Tuesday, April 22, 2008 (Personal)
Bermuda
What a surprise. I thought Bermuda was much like the rest of the Caribbean islands. I had always envisioned it as a tropical island with beaches and beach babes and all of those trappings. Not so! It is in a temperate zone so there are deciduous trees, some tropical vegetation, and a mild climate. It wasn’t too hot for me, which says a ton.
When you approach the island the first impression is that of houses in pastel colors, all with white roofs. The whole environment is neat and orderly, no trash, very British. We were late getting off because there were yet again several disembarkations of injured or sick passengers. We had about 1-1/2 hours, but also had to do some shopping for the ship. They had run out of backup discs for the ship’s medical records. They have had over twice the expected patients, so they had used up all of their supply. The first several streets in this little town are all lined with very upscale shops, so we had to find someone to direct us to the techie part of town. In addition, I had just run out of chocolate, so there HAD to be a quick stop at a grocery store to a new supply.
Then we took off for some parks and walking. There are multiple smaller parks that have cute little nooks and crannies, beautiful flowers, pools, fountains, and a cool breeze. Carter loved the simple displays and even I could hear all of the birds in the parks. I didn’t start sneezing uncontrollably here as I did in the Black Sea area, so most of the initial blooming must be over. Then back to stand in line for the tender to take us back to the ship. There were only 4 tenders for the entire day, so we didn’t dare miss the last one back. It ended up that we had to stand in line for almost an hour because the tender was later than anticipated. Some smart people went to a bar overlooking the ferry terminal and sat in peace, sipping wine while we sweat in the sunlight.
One more day until NYC and disappointingly, none of the crew will be let off in New York. I guess they have trouble with crew disappearing into New York and because of all the security and immigration worries we are all confined to the ship. Why would I want to escape into NYC? This is my own country. I guess they had to make a blanket rule and since we are crew, we must follow.
Our surprise entertainers for the last segment of the cruise have been the Osmond brothers. They have been fun to have on board – and as all the entertainment staff says, “They are nice!” Most entertainers of their stature bring along all sorts of “keepers” and refuse to even speak with any of the passengers or crew. These guys just blend right in. Their show was oh, so polished, almost effortless. You can tell they have been performing for a long time. One of the Osmonds brought along his son – must be around 13-15. He is very polite, but more into his iPod that anything else. Carter has gotten to know them socially and is enjoying them.
Well, I am thinking of packing. I think we have shocked most of the passengers because they brought up to 12 suitcases each – and we feel like peasants because we only brought 2 each. Granted, I haven’t had a different handbag for each formal dinner, but I haven’t been an embarrassment, I hope. Carter keeps saying that they will change uniforms again, back to the whites, so I don’t dare pack his stuff until we figure out when that will happen.
Labels: Personal
April 18, 2008 (Personal)
At Sea in the Atlantic
Well, it is not smooth sailing, but it isn’t unreasonable. We are in what is termed “moderate seas” which means about 5-7.5 ft waves. I think they speed up at night when they figure everyone is in bed and we can take the bumping more. We are undergoing an hour time change every day for 4 days in a row. That makes our days longer, but it also seems to get people up much earlier. Usually when I work on the computer in the morning between 6 and 7 am I am the only person awake – maybe one or two regulars. This morning, there were multiple people who wanted to talk. Luckily, I hadn’t signed onto the internet yet, so I sat and listened. Then once I was on-line I just ignored all who passed. Each minute costs money, so I try to be efficient.
Before we came I had told Carter that I needed internet access or I wouldn’t be able to come with him. I was assured that it would be no problem. After the first week or so, it has been fine, until yesterday and his computer refused all internet access. It seems there have been some computer system changes in the office in Seattle, and his computer was simply shut out. So, I am back to using my computer and paying per minute. I have to use my computer for the on-line banking and other duties, so that isn’t too much of a strain and I can work off-line for all of the letters and blog things, but my work is another story. Luckily, I am not working for the weekend, so I am ok for the next 3 days. I hope they get it fixed.
I finally figured out where the smell of blueberry muffins is coming from. Several days ago I saw a slivered almond on the floor in the stairwell. I then saw another and started following it up the stairwell. The stairs go up to the Crow’s Nest, the highest part of the ship, a bar, but also the place where they have afternoon tea. Now I get it. The stairwell is where they store the goodies before they serve tea. It also explains the occasional smell of coffee and the fact that it isn’t always smelling of blueberries, but sometimes even almonds or lemons. Mystery solved.
Labels: Personal
April 14, 2008 (Personal)
Lisbon, Portugal
Carter and I went our separate ways again today. I was assigned to escort a tour called Lisbon Highlights. Carter struck out on his own. My tour tended up being fantastic, other than the fact that there were 42 other people on the bus and it took more time to empty and load the bus than it took at each stop. I got a ton of history, saw many sights and felt good about my stay in Lisbon. Carter took the hop on/hop off bus, then found a quaint restaurant and was able to eat a true Portugese meal. Of course, he has photos of it and said it was amazing. The fish was fresh, the veggies pristine. Who could ask for more.
Carter took 149 photos and posted about 25 on the blog. I took about 50 (many for me) and posted 6. We loved the different sidewalk designs that are so Portugese, and were amazed at the varying architecture. There were the very old buildings from the 1500’s and then totally modern office buildings and malls. There were quaint areas of town, with the squares and statues of old, but then very functional apartment buildings. And they were biting the bullet and building a huge light rail system. It was a mess and traffic was at a standstill many times, but they know it will get better.
The favorite story was that in the Palace there is a man who feeds all of the stray cats. He has a following of about 30-40 and he plays the flute prior to feeding them. He walks around the castle, playing his flute and all the cats follow him. It was quite a sight. There are also a flock of peacocks in the castle. Whenever they are laying, there is a special place set aside for them. When questioned if the cats bothered the eggs or the baby peacocks the answer was, “No, the peacocks chase the cats away, so they never bother the birds.”
April 16, 2008
Funchal, Madeira, Portugal
It was strange, but it felt almost as if we were coming home when we docked here. We were here 2 years ago, had a wonderful time, and today was similar. The weather was my kind of weather. It was a high of about 62, a few clouds, a little breeze. Perfect! The white houses with their red tile roofs, the banana trees, flowers everywhere and volcanic mountains. Someone was comparing Madeira with Santorini and although there are similarities with the volcanic islands, these are lush and green, while Santorini was dry and a little dusty.
We were late getting off the ship, so we ran to the shuttle bus which took us to town, then had a plan to go see the Botanical Gardens way up on the top of the mountain. Little did we know how difficult it was to get to. First we had to ride a funicular for about 25 minutes to the top of the mountain (definitely, not my favorite activity. I just sat looking up the hill, holding onto the seat.). Then we had to walk a ways downhill to another funicular which took us down the hill about ½ way. This one was much slower and took us over beautiful green areas with waterfalls and streams all thru it. Once we got off we walked to the park entrance, only to find out that we had to pay again for admission to the Gardens. We thought the 2nd funicular fee was the garden fee as well. So, we had spent all of our Euros and they didn’t take credit cards, so we went to the shops, browsed and started the trek back to the ship. It was the day of the funiculars.
Now we head back to the States across the Atlantic. Hope it isn’t too bumpy.
Labels: Personal
At Sea in the Mediterranean (Personal)
April 12, 2008
Our ship is able to desalinate the sea water, but it takes a moderate amount of energy, work, etc, so when the ship is able they will take on water at the ports that have “safe” water. As you can expect, most of the Asia ports were not acceptable, so the water had to be made as we cruised along. They can only desalinate while we are moving, so when we are in a port for a day or two, we have to store up the water ahead of time, necessitating several days between ports.
As I wrote the last time, we ended up in Malta early. I’m not sure if it was planned, but we took on water the first night we were there. They usually sequester that water until it has been tested, then release it to the general ship’s water supply. The evening we left Malta I thought the water in our room was a little strange tasting, but it seemed better when it was hot or extremely cold. I knew they wouldn’t give us anything unhealthy. By the next day, many of the passengers were truly upset. One woman thought she was being poisoned, others were complaining because they couldn’t get any lather when they shampooed their hair, and I must admit, the taste was even stronger than the night before.
Then like magic, the water supply has returned to normal. There is no taste and the uproar has subsided. I felt sorry for the environmental officer because he was one of those poor souls on the tender bouncing around as he embarked in Split. I would have needed more than a day or two to recover from that.
Our speakers have been wonderful this segment. They are history professors. One from Oxford/Vancouver and the other from U of WA. They have been able to take us from one empire to another and make some sense of the European history. The prof from U of WA even explained the natural history of the European Union, how it truly started right after WWII and had evolved slowly. He was able to explain it as an American, but kept warning us that much of what they are doing is totally an experiment – not anything that we can compare with our own experience. Many times the newscasters try to relate their structure to the US Congress, etc., but he showed how that isn’t correct.
Gibraltar tomorrow. I am escorting a tour which sounds short and low key. Carter is staying on the ship for most of the time.
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Gibraltar
Carter and I went our separate ways today as I had an escort job and he went out on his own. I went in a 22 person bus (They can’t use anything bigger because of the limited road space here.), and Carter took off walking. I didn’t realize how small this country is – only 2.5 square miles – and it is considered one of the most densely populated places in the world. They are continually reclaiming land and building out. They have exhausted most of the building into the hillside and are now up against rock.
We did the usual visiting the viewpoint where you can see Spain, the Straits of Gibraltar and Africa, then up to the top where there are miles of underground roads, a huge limestone cave, then down to see the monkeys. We were told over and over not to mess with the monkeys because, after all, they are wild animals. Of course, one passenger got bit – and it was on my tour! These monkeys are treated like gold because there is a legend that if the monkeys leave, the British will have to leave, so Winston Churchill passed some ordinance that protects the monkeys. Even one of the human hospitals has a special ward just for the monkeys. They are all give rabies shots and given physicals yearly. So for once, there was no worry about obtaining the rabies shots for the passenger.
Carter decided to go to the Botanical Gardens, walking about 5-6 miles at a rapid pace. He went thru the center of town which is a stone-bordered city, mainly pedestrian streets, shopping and historical sites. He even took the tram up to the top – which would have done me in. I found that when we were driving up one lane roads to the top of the Rock, I had to look the other direction. It was just plain too scary. If you took at the photos, you can tell that Carter spent quite a long time in the Gardens. He had a hay day.
The ship left this port by 3pm, which is very early by ship’s standards. Unfortunately, several people missed the ship and will have to join us in Lisbon tomorrow. This ship waits for only those who are on their sponsored tours. Woe to those who go on their own and are late.
Labels: Personal
April 8th, 2008 (Personal)
Split, Croatia was a bust. It was starting to get a little rough as we got into the later evening last night and by this morning the waves looked worrisome. It wasn’t that rough on board because of the direction of the wind and the way the Captain had placed the ship, but after only a few minutes of watching those poor tenders go to shore, I knew we weren’t going to get off here.
So, some entertainers and crew were disembarked, other crew picked up and those two tenders rocked and rolled their way back to the ship. I couldn’t figure out what was taking so long, but as I watched the water fly over the top of the tenders, then they were jostled from side to side, I got the picture. Thank goodness I wasn’t on board them. If I had been one of those entertainers, I would have had to call in sick, for sure.
Just some funny happenings from Venice that I remembered too late to add in the correct place. I just love the Italians and their attitude. The port agent came on and told the medical team that since it was Sunday on the first day we were there, they should keep the patients who needed consults on board. She said that the Italians work better if they are under pressure, so if we waited until Monday and were leaving Monday, we would get better service – and it worked!
Also, Venice was an important port for picking up supplies. There were truckloads of stuff. And not one thing was taken off the containers until Monday morning. It was all accounted for, but I was worried.
April 10, 2008
Valletta, Malta
We got to Malta about 12 hours earlier than intended. Carter had a patient who needed to get to the hospital quickly, so the Captain had extra time due to the skipping of Split, so he sped up and we landed here at 5pm. The ambulance people were so efficient, it was a little mind-boggling. Within 15 minutes of docking, I heard the ambulance siren going and the patient was off to the hospital. That would never happen in India! The other thing that was remarkably efficient was the rapidity with which the restaurants in Malta opened up and were serving food. This is still not their high season, so most of them were closed as we came into the harbor, but once there was word that the ship was docking early, lights started to come on and food was cooking. Carter and I stayed on board last night because we had been here before, so the rest of the crew took off.
Then today, after clinic, Carter and I walked to the top of the fortified hill, bought some bread and water and took a 3 hour hop on, hop off bus around the north part of the island. Most people go to the south part, but we wanted to see all the sights that our friends Freddie and Steve experienced during their week-long stay here several years ago. Carter took over 200 photos. The one smell and sight that I will always remember was a lady feeding about 6 homeless cats right there on the steps leading up to the main cathedral in town. She didn’t pet any of the cats, probably because they were feral, but she spoke to them very lovingly. The cats were happy.
I’m beginning to realize that we have only a little time until we return to real life. Back to cooking, making my own bed, washing the bathroom. And then to do taxes, fix my checkbook after 4 months. This is depressing to consider. I’ll just have to enjoy the last 2 weeks and remember how nice it has been.
Labels: Personal
April 7, 2008 (Personal)
Venice, Italy
We only have about an hour more of being docked in Venice and then off to see Split, Croatia. We have had great fun in Venice and can’t figure out why we have missed this city for so many years. Carter thought he might have been here in the early 70’s, but now is sure he wasn’t. I don’t see how anyone could forget it. The canals, the boats, the windy little pedestrian streets. And the sonorous Italian spoken with such emotion.
Even though there were tons of boats, I will probably remember our stay here as one of walking. We started out taking a water taxi from the pier to St. Mark’s Cathedral and then walking thru the windy streets back to the ship. We knew we were in need of a map, so stopped at a tourist bureau and bought one. We decided to use their facilities – shocked to find out it cost 1 euro ($1.50), so from then on we limited our fluid intake a little more than usual. We wandered, with some direction along the Grand Canal, stopping to read our guide book for information on all these ancient churches, leaning towers and sites we have seen in books for years. After about 3 hours we were close to the ship, but unable to figure out how to walk to the pier.
Since we needed help, we decided to go to the tourist bureau again. This time it wasn’t so helpful. The lady there spoke Italian very loudly and slowly, thinking something might sink in…..We thought we understood, but soon it became obvious we were going away from the ship, not towards it. We could SEE it! We finally ended up in a little hole-in-the-wall shop and I recognized a crew member. I asked him how to get back to the ship and he looked at me as though I were crazy. I tried to explain that we had taken the water taxi, not walked, away from the ship. Ok, Ok, he now understood and gave us good directions. We were ready to put our feet up for a few minutes and drink a glass of water.
Today was similar, except we knew how to get back. We took off after clinic and went to the Jewish Ghetto. I had read about this in so many books, so was glad to finally put a face to it. It wasn’t all that Ghetto-esque, but it was separated from the rest of the city. We found a nice restaurant there and were able to eat in that part of town for about ½ the price of the area around St. Mark’s. And the food was great. I do like Italian food. We didn’t have time to take the water bus to Murano, the glass island, but that is on my list for next time. I am sure we will be back here.
Of note, Carter dyed my hair several days ago. I need to brag that he did a great job. Nothing like having an internist color your hair. He got every strand. I had another woman who had agreed to help me, but I couldn’t find her for several days and realized that I was desperate. Carter was very nervous and even called me while he was in clinic to make sure that my hair wasn’t purple or falling out. He could have a new career, if he needs one.
Labels: Personal
April 4, 2008 (Personal)
Santorini, Greece
What a beautiful place! We had to be tendered into shore, and during the entire ride, we were discussing how we would get from the shore, up to the top of this cliff. There were 3 options. We could take the funicular, ride a donkey, or walk. I don’t particularly like heights, so I thought long and hard about the funicular – it won my vote. The donkey was out because I didn’t want to smell like a donkey at the end of the ride, and the walk seemed more inviting on the way down than up. It was totally evident that Carter voted for the walk up – it was free! We finally agreed to walk, with the understanding that I would be slow and he couldn’t complain.
It took about 45 minutes, but we made it. As we reached the top, there was a pleasant breeze, the views were spectacular and I had the reassuring thought that I didn’t have to go to the gym in the later afternoon. I had done my lunges for weeks! Too bad I didn’t wear my workout clothes. These were drenched.
Once on top, we walked around, viewing the sites. Most of the buildings are white with white or blue roofs so they stand out against the island cliffs. We even found an archeological dig that has been going on since 1967. It found a site from 1500BC that was covered with pumice, looking as though an entire civilization had evacuated prior to a volcanic eruption. There were no bones or jewels left, but much furniture and daily items. One geologist said that this may have been Atlantis.
We then stopped at a local restaurant and ate heartily. Carter had a Greek sampler and I had a gyros, so we were sated. We didn’t have nearly enough time here, and had to rush to the funicular to go down (I closed my eyes) and take the tender back to the ship. This is a place we would love to come back to for a week or so. Too much to explore. The only drawback is that the dollar is so weak and the euro is gaining like mad. For $100 we only get 60Euros. Pretty sad.
Labels: Personal
April 1, 2008 (Personal)
Sochi, Russia
The ship offers the crew an opportunity to act as escorts on many of the shore excursions. It is free to us, but we are assigned to whatever tour they choose. Some people end up going on the same tour year after year and others luck out. Well, I had not wanted to go on any of the tours in the “hot” ports, plus Carter and I have enjoyed exploring on our own after clinic. It seemed to get into a pattern of his doing the clinics in the morning and then not getting off until after 2pm. Well, I have the option to choose morning only tours, so that is what I am doing now.
When we first heard about Sochi, Russia we were told that no one could go off the ship unless they were on a tour or had a visa for Russia, so I thought now was a good time to escort a tour. I signed up and lo’ and behold, they put me on a tea plantation tour. I guess there were 2 different locations for this Russian tea party and I drew the lesser of the two. But no complaints. I got off the ship!
The tours were all late getting started because of the immigration. It went on forever. They must have spent 5 minutes on my passport alone. Just think of getting 1200 passengers off the ship, onto tenders and then on their buses. Once everyone was on the bus, we were told that we were going to have to cut the tours short because our ship was too slow…….Several of the tours were to see specific houses as their last stop. The tour guides all read from a script and if they didn’t have time for the house, they just returned to the ship.
It was a rainy, foggy day and cold besides. I had brought along my down vest and had a wind-breaker/rain coat, so I was fine. Others were not so lucky. It ended up that our Tea Party was totally outside, although it was covered for the time we were drinking tea. The wind was relentless and most of the people had dressed so poorly that they began to get chilled. We had a woman who was almost blind, three or four with canes and several with walkers. Three or so were not able to do the minimal walking that was required from the bus to the site. The pavement was uneven, muddy and there were huge holes intermittently in the sidewalks. Not ideal for these with disabilities. Then the bus fogged up all the tour and the guide had painful English. She really had troubles with the numbers, like 1856. You could see that she was counting from one to 18, then just plain said 5 and 6, rather than 56.
The adventure occurred when we were driving out of the mountains back to the ship. We were stopped by the police right in front of the residence where Bush and Putin will be meeting in a few days. They didn’t inspect our documents, but took the driver into their patrol cars and examined multiple documents he had – keeping a blue notebook full of papers. I think they were just practicing for the international visit.
The ubiquitous feeling after this tour and most of the other ones was that Sochi has a long way to go for the Olympics. They roads are 2 lane and circuitous. They have no signs in any language other than Russian, no souvenir shops, postcards, anything. They have a few hotels and spas, but no where enough places to house the millions of guests who come for the Olympics. And they need good translators and some way to speed up their immigration situation. It was laborious.
April 2, 2008
Sevastopol, Ukraine
Late last night I received a phone call asking me to escort a tour along the Crimean Peninsula to Bakalava, exploring the Crimean War sites and the hidden submarine work yards of the Soviets. This was an all day tour, so I wasn’t sure I should do it. Carter would be left on his own. Never fear! Within hours Carter had been given a ticket to go on a tour of Yalta to Nicholas II’s summer palace. I tried to convince Carter that he would prefer the submarines (in reality, I thought the palace was better than the submarines), but he wouldn’t be deterred.
In the end, we were both pleased with our trips and had tons of history to share, as well as tales of our fellow visitors. The funniest comparisons were the toilet stories. I was on a tour that cost $109 for each person and the tour operators insisted on charging us 50 cents to go to the toilet. My groups was aghast to have the 2 footprints and a hole toilet. The paper was on the wall before entering the stall. At least it had toilet paper. I just rolled my pants up and took care of business in the first place. I didn’t want to be riding the bus for 2 hours in discomfort. Our next potty stop was Western and you should have seen the apprehensive looks prior to use. They sent me in first to check it out. They were relieved to find that this was more to their liking.
Carter’s situation was funny because it was in the middle of a VERY nice restaurant. Something went wrong with the women’s toilet, so they decided to use the men’s for both. There were 3 urinals and 3 stalls, so they told the women not to look and ushered them into the stalls, while the men were on the other side of the bathroom doing their thing. Everyone was embarrassed.
Check out the photos of the tours. Carter got to see the room and table where Churchill, Roosevelt and Stalin met in Yalta, as well as the opulence of the Palace. He had a long ride to Yalta (about 2 hours), but at the end was rewarded with a fantastic lunch and entertainment by local artisans. I got to go in some secret underground tunnels for Soviet submarines as well as see the site of the Valley of Death. I had some rather unruly passengers and felt somewhat like a teacher of smaller children. Two of the men started to yell at each other during one of the presentations. It was an argument over battle tactics – which I know nothing about. But I do understand basic courtesy, so I had to get between them. I think they got the point and it got quieter.
Labels: Personal
March 30, 2008 (Personal)
Istanbul
Our second day in Istanbul was not exactly as expected, but it was certainly interesting. This was the day that the CEO of Holland America arrived, along with his entourage, to celebrate the 50th World Cruise. The company had planned a party for all 1200 guests, as well as about 250 staff at one of the ancient Cisterns. It was quite a venue to begin with, but the entire party was over the top. There were enough seats for all of the guests, 3 stages, 3 bars, enough Turkish food to feed more than 1500 people, wait-staff everywhere, and even some Gyros preparers on the spot. We had decided not to eat dinner, which was a great idea.
Once we got to the venue, we were walked around the place, told about the coat check, the bathrooms, the bars. Everything anyone might want to know. Then there were 37 buses scheduled to arrive with about 35 people in each one. They asked for helpers to assist the people disembark, so I volunteered. Carter had disappeared and I wanted to keep busy. Well, this ended up being more of a job than I anticipated. The Cisterns weren’t built to be handicapped accessible, so first the guests had to get off the buses, walk across a cobblestone street, up a ramp, then down another ramp. There truly wasn’t much walking and the inclines were minimal – but they were a challenge to more than one person. So many of these people just don’t look down!!! We only had one man fall, coming in, and that was on the cobblestones. He got his cane caught between stones.
We wandered around the party most of the night, watching the entertainment, but Carter was especially anxious to see the belly dancers. He got a great seat right in front of the stage, but – just his luck – there was an accident with two guests who had decided to leave early, so he had to leave and go help them out. He totally missed all of the belly dancing! After this was over, the fun began because everyone seemed to want to leave at the same time. The lighting at the entrance was minimal, so Carter and I again stood next to the ramps and steps, trying to minimize accidents. By the time everyone left, they were under the influence, so their walking was in even worse shape.
We returned to the ship to a huge Chocolate Extravaganza – see Carter’s photos. But in anticipation of problems during the night and an extra heavy clinic tomorrow, we went to bed early.
March 31, 2008
At Sea – in the Black Sea
One note I forgot about Istanbul. The toilets. Carter and I ate as some nice places and at one of them he used the restroom before I did. He came back to our table with a wet left leg. He wasn’t sure how to flush the toilet because they had some metal plates on the wall, but also a handle closer to the floor. He decided to try the handle and gave it a twist. Nothing happened, so he truly opened it up. Well, water spewed forth, all over the floor and his left leg. It was sort of like a bidet, I guess. Surprise, surprise.
Labels: Personal
March 30, 2008 (Personal)
Istanbul
Now I understand why everyone loves Istanbul. This place seems to have the good of both the east and the west. The people are friendly; of course, always willing to sell you something “at a good price”, but if you show no interest, they move on. The hassle factor is minimal. Many of the alleyways remind me of Greece, the laundry hanging across the alley, up floor after floor remind me of Hong Kong, and there are always the Indian fake-watch vendors. There are the frequent calls to worship from the mosques, the women in burkahs, but also women in western dress. Truly a melting pot.
We decided to take a tour of the city in one of the open-air buses. It was fun because no one on the bus spoke English. All the tourists were speaking languages we couldn’t identify, but we nodded, took each others pictures, and pantomimed a lot. It was a chilly day, and despite layers of clothes, the open air became unpleasant. We sat on the top for the first 95 minutes and spent the last 10 minutes on the lower level. I have never seen so many mosques in my life, nor so many police. There was a police convention at the arena and there were flashing lights and uniforms everywhere.
Afterwards, we were dropped off right in front of the Blue Mosque, but rather than go for a visit right away, we wanted something hot to drink. So we went to a restaurant close by. We thought we would sit on the first level, but they encouraged us to climb some spiral stairs to the next level. I even sat down, but when they heard we were only going to get something to drink, they showed us the up stairs again. The next level was only a bathroom and office level, then up more stairs and we were at the top. This place was like a Vietnamese house. Many levels but really skinny. There was room for only about 6 tables across the front of the restaurant and many 4 behind them. Then you ran into the wall.
Carter asked the waitress for the favorite dish, she gave some ideas and we just pointed to an unknown item. When it arrived it was covered with red sauce which make me a little weary, but it was fantastic. It had beef, tomatoes, a huge pepper and yoghurt. Since we had already eaten lunch, we didn’t need this, but it was great. Then, of course, we had to have dessert and had rice pudding covered with crushed pistachios. Carter and the waitress got into quite a conversation – she wanting to come to the US to perfect her English. She has a job at the Grand Canyon for the summer and needed encouragement.
Then off to the sites, but we got side tracked to a carpet dealership. I could see it coming. Carter wanted to have this experience, so off we went, going thru the ritual of tea drinking, bargaining after looking at a zillion carpets. The last thing we need is another carpet, but we have 2! I’m sure they thought I was a grouch because I just sat there. At least I was sitting down for this time. They have promised that it will be sent, even gave us the tracking number. We shall see.
We then visited some of the major sites and then back to the ship so the others could go off for the evening. I don’t know how much more time we can have off since we have a huge party tonight at the Cisterns. The head of the company for Holland America is arriving, since this is the 50th anniversary of Holland America. I think we have to be there for this entire reception, as well as more receptions tomorrow.
Turkey just went to daylight savings time and we didn’t quite make it. Carter was still sleeping when clinic started. We don’t get the same warning that the passengers do about the time changes……I figured something was going on this morning when all the doors were slamming around 6:30am. This just seemed too early. Usually I am the only one up. I became curious and several minutes later when down the stairs and asked a passenger what time it was. She told me 8am. Yikes! Quick run to wake up Carter. I ran to the Lido and got him some breakfast, then started the rest of my day. Tomorrow is another time change as we head toward Sochi, Russia.
Labels: Personal
March 27, 2008 (Personal)
Our trip thru the Suez Canal was warm, but not hot. It was amazing to notice the amount a growth in civilization that has occurred in only 2 years. The unending sand is overwhelming. It just seems as though it would be so difficult to just live there.
Today was spent in Alexandria, Egypt and busses of passengers took off for Cairo. Carter and I stayed back since we have been there before. Debbie and one of the nurses took off locally to do some shopping and after they returned we decided to walk to the new library. Debbie and Carole Anne spent most of their time at the Souks buying almost everything Alexandria had to offer. They are both young and setting up their households, so it was fun to see. We don’t need anything new in our house!
Two years ago I had walked to the library with another passenger. I had been trying to keep up with him, so missed most of the scenery. This time I actually was able to lead Carter correctly and enjoy the sights. Their sidewalks were in poor repair, loaded with refuse – but interestingly there are never any bottles or cans on the street. There must be a recycle program that has an incentive to collect these items. The library is about 2 miles away and the curbs are of varying heights, so it was like lunges all the way there and back. We always seemed to have some horse and buggy vendor following us around, badgering us to take a ride. As we kept walking, the price seemed to float down.
The women 2 years ago were about 60% in burkahs. Today they were about 90% in burkahs. Maybe this is a warning that Egypt is going from a secular nation, more toward an Islamic nation. I think we should all take note. In the library itself, the female staff were all without head scarves, but almost all of the patrons wore them. Those women who were the most covered – head to toe and even gloves – all had on the most ornate and gorgeous heels. I guess they have to express themselves somehow. They also wore such heavy make-up on their eyes. This was the first time I saw glasses perched outside the veils. I certainly would have to do that. I can’t see the ground without my glasses.
March 28, 2008
The ship has officially changed into cold water clothing. All the officers changed from whites to blues. Now I can’t find Carter as easily is a crowded space. This was a big deal and the coordination was worried about for days. To begin with Carter hadn’t gotten the whole information about this changeover, so he didn’t have white shirts, ties, the correct socks, shoes, etc. We could have bought it all in Hong Kong, but were in trouble here. The last cruise Carter didn’t get blue uniforms because they ran out of fabric, so he just wore a suit. Luckily, Debbie and Carole Anne (the crew doc and one of the nurses), took measurements of Carter and happily went shopping. Thank goodness!! They came back with some of the most gorgeous Egyptian cotton shirts I have ever seen. And they fit beautifully!
Just a quick note of grumbling on my part about some of these passengers. We were invited to have dinner with a woman in the dining room. We were seated at her table in the dining room and we had assumed it was a private dinner. Well, one man came up to us right in the middle of dinner and wanted to discuss his prostate. I thought that was rude! I didn’t want to hear all the sordid details of his ailments and I am most certain that this lady didn’t either. I’m sure these symptoms have been going on for a while, and he could have waited until after dinner. I think he just wanted a free consult. Ok, now I’m done complaining.
Istanbul next. I am almost finished with all my chocolate. Now on to Turkish delight. It looks cool and a little rainy.
Labels: Personal
March 25, 2008
Red Sea, entrance to the Suez Canal, anchored (Personal)
I must gloat. We have met some Duke fans, very nice people, but they aren’t talking too much right now due to the NCAA basketball tournament. I think this is why this tournament is so much fun – it is totally unpredictable. Georgetown lost too. I can only cross my fingers for UNC.
We survived the Captain’s dinner, of course. This time I was seated between a retired commander in the Navy (almost 90 years old) and his wife (the same age) and on the other side a man who was a tool maker from Chicago, in his 70’s and an ex-table tennis champion. The older couple were both close to deaf, but wanted to talk. The other guy and his wife were very difficult to get going and didn’t want to participate in any conversation the older couple was involved in. Carter said afterwards that I was being rather loud and clear. He was 20 people away and heard every word. Well, I did try speaking softly, then medium volume, but just got blank stares. They when the older couple realized I was asking them questions, they leaned forward and I put out the volume. At one point both he and she leaned forward and he obscured her view of my lips, so she just swatted him with the back of her hand. I’m sure I registered shock on my face. He just shrugged and moved back. Must be a common occurrence.
Carter, on the other hand, was seated between 2 single women, neither of whom wanted much of their dinners. So, not wanting to waste good food, Carter managed to down at least 2 full meals. Surprise, surprise, he had the rumblies the next day. Anyone who eats 2-1/2 fillet mingons (sp) should have a digestive problem. Thanks goodness, he is back to normal, after a regular diet for a day or so.
We spent the day yesterday in a place called Safaga, Egypt. It is the coast town directly east of Luxor. 500 people from the ship piled onto buses to make the 3 hour bus ride to Luxor. They visited the town and the Valley of the Kings, as well as watching the light show at Karnak. I watched the buses leave, each with its own police escort. Honestly, I have never seen so many guns in one place. This place is sandy, mountainous – but no trees on the mountains – just sand, and hot and dry. I remember it only too well from 30 years ago.
I was on the bicycle in the gym this afternoon and got a full report from a very talkative passenger. I guess the tour was 16 hours long, hot and exhausting. At the same time he was in awe of the history he witnessed. As he described the crowds, the packed viewing of the tombs, and the short time he had for viewing due to the number of tourists. I think back on our trip year ago and realize how lucky we were. We had rented bicycles and drove out to the Valley of the Kings. We didn’t even have to lock up the bikes because there were so few people. I remember a guard here and there, but few guns and maybe 3-4 other people in the tombs or viewing the monuments. We were blessed and could take all the time in the world.
March 26, 2008 (Personal)
Suez Canal
Yesterday the Suez Canal entrance was gloomy, almost as if we were in the middle of an impending rain storm. Of course, there was no rain. I couldn’t tell if it was smog, or what. Today is more clear and starting to get hot. The entire environment looks like the pictures in the children’s Bibles – stone block houses surrounded by desert. There is a thin strip of green that has intermittent irrigation ditches. And of course, there are the ubiquitous soldiers with their guns. These make me nervous, not reassured that I am safe.
We were having dinner with another couple and they are devout Catholics. They told us a funny story about the priest. I guess one of the first Masses they went to, he looked around the room and said, “Looking at the age of the people in the room, I have decided to just go ahead and give you all the last rites now, as a group.” The woman was surprised, but she seemed to accept it rather well. She thought it made sense.
The ship is like a little town with unending rumors. Last night as we were waiting to see the show a woman came up to me and said, “Bob is dead again.” Bob is her husband. I thought I was having one of my hard-of-hearing moments and asked her to repeat herself. She said the same thing again. I must have had a totally confused look on my face, so she said, “I guess the rumor is going around that Bob is dead again.” Then I got it. About a month ago, it was reported that this man had died – so here we go again. Her husband found out who started the rumor and thought it was funny to go to his room and show himself. She was laughing and said he would have to have another resurrection moment. They are both Jewish.
Bert, the food and beverage manager, did a Marathon in Safaga because he had said he always dreamed of running in the desert. Cindy, the lead nurse, went along with his wife in a rented car as medical support. She had IV’s, and AED, tons of water, Gatorade, etc. They drove out into the desert and then turned around and he ran back. He said this was the easiest Marathon he has ever run (he has run 200 of them!) because of all of the fluids, glucose and attention. When he entered the port area, he didn’t even look winded. When all was said and done and Carter had checked him out, he had gained about 2 pounds – all that extra fluid. He was doing this run to support the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation and managed to raise over $5,000. The ship put out an arch of pink balloons at the finish line, as well as served pink lemonade to all those who helped and/or watched. The funny thing was that there was a group of passengers and crew who decided to ride bicycles along side him for the last 10 or so kilometers. Unfortunately, they got the wrong directions and rode for 10 kilometers in the 110 degree heat before they figured out that they were not in the correct place.
Some passengers saw something on CNN that the US had bombed somewhere along the Suez Canal. I didn’t hear this and certainly there has been no mention on board. We shall see……
Labels: Personal
March 22, 2008
Getting toward the Red Sea (Personal)
As expected, our visit to Oman didn’t go as planned. Carter ended up having to take 3 people to the hospital. One was crew and he stayed there for some surgery. The other 2 were cardiac patients and Carter was going to deliver them to the cardiologist and return to the ship. Well, it took forever just to get off the ship. Everyone was ready and waiting by 7:30am, but they didn’t even get off the ship until after 10:00am. By this time, it was getting way too hot for me, so I bagged the visit and did stuff on the ship. Carter didn’t return until after 3pm that afternoon.
It ended up that it was Mohammed’s birthday, so everything was closed for a 4 day weekend. The cardiologist had agreed to come in on his day off and see Carter’s two patients. The way things work in Oman is that you pay for everything before you get it. So the consult had to be paid for, then the echo, then the EKG’s and so on. And they wanted cash only, no credit cards. Carter had made sure that he had the port agent’s number, so he was able to call him whenever another payment needed to be made. This whole process took hours, so naturally, they all got hungry and thirsty. Carter asked the port agent to go get them something to snack on (no idea what Omani’s snack on) and something to drink. The Port Agent returned with orange juice and Pepsi to drink and then his snack food was the Arabic equivalent of Twinkies. Carter was aghast!
At the end, the total for all of the tests, plus the 2 consults was less than $500. And this was on a vacation day for the doctor. Good price by our standards.
Some of the nurses and passengers had great stories after their visit here. Most of them saw wild camels, and some even feasted on camel meat. The people were most friendly and most wanted to discuss politics. With the language barrier, this was difficult, but they certainly weren’t happy with our foreign policy and wanted to know how the general public felt. Some awkward moments.
We got invited to another Captain’s dinner. Why me? It must be Carter’s electric personality.
Labels: Personal
March 19, 2008
In the Arabian Sea (Personal)
As we settle into “at sea” time there is a sense of peace on the ship. I think all the ports of call are stressful for people. There is added stress right now because the places are so different from what we are used to. When we are at sea, life resumes a routine that is comforting. In the last 2 days I have had numerous people say they would like to skip ports and just keep sailing. I can see both sides, but I would hate to never stop anywhere. We would be true isolationists. I think I enjoy the conversations and discussions that have come forth from this trip to SE Asia and India. It truly takes people out of their (and my) comfort zone.
Yesterday the ship celebrated St. Patrick’s Day and guess who had forgotten to bring anything green. Carter had an excuse because he had to wear his uniform, but not I. We were invited to a cocktail party and were soon festooned with green necklaces, hats and tiaras. Looked a little ridiculous.
Carter and the clinic continue to be on a non-stop patient flow, so I thought we might have to miss our hosting a table last night. But never fear, he got away. This time we were placed with a table of 5 women and one man. Most of the people were from Wisconsin and the table conversation revolved around fishing and all sorts of names of fish I had never heard of. Many of them were ex-teachers, so I could make conversation about that. One older woman said she was on the cruise because her husband had Alzheimer’s and she had to use up all their money so he could be financially covered under Medicare. That made me sad and angry with our health care system.
I was perusing the table and noticed 2 containers of condiments. One I was sure was a ranch-like dressing, but the other one looked like a very soft Stove Top dressing. I asked and was told it was horseradish. The container must have had at least a medium jar’s worth of horseradish in it. We wouldn’t use that in our family in a year! Within minutes of the serving of the shrimp cocktails, the container was emptied. Of course, Carter joined in to help deplete it. The man at the table said that he has 2 shrimp cocktails every evening – and on top of that he had 4 lobster tails last night!
Do the Midwesterners eat that much horseradish?
Tomorrow we are going to Oman and have to take a man to the hospital. Carter said I can tag along and do the “site visit” forms for Holland America. Sounds interesting to me.
Labels: Personal
Tuesday, March 18, 2008 (Personal)
We left India and there was nothing further mentioned about the Yellow Fever, especially after the officials received a gift of cigarettes. Even though I consider this extortion, I have to accept that this is the way most of the world works, plus it saved about 30 crew members from getting an unknown shot.
Our eating adventures were interesting, sometimes tasty and sometimes firey! We went to a restaurant relatively close to the port - $2 by cab for 4 people. They had a tome for a menu, so we asked the waiter to order for us. He insisted on a chicken appetizer – which ended up being a leg and a thigh made with yogurt in a tanduri oven. It was excellent, but a little hefty for just an appetizer. The dishes kept coming for about 2 hours, with curries, different flavors for each dish. I had to forgo some dishes, but Carter cleaned the platters. As we were standing to watch the show that night, he and I both were in great need of Tums. The next morning there were a few rumblies, but no overt gastric distress.
Our second day in Mumbai started out on a bad foot when 2 patients came to the infirmary just at the end of clinic and both needed to be disembarked. Carter said the medical decisions were without question that these people needed further evaluation and needed to get off the ship, but the logistics of convincing them was the difficult part. One lady didn’t have cancellation insurance and didn’t want to go. I think it was a combination of no insurance and fear of the unknown. Her companion also had no cancellation insurance, so she was frustrated having to make the decision to stay on shore with her friend and lose the cruise, or stay on the ship and be alone, wondering what was happening to her friend. Not an easy decision, so she was lashing out at Carter and the rest of the ship’s staff. Carter hadn’t dealt with someone like this before, so it was rather stressful for him. The rest of the staff (front office, guest relations, etc.) dealt with it better than he.
Then we were invited to go out with the doctor who is the liaison in India for Holland America. He came to the port to pick up Carter, Cindy and me, then drove for almost an hour in impossible traffic to the restaurant. I couldn’t believe it, but they took us to a Chinese restaurant in India. At first I felt relieved because I thought I would have something milder, but no….this is a Chinese restaurant in India – so there is an Indian flavor to all of the dishes. Once I saw all those red flecks of spices on the food, I longed for my Tums. In the end, there was more than enough for me to eat, the company was fun and we learned much about the Indian culture as Carter grilled them with questions.
We drove back in milder traffic and then were handed boxes and bags of medication that Dr. Memon had bought for us. Cindy had about 10 bags which were light, but very difficult to handle. I had a box that was about my max for carrying – Kit would be proud that I have kept up my weight training. I’m only a little sore this morning. And Carter had a huge box that I could hardly lift.
Found out that the extra nurse who was sent to take off some of the pressure had visa issues and was sent back to London. Maybe she will join in Oman?
Labels: Personal
March 16, 2008
Mumbia, India (Bombay)(Personal)
Yellow Fever shots have not been mentioned so far. We aren’t asking.
The medical department has been going crazy. Even Wayne (one of the nurse’s husband) and I have been enlisted. And as the department gets busier and busier, the rumors abound. I just went upstairs for a cup of tea and was asked by the hairdressers if 7 people have actually died. I think I disappointed them when I said “only two”, and they knew about each of them. There have also been some very seriously ill people and they caused quite a bit of lost sleep for Carter and the crew. Luckily, the patients survived, even getting somewhat better, and were taken to hospital here in Mumbia. Holland America has sent another nurse to the ship to help out, thank goodness.
Our morning started with a phone call from immigration at 5:45AM requesting that Carter go down to one of the lounges to sign more paperwork and answer multiple questions posed by the officials. We had been forewarned that the summons might come early, so we were up by 5:30. It was amazing that it took so many officials to do the questioning and then each paper Carter signed had to be made with 6 copies and then inspected by another official, then stamped with an official stamp by another, then inspected by another. It was almost comical. Carter says we can thank the British for all this paperwork, just that it hasn’t changed since 1850. No Xerox here.
We were able to get a little breakfast before the next call which said the ambulance was here to take our patient. Carter had agreed to go with the patient and spouse since they were VERY weary of getting disembarked in India. Somehow or other, I was included in the transfer, which was fine with me. I was curious. Again the Indian authorities required that all passports and people be matched, along with a “landing card” which also had to be stamped, and since these people couldn’t get up to the officials, I became the messenger. By the time I had taken care of this, the crew member and passenger had been disembarked and were in their ambulances. I dashed out, handing off documents here and there and hopped in the ambulance with Carter.
Now this ambulance was something to see. There was a tank of oxygen, the gurney with the patient and a bench which the patient’s spouse, Carter, a non-English speaking assistant to someone, and I were sitting on. Other than the oxygen, it could have been a hearse. Carter was glad the patient was doing better….We did have some oxygen and IV ports available, but nothing else. Sort of scary!
At 7am on a Sunday morning, Mumbai is quiet. The air was polluted and grey, but the traffic was manageable. It took about 20 minutes until we arrived at the hospital. The poor spouse was instantly stopped, while the patient was taken upstairs with Carter. There were huge discussions among the 6 people behind the counter and finally a deposit/bill was presented for 50,000 rupis. At first the spouse balked, but I said, “divide by 35-40” and the response was a sigh. Then there was a discussion on the cost of the ambulance and after about 20 minutes the bill was presented: $8.00 equivalent.
Once in the room it was amazing how long it took just to get vitals. Usually in an ER it is finished with minutes of admission. Here it took about an hour for just the BP, temp, pulse and oxygen level. All of the items to take these measurements had to be brought into the room individually. There must not be enough to put one is each room. The one thing that did arrive instantly was the breakfast. Since the patient was essentially NPO (nothing by mouth), this was a disappointment. In general the hospital was exceptionally clean and the nurses were very attentive.
The port agent and his assistant were there and were supposed to be arranging for a hotel for the spouse. They hemmed and hawed, discussing this and that until the head nurse arrived. She understood the problem, got on the phone, made a reservation at a hotel within walking distance and even got a confirmation code. The port agent was still trying to figure out which hotel to call. I had to chuckle.
Finally the doctor arrived, the patient was assessed, Carter gave his spiel, and things began to happen. The most reassuring thing was that there was another doctor, a woman, who was hired by the cruise line to facilitate. She was wonderful and instantly took command of the situation. Her English was excellent, her medical knowledge was up to date and she was able to assist both the patient and the spouse. I was impressed. We felt the patient and spouse were being left in capable hands.
Then the port agent, his assistant, Carter and I piled into a mini-cab. I only wish I could have had a photo of Carter trying to bend his body so that his head would fit in the cab. Of course, he was relegated to the middle seat in the back and honestly, the space between the front and back seat is measured in centimeters. It was tight for me. The cab didn’t have the best door latches and each time we went around a corner, the doors on my side of the car would open if you were leaning on them. I scooted closer to Carter who was already cramped – so I wasn’t in good graces. The red light for the temperature was on in the cab, plus the horn must have been smashed so many times that it was sunken into the steering wheel. He had an auxiliary horn, which he used excessively. Of course the windows were open the entire trip and these cars drive very close to each other. At one point there was a horrible coughing fit and I thought it was from the guy on the other side of Carter. It was from the passenger in the cab next to us! I just closed my eyes most of the trip because the traffic rules are so different and I don’t do well with near misses.
We are going out to dinner later tonight. I have my Tums ready.
Labels: Personal
March 12, 2008
Chennai, India (formerly known as Madras)(Personal)
As many of you know, India is one of the hardest places in the world for me to understand. Today has been no exception. To start out with, this country isn’t on a regular time zone, as the rest of the world. We had to change our clocks by 30 minutes. While it may be 1pm for you and technically 1am for us, it is 12:30am instead. I guess this isn’t as bad as Nepal, where they are 45 minutes off the rest of the world.
Anyway, a conflict started about a week ago when the ship’s medical department was told by the Indian Dept. of Public Health that all crew members had to have up-to-date yellow fever immunizations with documentation. All those crew members who were not up-to-date would have to get an immunization by the Indian authorities, at the ship’s expense. No prices were mentioned and we didn’t even know if they actually had the vaccine, or were just going to inject saline, as they do in many African countries. This was not being required for any of the paying passengers. I went nuts because there is no medical indication for a yellow fever shot for the itinerary we are currently on. We have not visited any ports where there is yellow fever and will not for the rest of the cruise. Because of this, the yellow fever vaccines had been removed from the ship prior to the voyage.
The ship asked for documentation of their reasoning, the Indians threatened the entire ship would be delayed in docking (meaning passengers would be angry because they would miss their shore excursion), and the argument continued. The medical team and I all worked on the yellow books, trying to figure out how many people needed shots – taking hours just to compile the data. Finally, the crew doc decided to call the Seattle office and ask for help. Sally, the director in Seattle, wrote an authoritative e-mail to the Indian Dept. of Health, quoting the WHO’s (World Health Organization) recommendations and called their bluff. As of this morning, we weren’t sure what was going to happen.
We entered Chennai Harbor and had to wait about an hour longer than expected to dock because there was a crane that needed to be moved out of the way. (At least that was the excuse.) Then their immigration officers came on board. I happened to be downstairs when they came on and was able to direct them to the lounge they were meeting in and they were down right rude to me. I was just being helpful and polite, but they acted as though they owned the ship. It ended up that each passenger and crew needed to be issued a “landing card” before anyone could be disembarked. The ship had to prepare all the cards, but each one had to be stamped by an Indian official. This took about an hour, delaying all of the shore excursions that were planned. The passengers were agitating.
Finally, those cards were issued and people started to get off the ship – but once off there were frequent glances back to the ship – feelings of “What am I doing here?” The dock was filthy and smelled of rotting materials. It had rained several hours before and the entire surface of the dock was glistening with an oily-muddy slime. There were 3 very poor women trying to move the water with grass-like brooms. They had their saris hiked up between their legs and they were barefoot as they moved the sludge around. I watched the crew who had on white shoes and white pants as the sludge slowly climbed up their clothes. I’m sure the laundry will be busy tonight.
In the mean time, the crew who were selected to get the yellow fever shots were sequestered in a room. If the shots were going to be given, there was no indication of time and there was the concern that any delay would impact the clearing of the ship. These poor people had to wait until 11am and then were dismissed. Nothing was said by the authorities and no one from the ship asked about it. I guess Sally truly called their bluff.
At the moment, we are waiting the sail-away, but there is a delay because the Indian authorities have now required that each passenger present him or herself in person to them along with their landing card and passport. Many of the passengers are disabled and even when we did the temperatures on everyone before Hong Kong, the nurses went to their rooms. Honestly, these people didn’t get off the ship, and most certainly aren’t the ones who are going to want to jump ship and seek asylum in India. I have a feeling this is just another way for India to make a little extra money. Each minute we are docked costs money, so they are making this drag out.
So my question remains: What is India thinking? They are alienating so many first time visitors and re-enforcing the ambivalent feelings many people have had over the years. Many old timers are concerned that Chennai has deteriorated since their last visit several years ago. This place is hard to understand…..
Labels: Personal
March 11, 2008
At Sea near the Bay of Bengal (Personal)
How could I have forgotten our favor store-front business in Singapore? We were in a mall and passed a shop that had a tinted window, so you couldn’t see in clearly. But the bottom of the window was definitely tanks full of fish. With closer inspection we realized that there were many human feet dangling in the water with the fish. Come to find out, this is a “Soothing store” that has the fish eat the dead skin off your feet, while they (the feet) relax in cool water. All this pleasure for only $29.95/30 minutes.
We are now closer to India. For a while we were passing Sumatra, right close to Aceh, the place with the horrible tsunami. It makes you think how lucky we are. And we were at sea, so a tsunami wouldn’t affect us anyway.
Last night was another Captain’s dinner. The last one I was seated with very active, social people. This time Carter had that clientele and I was with the group that didn’t talk much. I honestly worked at it but had the disadvantage of being seated with some people who were half deaf, some were close to blind and most couldn’t remember much. I would start a conversation and find that they had forgotten the topic almost immediately. They could remember how many times they had been around the world, but didn’t remember many of the places.
We were all given a “treasure chest” which contained the menu. Each course was written on a separate card, so I would read it to these people just before each course. Then when the course was delivered, they would ask me what they were eating. They couldn’t see it and wanted to make sure they were safe. Oh, me. There was one lady who had been a professor of textiles at Auburn University and another man who was with it, so we were able to chat, but they were rather far from me, and I didn’t want to ignore my close tablemates.
One thing we had to eat was amazing. It was a salmon and sole combination that had been woven in a basketweave design, then served in a bouillabaisse sauce. I can’t imagine spending my afternoon weaving two kinds of fish together. The flavor was rather strange, but the presentation was nice. It was the caviar served on top of a slice of lobster, on top of an egg salad mixture that was wasted on me. I am getting quite adept at moving stuff around on the plate to look as though I have eaten it. At least there weren’t the different liver pates they had the last time. Those I don’t even want to touch. Carter was seated next to a woman who didn’t eat fish, so he had 2 meals instead one.
Labels: Personal
Sunday, March 09, 2008 (Personal)
Our time in Singapore was not too easy on the medical team. They disembarked 7 people and had one death. The man who died had told his wife that he wanted to die at sea, so it wasn’t totally unexpected. Of course, it was hard one everyone, especially his wife. She decided to fly home from Singapore to be with her children. The other 7 who left may or may not return to the ship in India, or whenever they are fit enough to do so. Once all of the medical problems were dealt with, the paperwork took over. I felt so sorry for the nurses as they tried to sort thru the requirements for each individual insurance plan. One of the nurses was speaking with the insurance company and the lady at the other end was being rather critical that they hadn’t been notified earlier. Cindy finally said to the woman, “I came on shift 16 hours ago and have been working with sick patients the entire time. What time did you come on shift?” That shut the lady up.
Hopefully, all of the sick ones are off since we are headed into less than friendly medical territory. India is not bad in Mumbai, but other places aren’t that reliable.
The second day we were in Singapore offered more free time. After Carter did his boat drill (they never end….), we took off on a hop-on/hop-off bus. We were here 30 years ago, but it was almost a new city to us. I was feeling that this was just another port with the container cranes and hustle and bustle, until I looked out the window and saw a huge marble statue of a merlion (1/2 lion and ½ mermaid) perched on the hill right outside the ship. I remembered that from before. Otherwise, the city had grown into a huge commercial hub. Everything is sparkling clean – not a cigarette butt or piece of trash visible. I have never seen so many shopping malls, all new and pristine. Alemitu would go crazy here.
After our tour we went to eat at a very strange restaurant. I guess it had opened the day before and there were many nationalities trying it out. There was a huge Indian family, several people who looked Asian and even a Muslim family. I decided to stay on the safe side and eat a meat pie. I figured this used to be an English colony, so I could get a good meat pie. It came with a salad, but I decided I would skip that. Carter, however, ordered a fajita. Well, my chicken pie was filled with jalapenos – so much for the mild, boring British and the salad had juiced jalapenos on it for dressing. Carter’s fajita meat and veggie mixture was made with soy sauce and tasted like Chinese stir fry. I ate some of each and Carter finished the rest. I took a Tums upon return, he felt great!
Labels: Personal
Sunday, March 09, 2008 (Personal)
Our time in Singapore was not too easy on the medical team. They disembarked 7 people and had one death. The man who died had told his wife that he wanted to die at sea, so it wasn’t totally unexpected. Of course, it was hard one everyone, especially his wife. She decided to fly home from Singapore to be with her children. The other 7 who left may or may not return to the ship in India, or whenever they are fit enough to do so. Once all of the medical problems were dealt with, the paperwork took over. I felt so sorry for the nurses as they tried to sort thru the requirements for each individual insurance plan. One of the nurses was speaking with the insurance company and the lady at the other end was being rather critical that they hadn’t been notified earlier. Cindy finally said to the woman, “I came on shift 16 hours ago and have been working with sick patients the entire time. What time did you come on shift?” That shut the lady up.
Hopefully, all of the sick ones are off since we are headed into less than friendly medical territory. India is not bad in Mumbai, but other places aren’t that reliable.
The second day we were in Singapore offered more free time. After Carter did his boat drill (they never end….), we took off on a hop-on/hop-off bus. We were here 30 years ago, but it was almost a new city to us. I was feeling that this was just another port with the container cranes and hustle and bustle, until I looked out the window and saw a huge marble statue of a merlion (1/2 lion and ½ mermaid) perched on the hill right outside the ship. I remembered that from before. Otherwise, the city had grown into a huge commercial hub. Everything is sparkling clean – not a cigarette butt or piece of trash visible. I have never seen so many shopping malls, all new and pristine. Alemitu would go crazy here.
After our tour we went to eat at a very strange restaurant. I guess it had opened the day before and there were many nationalities trying it out. There was a huge Indian family, several people who looked Asian and even a Muslim family. I decided to stay on the safe side and eat a meat pie. I figured this used to be an English colony, so I could get a good meat pie. It came with a salad, but I decided I would skip that. Carter, however, ordered a fajita. Well, my chicken pie was filled with jalapenos – so much for the mild, boring British and the salad had juiced jalapenos on it for dressing. Carter’s fajita meat and veggie mixture was made with soy sauce and tasted like Chinese stir fry. I ate some of each and Carter finished the rest. I took a Tums upon return, he felt great!
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