This trip was supposed to be on Explora Journeys' new ship, Explora II - her maiden voyage from Barcelona to Barcelona. However, once again, (remember Explora I inaugural voyage last year?), the ship launching has been delayed. Explora Journeys has moved Goldring Travel's Culinary and Cultural group over to Explora I, we've all had to change flights, departure and arrival dates, and a whole new itinerary . . . but we are at least in the same month.
Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, August 7, 8 and 9 - SFO to Explora I
The last three days have been wonderful and not so wonderful! Am going to try to recap the journey in one portion so I can remember the full effect!
Home to SFO
SFO to Frankfurt (ugh!)
Frankfurt to Venice
Venice Airport to Hotel Ca' Sagredo via water taxi
Ca'Sagredo to Baggage Drop for ship via water taxi
Van to Immigration
Passenger boat to Explora I that is docked in Fusina
Always a pleasure to leave for a trip with someone from Christian Garibaldi's car service - always on time. Met Eric at airport lounge and had a visit before boarding the plane. So far so good. Plane left on time, I think, because I fell asleep!! Though it was a bumpy ride, lots of turbulence, we arrived on time at my dreaded airport - Frankfurt. I have never been to this airport without having drama. Either the connecting gate is umpteen miles away from arrival gate, or I get lost, or I miss my connection, or . . . . But today I was traveling with Eric, who'd ordered a wheel chair for me (because a wheel chair gets you through the lines more easily. HAH! Certain perks like this one are probably the only good reason for letting my hair go grey!
Even though the wheel chair was there, we had time and decided to walk to the Lufthansa lounge closest to our gate - there are tons of them everywhere throughout the airport and with a business class ticket one can enter. I'd thought we had to go through immigration, but we decided perhaps not - wrong. We chose to wait for transport assistance after learning that we did have to go through immigration. We waited and we waited . . . Finally the transport arrived, and we headed in the opposite direction of our gate, went into area B, rather than A, and, lo and behold, this immigration area had been closed - doors were locked , much to chagrin of our driver. Lots of gesticulating and loud conversation in German, Eric and Jeanne beginning to get nervous as boarding of connecting flight was about to begin.
Back into the transport and we headed to the other end of the airport. Our driver must have believed she was competing with an E-ride at Disneyland, shouting all the way, "Achtung - bitter"!! People scattered, but I didn't think they moved quickly enough!
At immigration we were driven to the head of the line, processed quickly, and got to the other side, where we were to wait for another transport, because "Achtung - bitter", couldn't cross into the other side with her cart. Thankfully, she waited with us, and soon we were in another transport, heading back to area A for our boarding. We made it with five minutes to spare, were given red "assistance" passes and asked to board first.
But wait! . . . could I navigate two flights of stairs. Remember that most of the connecting flights at Frankfurt do not allow for the usual way to board flights, and one must first proceed to the ground and get on a bus that takes you out to the hinterlands of the airport where your plane is waiting, and there you must climb steps on to the plane.
Eric took my carry-on luggage, I slowly got down the stairs with my creaky knee, and we were the first ones on the bus, sweltering in the heat while we awaited the rest of the passengers. Finally on the plane to Venice I conked out. Don't remember the flight, didn't get the snack - just needed a deep nap! An hour and a half later, we arrived Venice.
I remember Venice as a small airport where one collects the luggage and walks out under a covered walkway down to the water where water taxis are waiting. This airport is much newer than the one I remember fourteen years ago, but first we had to claim our luggage.
Eric's had arrived, but mine had not. From the app on my phone I knew the two pieces had arrived at the Venice airport, but the carousel had stopped. There were several of us waiting to claim luggage.
After ten minutes, Eric went in search of someone to give us information while I waited for the carousel to continue spewing out luggage. While he was gone, the carousel began again and my luggage arrived. Eric came back fuming to relate to us that the people handling luggage had decided they needed a coffee, so just took off (mid task) to sip caffeine - only in Italy!!
With all luggage accounted for, we began our trek following the blue signs to "water transport". Thank God for wheels on baggage! Though it seemed more like ten miles, it was probably only one mile - long enough after a seemingly interminable travel time.
We found the water taxi area (in the past we have referred to water taxis as "motoscaffi". After helping each of us on to the boat, and then handling the luggage, our driver, Davide, young, handsome, and adept at handling the boat, sped through the outer waters of Venice. It was nice to have that manufactured breeze to cool down in the hot and humid temperatures. Big slow down as we entered the busy waters of Venice, such a beautiful city.
Soon we arrived at Hotel Ca'Sagredo.
A Private Palazzo, a Noble Residence, a Museum, a Luxury Hotel and much more… this is all Ca’ Sagredo. The 15th century Palace has been declared a National Monument and still preserves the untouched beauty of an ancient noble Residence. It oozes romance while the opulently frescoed ballroom and lounge echoes with epic events of the past. Just gliding up the imposing marble staircase; whilst resisting a tap on a cherub’s peachy cheek, feels positively regal Ca’ Sagredo’s views of the canal life and the historical Rialto Market opposite are storybook scenes of old. The hotel’s 42 magnificently appointed rooms and suites are a seriously suggestive sight to behold with classic Venetian styling. (from the Ca'Sagredo website).
I took this photo from their website. Love the concept, though the hands are no longer there.
Adolfo and I had last been to this wonderful hotel fourteen years ago. I didn't remember previously entering the hotel from the Grand Canal side, directly from motoscaffo into lobby, but that's what we did. Blessed air conditioning welcomed us - we were home, at least for one night. All I wanted now was a nap in a real bed!
My room is the original two storied library.
The walls are lined with curtained cabinets behind which reside some very old books - all locked. While lying on the bed, one looks up into the second story, and a HUGE Murano chandelier - breathtaking! The one window faces the Grand Canal, and if I navigate the four very steep stairs out on to the extremely small balcony, I can watch the Venetian parade of life going by.
Near the bedroom/library is a small powder room. I made one trip upstairs to the main bathroom and decided I'd wait to take a shower until I got to the ship. The stairs up are steep, narrow, really hard marble, there is no bannister, and on the way down appear steeper, narrower and harder. Am truly afraid that I will take a tumble and end my trip right here!
After a refreshing two hour nap, it was time to meet the group down in the lobby for a short 5-minute walk to a restaurant where Eric was hosting the group of eleven for dinner. The restaurant, La Vecia Cavano, has been a favorite of Eric for many years. Food and wine were delicious. I'm not yet on my game, because I didn't take photos - except for the making of zabaglione.
Sugar, egg yolks (3 per serving), Marsala wine; cook, whip, serve! All in a copper pot!
On our walk back to Ca'Sagredo, we passed a previously bare old iron gate which was now adorned with many beautiful and colorful Murano glass candle holders.
It was almost 11:00 p.m. when we arrived back at the hotel and hopefully a good night's rest. Well, almost . . . I was awake at 4:30 a.m. and soon managed to crawl up the window stairs. Stood out on the balcony and watched Venice come to life in the early morning hours. So beautiful, so still, and so blessedly cool.
Caught up on email, straightened out my packing and at 8:00 a.m., arrived at breakfast in one of the beautiful museum-like rooms. Beautiful frescos adorn most ceilings. Everywhere one looks is something old and beautiful - and heaven forbid - so much to dust!. After breakfast and coffee with Eric and Iva, I found a local pharmacia and got a couple of things that I'd forgotten to pack - moisturizer and deodorant - how could I forget those items?
Late morning, we all gathered with our luggage in the lobby and awaited the water taxi that would help us resume our journey to the ship. This included being brought to the baggage drop-off area, about a ten minute water taxi ride. We then boarded a van that took us to immigration - perhaps another ten minute ride, where we waited our turn to have our passports checked.
When finished with that process, we walked to a waiting passenger boat for maybe a 30-minute ride to the ship that was docked in Fusina, the commercial port for Venice. In previous trips I've been fortunate to be on small cruise ships that sailed right into the center of Venice. Those were wondrous experiences, not soon forgotten - like being in the middle of a fairy tale - so memorable.
But, since the accidents of larger cruise ships Venice has banned all ships from coming into the city and now they all must berth out in Fusina. While it does make travel to Venice via cruise ships a bit complicated, I can understand and am just happy that I can be here.
Finally aboard Explora I. So good to finally be aboard for the one year anniversary of this beautiful ship. While this Culinary and Cultural cruise should have been aboard Explora II, (a twin of this ship) am happy to re-acquaint with some of the crew I met last year. Because Explora II was not ready for Eric's group, we all opted to be transferred over to Explora I, with almost the same sail dates, but a different itinerary. And, because of the transfer, I did not get my desired suite for the whole trip because it wasn't available.
Instead, am beginning the trip in a forward suite. Again, have my own hot tub, and because my suite is forward the feeling of being on a ship is more prevalent with the bow being right outside the windows, said windows slanted to remind one of being on a ship.
Have been warned that I will hear the anchor being lowered - not a problem. When we get to Athens, I will be switched to the suite I originally booked, at the back of the ship.
Invited to a cocktail party at The Whisky Bar by Heike, the General Manager of the ship. Eric was also there. He'd invited Iva and me to join him for dinner at Sakura - my favorite restaurant on the ship.
Crispy Duck
Dim Sum
Lobster Roll
Pork Cheeks
Broccollini
Poached Pear, plus
Something chocolate
Mango Sorbet, Plus!
Of course, ate too much, but so delicious. Enjoyed a really good wine and then to bed, which takes me to . . .
Saturday, August 10 - On Board Explora I
Awoke this morning and it was 11:45!!! Believe I've caught up with my sleep!!! Have just enjoyed a small panino, a cup of coffee, and caught up with the writing portion of this blog. Will now try to add photos.
The ship is not leaving Venice until later this afternoon. Am having an easy day aboard ship - which is quiet. Many have caught a shuttle service and gone back to Venice to spend the day. It's too hot for me!
Time for a cocktail and then a dinner solo. Thinking about my travel companions last January and their introducing me to a Bees Knees cocktail which is usually made with gin, but vodka can be substituted (my preference). Very tasty!
Decided on the Med restaurant this evening. When I was being seated, saw Iva right in front of me and she, too, was dining alone, so joined her. Had a delightful dinner and then enjoyed one of my favorite bottles of wine which I first tasted on this ship last year. So happy to see it on the wine menu. After dinner we then decided to have the remaining wine delivered to the Journeys' Lounge and enjoy the music program - much fun, of course, made more so by finishing that bottle of wine.
Enjoyed a risotto, preceded by a roasted vegetable salad.
Sunday, August 11 - Hvar, Croatia
Hvar (pronounced "For") is a Croatian island in the Adriatic Sea, located off the Dalmatian coast, lying between the islands of Brač, Vis and Korčula. Approximately 42.25 miles long, with a high east–west ridge of Mesozoic limestone and dolomite, the island of Hvar is unusual in the area for having a large fertile coastal plain, and fresh water springs. Its hillsides are covered in pine forests, with vineyards, olive groves, fruit orchards and lavender fields in the agricultural areas. The climate is characterized by mild winters, and warm summers with many hours of sunshine. The island has 10,678 residents according to the 2021 census, making it the 4th most populated of the Croatian islands.
It's another quite warm, but beautiful day on the Dalmation Coast. Have been here before, so am taking the day for manicure and pedicure (only treat myself to manis and pedis while on a cruise ship!). My hair is in need of a trim, so this afternoon that will be remedied.
The Explora Journeys company is committed to eventually having the most ecologically friendly ships on the seas. To follow that ethic, their beauty salon only does manicures and pedicures with what they consider a "green" product. They do not use gels or shellacs. All products sold are eco-friendly. They don't dye hair, give permanents or Keratin treatments.
There is a wonderful print in Iva's suite.
Here are some of the titles:
The Voyage of the Bagel (Beagle)
The Italian Jib (Job)
Aye Aye Claudius (I, Claudius)
The Seagull Has Landed (Eagle)
Sea of Pupplies. (?)
Kinky Boats (Boots)
The Picture of Dory and Grayling (Dorian Gray)
The History of Henry The Fourth, Port I (Part I)
The Merry Waves of Windsor (Wives)
Dinner with Iva at the Sushi Bar which is in the Sakura Restaurant, but doesn't need a reservation. We ordered some sushi, and then asked the Sushi Master to surprise us, and indeed, he did! He prepared what he calls Japanese Burrito - funny name. But to our delilght, it was delicious. Don't have the foggiest idea how to describe it, except to say that a part of the process is deep frying. Apparently, this is his original creation and he once won a sushi contest on the island of Macao with this entry.
Along with some warm saki, we thoroughly enjoyed the sushi experience.
Monday, August 12 - Kotor, Montenegro
Kotor Bay, an ampitheatre on Montenegro's Adriatic coast, welcomes with hypnotic jade waters and emerald-crowned slopes. Sheltered in the fjord's embrace, Kotor Old Town beckons as a fairy-tale city with formidable walls, Romanesque churches, and medieval bastions. Italian and Mediterranean influences flavourthe cuisine, featuring gelato and brodetto with fresh Adriatic seafood. Uphill, the Church of our Lady of Remedy offers spectacular views of Kotor's red-tiled UNESCO rooftops, a jewel amongst inspiring landscapes.
The extreme heat continues, so have opted to stay aboard ship. Still seem to be trying to catch up on sleep, but isn't that what cruising is all about?
Iva and I enjoyed a wonderful dinner at Fil Rouge. Last year I was disappointed in the lackluster cuisine of this restaurant, but because this is Iva's first trip aboard Explora I, felt she should experience all dining venues. Our dinner was superb. Began with a lovely and light tuna tataki, followed by a butter lettuce salad that was presented like a giant rose. Inside the salad were small cubes of a rich and creamy Roquefort cheese, and on the side was a perfect accompaniment of a lemon vinaigarette. This was followed y another wonderful risotto. These last two risottos (risotti?) are the best I've ever tasted aboard any ship. Didn't take enough photos - am falling down on the job of photographing the beautiful food presentations.
Tuna Tataki
After dinner we were treated to a musical show by entertainer Ben Mills from Britain - pianist, guitarist, singer - he does it all. The audience really enjoyed the music. We were happy to learn that in a couple of evenings, he would present another show.
Tuesday, August 13 - Brindisi, Italy
Brindisi is a city in the region of Apulia in southern Italy, the former capital of the province of Brindisi, on the coast of the Adriatic Sea. Historically, the city has played an essential role in trade and culture due to its strategic position on the Italian Peninsula and its natural port on the Adriatic Aea. The city remains a major port for trade with Balkan Peninsula, Greece and the Middle East. Its industries include agriculture, chemical works, and the generation of electricity.
Heat or no heat, it's time to get off the ship. We are docked in town, so it was easy to just wander without having to take a tender into shore. It is hot, but I walked about a mile, glancing into store windows - nothing caught my eye nor tempted me into a shop, so it was soon a return back to the ship and blessed air conditioning.
When here last, perhaps in 2012, Adolfo and I did a tour out to a UNESCO site, the town of Alberobello, to see the historic cone houses.
There are six restaurants on this ship - all are good.
Emporium Marketplace - many stations for all kinds of food, something for everyone. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. A great place for families traveling with young children.
Fil Rouge - sort of French. The only one I did not like last year, but this year it's a winner.
Med Yacht Club - Italian and deliciious. Great risotto.
Sakura - Pan Asian, and a favorite for me. All kinds of things that I would not and do not cook at home - so everything is a treat. (Reservations required) - except at the Sushi Bar.
Marble & Co. - a traditional steakhouse, also offering fresh fish, chicken, veal and pork. My favorite there is the smashed warm potato salad topped with black caviar - a tiny and delicious starter. (Reservations required). This is the only dining venue that does not have windows to the ocean.
Anthology - The menu has three choices in each category, i.e., starter, salad, etc. Reservations are required and there is a rather hefty charge for eating there. One has a choice of ordering one's own wine, or going with the wine pairing (my favorite).
And, of course, there's always 24-hour room service.
Tonight, Iva, Eric and I dined at Anthology and enjoyed the wine pairing. I'm doing catch-up with my writing, so am not certain if I got the wine photos with the correct food pairings, but here goes.
Served with the bread
Amuse Bouche
Shrimp Ceviche
Vitello Tonnato
Risotto with Red Wine
Lemon Granita - palate cleanser
Delicious Beef
Another palate cleanser
. . . . and desserts
Wednesday, August 14 - Nydri (Lefkada), Greece
Nydri is a town and a community on the eastern coast of the island of Lefkada, Greece. It is part of the municipal unit Ellomenos. The community includes the small village Rachi. The Green National Road 42 (Vasiliki- Lefkada (city) - Amfilochia) passes through the town. Nydri is a popular tourist town. In the sea in front of Nydri are several small islands including Madouri, Skorpios, Skorpidi and Sparta. The island Skorpios is the property of the Ribolovlev family.
Another experience at the Sushi Bar. We knew we wanted to share another Japanese Burrito, but asked the Sushi Master to surprise us with something else. All good!
Then on to a Whiskey Tasting with chocolate pairing! Fun! I'm not a Scotch fancier, but found it interesting to taste the four whisky's they offered, and for some reason a Woodford WhiskEy in the middle - still don't understand that. All were good except for one that tasted like you should pour it over an open wound to disinfect!! Of course, it was the most expensive by name of Caol Ila!
Our favorite bartender, Murata, from Kenya
Thursday, August 15 - Day at Sea
Wine Tasting with food pairing scheduled for noon today. Iva and I looked forward to this event. Here are the wines.
Chateau d'Esclans, Garrus, Provence, France 2021
Salted Beets with Goat Cheese
Domaine de Beudon, Fendant, Vielles Vignes, Switzerland 2018
(no photo of food pairing)
Domaine Ostertag, Vendanges Tardives, "Fronholz" 2018
Lobster - good, but the sauce was sweet. The wine also (Ostertag) was overly sweet. Most of us didn't enjoy the pairing and it's my understanding that the wine for this food will be changed when this event is repeated.
Descendientes de J. Palacios, Villa de Corullon, Rioja, Spain 2019
(no photo of food pairing)
Le Cana VINCE' Rosso Mache IGT 2019
This beef was perfectly cooked and perfectly paired with the Vince' - my favorite wine aboard ship. When I saw that we would end with this wine, the event took way too long to reach this last tasting! So wonderful! Explora Journeys bought out the entire production from Le Cana Winery - amazing!
We had a "light" dinner that evening at Marble & Company and of course, ordered a bottle of the Vince'. We'd had more than our share of wine this day, so were able to have the restaurant save the remainder for the next evening.
One of my favorites in this restaurant is a unique starter which was just as good as I remembered - a small presentation of smashed potatoes topped with black caviar - I know, there's that word again - DELICIOUS!!
Friday, August 16 - Piraeus, Greece (Athens)
An all-day tour was planned for our group, but with soaring temperatures felt it prudent to bow out. The day began with an early morning drive into Athens and a climb up to the Acropolis. The group arrived just before the hordes ascended, and by the time they walked down, the area was very crowded.
The next stop was to have a guided tour of the old town of Corinth and an authentic Greek lunch. Temperatures there were over 100 degrees. So happy that I stayed aboard the ship!
In 2021, Sandi, John and I'd spent several days in Athens pre-cruise and had done lots of touring of the city. Once on that cruise, we also did an all day tour of the Corinth Canal and the old city of Corinth. Didn't feel that I missed much this day!
Additionally, when I made reservations for this cruise on Explora II, I booked a Serenity Suite. When the ship failed to be ready for the inaugural voyage and we were transferred over to Explora I, that suite was not available for the full cruise. So, for the first leg from Venice to Athens (Piraeus) I was in a forward suite - quite large, but it was noisy and dark.
This morning all of my belongings were transferred over to a Serenity Suite, and the day on the ship allowed me to get resettled. This suite is a delight with a wrap around terrace, personal hot tub (not used!), outdoor shower, weight bench (HAH!) and tons of chairs and lounges. Wish all family was here and we could have a party!
This is the view from my terrace down to the infinity pool on the back of the ship. Believe it is one of three swimming pools on the ship.
Enjoyed dinner once again with Iva at Fil Rouge. No photos - too busy eating! But wait - did take a photo of my entree - the Dover Sole - which was delicious!
When leaving the restaurant, noticed a private dining room that is situated between Fil Rouge and the Med restaurants. The arrangement of flowers in vases was very beautiful and dramatic - this time not all white - and wanted to reference this perhaps for duplication at home. Better begin collecting tall and skinny vases!
Saturday, August 17 - Mykonos, Greece
Mykonos is a Greek island, part of the Cyclades, lying between Tinos, Syros, Paros and Naxos. The island has an area of 33.0 square miles and rises to an elevation of 1,119 feet at its highest point. At the 2021 census, there were 10,704 inhabitants, most of whom lived in the largest town, Mykonos, which is on the west coast. The town is also known as Chora (i.e. 'Town' in Greek, following the common practice in Greece when the name of the island itself is the same as the name of the principal town).
Such a windy place!!! This time I didn't wear a hat because I knew from past experience that it would be too difficult to keep on my head.
Did a bit of shopping on Mykonos. Lots of choices, most super expensive, but found a nice shop with a lovely store owner and came back to the ship with three dresses.
Dinner at the Med, with a starter of mussels, and then a plate of risotto.
Monday, August 18 - Leaving Mykonos and a Sea Day
We left Mykonos at 6:00 a.m. Many guests had partied the night away on shore and caught the last tender to the ship at 5:00 o'clock this morning.
Today we looked forward to a cooking class in the Chef's kitchen. I'd really enjoyed these cooking classes on the 2023 cruise and took several of them. Today's class was a "special" menu, and arranged courtesy of Goldring Travel. What is usually a two-hour class turned into a three and a half hour class. We cooked and cooked and we learned and learned . . . everyone has a cooking station. Couples shared one but being a single, I had one all on my own. Lots of chopping and mincing and being taught (again and again) how to slice an onion. It's so awkward for me to do this correctly, i.e., Chef Hugo's way! I've probably been cooking longer than the Chef's age - albeit incorrectly!!
My cooking station with a tricky induction range, one that was not working up to full power.
All of the prepared condiments used for the three recipes. The invisible sous chef had been busy prior to our arrival - thank goodness!
While in port at Lefkada, Eric had purchased local Greek wines to share today. He told us the cost was approximately $10 per bottle. Though not a fan of Greek wines, these were quite good and enjoyed by all - thank you, Eric! Who knew, with all of the Greek wines I've tasted in my travels that I would find some to my liking from Lefkada!
The Chef's Kitchen is beautifully designed for teaching and participating by guests. While cooking, at our backs are floor to ceiling windows. Looking over my shoulder and down to the water, this is the view - quite dramatic!
First dish - butterflied and sauteed prawns sitting on a bed of tomato sauce, simmered with Ouzo, topped with Feta cheese, and assorted herbs.
Second dish - Arugula salad sitting on a yogurt and lemon sauce, topped by julienned zucchini, roasted and julienned red peppers, cherry tomatoes and olives. Final topping is fried Halloumi cheese (which I found a bit leathery and without flavor).
Third dish - tatziki topped by lettuce and garnished with fried tomato dumplings (slightly over done!). Should have saved a few red peppers for color on this plate.
Then to the dining room to eat what we'd cooked. Oh my goodness, it was almost 6:00 p.m. and Iva and I were due at a wine tasting at 7:00 p.m. Tasted a bit of the food and left. Had to clean up before the next event. Once out of the kitchen, all I could smell on my clothing was garlic and onions!!
Wine tastings on this ship have been taken to a new level - better than on other ships and a huge improvement over last year's tastings on this ship. So far both wine tastings have been paired with foods suggested by the Cellar Master and a Chef (who is the Cellar Master's husband). With the exception of one pairing at lunch the other day, all have been interesting and delicious.
Beautiful setting, al fresco, on the back deck. Weather warm, but not hot - sun setting. All throughout the ship there are fresh flowers, and they are almost always white. We were joined by one other couple from France who were rather dismissive of the two California wines offered, but did go on and on about the one French entry!!! Of Course!
Also at table were Ken and Marianne, part of the Goldring Travel group - a delightful couple from North Carolina.
Moet & Chandon Champagne, Grand Vintage Rose, 2015 -
Good, but I still prefer Prosecco over Champagne.
Utopia - Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi Classico, Riserva 2019 - Delicious, clean, refreshing. Can see myself sipping this on a warm afternoon.
Shafer Vineyards, Red Shoulder Ranch, Chardonnay, Napa, 2019 -
This was a surprise for me as generally, my least favorite white wine is a California Chardonnay. However, the Shafer was really good, easy on the palate
and left lovely flavors in the mouth.
A wonderful concoction of mashed potatoes, peas, caviar and a bit of aioli.
Saint George Vineyard, Brichino Zinfandel, California Central Coast, 2019 - DELICIOUS!
This photo looks like a grilled lizard!! Made me giggle! It is grilled octopus.
The siracha aioli on the side, made for an interesting pairing.
Chateau La Fleur, French, 2016 - Good, even though I wanted to smile
at the French and say it was just "okay"!!
(No photo of food pairing)
Though I took photos of all paired foods, only two came through - don't know what happened to the others, so have included the two photos.
Iva, Marianne, Ken and I lingered outside after the tasting was finished. We also finished some red wines that were poured and not tasted. We then retired to the Whisky Bar and were joined by Jacques and Bernadette from Belgium and enjoyed more drinks - I would sleep very well this evening.
Jeanne and Iva
Monday, August 19 - Volos, Greece
Volos is a coastal port city in Thessaly situated midway on the Greek mainland, about 205 miles north of Athens and 137 miles south of Thessaloniki. It is the capital of the Magnesia regional unit of the Thessaly Region. Volos is also the only outlet to the sea from Thessaly, the country's largest agricultural region. With a population of 85,803 (2021), the city is an important industrial center, and its port provides a bridge between Europe and Asia.
Volos offers architectural gems, scented landscapes, and beach-fringed bays. Discover treasures in the mythical home of Jason and the Argonauts before exploring Pelion, the land of Centaurs. Wander cobbled tracks linking villages and botanists' dream landscapes. Take a dip in quiet Pagasitic waters, cross the Moutzouris gorge and paddle past coves into sea caves. Visit Damouchari for bougainvillae and olive trees, Tsagarada for Greece's oldest plane tree and Milies for murals. This playground of the gods remains a quiet memory of Greece.
A very quiet day today, mostly spent trying to catch up this blog and should be able to publish tomorrow morning. I let it get way ahead of me and have had a bit of a challenge figuring out the calendar and order of photos. That will teach me!!
The weather turned today - much cooler, and suddenly there were grey skies and a downpour!!
At dinner, Iva and I were back at the Sushi Bar in Sakura Restaurant, and once again the Sushi Master didn't disappoint when we asked to be surprised. The food there is wonderful!
Tuesday, August 20 - Skopelos, Greece
Discover narrow streets lined with craft shops in the charming harbour, quaint fishing villages, and whitewashed houses climbing the hillsides. Enjoy seafood restaurants with views of sandy shores and a string of secluded coves. Scented pines create an emerald carpet down to the clear water's edge. Famous for the wedding scene in Mamma Mia, the tiny chapel of Agios Ioannis, perched high above the turquoise sea, is reached by 198 stone steps. Beyond this cinematic spot, the island's charm is boundless.
Slept very poorly last evening, so after a light breakfast went back to the suite for a nap that turned into almost four hours!! When I'd returned to my suite last evening there had been an invitation to attend a special dinner in the Chef's Kitchen, with Captain Pietro Sinisi and General Manager Maarten Smeets. Last year I'd been invited to such a dinner and it was very enjoyable. Also several days ago someone mentioned if I'd known anyone who'd been invited to the "Secret Dinner". Said I'd never heard of it. Apparently that is what these dinners are now called.
There were ten of us at table, FOUR chefs in the kitchen, a couple of sous chefs, waiters and the Cellar Master to present the wine. I can only surmise that I was invited because I have a large suite - how nice! Sat to the right of the Captain. To my right was a delightful Italian woman, also traveling solo, from Milano - very interesting. Across were two gentlemen from one of the Nordic countries, and Maarten, Eric and Diane. And, on the other side of the Captain were a couple from the United States who'd I'd met at the Malt Whisky Bar a couple of evenings ago.
Conversation was bright and fun. Captain told a couple of harrowing stories about rescues at sea . . . and of course the food was stupendous! The menu is as follows:
CHEF'S SECRET DINNER
Canapes Selection
Caviar, traditional garnish, buckwheat blinis
Iberico de bellota
Appetizer
Local smoked Swordfish
Feta cream, lemon aioli, zesty dressing and mixed micro herbs
Second Course
Truffle-potato Tortellini
Brown butter sage sauce, caramelized fresh chanterelle mushrooms
Main Course
Fresh local pan seared seabream
Citrus-olives & caper sauce, garlic crushed potatoes, summer vegetables
Dessert
Sokolatopita
Moist chocolate cake with Greek yogurt ice cream
Mignardises
This dining room has a unique setup as there is a huge screen at one end of the room that shows all of the workings in the kitchen, in real time. Though the dinner was remarkable, I couldn't help giggling that in our family and especially at Christina Cup, we've turned out some pretty remarkable meals and there weren't four bona-fide, tall-hatted chefs in our kitchens!!
Cellar Master - Sean
After dinner went to the evening show that featured a woman who created art with sand - yep - art with sand. On stage there is a huge lit table in front of her with an internal camera set up, and two huge screens to project her work to the audience. She then proceeds to drop, spray, push, fan, sand in different ways then using her fingers, finger nails, palms, etc., to create "works of art". Though different and perhaps unique, found that after four creations I'd had enough.
Finally got to the Casino - my first (and only) visit this trip. After playing blackjack left an hour later, dead even. Back in my suite I opened the curtains and as I lay in bed, watched a huge lightening show all around the skies. Pretty awesome. There was going to be rain through the night and perhaps tomorrow.
Wednesday, August 21 - Thessaloniki, Greece
Breeze into a mix of vintage and modern, rich in art, culture, and history. With 15 UNESCO sites and numerous museums, there's much to explore. Admire enduring ramparts, the impressive Galerius Palace, the domed Rotunda, Byzantine churches, and the 15th-century White Tower. Discover prehistoric times at the Archaeological Museum. Wander Ladadika's charming streets and squares, enjoy Greek produce in the Market and soak up modern art on the lively waterfront. Thessaloniki blends past and present in remarkable harmony.
Just typing this description has made me tired. Am staying in today as the skies are threatening, and think I'll get a head start on my packing. We leave the ship day after tomorrow.
Thursday, August 22 - At Sea
It's time to finish up the packing and get the suitcases out into the hallway tonight. But, before that, Eric has arranged a tour of different suites so his guests can get an idea of all options for future journeys. Though I've stayed in four different suites during my last two cruises with Explora Journeys, will tag along to see if I've missed anything!
Tonight, Iva and I are making one last foray into the Sushi Bar. We always have fun there and a tasty meal, too!
We were once again "surprised" by Sushi Master Saudi, and we did request Japanese Burrito one more time - this time it had wings!
These two, especially Sushi Chef Saudi, made the sushi experience so memorable!
Friday, August 23 - Istanbul, Turkey
Up at 7:00 a.m. this morning, just one hour after Explora I had docked in Istanbul. Finished packing my carry-on and met Iva for breakfast. We had a 9:30 departure time for the airport and I’d been given another hour to remain in my suite. I was told to wait for an “escort” out to the baggage claim area, but that person never materialized so off we went on our own. It was easy and we soon had our luggage and were looking for our private transfer to the airport, which is complementary when you book certain suites on the ship.
We spotted a gentleman holding a sign with our names on it and were escorted to the largest van you’ve ever seen - just for the two of us?? Well, guess it wasn’t originally, because we sat in the van for over thirty minutes and I assumed we were awaiting other guests who never materialized.
I’m usually patient but our driver didn’t speak a word of English. He paced outside the van, making several phone calls while never making eye contact with either one of us. Why weren’t we on our way to the airport? He had a telephone that could translate Turkish to English and print out his message. However, when he did that the translation came out “Adam, Bravo, Charlie, etc.”
I finally got out of the van and stood there (I hope looking formidable!) until someone came up to me and asked if he could assist us. His English was perfect and soon there were five men and women all offering solutions (in Turkish). We were then asked for our flight number and airline, and which airport did we want because Istanbul has two airports. Istanbul International Airport (IST) - though I don’t believe I clarified the (IST).
At any rate, we were finally on our way, being assured by the English speaking gentleman that he would double check to be certain we were headed for the correct airport, and if not, he would telephone the driver. Toward the end of the journey, I became a little concerned that we’d not turned off the freeway at a sign that was indicated on my telephone and made my concern known, albeit, quietly and with difficulty. Our driver then got someone on his phone who spoke fluent English and that young man assured me that they would be waiting at the airport to take care of us, check us in, get us headed in the right direction - all would be well. WHEW! Thank goodness!
Indeed, two young men were waiting for us, took our luggage and asked us to follow - they would assist us in checking our luggage, getting our boarding passes and send us through security.
But, as soon as we entered the airport there was a huge line where no one could enter the main part of the airport until and unless all luggage, including hand held luggage, were put through an x-ray machine. We were also put through an x-ray machine, and of course, my new knee caused a fuss.
Once through that scanning, we/they had lots of trouble finding the Lufthansa check-in counter. We were also informed that it was probably too early for us to check in, because no gates opened until three hours prior to one’s flight - it was already under that time - but that today they wouldn’t open until 12:00 noon, which was just two hours before our flight. Just like Frankfurt, everyone to whom you ask the same question has a different answer!
One of our young helpers kept asking me the name of the airport, to which I responded, “Istanbul”. No, no, he replied, the name of the airport, to which I responded “Frankfurt”?
Then realized he was asking the name of the airline - “Oh, you mean, airline - Lufthansa”!!
We got to the Lufthansa check-in counter and were “helped” by a stunningly beautiful young woman who I believe was dumb as a rock! Everything we learned in the next twenty-five minutes was said in Turkish to one of our young men and he would then relay the information to us in English.
Gave her my passport. She then requested a driver’s license. We discussed the use of a lounge and whether or not it would be complementary (as my guest) for Iva or did she have to pay - thought she’d have to pay, but didn’t know how much! Someone mentioned a Gold Amex and did I have one? No, I have a Platinum Card. Could she see it? What? I showed it to her - strange. And, she looked at it.
Then through passport check - pretty straight forward followed by a full blown security check where bags were once again x-rayed. This time computers had to be removed from carry-ons. I was scanned again and patted down because of my knee.
We found Gate D5 but the area was closed. We sat at Starbucks for a light snack and waited for the gate to open. This was not the cuisine of Explora I. When the gate fially ,opened we were not allowed to enter the area without once again showing our boarding passes and passports.
Finally on our plane to Frankfurt, but twenty minutes behind schedule. Hope we make our respective connecting flights in Germany.
Note: Travel and Leisure Magazine has voted Istanbul International Airport “The Best” and therefore the winner in this category. If they are grading the “best” by the number of super high end shops, then I’d guess that it would be no contest!! Go figure . . .
Made it to Frankfurt, didn’t have to take a bus from the plane parked in the hinterlands of the airport, to the terminal. But did take a train to the correct terminal and then began our march. We were supposed to have some assistance to get to our gates, but none there. We parted at Concourse Z, Iva in one direction and I in the other. Barely made my flight, as did Iva, but am currently on the plane as I write this segment. Of all of times I've been in the Frankfurt Airport, this has been the easiest connection - it's a miracle!!!
Plane loaded and ready to pull away from the gate when the pilot announced a medical emergency and there would be EMT's boarding the plane. Don't know the final determination of the person in trouble but one hour later we pulled away from the gate and began our trek home.
As I write this, am home, same day that I left, August 23. Tired, but looking forward to a good night's sleep in my own bed. It's been a wonderful trip. Have enjoyed my dinners each evening with Iva, all of the members of the Goldring Travel group have been a delight and I look forward to our Goldring Culinary and Cultural adventure in 2025 - South Africa, including a safari!! Special thanks to Eric Goldring of Goldring Travel - you done good!!!
Comments