Roma May 29, 2011

I've been in Rome for a few days and am loving it.  What a beautiful city just oozing history!
My laptop has died ( or is in a very deep hibernation)  so I'm limited in what I can do on a Mac that I borrow from hotel reception now and then.  Limited because I don't get to use it for long and can't downoad my photos etc.
Yesterday I went to the Vatican, hired a private guide and spent four  to five hours with her touring all the major highlights and museums.  Never once had to stand in the mile long line ups.  it was worth every euro.
I went back today just in time for the Pope to come to his window and give a little talk and then a blessing in about a dozen languages.  I have been totally in awe of the whole thing....this non religious person is overwhelmed!  I had bought a few rosarys for the Catholics in the family....they are now duly blessed by the Pope.
I have met the most wonderful interesting couple!  He lives in Malta, she lives in Arizona...they met about 6 months ago in an airport somewhere, got to know each other online and...here they are in Rome!  He has offered me his home in Malta to use when I come back from my cruise on June 10th.  I am very tempted!  They will still be travelling , both have jobs that they can still work online whie hopping around the world together!  and I would have the place to myself  (well, except for the maid that will be instructed to let me in if I decide to go!)  What a once in a life time opportunity.  My other plans could wait till next time.   (Venice, Milan)  .  If no one else wants this computer I think I just may do a bit of Malta research.....hmmm
The joy of not booking anything ahead, I can do whatever I want, when ever I want, should opportunities present themselves.

Big big European football final tonight.  Just happens to have two Italian teams in the final.  Palermo and Milan.  North vs South.  Here in Rome it is pretty obvious who they are all cheering for.  The town was covered in Palermo pink shirts today.  And flags and scarves, and hats  etc etc.  I wanted t climb the Spanish steps today and couldn't even get close due to big pep rally going on there.  I might be missing hockey fever back in Canada....but there are altenatives!
Too bad I can't post some photos.  Promise I will when I get the chance.
Arivederchi de Roma!

May 26, Viareggio Italy

I

I've fallen in love folks, and I feel like I'm cheating.  On Mexico!  
I've fallen in love with Italy!  Can you blame me with a view like this?  All kidding aside, I've rekindled my love for Greece and Spain but now I'm adding Italy to the group as well.  What a wonderful, beautiful place.  The people have been kind and helpful, the scenery is second to none, the food is to die for, the weather has been perfect.    And the wine is worth writing home about!

Now, no reading between the lines!  I really am referring to the country...not some new or old man.

For sure I will be returning to my beloved Mexico, but what a lovely diversion this has been. 



There has been a rumor of a train strike happening tomorrow and I am scheduled to head to Rome.  Latest word is that it's not happening but no one knows for sure.  I guess I'll find out in the morning.  The hotel here in Viareggio has assured me that I will know before check out time and that if I return from the train station I will be able to move back into my room.  Nice.  told they were friendly and helpful.

If I do make it to Rome I have decided to do a bit of a splurge....what?  another one?  and am staying in a hotel close to the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps.  If I'm only going to be there for a few days I decided I should do it right. 

Monday I need to find my way to the port city of Civitavecchi , about an hour and a half away from Rome.  I'll overnight there and board the Noordam the following day for a 10 day cruise around the western Mediterranian.  The plan at this point is to then head to Milan and Venice and back to Rome for my flight home.  The original Plan A was to head to Spain and Portugal, but due to orders from my eye doc in Victoria I will only have 12 days after the cruise so I might as well stay in Italy.

I love the shops here...and today a huge market!  The Italian designers are awesome.   I broke down and bought a bathing suit...with cover-up.  Purple.  (Just what I need.....not!)

I've got my fingers crossed for you Reagh and Terry.  I sure hope your house sale goes through. 

Ciao per ora!   (Bye for now)  

Florence, Italy. May 20-23

Meet David.  A Michaelangelo replica that sits (well.....stands)  in all his glory on top of a hill overlooking Florence.  He seems to be  hanging out every where around town!  Anybody want one?  He's on keychains, magnets, hats, T-shirts, and is available in sculptures of any size.  And the sculptures don't even need to be of his whole self...there are replicas of just one part of his anatomy available...also in various sizes.  Haha.

One of the wonderful old bridgers across the Arno River.

Santa Croce, and it's plaza.  It's not hard to tell that this was cruise ship and tour day.  I went back today around noon and almost had the place to myself.

Another view of the Arno..this time with a covered bridge.  This really is a beautiful city.  It's also extremely rich in history.







I overnighted in Rome upon arrival and the next day headed to Florence by rail.  A beautiful trip through the rolling hills of Tuscany's olive trees and grape vines.

I had pre booked a hotel here that ended up being a bit of a surprise!  Not terrible aweful, like the one in Istanbul....but unique.  At least for me.  In my room there is a sink and a bidet.  The toilet, another bidet and the shower are in a room down the hall.  A shared bath!  Never ever did I think I would live to see that day!  My booking had quoted me the wrong price of 87 E /day and I had it lowered to 50 E ($75?)    It's clean and in a super great location,  near the railway station and the bus depot, and is only for 2 nights.  So I have stayed.  32 stairs to the 1st floor reception area, another 32 to my 2nd floor room.  At least I'm getting some exercise.  Not to mention the miles I walk each day!  This hotel includes breakfast, but after being up for several hours during the night and then going back to bed.....I slept to almost noon!!!  I needed that, but what a shock!  Maybe now my body clock will match the actual clock.  I hope so.
Today I bought a train ticket for tomorrow that will take me to Viareggio...on the beach, not far from Pisa.   I decided I needed to chill out for a few days, so have booked a lovely looking beach front place called the Mirage for Monday to Friday.   It's lovely to not have anything booked too far in advance, I can go where I want when I want to go there!    I have a new book to follow the one I started 10 days ago in Frankfurt, carted it all the way back to Canada for a week without once opening it, carted it back here.  It's time to  lay on a beach and finish it and leave it some where.  It's not even a good book.  Bought it somewhere that the selection of books in English was limited.  But I'm a firm believer....you finish what you start!!  
I've had some great food here.  Including artichoke on a pizza and gnocchi Serantino.  Thanks for the artichoke recommendation Susie, I would never have ordered that  without you suggesting it. 
Wolfgang: so far so good.  I still have my wallet, my money and my documents.  But thanks to your comments  I have been extremely careful. 
So, where will I go when I check out of the Mirage on Friday?  Who knows!  I only know that by Monday I need to be in Civitavecchia to be able to board the Noordam the next day.

Arrivederci per ora

May 18. Victoria

HI all.  It's been a busy week.  Anyone following along will know that last Thursday I woke up in Frankfurt Germany and headed home to Victoria for a week.  I had a very uneventful non-stop flight to Vancouver where I had to kill a few hours before being able to connect to my flight to Victoria.

By the time I got home it was dinner time in BC, but my body thought it was early the next morning.  I fought the jet lag for a few days,  and then had the brainwave....I'm returning to Europe  in  a week, why fight it.  So, I 've been living my days from about 3AM to 7PM.  This seems to work for me and may make it easier for me on my return to Europe.

I had the treatment to my eye done on Monday and was then able to finalize my plans for the next step of my journey.  I needed to wait to see when I was being scheduled for the next treatment before I could make any decisions.  Next 'shot in the eye" is scheduled for June 23rd...so I will return on June 22nd.  I'm going to lose a week from the original plan so I opted not to return to Frankfurt and then head to Prague.  That will have to wait untill some other time.  Instead, I booked a return flight to Rome.  I leave tomorrow morning.  Upon arrival I will over night in Rome and catch a train the next morning for Florence...in the heart of the Tuscany region.    I will spend 10 days in Tuscany  (woohoo...wine country!)  and make my way back to Rome. 
At the end of May I will board the HAL Noordam for a 10 day Western Mediterranean Enchantment  cruise. Keep checking here for updates from some reallly terrific places that I will go to  (Monte Carlo, Tunisia, Sicily  etc!)    The plan after that is to head to Madrid.   I've been to Spain a few times but have never been to Madrid and this seemed like a good time to do that.  After hitting the highlights I'll head to the beaches of the Andaluccia area before heading back to Rome for a few days before returning home.     Adding the 10 day cruise into the middle of this leg changes my original plans a lot...but I'll get to go to places that I otherwise would not have got to.  Europe isn't going anywhere, anytime soon.  I'll be back! 

Gosh, just typing all that tires me out!  This time I have a lot less luggage than the last 6 weeks so have opted to take my full size laptop.  Hopefully this means that it will be easier to upload photos here.  I really do hate that little mini thing I had with me for April  and early May.    It is just so slow and limiting!!     My carry-on is packed and ready to go...that's all I'm taking.  I came home with 18.5 kilos packed into it and am returning with 10.5.  My goal was 10k but adding the cruise, again added "the shoe issue"!!  The laptop and a book and a few other essentials will go into my big purse. 

Speaking of shoes.  Anyone that saw my photo of the shoe store in Frankfurt that I posted on Facebook will understand this.  Pam has suggested, that if I ever find another place like that to use my iphone, take photos, post them immediately on FB and wait for you all to text me with your orders!  The apple hasn't fallen far from the tree with my girl when it comes to shoes! 

And now to the subject of texting.  I added International texting to my mobility pkg to-day.  Incoming and outgoing texts are unlimited for the next 60 days.  If you have my iphone number, feel free to text.   

It's been a very busy few days.  Pay my property taxes that will come due while I'm away, clean the fridge, buy more travel med insurance, find a notary and sign the last of the probate forms and deliver to the Court Registry, unpack, do laundry, repack,  get a hair cut, get my gel nails redone,  book hotel in Rome, buy train ticket to Florence, book cruise, print off all the etickets and boarding passes,  talk daily to my Mom,  buy some  more Euros,  pay my bills.....yikes!  Into that add hugs from Grand kids, attending a Spring Concert at the school, lunch with friends,  and somehow managing to find time to eat occasionally and sleep a lot! 

Whew.  Next blog from somewhere in Tuscany.  Maybe I'll love it there and stay awhile...like forever. 

Ciao!!  

Tuesday May 10, 2011 Frankfurt am Main, Germany

Do you know about shoes in Europe?  The men wear shoes.  Yes, shoes.  Not  sneakers or trainers or tennies or whatever you want to call them.   Shoes.   Real, honest to goodness shoes….you know the ones?  They take a bit of shoe polish and a good brush now and then.

You know the shoes that are advertised on Shoedazzle?  That’s what is on the women’s feet.    Stylish as all get out.   How do you spot the North American tourists?  That’s us in the comfortable walking shoes or sneakers.   

So far on this trip I have been in Spain,   Greece, Turkey and Germany and I am astounded by the number of locals that are smokers.  It blows me away….everyone, everywhere, both sexes, all ages!   Not too long ago I read that Turkey had declared a law banning smoking in all public places.  The whole country has decided that means public enclosed places.  Most of the merchants in the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul are standing out in front of their stalls or shops smoking….and the Bazaar is NOT an outdoor place.  It’s fully enclosed with a roof….so the merchants stand out in the public walkway area, sipping on the endless tea and puffing away.    Most of the restaurants in a lot of places I’ve been  are located out on the sidewalks, with tables only inches apart, and well used ashtrays on every table.    Today after arriving in Frankfurt I went for a stroll down the street and stopped for what I thought was a well deserved beer in a very nice looking, almost empty  sidewalk  bistro/bar. .  Next thing you know, I am surrounded  by smokers….about 20 people at the four tables around me…and everyone lit up.  Need I say that I did not have a second beer.  I hate to sound like one of those awful ex-smokers, and maybe under the circumstances I’m more sensitive than usual…but this is ridiculous!   I thought these were countries of well educated people. 

I flew on Lufthansa today for the first time.  It was nice to discover that even on a short flight of just over 2 hours, we got fed a decent meal.   I’m flying with them again on Thursday, non-stop to Vancouver and then back here the following Thursday.  Hooray, I can look forward to getting fed. 

I mentioned on Facebook a few days ago that I spent several hours one afternoon with another female solo traveler.  We hooked up because we were in the same café…needed to go to the bathroom….decided to share a table from that point onward so we could take turns using the W C!!   Now, that may not sound like a difficult thing to do…going to the bathroom.  But if you have been shopping, have bags of stuff, a handbag as well and “need to go”, just what do you do with all your stuff if you are alone?  Take it with you?  Not a good idea to just leave it there as the tables are located outside and it would be so tempting for a snatch and grab situation.    We both burst out laughingwhen we realized why we wanted to share space…nice to have someone else understand without having to explain!  Anyhow, we ended up spending several hours together, drinking beer and taking turns heading off to the WC.  She has been on the road for about 6 months, had just come from Germany (where I was headed next) and her next stop was Thailand.  So, she shared some insite into traveling around Germany and Eastern Europe, and I could talk to her about South East Asia.  After Thailand she thought she might go to Malaysian Borneo but knew no one that had been there and was a bit leery.  I’d been there!   She worked for a while in Alaska for an OSHA based safety products company and also taught WHMIS…and so had I.  But HER job led to a transfer to West Africa for a year!  And Anartica for a while.   I found her interesting, she found me interesting.   We discussed jobs and kids  and travel and solo travel and how travel affects relationships and a lot of other things.  A super afternoon for a couple of kindred spirits.  I found myself, several times , wishing that you were with us Melinda, you would have loved sharing with us. 

When I first planned this trip it was for all of April, May and June.  And then my eye specialist in Victoria stepped into the picture and insists that I return to Victoria for this dam shot in my eye, 6 weeks after the last one.  GRRR….I was very annoyed….did the research into getting it done here in Germany, or in Ireland…or somewhere other than having to go back home.  Turns out it was a LOT cheaper to fly home for a few days and have it done there than to pay cash for it here with no medical insurance .  Travel medical does not cover this as it’s not considered an emergency and in any case is a pre existing condition.  So, home I go on Thursday for a week.  Eye treatment will be on Monday.   I hopefully will have some estate paperwork to finish up with and will get that finally finished with.  To begin with I was totally annoyed that I was going to have to do this half way through my itinerary.  And now?  I am really looking forward to seeing my grandkids and Pam and Ted, and getting some stuff done before I head out again.   So,  sometimes, things really do work out for the better. 

I’ll also be there when my Turkish carpets arrive!   (Well, the day after actually)  Did you know that mailing and insurance costs of carpets from Turkey is paid for by their government?  It’s a super way to promote their carpet industry.   And it is supposed to arrive customs /duty free in Canada, considered a work of handcrafted art.   I’ll post photos of them when I get home.  So much easier to do from my home computer.    

Till then……goodnight from Frankfurt am Main.

Gute Nacht bis folgendes Mal.

Sunday May 8th Istanbul

My problems are all solved and once again I am loving Istanbul.  I left the dumpy hotel and moved into the Antea Palace Hotel and Spa.  A Sultan’s palace at Sultan’s prices….but I’m happy.   Now I have a doorman,  a big fluffy robe,  a gorgeous sauna/steam bath/Turkish bath/fitness center, room service,  and…best of all…free bottled water.  Haha.   As I said…it’s worth every penny, and it’s only for four days, so what the heck.

After I made the move I sort of got it into my head that because I had done this (spent a fortune on a room)  I really should not also spend the money on a Turkish carpet, which really was one of my intended actions while here.  I then talked to a friend back home….and he reminded me that for three years I have been kicking myself that I did not get one the last time I was here.  And that if I did not get one this time I would continue to forever regret  it.  So, yesterday I headed out with a plan.  A woman on a mission.  On a little side street I found the perfect carpet shop.  Good selection, gracious sales staff, and prices that seemed slightly lower than other places that I had browsed.   So, there I am sipping apple tea  while Manmet  (no kidding, that was his name…anyone ever watch “Outsourced”?)  brings out carpet after carpet.   Bam..bam..  one after another , like flying magic carpets…the display on the floor gets higher and higher…until..THERE IT IS!   MY CARPET!!   A one of a kind, signed by the weaver, unique carpet seemingly made just for me.   We haggle over price, he throws in a cushion cover, then another.  When we get up to four cushion covers and free  insured courier delivery service (Hah…more on that in a minute)  And a certificate of authenticity, we are ready to discuss method of payment.  With both of us armed with a calculator we discuss…..Euros?  Turkish Lira?  Dollars?  Credit card or cash?   After a decision to use Turkish Lira in cash,  a quick trip to the ATM machine around the corner and maxing out my daily limit on several debit cards………my magic carpet  (and four cushion covers) is on its  way to Pam’s house and should be delivered on Wednesday or Thursday.    I already knew from my last visit that the Turkish government pays for all shipping of carpets to anywhere in the world.  What a wonderful  way to support their carpet industry!

In Turkey, there is a delicious confection called Dondurma ice cream.    It does not melt.   Even with the heat of your tongue, you can not lick it off the cone, you must bite it!   It doesn’t sound delicious but it is!   Yesterday I posted on Facebook that I was sitting a block away from the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, in a Mexican restaurant, eating an American cheeseburger, drinking a Dutch beer, listening to Cuban music when the Islamic call to prayer began to be broadcast loudly from the dozen or so nearby mosques.  A friend make the comment  “ethnic indulgence”.   Right on Craig.

Today I wandered around and found the hotel that Tony and I had stayed in three years ago.  I thought I had made a reservation there for this trip but that did not turn out to be the case (see a previous post).  I sat and talked to the guy in the lobby….he tells me “our” room is empty….would I like to go sit on the rooms balcony and have a glass of tea?  So that is exactly what I did.  That may sound morbid, but it wasn’t.  The whole idea of coming here had a lot to do with dealing with my memories and experiencing a sense of closure.   It is amazing what a glass of tea, in the right time and place can accomplish.   And so, it is done.

By the way, speaking of tea,  the Turks seem to have the fine art of making tea miraculously appear down to a science.  It’s everywhere!  It’s offered to you if you wander into a shop…yes, even in the Grand Bazaar!  Especially in the Grand Bazaar!   If you sit on a park bench to rest your weary feet, or simply to take in the sights, sounds and smells,  someone will appear with a tray of tea.  In the parks and around the mosques it is nearly always a young  man or boy.  And it must be prepared not too far away,  ever,  because it is always hot.   It tastes great and it only costs one third of a lira (20 cents).    They also have a tea here called ‘Apple Tea”  that is very good.  I’m bringing home some of that!

One more day here.     Then goodbye to Istanbul,  a city of such perfect chaos that it becomes absolutely irresistible.   Istanbul,  more colorful than a box of M & Ms.

Tuesday finds me flying to Frankfurt, Germany for a few days.  In the meantime I hope everyone had a wonderful Mother’s Day. 

May 5th Istanbul Turkey

When I got to Istanbul today... I got a taxi at the airport...he brings me to within a few blocks of the hotel and says he can't go further....can't go back around to find hotel because of one way streets and traffic  etc etc....makes me get out,  with my luggage.   I pay him 35 lira...and off he goes.  He tells me hotel is just around corner to the left.  Ya...right.   so there's me....with my confirmation print out showing  address of Antique Hotel...which of course is not just around the corner.  No one on the street speaks English, no one on the street knows where to find Antique Hotel.  So, I drag my luggage around for a while over the cobblestones and broken pavement ....a taxi pulls over...I show him the address...he mutters something unintelligible and takes off..  I'm standing there wondering what to do.  A nice shiny black car with a chauffer pullls up.  Realizes I am in distress.  He finds a place to pull over....makes a few phone calls.....schleps my luggage into the car.  and takes me to the Antique Hotel...about 10 blocks from where he rescued me.    He leaves., refuses money, just a nice guy.  Now, I had intended this hotel to be the same place Tony and I stayed in three years ago.    Which is sorta why I'm here...a little trip down memory lane.  Tuns out we stayed at the Antiques Hotel....with an S.  Not the same place at all.  And this place is a real dump!   Not enough room to swing a cat...and good thing there is no one to share the bed with because I am sharing it with my suitcase.  There is no where else to put it.  Hence the reason Singapore is back up to the top of the "Favorite Cities" list!!!

Pre booking  things on line does not always work out!  My lovely little apartments on the islands in Greece were precious jewels...this place?  a lump of granite!    Oh, and did I mention?  I had more than half a jar of instant coffee left in Greece and decided to put it in my carry on.......the lid came off during transit.  Probably while I was dragging stuff around  on the cobblestones looking for this hotel! 

Before being able to go through passport control at the airport, foreigners must first get in line and buy a visitors Visa, which allows one to stay in the country for 90 days.  Big list on the wall of what  the citizens of each country have to pay to be here.  US citizens...15 Euros ( $20)  Canadians  45 Euros ($60) 

This has not been one of my better days.

Sunday May 1 to May 3rd

For the first time in my life, on Sunday morning I wore my motion sickness wrist bands for the boat trip from Santorini to Naxos.  Just looking at that ship rocking and rolling at the pier was enough to upset one's stomach!   The beginning of the trip was very rough and windy but after the first hour calmed right down.  At the end of the second hour I arrived at the wonderful port of Naxos. 

I took a short taxi to my apartment, called Anthony Suites.  What a wonderful surprise...it's gorgeous!  Nice and big, a nice balcony above a cute little street and only about 30 meters from St George Beach..  The sand is fine like powder and the water is clear, calm and fairly warm. 

On Monday I decided to head to Plaka Beach.  My friend had sugessted that I hop on a local bus and go there....but I had a map, and it didn't look too far, maybe 5 km...so I decided to walk.  Well, I have no idea where I ended up  the names of the little towns were in English on my map and all the signs were in GReek....so I just kept walking.  Not a bus, a beach or a cab to be foujd anywhere.  Finally, I decided the wisest thing to do was to retrace my steps.  Which I did.  Talking to someone later it was decided that I had been way out past the airport....inland...no where near the beach and had probably gone 7 or 8 km before I turned around.  Ouch.  That evening i treated myself to a massage and aromatherapy.  Made my legs and feet feel SO much beter!

Today, Tuesday, I wandered back to the port and found my way to the icon of Naxos..the  Sactuary of Dolian Apollo  (commonly called the Portara..or gate).  It was beautiful up there and the hill that it is located on was covered with wild flowers.  So, I hauled out my book, sat among the flowers and read awhile in the shadow of this ancient ruin.    An awesome experience.  

Tonight I took Irene's advice and went to the old part of town to Relax Restaurant for a meal and the sunset.  Food was good, the owner was friendly and the customers were fun.  And very friendly.  LOL  I had another great time meeting new friends.

Today I finished reading a book I have been engrossed in for a few days.  It's called The Gurnsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society.  I had downloaded it onto my iphone a long time ago and had never listened to it.  I happened to see a used copy of it the other day and have been unable to put it down!  It's a great story about the Occupation of the Channel Islands during the 1940's.  (The book ends during the week that I was born)  It was interesting and I learned a lot about something that I knew nothing about. 

I'm not sure what I will do tomorrow...maybe retry to find Plaka Beach!   And go to the post office.  I found a nice box today and am going to mail a few things home.  Even though I am traveling light, I could not fit even one more fridge magnet or earring into my luggage...so I'm going to dump some of this stuff at the post office.  I still have the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul to conquer! 

Thursday morning finds me on an early morning flight to Istanbul, Turkey.   Next update from there....my favorite city in the whole world.  last time I was there I felt like I was always on a movie set and kept looking around for the cameras!  For me, a  magical place. 

April 30

Just a feew random items today.
It's my last full day here on Santorini and it's a wonderful sunny morning.  The last few have been totally socked in with fog.  Hopefully the day will also be warm.  Maybe today I'll head over to the black sand beach.

Contrary to what most might think, the entire world was not mesmerized by the Royal Wedding.  I'm a few time zones ahead of Britain here so no middle of the night stuff was necessary.  I tried to find coverage on my TV with no luck.  I went down to reception to ask what channel I needed to be on.  The response was "Wedding?  Whose wedding?  Oh, that one...no, not on TV"    I found out later of course that there was coverage  for people with a satelite dish .   So, life went on as normal here yesterday.

Speaking of weddings.  I read an article a few days ago that the number of weddings in Japan has sky rocketed since the disasters of March 11th.   I found that interesting.  The "why wait" mentality of the situation is a bit like what happens during war times.  This wonderful Greek Island of Santorini is litterally teeming with young Japanese couples, presumably on their honeymoons.  That has been the case with the few that I have talked to.  They're easy to spot...they take pictures of everything including every bite of food they eat.   I've also met a few honeymooners from the US.  Santorini is very much like Niagra Falls for popularity for honeymoon trips.  

Yesterday I walked up to the top of the cable car (my apartment is near the top) .  Took the ride to the old port at the bottom.  And then....phew,  rode a donkey back up.  Very aromatic experience.  Yuk.  The trail is steps winding like a snake all the way back up.  Unfortunatly, I have no pictures of when I was actualy on the way up...I used my iphone and the photos won't transfer to this laptop.  I do have others of the donkeys but not from burroback.   (Directly from iphone to FB but only if I use data, no wifi on the trail)

 Later I took a bus to a place called Oia...world famous for it's sunsets.  I had been there the evening before for that but decided to return and explore around the town a bit in the daytime.   It was cloudy the previos night so Puerto Escondido still rates with me as number one for "Best Sunsets"    Local busses go everywhere and cost 1.6 Euros...a great deal.  That's about $2.  I had been warned by my friends on Aegina that Santorini would be very expensive compared to Aegina or Naxos...due to the tourists and honeymooners.  However, I am finding it very cheap, maybe because the high season doesn't start till mid May.  My apartment costs 40Euros a night.  at $1.35/1E  that's $54.  A beer at Murphy's Pub is 8E but everywhere else it's 3, even less at the grocery store.   Fancy restaurants are expensive but there are tons that arn't quite so fancy...and EVERYONE has a great view. 

I have my ticket and I am set to go.  I leave here at 10:30 Sunday morning and arrive at the Island of Naxos around noon.   I have an apartment there as well, named Anthony Suites...named after my first cat!  (inside joke)  

Till next time...giassou!

April 28. Santorini Greece

I have arrived at the island of Santorini.  A beautiful, unusual place...formed by the eruption of a volcano.  There are black sand beaches here as well as red and also white.  Today I am fogged in so will explore those beaches when and if the fog burns off.   The island is also famous for it's sunsets.  I wonder if any of them will surpass the sunsets from the roof of the BenZaa in Puerto Escondido. 

  I have a lovely little apartment here.  The photos show it...the entire square above the word Apartment is mine.  I have a bed-sit, a seperate kitchen and a fairly decent bathroom.  I have a view from all four sides but the best is the blue dome with the sea in the background.  The streets are all winding and narrow...and cobbled, so I'll be sure to watch my footing.   

There is a fairly large supermarket nearby, so having a kitchen, I headed off yesterday for a few necessities of life.  You know, wine, cheese, bread, coffee,  locally grown pistachios.   Interesting little aside, for every Euro spent you get savings stamps for good deals on Tupperware!  Get 20 stamps and get some really cool things for half price!  Yes Brenda, Anna, Cheryl and Pam....I will bring home the brochure with the prices!

I've been asked many times..."Aren't you afraid to travel alone?"  Well, to be honest it never crossed my mind to be afraid until I continued to be asked!  So, now that it has crossed my mind I have given it some thought.    Yes I'm afraid...not of being lonely, or being mugged, or being bored,  but of being alone in my room and chocking on something and having no one to pound my back or give me the heimlick manouver!   Or walking alone down a lonely trail or back road and having a heart attack or appendicitis, or sliiping and breaking a leg.  and having no one to rescue me..or worse yet...having someone rescue me and no one knowing who I am or who to call!   So, point taken...I no longer walk around without my hotel business card and my own card with emergency contact information.  Happy now Mom? 

It looks like te fog is begining to burn off.  Time to go for a long walk.   I REALLY need to burn off a few things myself....like thousands of calories consumed over Easter Week!! 

Till next time...see you on Facebook. 

Easter April 24 to April 27

Easter Sunday was, as promised a very YUMMY day.  After smelling everything cooking all day, the final dinner was as good as anticipated.  .  I've posted several photos onto Facebook...I'll see if I can get them to load here as well.  (Not always easy)  I think there were about 35 of us that sat down for this wonderful, very traditional Greek family style meal. 

And then...Monday!  A Danish Easter meal!  Lots of fish, including herring of course.  Another wonderful meal provided by the expertise of Pia , Rudolf and the three kids, from Denmark.  The finishing touch was an apple pie that was "to die for".  Yum.  

The number of languages being spoken during the week was amazing.  We had Greek, English, French,  and Danish.  I think everyone spoke some English (I was the only one with English as my mother tongue)  Danish family mentioned above spoke Danish, Greek and English.  Clair and Marco that live in Geneva Switzerland speak French to each other but also speak Greek and English.  A huge melting pot of a family.  And they made me feel like I was one of them.  They all even got me speaking some Greek  (I still don't know how to tell a taxi driver off though!  Hopefully I won't need to know that anymore!) 

Tuesday morning Irene and her daughter Kelli drove me to Aegina town and I caught a superfast boat to Athens.  Upon arrival I checked into the same hotel that I stayed in last week and then returned to the pier..a block away...to make arrangements for today's trip to Santorini.

Wednesday....Lugged my luggage through the rain this morning.  Where's a good valet when you need one??   Caught the "HighSpeed" run by Hellenic Seaways to Santorini. I arrived aqbout 1 PM.  It rained just about all the way here, and cleared up just as I arrivred.  I have a lovely little apartment overlooking the sea.  Then I went walking around town, did a bit of grocery shopping, then found a lovely little restaurant for a meal.  I met the cutest Japanes couple...married three days ago and here on their honeymoon.  They live near Tokyo and gave me lots of assurances that Kevin and family will be just fine in Osaka.    They pllayed "Melinda" and took pictures of all of the food they ordered.  I instantly knew they were Japanese by the little picture book of food they had with them....I remember that my daughter-in-law has one just like it!  

I took  a few photo today in Santorini but I'll wait to load them till next time.  (This is not fun...I don't know if it's bercause I'm using this little mini laptop or if it's the connection......but it's a chore. )

I have several more days here and will spend the time exploring.  It's a beautiful place! 

Sat AM April 23

Here's the schedule and menu for today and tomorrow.

Saturday - Resurrection Night
23:00 departure for the church in Aghia Marina
24:00 RESURRECTION  - light your candle with the "Holy Flame" sing "Christos Anesti" and drive back to Kavos Bay with lighterd candles
About 24:30 the Resurrection dinner is served and consists of
1) "Magiritsa"  a traditional Easter soup made with fresh vegetables, chopped lamb liver and intestines in egg-lemon sauce.

2)"Giouvariakia" a Greek beef meatball soup with herbs and rice in good stock, finished off with beaten eggs and fresh lemon juice.

3)  Red eggs, cheese pies, fresh goat cheese, wine, beer, soft drinks, tea, coffee and Easter cookies.

Easter Sunday
After breakfast we will set the skewered lamb on the grill to start cooking.  The lamb needs at least 4 - 5 hours to be completely cooked.  Even though the grill keeps turning automatically, we all need to keep an eye and to take turns in smothering the lamb with the olive oil mix so it doesn't burn or become dry.
While the lamb is roasting, the men are barbecuing bits and pieces (sausages, pork ribs, chicken) just to munch on, with drinks in hand, while we wait for the lamb to cook..
When the lamb is completly cooked we all sit down to enjoy our "Easter Feast"  The lamb is served with green salads, different cheeses and "Pasticio" (macaroni/cheese/beef souffle)  Music and dancing to complete our day!

KALO PASCHA!!    ( Happy Easter)

All of the above is in the words of my hostess Irene.  Thanks Irene.
I will have my camera at the ready during all of this and will take photos when it is appropriate (probably not during church) .   The family has begun to arrive from Athens and elsewhere.  By this afternoon there will be grandmas, aunts, daughters, babies......oh, and some men as well, someone has to be here to be barbecuing all those yummy bits and pieces tomorrow! 

It's another beautiful Mediterranian day.

Along the trail from my "home" at Kavos Bay to Agia Marina

April 18 to 21. Barcelona to Aegina.

Monday morning....6 AM  "Wake up Mam Helen.!  Room service for last breakfast...time to go!!""  Ouch, my aching head.  A few of us table mates decided to party our last night away....I don't think any of us wanted to say goodbye!  It was time to end our 16 day cruise though, perhaps some of us will meet again someday, somewhere.
OK....so now...time to get up and get moving.  My expedited disembarkation time was for 7:15....and I made it!  Getting a cab to the airport was easier than expected so my airport arrival for my 10:45 flight was very early.  Flight was on time and and off to London I go for a few hours.  I do NOT like Easyjet.....luggage policy stinks...no legroom...and not even a glass of water is free.     I arrive at London Gatwick.  This has got to be the world's worst airport!  I've been in a few around the world and this one is just too confusing!  Especially if you have to change terminals...which I did.  A place to avoid in the future if at all possible!!   Maybe my huge hangover had something to do with my confusion??   Another on time flight but packed full and lots of noisy kids.  Oh well...that can never be helped.  I arrive at Athens airport.  It's 8:30 PM and there is no one there holding up a sign with my name on it!!   I head over to Airport Help Desk and the kind woman there phones my hotel yto find out where my driver is.  They forgot about me...someone will be there soon.  Sure enough...after about 15 minutes I have a ride.  I had opted to choose a hotel in Pireaus (the port city) so that the next morning would be easier.  HAH!
Tuesday Morning:    Ok..about 100 yards from the hotel....Gate 8, Alexandros Fast boat to Agia Marina on Aegina.....scheduled to leave at 9AM.   Oh oh...I get to the ticket booth...no boat this morning.  WHAT?  So, I wander down the pier.  I find a boat going to Souvala, also on the Island of Aegina.  So, I hop on.  An hour later I arrive in Souvala and try and find transport to Agia Marina.  An old fisherman on the wharf tells me (in broken sign language) that there is only one taxi in town and he is not here right now.  "Sit" he tells me with knarled fingers..."there is nothing but time. "   So, I sit.  After several minutes of nothing the old man of the sea pulls out a cell phone and makes a call.   And signals me that everything is being taken care of.  Ya?  Several more minutes go by of the two of us staring at the boats bobbing in the harbour....and he again makes a call.  This goes on for an hour.  Suddenly he gets all excited!  I'm guessing he found the taxi!  Yes, but the taxi driver does not want to go all the way to Agia Marina!  I have NO idea how far that might be, but I do know this is a fairly small island, just how far can it be?    Finally, the taxi actually shows up and we negotiate a 20 Euro fare...to my ultimate destination of Kavos Bay, near Agia Marina.  It turned out to be about a 10km ride.  New Greek word worth remembering...MALAKA..!!!  (Wanker!)
My friends at Kavos Bay were very surprised to see me....they had realized there was no boat and had been wondering just where I got to!  It's great to see Irene and Nikos and Antula again!  I made it!

Wednesday....nice sunny day but freezing cold!  I spent most of the day curled up on my balcony with a blanket and a book...and reading an email from a friend in London bragging that it was 27C there!  

Thursday Hot and sunny...hooray! Today I walked into Agia Marina.  Not a very long walk....about an hour along the edge of the water and over a few wooded goat trails.  I braced myself for this for several reasons.  This is the first place that I have come to on my own that was a very special part of a holiday that Tony and I did together.  None of the places that I went to in Mexico over this last winter count in quite that way....that was our home.  THIS was vacation together.  A special, romantic place.  We walked these cliffs and trails together 3 years ago and had a wonderful time creating some very special memories.  Memories that hit me today as I walked those trails, and then as I sat in "our" taverna sipping on a cool beer....and waiting for Tony to join me at the table.  I like to think that he did.  Cheers Tony my man.....I miss you.

Kalineekta......

April 16 Cartagena Spain

Two more days and the cruise will end. I will be happy to be getting on to the next leg of the journey.  The cruise has been wonderful.   But it’s time for it to end.   I’ve had fun.  I’ve met a lot of interesting people.  And I have been able to explore a few places that I have never been before. 

On this cruise I opted to actually take shore excursions.  When you are a couple it’s very easy not to do that and just explore on your own.  As a solo traveler it’s easier and nicer to take  some of the tours available.    I did do a few things on my own though.  In Cadiz I decided on our second day there to just get a ticket for the “Hop-on Hop-off” open top, double decker bus.  First time around I stayed on and listened to the taped tour.  Second time around I decided to hop off at Victoria Beach.  The sand was like pure white talcum powder.  Manouvering myself around all the bathers wearing almost nothing, I made my way to the water and for the first time ever…dipped my toes into the Atlantic Ocean.    It was cold!  I guess I’m used to the Pacific in Mexico…warm as bath water!     I then wandered the beach some more and ended up in the very elegant Victoria Hotel for lunch.    Back on to the bus…next stop a huge shopping mall.  I didn’t spend much time there as I can do that at home!

Yesterday in Gibraltar I took a cable car to the top of the rock.  Stunning view up there of Africa in one direction and Spain in the other.  Then went off and wandered in the siege tunnels for a short distance.   That part of the day I dedicated to Tony…he would have loved them nd the war history that created them.    There are hundreds of Barbary apes on the rock and everyone is told repeatedly not to touch them.  A fellow bus passenger just could not resist it..he tickled one….and got soundly bit on the arm.  The rest of us then had to wait  in the hospital parking lot while he was taken in for a tetanus shot.    I did get to go to the museum when we got back near the ship. 

Today, from Cartagena I went on a tour to a city caslled Murcia.  Inland about an hour.  While there we visited several churches, a cathedral, and a monastery.  Everyone is getting ready for big processions starting tomorrow on Palm Sunday, continuing all of next week up to Easter.    The processions will be wonderful I am sure.

After touring churches, temples and mosques around the world I felt that one day I would finally be churched out.  I think I hit that wall today.   No more tours that include cathedrals or temples!  Enough already!

I am on the New Amsterdam, the original Amsterdam was parked next to us today.  It has just done 110 of it’s around the world tour and is now headed home to Fort Lauderdale.  I talked to a lady on the pier that was from the other boat…it’s her second time around the world on that ship….I think she likes it!  It was interesting to see the two ships side by side…ours being the new big sister .

I haven’t been to too many of the night time shows.  However, last night was an Irish comedian from Belfast. I haven’t laughed that hard for a long time.   Tonight is the final formal night and an evening of death by chocolate. 

Tomorrow we wake up in Valencia.  I have nothing planned…other than I must pack for my departure the next day from Barcelona to Athens.  I am hoping I will be able to get it all back into that one carry-on bag!

Next entry will be from Greece.    See y’all there!

April 10. Sunday Love/Hate

April 10, 2011 Sunday

Today is the last of our 8 day stretch at sea.  We have one more sea day coming up on Tuesday, but other than that we will be in one port or another for the next 8 days.   The Atlantic has been very calm and the sky has been mostly blue. 

Here’s an example of some of the activities that have been available to keep us occupied.  Towel folding demo, flower arrangements, book club, bridge, computer courses, photo workshops,  numerous lectures on things ranging from global warming to acupuncture, a nightly show extravaganza, trivia challenges,  happy hour, dance lessons,  cooking classes, movies, Tai Chi, Yoga, Aquarobics and many other physical body conditioning pastimes to help ward off the effects of the daily caloric  enslaught.  In addition to all that there is the spa for facials, massages and all things super expensive. There’s a gym, a casino, a duty free shop, a jewelery store, and of course hot tubs and pools.  On Tuesday coming up we have a 5 mile..”On Deck for the Cure”  fund raising walk for breast cancer…hooray for Holland America.  (I will definitely be part of this…we even get wrist bands and T-shirts.  I wonder how many times we will have to circumnavigate the ship to do 5 miles. I’ll be thinking of all my wonderful family and friends that have been touched by this horrible disease) We have an exhuberant activities staff that make you tired just listening to them, therefore, we also have nap time!  Preferably on a lounge by the pool…I have a peeling nose to prove that it’s not a good idea to fall asleep for too long! 

Before I left home I had made the comment that as far as single cruising was concerned, I was either going to love it or hate it and that there was only one way to find out.  It was pointed out to me that there is a huge range between love and hate and to keep an open mind and maybe settle for somewhere in between.  My opinion after 8 days at sea?  On a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 being..I HATE it and will NEVER DO THIS AGAIN!  To 10 being…where do I sign up to live aboard forever ?  I’m willing to rate this between 6 and 7.   I have kept busy and I have also spent some alone time.  I have met some great people that I will probably keep in touch with.   Compared to the “independent  travel”  that was so much a part of our lives for the last dozen years or so?  Yes, I will cruise again.  An easy and very safe way for a woman alone to be able to travel.  But when this cruise ends I will again become my independent self for a few months.  I’d say I have discovered the best of both worlds. 

My eyes are fine.  The floating meds that were flying around like butterflies inside my eye for a few days are gone.   Ya.  

This internet connection has not got any cheaper (or faster)  in the last few days, so I will post this from shore somewhere in the next few days.  Tomorrow we arrive in Funchal on the Island of Madeira, which is part of Portugal.  I am taking an afternoon shore excursion  called Eira do Serrado and Basket Sleigh-Ride.  Apparently we go up into the mountains…and slide back down in a wicker sleigh.   I’ll take lots of photos and post them next week when I get to Greece (yeah…free wifi)   Tuesday we are at sea and then spend Wednesday and Thursday in Cadiz, Spain.  

Hasta luego mis amigos….love y’all!

April 5 and 6 Tablemates

April 5/6 Life on board

Does anyone really want to know anything about my other 7 tablemates?  And,  as it turns out, a few of which I am hanging out with?    As I previously mentioned there are 5 females and 3 males, all traveling solo.    Two people are from New York, one from Queens, one from Manhatten.   The one from Manhattrn spends most of his life cruising, including world cruises on the Queen Elizabeth.  When at home he is a live theatre buff and a ballet affectionado.  He’s an interesting man, has been to many many places and looks great in a tuxedo.    The lady from Queens?  I “picked her up” in the Ocean Bar the first night of the cruise….you know..…a happy hour drink before dinner…a “are you alone?  May I join you?”  kind of conversation.  Turned out we were destined to be tablemates.   The “Love of her Life” died several years ago and she has been traveling ever since.  A wonderful, very dynamic  lady.    Originally from the Bronx, now lives in Queens with her daughter.  She has a most interesting accent! 

One of “our” men is from Spain.  He loves to dance and is willing to be put to the test tonight…we are ALL going dancing.  He swears he can do the tango and the Pase  Double and as long as we are willing to be led, we can too!   He gives me the opportunity to use the Spanish that I know and is teaching me how to adapt to Castillian Spanish which I will need in Spain and is somewhat  different  than Latin American Spanish.  (Like French Canadian is different than French in France.)  He plays the violin!  Of the eight of us, 3 of us play the violin.  Now, to include myself in that number is somewhat of a joke, but include myself I will! 

The other violinist is a lady from New Mexico.  She has been a widow for about 20 months.  During the last year she cruised around the world with her son and is now on her first solo cruise.  She and I have a lot in common.   She’s vibrant, alive and a very confident solo cruiser.    She spent $1800 on her internet connection when she went around the world.   She likes to stay in touch!  She and I will likely remain friends.  She will be checking out Melinda’s “ Real Woman Travel”  blog.

One of our gentlemen lives in Fort Lauderdale,  Florida and is also well travelled.  He used to be a “gentleman host” on another cruise line.  Free cruises to men that not only CAN dance but are required to do so on a daily (well, evening..) basis.   Now he travels where and when he wants to and dances when the mood strikes!  He also looks great in a tux and will be joining our dance party tonight.   This is not quite the same as dancing under the palms, in the sand, oceanside in Puerto Escondido during the Puerto Blues Musicfest……but it’s fun just the same!

Who have I missed?  Oh yes…the lady from Maryland.  A ballet teacher that knows my cousin and is in awe of the fact that Anna Marie is my cousin.  She is appalled that I am  giving up  opening night of Anna Marie’s La Corsair at the Kennedy Center  tomorrow night in Washington DC to come on this cruise!   One just CAN NOT do everything! 

The one I’ve missed?  My fellow Canadian, a woman from Ontario that I have yet to sit next to and get to know.  I do know that she has always been single, has traveled extensively and is part of the CruiiseCritics.com community. 

And so, life for me continues to be interesting.