paris from Barcelona but some nice pretzels and salty chips with a cute small can of coke.
Later on after arriving, Ken, Christie and myself walked down to El Cortes Ingles, got some groceries and I showed them where the Hard Rock Cafe was. We ate there, it was my 1st time eating there and so I picked up the obligatory t-shirt and 1 magnet bottle opener.
I quickly told Christie about the awesome farmer's market and we decided that we would attempt that before we join the ship.
Right now, I am sitting in my room, hair wet and the day seems to be gloomy with a bit of wet. UMM.....looks like Steve wasn't the weather dropper - it may have been me. Now, if Norwalk, CA gets gloomy and rainy after having a heat wave, as most of the US seems to be doing, we all know that it was both of us! However, as Megan said, I would rather have had it cold than hot.
So, we are contemplating what we are doing today and I will go and make myself some yummy PB&J! Hey - its protein! (But whatever I do - I DO need to get a suitcase for my souvenirs!!!)
Check in later!
Adios!
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Hi All I'm sitting in our little apartment in Barcelona. I met up with my pals Ken and Chrisite. We are sitting in our living room/dining room and in the cool room. This apartment is fantastic!
I sent the family off and they should be arriving in LAX at about 7:30 pm. I made it on Air France. I left about 10 minutes later than scheduled and arrived in Barcelona at 4:15. I was met by another ELLIOTT sign. It was great. We took the RER to our hotel which has a fantastic view of the Arc de Triumphe of Spain.
I have a lot of blogs to catch up on but wanted to post quickly. For the next couple of days I will attempt to post pictures to my online account and see if I can post them here.
However, I do have some thoughts on DL Paris, Sequoia Lodge, while modeled after Wilderness Lodge and looks somewhat like a cheaper version of Grand California. WHile I only paid 35 pts pr night, I would much rather have paid more to stay elsewhere. The maid service SUCKED!!! They never gave us a spare roll I had to call the front lobby to get one. They would barge in every morning at 7:30 trying to clean up and the girls were still in bed.
One day, they tried to come in and Steve told them not to come in and they came in anyway. The next day, I was in the room when they came in. I told them that I would leave in 5 minutes and they came in anyway and were out in less than 10 minutes. It was weird. I didn't enjoy them and was finally pissed off enough to call the lobby and tell them about them. I was told that I should probably call and inform DVC which I think I will soon. I just don't know if DVC is aware of this action. I am just used to having Disney attitude but instead I got attitude.
Lots more to tell but its getting later here. Remind you all to tell you the story of the Marie Antoniette umbrella which created a big fight between Steve and I and so Megan ended up buying me this gorgeous umbrella which later ended up being lost. Long story, but Steve was hopping mad when they ended up taking the umbrella away in London. I have not hearn him get that mad at anyone in ages.
Ok - better go - its getting late.
I sent the family off and they should be arriving in LAX at about 7:30 pm. I made it on Air France. I left about 10 minutes later than scheduled and arrived in Barcelona at 4:15. I was met by another ELLIOTT sign. It was great. We took the RER to our hotel which has a fantastic view of the Arc de Triumphe of Spain.
I have a lot of blogs to catch up on but wanted to post quickly. For the next couple of days I will attempt to post pictures to my online account and see if I can post them here.
However, I do have some thoughts on DL Paris, Sequoia Lodge, while modeled after Wilderness Lodge and looks somewhat like a cheaper version of Grand California. WHile I only paid 35 pts pr night, I would much rather have paid more to stay elsewhere. The maid service SUCKED!!! They never gave us a spare roll I had to call the front lobby to get one. They would barge in every morning at 7:30 trying to clean up and the girls were still in bed.
One day, they tried to come in and Steve told them not to come in and they came in anyway. The next day, I was in the room when they came in. I told them that I would leave in 5 minutes and they came in anyway and were out in less than 10 minutes. It was weird. I didn't enjoy them and was finally pissed off enough to call the lobby and tell them about them. I was told that I should probably call and inform DVC which I think I will soon. I just don't know if DVC is aware of this action. I am just used to having Disney attitude but instead I got attitude.
Lots more to tell but its getting later here. Remind you all to tell you the story of the Marie Antoniette umbrella which created a big fight between Steve and I and so Megan ended up buying me this gorgeous umbrella which later ended up being lost. Long story, but Steve was hopping mad when they ended up taking the umbrella away in London. I have not hearn him get that mad at anyone in ages.
Ok - better go - its getting late.
Sunday, August 12, 2007
Sunday, August 12, 2007
OK here it is Steve is taking the suitcases down to the lobby across the street and while he's doing that I'm ordering April's high school books and doing this. SSSHHHHH!!! No one tell him ok - else he might get mad.
Just wanted to drop in to say hi - we are on our way to the Eiffel Tower to see if we can climb it. We have scheduled a pick-up at our hotel at 3 pm to take us to DL Paris. Check-out was at 11:30 but they said they would watch our bags. So far - this hotel has been SOOOO helpful in everything. I would not hesitate to stay here again!!! HINT, HINT, HINT. Even our tour guide said it was centrally located. Can't beat that huh? We cannot check in at DL Paris until 3 pm so we decided to make the best of it. Don't know if DL has internet access so just wanted to drop in and say hi - haven't forgotten you all. Our time is counting down - wanted to wish Ken and Chrisite Congrats and best wishes for a smooth and uneventful flight to Barcelona.
Now that I have been here - 4 days was JUST NOT ENOUGH even with a personal guide which I HIGHLY recommend. We not only got lots of info but we were able to circumvent many lines with her tour guide pass. OH LAA LAA!
Gotta go - Steve's glaring at me. Talk to you later! Au Revoir!
Just wanted to drop in to say hi - we are on our way to the Eiffel Tower to see if we can climb it. We have scheduled a pick-up at our hotel at 3 pm to take us to DL Paris. Check-out was at 11:30 but they said they would watch our bags. So far - this hotel has been SOOOO helpful in everything. I would not hesitate to stay here again!!! HINT, HINT, HINT. Even our tour guide said it was centrally located. Can't beat that huh? We cannot check in at DL Paris until 3 pm so we decided to make the best of it. Don't know if DL has internet access so just wanted to drop in and say hi - haven't forgotten you all. Our time is counting down - wanted to wish Ken and Chrisite Congrats and best wishes for a smooth and uneventful flight to Barcelona.
Now that I have been here - 4 days was JUST NOT ENOUGH even with a personal guide which I HIGHLY recommend. We not only got lots of info but we were able to circumvent many lines with her tour guide pass. OH LAA LAA!
Gotta go - Steve's glaring at me. Talk to you later! Au Revoir!
Saturday, August 11, 2007
Saturday, August 11, 2007
OH LA LA! That is all that I can say about today. This is just a quick note to let you all know that today was almost as unbelievable as Rome! Another tidbit, I know it may be expensive but I would HIGHLY recommend that when in Paris, you hire a local quide. We did and let me tell you, I got sooooo much more. Not only did she help us in getting around the city, I learned the history and was able to ask questions that I would not have been from a book.
Today, we did an all day tour of Versailles and let me tell you, now I can understand why the woman was beheaded! Amazing! Unbelievable! Jaw-dropping luxury that stunns you to silence. AND I took over 650 pictures. I think about 100 or so are blurred because many of the places did not allow flash and so I took extra to be on the safe side.
I saw dancing fountains, grottos, rich tapestries, amazing mirrors and the most wonderful pre-existing Disneyland before Disneyland was even invented. Lots of details but everyone here is glaring at me. We just got back from Versailles and I was so sticky that I took a shower which delayed us all from eating.
Notre Dame was amazing more details on that later.
Oh yeah, the weather here in Paris is SOOOOO WEIRD! We had to buy scarves to cover us since it was grey, misty and beyond gloomy the entire stay from Wednesday to Sunday. I hope when we get to Disneyland Paris it lightens up.
Talk to you all later.
Today, we did an all day tour of Versailles and let me tell you, now I can understand why the woman was beheaded! Amazing! Unbelievable! Jaw-dropping luxury that stunns you to silence. AND I took over 650 pictures. I think about 100 or so are blurred because many of the places did not allow flash and so I took extra to be on the safe side.
I saw dancing fountains, grottos, rich tapestries, amazing mirrors and the most wonderful pre-existing Disneyland before Disneyland was even invented. Lots of details but everyone here is glaring at me. We just got back from Versailles and I was so sticky that I took a shower which delayed us all from eating.
Notre Dame was amazing more details on that later.
Oh yeah, the weather here in Paris is SOOOOO WEIRD! We had to buy scarves to cover us since it was grey, misty and beyond gloomy the entire stay from Wednesday to Sunday. I hope when we get to Disneyland Paris it lightens up.
Talk to you all later.
Wednesday, August 8, 2007
Thursday, August 9, 2007
Ok all, sitting here at about 8:15 Paris time. We are supposed to start our walking tour today. I forgot to mention a few things yesterday. When we were picked up at the airport, our driver spoke almost no English which was a minus for us. Then our 1 bag never showed up which didn't surprise me when I saw how the personnel on the tarmac operated. They were loading up luggage and dropped one. When they were loading up luggage the guy would pick up the suitcases hold it over a conveyer belt and then drop it from about 1 ft off the belt. No wonder things always get broken.
Ok so we land at 4:20, get to the baggage claim and about 15 minutes later, realize that all but one of our bags is missing. Come an hour later, we are late, the driver has called his office apparently he was scheduled to pick up someone and he's late. So his dispatcher told us to "hurry up please as our driver had spent already too much time with us. It should not have taken this long for a pick-uu!" Well Duh!
Anyway, we finally leave the airport an 1 1/2 later. The guy waited. I had prepaid the amount thank god because I wouldn't have paid him if I had. Anyway, he does a madman rush to our hotel, drops us off after being a maniac and drives off. Good riddance to a bad seed I say and I must also say, not a huge amount of guilt for not tipping which is unusual for me.
So we're dropped off in front of our hotel which looks like its being renovated and off a side street. We are meet by the late shift receptionist name Kathering which is a welcome sight to sour ears. Her English is accented but almost perfect. Thank God. She helps to translate for the driver before he heads off.
Then she takes us across the street, shows us how the doorway is key inserted. Then asks us which of us are planning on being in the smaller room to which I reply - the girls. She then proceeds to take them and the luggage up these room for only one person at a time staircase while she tells me to proceed via the miniscule elevator up to floor 6 which is the last floor! Imagine folks, we got the penthouse suite.
Anyway, Katherine shows up a few minutes later with our luggage one at a time. She shows us how to use the wall AC and then she leaves to bring up more luggage. Get this folks, a tall, lanky beautiful not-French girl using a miniscule elevator to bring up our luggage. And when I say miniscule I am not kidding. Imagine an elevator where when you stand sideways, your shoulders brush the back wall and the other side. You have to stand in sideways. LOL
That's ok, the hospitality shown to us from the personnel of this hotel was worth it. It is running us about $3000 for 4 nights for 2 rooms but the welcoming we got was great! Well worth it after coming off a DCL cruise.
Oh yeah - get this, later, we walked to the grocery store, picked up some staples and then called the front desk asking for directions to a McDonalds. Well, they had had shift change, Katerhine was gone but the wonderful man at the desk, not only asked us to wait a second and he would point out how to get there but 2 minutes later, he tells another client to hold on just a minute. He then proceeds to walk us about 2 minutes away and then told us where to go. This is certainly not the typical Frenchman attitude. I love them. A welcome sign for sore eyes I tell you.
Ooopps, forgot to tell you, upon checking in, our tour guide, Vivanne, had called and left a message saying that she would see us at 9 am in the lobby across the street. The reception is in the front building. Oh I would say 20 ft away from our front lobby. So extremely close.
So afte a rocky start, and folks, the luggage cannot be blamed on my rotten luck, BTW, Steve bought me a wonderful flash - the Canon 430 EX in Florence, good thing too as they flash went kaput the next day! But at least the personnel here are amazing. I just hope they continue to be - we shall see - getting close to 9 so I must logg off. Onward and Upward, we are doing a grand tourof Paris today so as the French way - Au Revoir!
Ok so we land at 4:20, get to the baggage claim and about 15 minutes later, realize that all but one of our bags is missing. Come an hour later, we are late, the driver has called his office apparently he was scheduled to pick up someone and he's late. So his dispatcher told us to "hurry up please as our driver had spent already too much time with us. It should not have taken this long for a pick-uu!" Well Duh!
Anyway, we finally leave the airport an 1 1/2 later. The guy waited. I had prepaid the amount thank god because I wouldn't have paid him if I had. Anyway, he does a madman rush to our hotel, drops us off after being a maniac and drives off. Good riddance to a bad seed I say and I must also say, not a huge amount of guilt for not tipping which is unusual for me.
So we're dropped off in front of our hotel which looks like its being renovated and off a side street. We are meet by the late shift receptionist name Kathering which is a welcome sight to sour ears. Her English is accented but almost perfect. Thank God. She helps to translate for the driver before he heads off.
Then she takes us across the street, shows us how the doorway is key inserted. Then asks us which of us are planning on being in the smaller room to which I reply - the girls. She then proceeds to take them and the luggage up these room for only one person at a time staircase while she tells me to proceed via the miniscule elevator up to floor 6 which is the last floor! Imagine folks, we got the penthouse suite.
Anyway, Katherine shows up a few minutes later with our luggage one at a time. She shows us how to use the wall AC and then she leaves to bring up more luggage. Get this folks, a tall, lanky beautiful not-French girl using a miniscule elevator to bring up our luggage. And when I say miniscule I am not kidding. Imagine an elevator where when you stand sideways, your shoulders brush the back wall and the other side. You have to stand in sideways. LOL
That's ok, the hospitality shown to us from the personnel of this hotel was worth it. It is running us about $3000 for 4 nights for 2 rooms but the welcoming we got was great! Well worth it after coming off a DCL cruise.
Oh yeah - get this, later, we walked to the grocery store, picked up some staples and then called the front desk asking for directions to a McDonalds. Well, they had had shift change, Katerhine was gone but the wonderful man at the desk, not only asked us to wait a second and he would point out how to get there but 2 minutes later, he tells another client to hold on just a minute. He then proceeds to walk us about 2 minutes away and then told us where to go. This is certainly not the typical Frenchman attitude. I love them. A welcome sign for sore eyes I tell you.
Ooopps, forgot to tell you, upon checking in, our tour guide, Vivanne, had called and left a message saying that she would see us at 9 am in the lobby across the street. The reception is in the front building. Oh I would say 20 ft away from our front lobby. So extremely close.
So afte a rocky start, and folks, the luggage cannot be blamed on my rotten luck, BTW, Steve bought me a wonderful flash - the Canon 430 EX in Florence, good thing too as they flash went kaput the next day! But at least the personnel here are amazing. I just hope they continue to be - we shall see - getting close to 9 so I must logg off. Onward and Upward, we are doing a grand tourof Paris today so as the French way - Au Revoir!
Marseille, Avignon Palace of the Popes
Saturday, August 4, 2007
Today was Marseille. Steve, April and myself did our 2nd DCL excursion. We went to Avignon AKA The Palace of the Popes and Las Baux. For those that don’t know. Avignon was for many years the “vacation home” or home of the 2nd papacy. Turns out for some time, we had some turmoil (understatement of the century) and the papacy was torn apart by an era known as the The Great Schism. I learned about this in world history when I returned to college a few years ago. Turns out that one pope, was it ClementV or Benoit something or other retreated here from the Vatican City when an attempt was made on his life. He started a whole line of popes that resided here. As I am doing this from memory from a few days ago, please forgive me if I’m wrong. Anyway, the title of Palace of the Popes is a bit deceiving for nowadays it would be known more as a fortress. What is amazing is that gorgeous cathedral that adorns the side of the palace. We were taken on about a 1 hr tour, left on our own for about 45 minutes and then were taken to lunch at a restaurant that wasn’t really a restaurant. LOL – read on for explanation.
We were not allowed to photograph inside the “palace” although it is stripped down bare due to the fact that during the WWI the fortress was abandoned to the state. Seems that the church had lost its right to it and turned it over many, many years before. So it was used to house soldiers who then would chip off some of could only have been magnificient paintings and artifacts left over. Our guide told us that the large “visiting” facility was all painted in mostly blue and gold filigree adornments but when the soldiers occupied it, they would sell it to local people for the equivalent of $1 Euro/dollar. It saddens me to think that so little disregard to paid to what is a large portion of world history but as the saying goes – who’s to know?
OK let me state for now, that this day turned out a bit frustrating. You all know that we are on a Disney cruise right? Well you would think that people would dress accordingly after all, there are 100’s of kids running around. Turns out as we were walking to the bus from the Magic some little Spanish lady and her kid cut into the line (Strike 1 for me) seems she forgot something in the room. She returned and instead of getting in place she cut in front of me. Then as soon as we disembarked she proceeded to light up the most OBNOXIOUS cigarette and blow the smoke behind me. I know that Europe is FULL of smokers but come on lady, to top it all off, and I’m going to get a bit crass here so I apologize but this is my feelings. She is dressed in SHORT shorts with ½ her ass cheek hanging out and a strapless tube top with a hole cut in front which showed a view of her fake boobs. She was skinny enough to carry it off but she turned out to be a burr in my side the whole trip. And before you all think that I am hating instead of appreciating, this lady, and I use the term loosely, was the most annoying, arrogant WITCH I have come across on this trip. If you think that was bad enough, this lady eventually was continually jumping in front of the whole line to be behind the guide, many times she pushed her daughter in front of us, and as you all know, I don’t advertise my broken Spanish, but I would be taking pictures and they would come up behind me and bump me, one time it was her daughter, one time it was her and the other time they literally walked behind me to wait their turn and let me know I was taking up too much space. Well, then, when we were filing into what amounted to Benedict V or other bedchamber, I was walking across a small footbridge when she told her daughter to cut in front of me (n Spanish). April was behind me and so she inserted herself and her daughter between me and mine. Then from behind me I hear Steve say - go ahead - your daughters up ahead. Boy was I steaming. And yes, I ripped into Steve as soon as I could. If that wasn't bad enough, later, as we were supposed to meet for lunch, she came up behind me again and tapped her foot while I was framing a picture.
SO then, we continue on our tour, walk out and are let out for 45 minutes for free time. Upon that ending we walked over to the restaurant which really was a holding area for soldiers but is sometimes used for big lunches for tourists, amazaing view from the balcony. It overlooked the Arno River in France. Anyway, during our LONG lunch, I get a text message from Megan asking me to pick up a fan for her as she couldn't find one and that is her souvenir from every port. So I ducked out on our long lunch which is now going on over 1 hr and dessert yet to be served. I left, ran around to a shop and picked up some fans, postcards and yummy smelling soaps. Upon returning to the restaurant, this same lady is leaving with her daughter. I thought to myself, we are getting ready to leave and I bet you she'll make us late. Sure enough, about 10 minutes later, we get up to leave, get back to the bus and the lady's husband, boyfriend tells the guide, she isn't there. We proceed to wait for about 10-15 minutes and I tell you I thought the bus driver was going to throttle her. Anyway, she nonchalently climbs abroad and tells her outher half when he proceeds to chastise her - don't talk to me if your going to yell.
Ok so we're now about 20 minutes late to our last stop, Les Bouex which is very similiar to Garden of the Gods in CO but in white. Or the ancient Indian cliff houses with a medieval twist. We get off the bus, walk to the front of the gate and the guide tells us, ok - we're running behind so we only get 1 hr instead of our allotted 1 1/2 hr (thanks a lot lady) and just before we are let go I see her walk over to Steve and apologize. I am watching this from a few feet away and I hear Steve say - that's OK so of course I walk over and say very loudly as I see that her husband is looking over at us, I ask Steve VERY LOUDLY - what happened? He tells me nothing, I insisted and he says, she spilled some chocolate on my shirt. WHAT???? Then of course, I ROLL my eyes very dramatically. Her spouse catches me and walked over Steve and apologizes. I harumphed and walked away. Later, I bump into her as I'm taking a picture of some type of harp player playing for us.
So, anyway, I buy some souvenirs, our time is up and we all head back to the ship. Guess who's missing again? But that's alright folks, she's only gone for 10 minutes this time.
Anyway, I enjoyed razzing this lady and turns out I am not the only one that noticed the clothing and diva attitude. I "happened" to make a sarcastic remark about how I wish people would realize that this was a Disney cruise and to not have their ass hanging out of their clothing, when a fellow cruiser joined in and confirmed my thinking. Then when everyone was waiting to leave, someone said, oh great - guess who's late again. I sorta felt bad for the hubby as this lady was socially ostracized and her clothing had a lot to do with it. I think we all realized that this wasn't just right. Anyway, even with her antics, I can safely say that Avignon, for its history is worth going. I enjoyed it immensely.
After we headed to the ship, got there about 8:15 and dinner that night was at 9 pm. Went to bed and got ready for the next day - La Spezia. So on now to my next adventure to be continued tomorrow night.
I came off the ship with a slight nose cold. I cannot go to bed as when we arrived in Paris the Barcelona airport lost one of our bags which just happened to have all me medication for colds. So guess who has to suffer some cold symptons.
On the plus side, the hotel we are staying at - the Hotel Des Residence is great. a 3 minute walk to Notre Dame. Today, we start private walking tours so I will be doing double typing until I catch up. So for now, and to hopefully get some relief from this cold, I will be signing off. I'm now having trouble with photobucket site so I guess no more pictures for now. later all.
YES! Now posting pictures!!!!
OK here is my first attempt at publishing photos - this is inside in what was originally the Basillica but not a church - more of a court system. The ruins were awesome! More to come - gotta feed the brain now.
OK we made it to Paris! Shuttle ride from Hell - ok not that bad but let me tell you that for being the same company - there was a hell of a difference in drivers - loved our Barcelona driver but the French one left something to be desired. For me not to tip must mean that they were bad. They weren't but let me tell you that the French so far have left something to the imagination. So, for now, we are off - we checked into the Hotel Residence des Arts which is really a nice upper class hotel.
Steve, April and myself are on floor #6 - the penthouse suite/apt. And the girls are on floor 1, room 12. there are only 2 rooms per floor with floor 6 being the biggest one. We are about to embark on finding some dinner which I hope we can find something.
Tomorrow starts our first Paris tour with Vivianne, thank God one person completes their word. She left a message saying she will see us at 9 am on our first full day in Paris! Wee Wee Madamselle. Off in search of what else?
McDonalds! Will sign on later to tell you some updates. Also, to figure out how to upload to photobucket so I can post photos!!!!!!!!
Steve, April and myself are on floor #6 - the penthouse suite/apt. And the girls are on floor 1, room 12. there are only 2 rooms per floor with floor 6 being the biggest one. We are about to embark on finding some dinner which I hope we can find something.
Tomorrow starts our first Paris tour with Vivianne, thank God one person completes their word. She left a message saying she will see us at 9 am on our first full day in Paris! Wee Wee Madamselle. Off in search of what else?
McDonalds! Will sign on later to tell you some updates. Also, to figure out how to upload to photobucket so I can post photos!!!!!!!!
Sea Day
OK Not sure when I left off but I know that I’m way behind. Last time I left off we had just visited Rome. Totally speechless. We’re having a debate on when sea day was. I think we had a sea day after Rome. August 3rd was either a sea day whereas we spent it quiet except for Palos. This was a bust for us actually. Turns out and this may come as a shock to those out there, although we have sailed many times withDCL, this was Steve’s and my 3rd time there and the girls 1st. We had a reservation for 8:30. Girls turned up 15 minutes late, which was because they were left sitting in the area because they weren’t aware that we had been seated. When they finally asked, they were carded. LOL this is only funny because anytime Megan and Yesenia were going into anything, they were carded. LOL We blame Yesenia’s looks on that.
In Palos they were carded by PJ and one other waiter. Well, my party of 5 was seated to the right of a party of 10-14, I believe another person on the forum that I talk on. To the right of us was another party of 6 and to their rights was a party of 5. So, needless to say, come 10 pm, we still hadn’t received our main course. So as we wanted to see the adult caberet show by Rich Purpurrs – The Greatest Magican …….Almost, we got up to leave. Our waiter was Sasha, I felt bad but I also realized that I had to make a move. He of course came rushing over and tried to stop us. To make a long story short, I had purposely made a quiet move to attract attention. I wasn’t aware that it would take that long as I have hardly been there. Sasha, came rushing over, I explained that we needed to catch a show and were leaving. He brought PJ over. I then explained that although I wasn’t disappointed with Sasha’s service I was a bit with the way the tables were set up. It seems that this party to the left of us was a “bit demanding” of our waiter’s time. As they were monopolizing their time, no one else had time to catch his attn.
I explained to PJ that I had always heard how excellent the service was but had NEVER in my sailings seen what was so AWESOME about Palos. He apologized profusely and explained that due to high demand and the monopolization of that particular party, he apologized and wished to make it up to us. PJ offered to have dessert sent down to our room, which I said ok, then when I commented that I had never experienced that wonderful attention to detail, he asked us to return after the show. We decided to do that. We did, and returned at 11:05. You know that big party I mentioned? Well, they had just left. Sasha went on to tell us that they stayed there for 5 HOURS! He looked tired and I was going to take the desserts to the room when I realized a few people were there. So as they went out of their way to make it up we stayed. We tasted of course the chocolate soufflé. Yesenia and Priscilla both loved it. So did Megan, April alas was too young to come. I tried the soufflé and some type of pistachio flan which was delicious and Megan had some Italian Trio of ice cream which was VERY GOOD. However, we were all still full from dinner, which we ended up eating there before dinner.
So, PJ tried to get us to come back. Turns out we had a reservation for brunch on Aug 7. He then told us that if we came in at our appointed time, we would have the same problem as the BIG party that monopolized Sasha’s time had also booked that day. More on that party later. Turns out they monopolized A LOT more than just Disney time at Palos. They eventually HOGGED a whole table at Monte Carlo but more on that later. So that was dinner. Steve and I eventually made brunch but the girls didn’t as that turned out to be our character breakfast. As they had never experienced it, they decided to go. Steve and I went and let me tell you, it was a sight to be seen. Although it was heavy on seafood appetizers, it was the most and the only brunch I have been too. But I will sign off for now as I have other ports to do. Later!
In Palos they were carded by PJ and one other waiter. Well, my party of 5 was seated to the right of a party of 10-14, I believe another person on the forum that I talk on. To the right of us was another party of 6 and to their rights was a party of 5. So, needless to say, come 10 pm, we still hadn’t received our main course. So as we wanted to see the adult caberet show by Rich Purpurrs – The Greatest Magican …….Almost, we got up to leave. Our waiter was Sasha, I felt bad but I also realized that I had to make a move. He of course came rushing over and tried to stop us. To make a long story short, I had purposely made a quiet move to attract attention. I wasn’t aware that it would take that long as I have hardly been there. Sasha, came rushing over, I explained that we needed to catch a show and were leaving. He brought PJ over. I then explained that although I wasn’t disappointed with Sasha’s service I was a bit with the way the tables were set up. It seems that this party to the left of us was a “bit demanding” of our waiter’s time. As they were monopolizing their time, no one else had time to catch his attn.
I explained to PJ that I had always heard how excellent the service was but had NEVER in my sailings seen what was so AWESOME about Palos. He apologized profusely and explained that due to high demand and the monopolization of that particular party, he apologized and wished to make it up to us. PJ offered to have dessert sent down to our room, which I said ok, then when I commented that I had never experienced that wonderful attention to detail, he asked us to return after the show. We decided to do that. We did, and returned at 11:05. You know that big party I mentioned? Well, they had just left. Sasha went on to tell us that they stayed there for 5 HOURS! He looked tired and I was going to take the desserts to the room when I realized a few people were there. So as they went out of their way to make it up we stayed. We tasted of course the chocolate soufflé. Yesenia and Priscilla both loved it. So did Megan, April alas was too young to come. I tried the soufflé and some type of pistachio flan which was delicious and Megan had some Italian Trio of ice cream which was VERY GOOD. However, we were all still full from dinner, which we ended up eating there before dinner.
So, PJ tried to get us to come back. Turns out we had a reservation for brunch on Aug 7. He then told us that if we came in at our appointed time, we would have the same problem as the BIG party that monopolized Sasha’s time had also booked that day. More on that party later. Turns out they monopolized A LOT more than just Disney time at Palos. They eventually HOGGED a whole table at Monte Carlo but more on that later. So that was dinner. Steve and I eventually made brunch but the girls didn’t as that turned out to be our character breakfast. As they had never experienced it, they decided to go. Steve and I went and let me tell you, it was a sight to be seen. Although it was heavy on seafood appetizers, it was the most and the only brunch I have been too. But I will sign off for now as I have other ports to do. Later!
Tuesday, August 7, 2007
Disembarkation day
OK all I know that I have missed alot. I intend to catch up during Paris. Right now we are at Lumiere's having breakfast. We need to be off by 9 am Barcelona port regulations. It is now 8:44 and no sign of Vlado.
Ok I will sign off now but wanted to let my tablemates know that we will be having dinner under Vlado from Croatia and Collin from Trinidad.
Andy, hardly saw Stefano but will let him know next time that you said hi. He was covering some other stations the whole trip. We saw him about 2 times the whole time. Anyway, lots to tell, our experience at Palo's, Monte Carlo, just my experience but if you see the outside, that is fine - explain later. Some announcement coming on. Gotta go just wanted to waste my last hour of the internet. Having the breakfast classic but I think they went out to find the chicken and the pig. Gotta go for now! Caio!
Ok I will sign off now but wanted to let my tablemates know that we will be having dinner under Vlado from Croatia and Collin from Trinidad.
Andy, hardly saw Stefano but will let him know next time that you said hi. He was covering some other stations the whole trip. We saw him about 2 times the whole time. Anyway, lots to tell, our experience at Palo's, Monte Carlo, just my experience but if you see the outside, that is fine - explain later. Some announcement coming on. Gotta go just wanted to waste my last hour of the internet. Having the breakfast classic but I think they went out to find the chicken and the pig. Gotta go for now! Caio!
Friday, August 3, 2007
Thursday, August 2, 2007
OK I am now sitting in the Cadillace Lounge (?) having my own private cocktail hour - LOL A singer was practicing her songs and she was wonderful - will find out who she was - she really has a good voice - oh darn - I am done - ok later all
Thursday, August 2, 2007
OK – I am for once TOTALLY speechless. The sights I saw yesterday have left me totally in awe and I am proud to say that I am not a robot. I feel and I cry. I was so totally overwhelmed at the thought that I was accomplishing something else off my list of 101 things to do before I die, that WHERE I WAS didn’t really sink in until I was on the bus ride back to the Magic.
I mean – there I was, standing, dripping sweat (OK – I know – TMI) but I was ACTUALLY in line for the X-ray screening to be allowed into St. Peter’s Basilica. OMG! I was actually here. The culmination of 41 yrs! Imagine that!
The day started early for us – the 3 older girls went on the Ultimate Rome Experience, they ended up going on another tour as their Tour of the Illuminati was cancelled due to low participation. They were able to sign up for another tour which took them to the Coliseum, the Trevi Fountain and others. However, I will be describing what I went through and experienced.
Our day started at 8:45 am in Rocking Bar D. We then boarded a bus to Rome. When we finally got there, we ended up hitting the outside of the Coliseum and the other ruins in the local area. The ruins were awesome. I never expected to see actual artifacts thrown haphazardly around as if they were nothing. Let me take a minute to tell you something – I ended up taking over 500 pictures alone in Rome.
I was so busy taking pictures that I missed some information however, rest assured that I was able to take a picture of it! LOL J The Coliseum (the outside) was magnificent. To walk the cobblestones (and no I did not trip) that ancient Romans walked and to see how they have been worn flat by years and weather, to see the ancient tracks of chariots and realize that millions of people have placed their feet where I have placed and will be placing today, is mind-boggling.
We got lunch after the ruins at a restaurant called Arturo’s Restaurante, we started with a salad that contained lettuce, corn, tuna, strips and we placed oil and vinegar as our dressing. I finished mine but Steve and April did not. We were served Red wine, white wine and bottled water. Since I am not a wine drinker, I asked for a coke for myself and April (I needed the caffeine) when it came to pay, I asked the guide should I ask for the bill as soft drinks were not usually included. She told me to adopt a “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy. Which I did and we did not pay. Its interesting to note that Italy’s coke comes in small, cute, quaint 330 ml cans. They have 139 calories per can. Oh well, I now see why so many Italians are so thin! They walk EVERYWHERE! Lunch main course, was DELICIOUS lasagna. I must say that I don’t know if it was the hunger but OMG was that lasagna was the most delicious I have ever tasted. This was followed by a tiramisu dessert which unfortunately, I did not care for. I am NOT a chocolate (GASP!) lover and I don’t care for strong expresso so I was content with my salad and main dish. On the way out I happened to run into the owner , Arturo. He was probably the size of Yesenia or Megan (less than 5 ft) but so cute. He meandered along the restaurant and I took a minute to say in my poor example of Spanish/Italian that his food was delicious! He thanked me by hugging me and kissing me on the side of the cheek.
From the restaurant we headed over to St. Peter’s Basilica. Went through x-ray and after a short wait, entered the basilica. I was stunned at the enormity of the church, the ornateness and the vastness of the church. Immediately upon entering you face the jubilee doors that are only opened once every 25 years the last time they were opened was in 2001? I think. Anyway, we literally shuffled our way into the church were I immediately headed off flashing away on my way to my 550 shots of the day. Little did I know! Then we were ushered to the right to see the famous La Peita marble statue. It is behind a glass partition so unfortunately, I was not able to get a good picture with all the flashbulbs going off so instead, after getting a shot, I headed off to explore. I shot pictures of a mummified pope, the entryway to the catacombs below the floor where some popes are buried. And I even got to snap a picture of my namesake, St. Veronica – couldn’t resist that one – that maybe my only claim to fame! J LOL
After, we were quickly ushered from one statue to another. I didn’t realize until later that there is a catwalk above church which people can do and allows you an aerial view of all of Rome. ALAS! Had I known! SIGH!
From there, we were taken to buy some souvenirs from a store across the street from the Vatican. I managed to buy 10 postcards with stamps as we only had 20 minutes to shop. Let me tell you, that is NOT enough time. For those that don’t realize, the Vatican City is the SMALLEST NATION in the world and is a sovereign nation with its own postmark and ruler. The Pope!
After, we were then taken to the back side of the Vatican to experience what was truly a breathless, priceless memory. Normally, the Vatican allows about 20,000 people in the afternoon to the Vatican Museums then the Sistene Chapel. Because the Mouse is so famous, they had contracted to allow only Disney and some other special guests entry. So instead of having 20,000 people to mill through, we got to experience it with almost no crowd at all. Only about 300-500 guests were being allowed in that day. When I post my pictures, you will notice that in some it looks deserted. This only came about because I was “constantly being left behind” from wanting shots with as few amounts of heads and feet’s as possible. LOL Poor Steve and April, they had to experience me paniciking and running to catch up with them. Also, keep in mind that my mom has instilled in me a “proper dress code for a place of that magnitude” and I was wearing a sundress, carried a short-sleeve, light-weight sweater and my Easy Spirit tennis shoe/sandal. This was do to the fact that the day before Rome, Goofy accidentally kicked and bruised one of my toes while talking a semi-formal picture - thus not allowing me to wear my intended shoe with the dress. While it hurts like the dickens, he actually did me a favor. I was able to keep up with all the walking, and not further hurt my shot. So, while it may look funny to some of you – I was totally comfortable with my shoes.
OK – so here I am – running through the Vatican Museum in my sundress, taking pictures and sqatting down in the most unfortunate places to get shots that I deemed are unusual – like the underbelly of a carved, magnificent sarcophagus. It had something written on it which caught my eye and the date carved in roman numerals. I just had to get it. All the sights, the paintings, the carvings of animals, the NAKED statues – LOL – just had me running. Also special to this tour was the ability to take shots in the tapestry wing of the museum WITHOUT FLASH of course and I was able to stay still long enough to take some shots. Remember folks, these “rugs” are almost 2 millennium! Also, one of my favorite places to visit as they were kept air-conditioned! Needless to say that Steve stayed by my side throughout most of this wing.
Oh Yeah, the ceiling of the wings are all painted al fresco and are so totally jaw-dropping, gorgeous – I was totally speechless. I think I walked almost the entire time through the wings, shooting upwards with my taped together flash (read previous blogs for the answer to your question – what happened to my flash) and my battery dying camera. Luckily, I had my spare on it. Remind all to tell you what happened to my camera WHEN we got to dinner. I tell you, my patience is almost saintly on this trip – ROTFLMAO!
Ok, the ceilings, statues, tapestries are stunning. When taken into consideration that they are as old as Christ, I wanted to tear up. There was definitely not enough time to begin to enjoy what I was taking in via my camera lens, since I didn’t have a camcorder, I needed to rely on my camera. As I mentioned, I can do so on over 550 pictures and over 300 of those dedicated to the Vactican Museum alone!
Let me digress a minute and tell you that upon our entering the Vatican Museum, we were the 2nd party to be allowed in in the afternoon. You line up in front of these ancient looking (this entryway was made for jubilee celebration when an astounding amount of people were expected to walk through the doors. So they made this modern “old” looking entryway which is AC’d! Yeah – insert image of dancing bananas here. Steve managed to site toilets and we quickly headed off to use them before our trip into the museum and Sistene Chapel.
Ok – I’m back. So as our guide waited for no one – I was constantly running to keep up. I missed a lot of vocal on our handy-dandy, low-tech audiofone. You would think that a tour company would come up with a better system than a walkie-talkie type of headphone which you hang around your neck with a tube (literally) that you insert into your walkie-talkie thingy and then other end into your ear. Let me tell you folks, by the end of the day, my ear canal was throbbing. Also, we were constantly warned to turn it off when not in use as the batter might die. So, as those of you know, something ALWAYS happened to me – I can type with a smile – that my battery lasted the entire time – but only because I was VERY vigilant about turning it off when we were apart.
So, we finally get into the Sistene Chapel where we have been warned numerous times that photos will not be allowed, much less flash, through this narrow arch tunnel. Really, had I not known that I was heading into a place, I would have thought we would be heading down into a tunnel. Nothing spectacular about it – I did take a shot – why I don’t know buy in retrospect am I glad I did. For once we got into the “room” you went – we’re here?
The room itself is not what you would expect, it is the size of 3-5 story in height small banquet room. It is devoid of any furniture except for some stone marble benches lined against the wall. You enter on the right-hand side of the room via a small doorway, about the size of a bedroom door. You kinda have to duck if your tall. Don’t know what Cardinal Roger Mahoney would do – stoop I guess. The shorter ones would just walk in I guess. OK so back to my description, the doorway is actually unforgettable, the large “hallway” is mainly open and at the back of the room is a confessional from way back in eternity time – LOL. There is an alter placed at the front of the room with 4 candleabras and one cross with Jesus on it. Very plain and not decorated ornately at all. But the simpleness of the cross was just beautiful.
I will take this minute to tell you all that I was struck speechless. I was ACTUALLY standing in the middle of the Sistene Chapel with about 300 other folks. And while I thought it was crowded – we were not standing like sardines in a can. I was able to walk around. Normally, I am very law-abiding to a point. But when I spied several folks using a camcorder and shooting pictures, I ran and I mean walk-ran to my guide to confirm whether we could. Her answer? Well, normally we can’t but the guard is not saying anything. That was all I needed. I started shooting away. The poor lady must now think that the crazy lady with the camera was absolutely gonzo batty! While 99.99% of us adhered to the no flash policy, 1 person used it and those around them quickly admonished them as we did not want to chance being stopped.
The Sistene Chapel is absolutely gorgeous. We were admonished a couple of times when the place got too loud but mainly was hushed tones that were used. The chapel was long – rectangular in size and in my estimation which is worth beans actually could easily hold 500-1000 sardines if you wanted. Um….I meant humans if you packed tight. ROTFL.
The walls are so unbelievably beautiful that I am left speechless. I even texted my friend Pam with those exact words. There are no words to describe what I saw. The closest I can come to is this. Have you all been to Ceasar’s Palace in Las Vegas? Or the Bellagio? Or Paris hotel mall upstairs? Well, imagine any of those ceilings – remember they are curved and painted! The ones at the Venetian are wallpapered so imagine that and you got the Sistene Chapel.
Imagine my surprise when April walks up to me and asks me – where is St. Barts and Michaelango’s image on the wall. Let me state that the short end of the rectangle room was painted al fresco – right behind the alter that I spoke about above. I have a picture I’m hoping to upload when we get to Paris with an image I took of it. I had to be very careful as I was not using flash and the room surprisingly was very tall in height. The dormer windows in the walls were placed high near the top of the ceiling thus not conducive to taking properly-lighted photos of the place. But I did manage a few – insert image of teeth-baring smiley here!
Back to my poor description of the place, the whole room tells a story, you have Jesus coming down on clouds, St. Bart’s (I’ve taken liberty to shorten names since we are a first glance basis now - J ) entry into heaven and even the pope’s visage at the time of Michaelango’s painting (was it Sextus the fifth? ) OK all so I am not at all that avid a history lover. ROTFL. I cannot begin to describe what I saw so I will post a few pictures as soon as I can. Its pretty bad when the ship’s internet manager suggests that you don’t upload anything because it will eat your minutes up. So if anyone wants to see some, stay tuned . I will try and edit this post to add them later.
After the chapel, which we got to spend about 15 minutes in and I managed to snap a picture of Sleeping Beauty in full on rest mode (DH), we exited and were finally done with our tour. Here’s where the rest of the condensed versons comes in.
We get on the bus, in front of me was this family with a masticating son playing his Nintendo and chomping away like a freaking cow. Boy, was I going absolutely mad. For those that don’t know me, one of my pet peeves is hearing open mouth chewing. So almost from leaving the ship, this parent gave this boy about 6 yrs old some gum which he proceeded to chew the heck out off and annoy not just myself but the entire 3 rows behind me! At first I thought it was just me as I have a problem with Steve chewing like that but turns out in retrospect when we almost left them behind that I wasn’t the only bothered by this. We all ended up conversing about how we would love to leave them behind. Our consensus was that it really wasn’t the kid’s fault, but what about the mom? What has happened to manners today? When I was raising my kids, if the kids acted up – we got up from the table and took them outside if we were in a restaurant. But I think that someone didn’t tell the parents of another screaming child – over age 4 that screaming kids around lunch time and other patrons is not cool. This child, when she didn’t get what she wanted would proceed to throw a screaming tantrum and throw herself on the floor. Even at the Vatican Museum! Folks, I do not recommend small children to come, frankly, the beauty of the place is lost to them and those around you might not get to experience a wonderful, quiet beautiful moment because it is interrupted with tired children that don’t really want to be there and tend to get underfoot. OK – off my masticating cow and tantrum-throwing soapbox.
I eventually tried to get over gum-chewing kid, and instead concentrated on viewing my pic’s on the camera. My seatmate was a Magic employee by the name of Sylvon, who is a bartender in Rocking Bar D. Turns out that he will be doing the crossing too so I managed to corral a picture of him standing in front of the Vatican of him. I intend to give him a photo magnet of him even though he says he’s been there several times. But it’s nice to know that a friendly face is making your drink there. Watch out folks, the crossing will be a wonderful, happening party!!!!
OK got back to the ship about 8:15 pm – long day, we were greeted by Alen, the dining supervisor reminding us that due to the length of most tours, dinner was postphoned to 9 pm. Which really gave us some time go to our room and take a shower. But before we left, I managed to snag a photo with Sailor Mickey and Minnie which I have never been able to do.
I quickly took a shower, went to dinner with everyone and tried a Bellini which I didn’t like, changed to an amaretto and OJ and had a fantastic Turkey slice dinner with risotto rice which April thought was mashed potatoe’s but which I didn’t correct- you all think she noticed? She didn’t say anything – LOL – I can be mean sometimes. ROTFL.
Then by this time, I crashed. I went to bed, brushed my teeth and as it turned out – April had enough stamina to go to teen’s club and managed to stay out until 3 am! GASP! First let me tell you that I do feel safe on the ship. And it was kinda nice to have Steve experience finally staying up late waiting for the kids while I was asleep. A reversal of times for once – I waited up for the other 2 – his turn now!
Ok – I think this will be my record – I will be closing up now, this is too long as it is. I decided to put my memories into typing as Steve and April were still sleeping in. It is now 1:04 am on Friday, August 3 and I am going to muster them up. Tomorrow is Saturday and La Spezia. Another private tour for us and a long one.
I will be off on a hunt as it turns out our servers like to collect shot glasses and magnets and our stateroom hosts has NOT had the opportunity to visit many of our ports due to his job. So for Collin, our drink waiter – a shot glass to finish off his collection set, Vlado, our food waiter, a magnet and an avid traveler himself and for Nigel, our stateroom host, a picture, photo and some memento.
Ok – April will be dining alone tonight as we 5 adults will be heading to Palos – for only DH’s and myself 3rd time and the girls 1st time including Megan. Prior to this cruise – she was too young. OK folks, I hope I didn’t bore you too much – till later.
Stunned in disbelieving silence –
Laura
Thursday, August 2, 2007
OK – I am for once TOTALLY speechless. The sights I saw yesterday have left me totally in awe and I am proud to say that I am not a robot. I feel and I cry. I was so totally overwhelmed at the thought that I was accomplishing something else off my list of 101 things to do before I die, that WHERE I WAS didn’t really sink in until I was on the bus ride back to the Magic.
I mean – there I was, standing, dripping sweat (OK – I know – TMI) but I was ACTUALLY in line for the X-ray screening to be allowed into St. Peter’s Basilica. OMG! I was actually here. The culmination of 41 yrs! Imagine that!
The day started early for us – the 3 older girls went on the Ultimate Rome Experience, they ended up going on another tour as their Tour of the Illuminati was cancelled due to low participation. They were able to sign up for another tour which took them to the Coliseum, the Trevi Fountain and others. However, I will be describing what I went through and experienced.
Our day started at 8:45 am in Rocking Bar D. We then boarded a bus to Rome. When we finally got there, we ended up hitting the outside of the Coliseum and the other ruins in the local area. The ruins were awesome. I never expected to see actual artifacts thrown haphazardly around as if they were nothing. Let me take a minute to tell you something – I ended up taking over 500 pictures alone in Rome.
I was so busy taking pictures that I missed some information however, rest assured that I was able to take a picture of it! LOL J The Coliseum (the outside) was magnificent. To walk the cobblestones (and no I did not trip) that ancient Romans walked and to see how they have been worn flat by years and weather, to see the ancient tracks of chariots and realize that millions of people have placed their feet where I have placed and will be placing today, is mind-boggling.
We got lunch after the ruins at a restaurant called Arturo’s Restaurante, we started with a salad that contained lettuce, corn, tuna, strips and we placed oil and vinegar as our dressing. I finished mine but Steve and April did not. We were served Red wine, white wine and bottled water. Since I am not a wine drinker, I asked for a coke for myself and April (I needed the caffeine) when it came to pay, I asked the guide should I ask for the bill as soft drinks were not usually included. She told me to adopt a “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy. Which I did and we did not pay. Its interesting to note that Italy’s coke comes in small, cute, quaint 330 ml cans. They have 139 calories per can. Oh well, I now see why so many Italians are so thin! They walk EVERYWHERE! Lunch main course, was DELICIOUS lasagna. I must say that I don’t know if it was the hunger but OMG was that lasagna was the most delicious I have ever tasted. This was followed by a tiramisu dessert which unfortunately, I did not care for. I am NOT a chocolate (GASP!) lover and I don’t care for strong expresso so I was content with my salad and main dish. On the way out I happened to run into the owner , Arturo. He was probably the size of Yesenia or Megan (less than 5 ft) but so cute. He meandered along the restaurant and I took a minute to say in my poor example of Spanish/Italian that his food was delicious! He thanked me by hugging me and kissing me on the side of the cheek.
From the restaurant we headed over to St. Peter’s Basilica. Went through x-ray and after a short wait, entered the basilica. I was stunned at the enormity of the church, the ornateness and the vastness of the church. Immediately upon entering you face the jubilee doors that are only opened once every 25 years the last time they were opened was in 2001? I think. Anyway, we literally shuffled our way into the church were I immediately headed off flashing away on my way to my 550 shots of the day. Little did I know! Then we were ushered to the right to see the famous La Peita marble statue. It is behind a glass partition so unfortunately, I was not able to get a good picture with all the flashbulbs going off so instead, after getting a shot, I headed off to explore. I shot pictures of a mummified pope, the entryway to the catacombs below the floor where some popes are buried. And I even got to snap a picture of my namesake, St. Veronica – couldn’t resist that one – that maybe my only claim to fame! J LOL
After, we were quickly ushered from one statue to another. I didn’t realize until later that there is a catwalk above church which people can do and allows you an aerial view of all of Rome. ALAS! Had I known! SIGH!
From there, we were taken to buy some souvenirs from a store across the street from the Vatican. I managed to buy 10 postcards with stamps as we only had 20 minutes to shop. Let me tell you, that is NOT enough time. For those that don’t realize, the Vatican City is the SMALLEST NATION in the world and is a sovereign nation with its own postmark and ruler. The Pope!
After, we were then taken to the back side of the Vatican to experience what was truly a breathless, priceless memory. Normally, the Vatican allows about 20,000 people in the afternoon to the Vatican Museums then the Sistene Chapel. Because the Mouse is so famous, they had contracted to allow only Disney and some other special guests entry. So instead of having 20,000 people to mill through, we got to experience it with almost no crowd at all. Only about 300-500 guests were being allowed in that day. When I post my pictures, you will notice that in some it looks deserted. This only came about because I was “constantly being left behind” from wanting shots with as few amounts of heads and feet’s as possible. LOL Poor Steve and April, they had to experience me paniciking and running to catch up with them. Also, keep in mind that my mom has instilled in me a “proper dress code for a place of that magnitude” and I was wearing a sundress, carried a short-sleeve, light-weight sweater and my Easy Spirit tennis shoe/sandal. This was do to the fact that the day before Rome, Goofy accidentally kicked and bruised one of my toes while talking a semi-formal picture - thus not allowing me to wear my intended shoe with the dress. While it hurts like the dickens, he actually did me a favor. I was able to keep up with all the walking, and not further hurt my shot. So, while it may look funny to some of you – I was totally comfortable with my shoes.
OK – so here I am – running through the Vatican Museum in my sundress, taking pictures and sqatting down in the most unfortunate places to get shots that I deemed are unusual – like the underbelly of a carved, magnificent sarcophagus. It had something written on it which caught my eye and the date carved in roman numerals. I just had to get it. All the sights, the paintings, the carvings of animals, the NAKED statues – LOL – just had me running. Also special to this tour was the ability to take shots in the tapestry wing of the museum WITHOUT FLASH of course and I was able to stay still long enough to take some shots. Remember folks, these “rugs” are almost 2 millennium! Also, one of my favorite places to visit as they were kept air-conditioned! Needless to say that Steve stayed by my side throughout most of this wing.
Oh Yeah, the ceiling of the wings are all painted al fresco and are so totally jaw-dropping, gorgeous – I was totally speechless. I think I walked almost the entire time through the wings, shooting upwards with my taped together flash (read previous blogs for the answer to your question – what happened to my flash) and my battery dying camera. Luckily, I had my spare on it. Remind all to tell you what happened to my camera WHEN we got to dinner. I tell you, my patience is almost saintly on this trip – ROTFLMAO!
Ok, the ceilings, statues, tapestries are stunning. When taken into consideration that they are as old as Christ, I wanted to tear up. There was definitely not enough time to begin to enjoy what I was taking in via my camera lens, since I didn’t have a camcorder, I needed to rely on my camera. As I mentioned, I can do so on over 550 pictures and over 300 of those dedicated to the Vactican Museum alone!
Let me digress a minute and tell you that upon our entering the Vatican Museum, we were the 2nd party to be allowed in in the afternoon. You line up in front of these ancient looking (this entryway was made for jubilee celebration when an astounding amount of people were expected to walk through the doors. So they made this modern “old” looking entryway which is AC’d! Yeah – insert image of dancing bananas here. Steve managed to site toilets and we quickly headed off to use them before our trip into the museum and Sistene Chapel.
Ok – I’m back. So as our guide waited for no one – I was constantly running to keep up. I missed a lot of vocal on our handy-dandy, low-tech audiofone. You would think that a tour company would come up with a better system than a walkie-talkie type of headphone which you hang around your neck with a tube (literally) that you insert into your walkie-talkie thingy and then other end into your ear. Let me tell you folks, by the end of the day, my ear canal was throbbing. Also, we were constantly warned to turn it off when not in use as the batter might die. So, as those of you know, something ALWAYS happened to me – I can type with a smile – that my battery lasted the entire time – but only because I was VERY vigilant about turning it off when we were apart.
So, we finally get into the Sistene Chapel where we have been warned numerous times that photos will not be allowed, much less flash, through this narrow arch tunnel. Really, had I not known that I was heading into a place, I would have thought we would be heading down into a tunnel. Nothing spectacular about it – I did take a shot – why I don’t know buy in retrospect am I glad I did. For once we got into the “room” you went – we’re here?
The room itself is not what you would expect, it is the size of 3-5 story in height small banquet room. It is devoid of any furniture except for some stone marble benches lined against the wall. You enter on the right-hand side of the room via a small doorway, about the size of a bedroom door. You kinda have to duck if your tall. Don’t know what Cardinal Roger Mahoney would do – stoop I guess. The shorter ones would just walk in I guess. OK so back to my description, the doorway is actually unforgettable, the large “hallway” is mainly open and at the back of the room is a confessional from way back in eternity time – LOL. There is an alter placed at the front of the room with 4 candleabras and one cross with Jesus on it. Very plain and not decorated ornately at all. But the simpleness of the cross was just beautiful.
I will take this minute to tell you all that I was struck speechless. I was ACTUALLY standing in the middle of the Sistene Chapel with about 300 other folks. And while I thought it was crowded – we were not standing like sardines in a can. I was able to walk around. Normally, I am very law-abiding to a point. But when I spied several folks using a camcorder and shooting pictures, I ran and I mean walk-ran to my guide to confirm whether we could. Her answer? Well, normally we can’t but the guard is not saying anything. That was all I needed. I started shooting away. The poor lady must now think that the crazy lady with the camera was absolutely gonzo batty! While 99.99% of us adhered to the no flash policy, 1 person used it and those around them quickly admonished them as we did not want to chance being stopped.
The Sistene Chapel is absolutely gorgeous. We were admonished a couple of times when the place got too loud but mainly was hushed tones that were used. The chapel was long – rectangular in size and in my estimation which is worth beans actually could easily hold 500-1000 sardines if you wanted. Um….I meant humans if you packed tight. ROTFL.
The walls are so unbelievably beautiful that I am left speechless. I even texted my friend Pam with those exact words. There are no words to describe what I saw. The closest I can come to is this. Have you all been to Ceasar’s Palace in Las Vegas? Or the Bellagio? Or Paris hotel mall upstairs? Well, imagine any of those ceilings – remember they are curved and painted! The ones at the Venetian are wallpapered so imagine that and you got the Sistene Chapel.
Imagine my surprise when April walks up to me and asks me – where is St. Barts and Michaelango’s image on the wall. Let me state that the short end of the rectangle room was painted al fresco – right behind the alter that I spoke about above. I have a picture I’m hoping to upload when we get to Paris with an image I took of it. I had to be very careful as I was not using flash and the room surprisingly was very tall in height. The dormer windows in the walls were placed high near the top of the ceiling thus not conducive to taking properly-lighted photos of the place. But I did manage a few – insert image of teeth-baring smiley here!
Back to my poor description of the place, the whole room tells a story, you have Jesus coming down on clouds, St. Bart’s (I’ve taken liberty to shorten names since we are a first glance basis now - J ) entry into heaven and even the pope’s visage at the time of Michaelango’s painting (was it Sextus the fifth? ) OK all so I am not at all that avid a history lover. ROTFL. I cannot begin to describe what I saw so I will post a few pictures as soon as I can. Its pretty bad when the ship’s internet manager suggests that you don’t upload anything because it will eat your minutes up. So if anyone wants to see some, stay tuned . I will try and edit this post to add them later.
After the chapel, which we got to spend about 15 minutes in and I managed to snap a picture of Sleeping Beauty in full on rest mode (DH), we exited and were finally done with our tour. Here’s where the rest of the condensed versons comes in.
We get on the bus, in front of me was this family with a masticating son playing his Nintendo and chomping away like a freaking cow. Boy, was I going absolutely mad. For those that don’t know me, one of my pet peeves is hearing open mouth chewing. So almost from leaving the ship, this parent gave this boy about 6 yrs old some gum which he proceeded to chew the heck out off and annoy not just myself but the entire 3 rows behind me! At first I thought it was just me as I have a problem with Steve chewing like that but turns out in retrospect when we almost left them behind that I wasn’t the only bothered by this. We all ended up conversing about how we would love to leave them behind. Our consensus was that it really wasn’t the kid’s fault, but what about the mom? What has happened to manners today? When I was raising my kids, if the kids acted up – we got up from the table and took them outside if we were in a restaurant. But I think that someone didn’t tell the parents of another screaming child – over age 4 that screaming kids around lunch time and other patrons is not cool. This child, when she didn’t get what she wanted would proceed to throw a screaming tantrum and throw herself on the floor. Even at the Vatican Museum! Folks, I do not recommend small children to come, frankly, the beauty of the place is lost to them and those around you might not get to experience a wonderful, quiet beautiful moment because it is interrupted with tired children that don’t really want to be there and tend to get underfoot. OK – off my masticating cow and tantrum-throwing soapbox.
I eventually tried to get over gum-chewing kid, and instead concentrated on viewing my pic’s on the camera. My seatmate was a Magic employee by the name of Sylvon, who is a bartender in Rocking Bar D. Turns out that he will be doing the crossing too so I managed to corral a picture of him standing in front of the Vatican of him. I intend to give him a photo magnet of him even though he says he’s been there several times. But it’s nice to know that a friendly face is making your drink there. Watch out folks, the crossing will be a wonderful, happening party!!!!
OK got back to the ship about 8:15 pm – long day, we were greeted by Alen, the dining supervisor reminding us that due to the length of most tours, dinner was postphoned to 9 pm. Which really gave us some time go to our room and take a shower. But before we left, I managed to snag a photo with Sailor Mickey and Minnie which I have never been able to do.
I quickly took a shower, went to dinner with everyone and tried a Bellini which I didn’t like, changed to an amaretto and OJ and had a fantastic Turkey slice dinner with risotto rice which April thought was mashed potatoe’s but which I didn’t correct- you all think she noticed? She didn’t say anything – LOL – I can be mean sometimes. ROTFL.
Then by this time, I crashed. I went to bed, brushed my teeth and as it turned out – April had enough stamina to go to teen’s club and managed to stay out until 3 am! GASP! First let me tell you that I do feel safe on the ship. And it was kinda nice to have Steve experience finally staying up late waiting for the kids while I was asleep. A reversal of times for once – I waited up for the other 2 – his turn now!
Ok – I think this will be my record – I will be closing up now, this is too long as it is. I decided to put my memories into typing as Steve and April were still sleeping in. It is now 1:04 am on Friday, August 3 and I am going to muster them up. Tomorrow is Saturday and La Spezia. Another private tour for us and a long one.
I will be off on a hunt as it turns out our servers like to collect shot glasses and magnets and our stateroom hosts has NOT had the opportunity to visit many of our ports due to his job. So for Collin, our drink waiter – a shot glass to finish off his collection set, Vlado, our food waiter, a magnet and an avid traveler himself and for Nigel, our stateroom host, a picture, photo and some memento.
Ok – April will be dining alone tonight as we 5 adults will be heading to Palos – for only DH’s and myself 3rd time and the girls 1st time including Megan. Prior to this cruise – she was too young. OK folks, I hope I didn’t bore you too much – till later.
Stunned in disbelieving silence –
Laura
Wednesday, August 1, 2007
Wednesday, August 2, 2007
We were at Olbia, Sardinia today.
Wednesday, August 2, 2007
Today, I managed to awake at 7:30 and got up to see if I could wash. I was in luck. I managed to snag 3 washers and eventually 2 dryers. I didn’t plan on doing it but decided that if it was open, might as well. Everyone else was asleep and so we (Megan, Yesenia and myself) washed, dried and folded 3 loads.
At about 11 am we managed to venture out and we wanted to go to the beach but this port, Olbia, Sardinia is NOTHING like the other ports. To me, and this is only too me, my opinion – not a port worth visiting unless you have something planned. I had cancelled an excursion as it ran about $50 and I had been reading that it wasn’t really worth it. Nothing big here, no major church, statue or monument so to say. And again, nothing really here that I saw. The beaches we heard so much about are about ½ or more away. They have a local beach about 10 minutes away but the taxis only hold a max of 4 and to take 6 people to the beach would have been about 120 roundtrip and when we tried later at the terminal to get a taxi – they quoted us $160. Remember folks, this is NOT DOLLARS – THIS IS EUROS!!!
We passed. I was so pissed by the time we got back to the ship I decided to say something. I know we are in Italy, but really DCL, you could have posted someone to help guide since once we got bussed into the center of town – there was nothing – and I mean NOTHING to do but “tourist” shop and those shops were meager and few and far between. ALSO, let me state – that come 1 pm – this town became a ghost town. We trotted around for about 45 minutes trying to find a post office, ending up going into what we now suspect was a bank through the emergency exit but that is for another time and too embarrassing for me to think about.
We got back to the ship, had buffet at Topsiders which turned out to be Asian theme. Steve and I did not like it so we ended up ditching it and going to Pinnochio’s Pizzeria and I got a hamburger from Pluto’s Playhouse.
Afterwards, we decided to go back into town and look for some shot glasses which we ended up finding right off the bat. We should have saved ourselves a big walk and just returned to the ship right then. The rest of the town was almost deserted there. We ran into Don from Donioc on the DIS boards. It is funny, I have rarely seen any other DISser since the Dismeet but I keep running into Don and his wife Anna.
OK here is my disclaimer, Olbia was boring. If you did not have a Disney excursion or other plans, you were SOL. I could have done without this port and therefore it is not my favorite stop. However, I suspect that if Rome and Olbia were reversed, then I would have enjoyed it more. I spoke with an employee at Guest Services that said that they have had NO bad responses to this port and they all quite enjoyed it. I wanted to throw some Disney BS at her too. But she came through by hunting down a taxi number for us to attempt a late going to the beach.
When we go into town, we decided to forego the beach as we were really weary about being left out there and the bus service seemed spotty. So we just walked. That was about all we did in Olbia and I suspect that maybe it was planned this way as tomorrow is Thursday, and Cittevecchia ! WOO HOO!
Wednesday, August 2, 2007
Today, I managed to awake at 7:30 and got up to see if I could wash. I was in luck. I managed to snag 3 washers and eventually 2 dryers. I didn’t plan on doing it but decided that if it was open, might as well. Everyone else was asleep and so we (Megan, Yesenia and myself) washed, dried and folded 3 loads.
At about 11 am we managed to venture out and we wanted to go to the beach but this port, Olbia, Sardinia is NOTHING like the other ports. To me, and this is only too me, my opinion – not a port worth visiting unless you have something planned. I had cancelled an excursion as it ran about $50 and I had been reading that it wasn’t really worth it. Nothing big here, no major church, statue or monument so to say. And again, nothing really here that I saw. The beaches we heard so much about are about ½ or more away. They have a local beach about 10 minutes away but the taxis only hold a max of 4 and to take 6 people to the beach would have been about 120 roundtrip and when we tried later at the terminal to get a taxi – they quoted us $160. Remember folks, this is NOT DOLLARS – THIS IS EUROS!!!
We passed. I was so pissed by the time we got back to the ship I decided to say something. I know we are in Italy, but really DCL, you could have posted someone to help guide since once we got bussed into the center of town – there was nothing – and I mean NOTHING to do but “tourist” shop and those shops were meager and few and far between. ALSO, let me state – that come 1 pm – this town became a ghost town. We trotted around for about 45 minutes trying to find a post office, ending up going into what we now suspect was a bank through the emergency exit but that is for another time and too embarrassing for me to think about.
We got back to the ship, had buffet at Topsiders which turned out to be Asian theme. Steve and I did not like it so we ended up ditching it and going to Pinnochio’s Pizzeria and I got a hamburger from Pluto’s Playhouse.
Afterwards, we decided to go back into town and look for some shot glasses which we ended up finding right off the bat. We should have saved ourselves a big walk and just returned to the ship right then. The rest of the town was almost deserted there. We ran into Don from Donioc on the DIS boards. It is funny, I have rarely seen any other DISser since the Dismeet but I keep running into Don and his wife Anna.
OK here is my disclaimer, Olbia was boring. If you did not have a Disney excursion or other plans, you were SOL. I could have done without this port and therefore it is not my favorite stop. However, I suspect that if Rome and Olbia were reversed, then I would have enjoyed it more. I spoke with an employee at Guest Services that said that they have had NO bad responses to this port and they all quite enjoyed it. I wanted to throw some Disney BS at her too. But she came through by hunting down a taxi number for us to attempt a late going to the beach.
When we go into town, we decided to forego the beach as we were really weary about being left out there and the bus service seemed spotty. So we just walked. That was about all we did in Olbia and I suspect that maybe it was planned this way as tomorrow is Thursday, and Cittevecchia ! WOO HOO!
Tuesday, August 1,2007
We made it to Naples! Home of Pompeii, Mt. Vesuvisus and Herculaneum!
Tuesday, 8/1/07
OMG! I have accomplished something that I have waited my whole life for. I remember I was 8 yrs old when I found out about a mysterious and ancient ruin that was recently (for time anyways) found – where a massive explosion had occurred in 79 A.D. I remember reading it in an Encylopedia Britannica edition that my father had for some reason order from a traveling salesman (remember those folks?) Anwway, they had one picture of an archeologist and he was excavating, so can you all imagine what it felt like to finally achieve something that I never thought I would be able to swing? I am in heaven.
Tuesday in Naples started off with me getting up at 6 – turns out I was SOOOO excited that when DH got up to use the bathroom (our alarm was set for 6:50) I just could not get back to sleep. Finally got up and caught up to my blog.
OK – for the sake of shortness here is a more condensed version – don’t want to bore people, got up at 6 am, typed then realized that it was 7:15 got everyone up and hightailed to Parrot Cay again. Ordered an omelet right off the bat, cheese, mushroom, tomato, bell peppers, ham and salsa – YUMMY! Rushed everyone off as by this time it was 8:15 and we were supposed to meet our private tour guide at the dock. I ran ahead since we were by now ½ hr late. At the bottom of the terminal steps – this was awesome – I again saw my name in big bold letter – ELLIOTT! What a relief. Our driver turned out to be Guillespe (spelling?) from www.prestigerent.com or at e-mail usa@prestigerent.com and he was adorned in a 2 pc suit, poor guy had long sleeves on and was sporting short long hair (is there such a thing?!!!!) LOL – who cares – he was cute! (if you like blonde, buff sorta type guys!) We introduced everyone and speed away – ok not speed but we were supposed to meet our other guide at Pompeii at 8:30. It was now 8:25. Skip little inconsequential details for now.
Got to Pompeii, our tour guide there was a wonderful lady by the name of Lorenza Greco. She was hired by prestigerent when I inquired about private guides. Her e-mail is: Lorenza_freco@virgilio.it . Her English was very understandable and I had no problems at all communicating with her. One or two MINOR delays but then the words came. All in all, both guides were great! Kudos to Prestigerent on hiring wonderful people.
Our day started at Pompeii at about 8:45. We ended up buying 2 tickets for Herculaneum and Pompeii for $20 Euros. A discount of 2 for buying a combo ticket. Lorenza started us off buying giving the rest of the group some history of the explosions which occurred the 1st time at 11 pm on the 24th of August 79 A.D. Pompeii was wonderful. We got to experience lots of sites including a bath house that had just reopened. The original tile, the original “sauna” and the original sweat room. I have pictures of the original marble “fountain” type where people would rinse their faces off before proceeding back out. According to our guide, it had just reopened after a 3 yr closure. We got to see a public fountain with a warrior spout. We walked the cobblestone streets that thousands of Romans, Egyptians and Greeks walked way back when. We spent about 3 hrs at Pompeii which was not nearly enough. Maybe one more hour would have been fantastic. We saw sights that were so amazing to behold. We even got to “walk” the local brothel where you could point at frescos at what you wanted. I have come to realize that the attitude regarding sexual relations were vastly unprudish - unlike us. Nothing major that probably isn’t alluded too but when you think that this was almost 2000 yrs ago, your mind is blown away at how advanced the Pompeiians were. The bath house was open to nobility and others (minus slaves) and were relatively cheap. The tile work and mosaic work is almost unbelievable and I hope that the pictures I took reflect that awesome detail that those artists put into the work even almost 2 millenniums later. We saw a plaster mode of bodies that still showed the teeth and nails down to a tee. I assume they were real as they were enclosed behind a glass partition. I even got to see the indentation on a fountain that showed how persons would put their hand down when they bent down and drink from the spout of the fountain. Amazing! We did not see the amphitheatre as our guide told us that it is under restoration and therefore closed.
We exited and found a small restaurant where we got to experience our first hand-made, wood brick oven pizza. Steve ordered 1 pizza with just cheese, extra sauce minus basil sauce and I ordered lasagna which was different than in the states – minus the ricotta cheese but still delicious. After, we managed to corral Lorenza into coming with us to Mt. Vesuvius and Herculaneum and act as our guide.
We managed to climb Mt. Vesuvius while it was slightly cool. OK , when Disney tells you it is a high active excursion-they are NOT kidding. We ended up buying tickets for the 6 of us and it costs $8 euros pr person. The climb is high and we were told at the end that it was 3 miles to the top and 3 miles back down. The climb is somewhat unstable and I would not recommend it to older people who tend to be unsteady on loose gravel. I was super careful and still managed to slip a couple of times on the way up. The key is to go slow. Of course, when Steve saw me struggling he had to prove he could climb it much faster than I. The guide reminded us to pace ourselves. I’m just glad that I had been doing cardio for the last 3 months, had I not – I think I would have passed out. It was definitely taxing!
We finally managed to get to the top about ½ hr later. We got to the top and Lorenza got us a guide to fill us in on the specifics of the explosion. We had about a 10 minute presentation and Steve tipped her about 10 euros for her help. We then decided to walk the rim which took us about another 20 minutes. Let me tell you we went at the perfect time. According to Lorenza, the previous week was SUPER HOT for the region. The entire time we were on Mt. Vesuvius it was rather cool and overcast. Perfect weather for hiking and tailor made for Steve. Otherwise, he would have been miserable. As we were leaving the mountain, the sun came out.
We then headed to Heculaneum where our guide told us that while Pompeii has been 90% excavated, Herculaneum has only been about 20% excavated. It is basically at a standstill as there are currently apartments and flats built over much of Herculaneum. We saw some burnt wood steps and wooden beams that managed to survive due to the way it was buried. While Pompeii was buried in about 7-10 meters of ash and pumice stone, Herculaneum was buried in 20 meters of hard molten lave which then harden into almost hard rock. This is the reason that Herculaneum is much better preserved than Pompeii. Herculaneum had about 4000 inhabitants and was mainly used as a villa for the rich and famous. More of a resort area for wealthy. By the time we finished with Herculaneum it was pretty much 4:30 and everyone was ready to go home. On the way, we made a quick stop at the cameo shop which is where we found that the word cameo actually means engraving as in engraving a cameo. We also found out that those cameos are made of seashells, brown, pink abalone and some other kinds. We got back to the ship and paid off our impromptu guide and the driver. All in all, I would highly recommend doing this port on your own. While a full day, we got back to the ship by 5 :15 and we managed to take a shower and relax before we left at 7:30. BTW, I found out later that the ship ended up leaving behind 3 persons who were not on ship at departure time so they are not kidding!
By the time dinner came around, I was dead tired and very goofy. I felt like I was high and my head was floating. I was totally exhausted and managed a fine version of the Cabo crawl back to my stateroom. And think, I didn’t even drink. I crawled into bed after brushing my teeth, realized that my mom had called and wanted to speak to us, I sent my apologies and laid my head down and viola! That is the last I remember until 3 am the next day. So my adventures continue on Wednesday in Olbia, Sardinia.
Tuesday, 8/1/07
OMG! I have accomplished something that I have waited my whole life for. I remember I was 8 yrs old when I found out about a mysterious and ancient ruin that was recently (for time anyways) found – where a massive explosion had occurred in 79 A.D. I remember reading it in an Encylopedia Britannica edition that my father had for some reason order from a traveling salesman (remember those folks?) Anwway, they had one picture of an archeologist and he was excavating, so can you all imagine what it felt like to finally achieve something that I never thought I would be able to swing? I am in heaven.
Tuesday in Naples started off with me getting up at 6 – turns out I was SOOOO excited that when DH got up to use the bathroom (our alarm was set for 6:50) I just could not get back to sleep. Finally got up and caught up to my blog.
OK – for the sake of shortness here is a more condensed version – don’t want to bore people, got up at 6 am, typed then realized that it was 7:15 got everyone up and hightailed to Parrot Cay again. Ordered an omelet right off the bat, cheese, mushroom, tomato, bell peppers, ham and salsa – YUMMY! Rushed everyone off as by this time it was 8:15 and we were supposed to meet our private tour guide at the dock. I ran ahead since we were by now ½ hr late. At the bottom of the terminal steps – this was awesome – I again saw my name in big bold letter – ELLIOTT! What a relief. Our driver turned out to be Guillespe (spelling?) from www.prestigerent.com or at e-mail usa@prestigerent.com and he was adorned in a 2 pc suit, poor guy had long sleeves on and was sporting short long hair (is there such a thing?!!!!) LOL – who cares – he was cute! (if you like blonde, buff sorta type guys!) We introduced everyone and speed away – ok not speed but we were supposed to meet our other guide at Pompeii at 8:30. It was now 8:25. Skip little inconsequential details for now.
Got to Pompeii, our tour guide there was a wonderful lady by the name of Lorenza Greco. She was hired by prestigerent when I inquired about private guides. Her e-mail is: Lorenza_freco@virgilio.it . Her English was very understandable and I had no problems at all communicating with her. One or two MINOR delays but then the words came. All in all, both guides were great! Kudos to Prestigerent on hiring wonderful people.
Our day started at Pompeii at about 8:45. We ended up buying 2 tickets for Herculaneum and Pompeii for $20 Euros. A discount of 2 for buying a combo ticket. Lorenza started us off buying giving the rest of the group some history of the explosions which occurred the 1st time at 11 pm on the 24th of August 79 A.D. Pompeii was wonderful. We got to experience lots of sites including a bath house that had just reopened. The original tile, the original “sauna” and the original sweat room. I have pictures of the original marble “fountain” type where people would rinse their faces off before proceeding back out. According to our guide, it had just reopened after a 3 yr closure. We got to see a public fountain with a warrior spout. We walked the cobblestone streets that thousands of Romans, Egyptians and Greeks walked way back when. We spent about 3 hrs at Pompeii which was not nearly enough. Maybe one more hour would have been fantastic. We saw sights that were so amazing to behold. We even got to “walk” the local brothel where you could point at frescos at what you wanted. I have come to realize that the attitude regarding sexual relations were vastly unprudish - unlike us. Nothing major that probably isn’t alluded too but when you think that this was almost 2000 yrs ago, your mind is blown away at how advanced the Pompeiians were. The bath house was open to nobility and others (minus slaves) and were relatively cheap. The tile work and mosaic work is almost unbelievable and I hope that the pictures I took reflect that awesome detail that those artists put into the work even almost 2 millenniums later. We saw a plaster mode of bodies that still showed the teeth and nails down to a tee. I assume they were real as they were enclosed behind a glass partition. I even got to see the indentation on a fountain that showed how persons would put their hand down when they bent down and drink from the spout of the fountain. Amazing! We did not see the amphitheatre as our guide told us that it is under restoration and therefore closed.
We exited and found a small restaurant where we got to experience our first hand-made, wood brick oven pizza. Steve ordered 1 pizza with just cheese, extra sauce minus basil sauce and I ordered lasagna which was different than in the states – minus the ricotta cheese but still delicious. After, we managed to corral Lorenza into coming with us to Mt. Vesuvius and Herculaneum and act as our guide.
We managed to climb Mt. Vesuvius while it was slightly cool. OK , when Disney tells you it is a high active excursion-they are NOT kidding. We ended up buying tickets for the 6 of us and it costs $8 euros pr person. The climb is high and we were told at the end that it was 3 miles to the top and 3 miles back down. The climb is somewhat unstable and I would not recommend it to older people who tend to be unsteady on loose gravel. I was super careful and still managed to slip a couple of times on the way up. The key is to go slow. Of course, when Steve saw me struggling he had to prove he could climb it much faster than I. The guide reminded us to pace ourselves. I’m just glad that I had been doing cardio for the last 3 months, had I not – I think I would have passed out. It was definitely taxing!
We finally managed to get to the top about ½ hr later. We got to the top and Lorenza got us a guide to fill us in on the specifics of the explosion. We had about a 10 minute presentation and Steve tipped her about 10 euros for her help. We then decided to walk the rim which took us about another 20 minutes. Let me tell you we went at the perfect time. According to Lorenza, the previous week was SUPER HOT for the region. The entire time we were on Mt. Vesuvius it was rather cool and overcast. Perfect weather for hiking and tailor made for Steve. Otherwise, he would have been miserable. As we were leaving the mountain, the sun came out.
We then headed to Heculaneum where our guide told us that while Pompeii has been 90% excavated, Herculaneum has only been about 20% excavated. It is basically at a standstill as there are currently apartments and flats built over much of Herculaneum. We saw some burnt wood steps and wooden beams that managed to survive due to the way it was buried. While Pompeii was buried in about 7-10 meters of ash and pumice stone, Herculaneum was buried in 20 meters of hard molten lave which then harden into almost hard rock. This is the reason that Herculaneum is much better preserved than Pompeii. Herculaneum had about 4000 inhabitants and was mainly used as a villa for the rich and famous. More of a resort area for wealthy. By the time we finished with Herculaneum it was pretty much 4:30 and everyone was ready to go home. On the way, we made a quick stop at the cameo shop which is where we found that the word cameo actually means engraving as in engraving a cameo. We also found out that those cameos are made of seashells, brown, pink abalone and some other kinds. We got back to the ship and paid off our impromptu guide and the driver. All in all, I would highly recommend doing this port on your own. While a full day, we got back to the ship by 5 :15 and we managed to take a shower and relax before we left at 7:30. BTW, I found out later that the ship ended up leaving behind 3 persons who were not on ship at departure time so they are not kidding!
By the time dinner came around, I was dead tired and very goofy. I felt like I was high and my head was floating. I was totally exhausted and managed a fine version of the Cabo crawl back to my stateroom. And think, I didn’t even drink. I crawled into bed after brushing my teeth, realized that my mom had called and wanted to speak to us, I sent my apologies and laid my head down and viola! That is the last I remember until 3 am the next day. So my adventures continue on Wednesday in Olbia, Sardinia.
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