Saturday, January 13 - Leaving Home
In all of the trips I’ve done over the many years, this one will be remembered for the worst weather ever!!! It’s been raining all day – not hard, but steady, making the roads, and particularly the freeways really interesting. Several smaller cars were pulled over and stopped, hazard lights flashing – perhaps too much water up in the engine – don’t know!
At any rate, my driver, Luis, was at the house sharply at 4:00 p.m. and we were off. Took a little longer than usual to get to the airport, but as I type this am sitting in the United Polaris Lounge, duly checked in, luggage on its way to the plane and I’m watching the clock to make certain that I board (this time at the correct gate!) a little after 7:00 p.m.
Flight takes off at 8:00 p.m., providing there are no delays.
Because of the surgery I had ten weeks ago (a total left knee replacement), I was advised to wear a compression sleeve for my left leg, so I ordered what was recommended. Took all of the measurements, up, down and around, and today at around 2:00 p.m., I tried to put it on.
They must be kidding!!!! After trying and trying, and finally getting it on only to find that it couldn’t possible be worn for almost 20 hours, I tried to take it off. This experience reminded me of putting on and removing Spanx – ladies will understand this! Trying to remove the stocking was more difficult than trying to put it on. What to do? I finally came up with some tights that can be worn under my travel pants. This will just have to be enough. Will move often, or lie flat (in business class) and try to get up and do some exercises to stay out of trouble.
The Polaris Lounge is fairly quiet – hardly anyone here, so am enjoying my glass of Pinot Grigio, a few little pieces of cheese, and watching the hands of the clock move toward boarding time.
Sunday, January 14 – In Flight and a Lost Day!
Monday, January 15 – Arrival in Sydney, Australia
The flight was very rocky! Seat belt sign was on almost the whole flight which left a little over an hour after its original departure time. When passengers left their seats to use the restroom, they were pointed back to their seats by attendants who were well belted in to their own seats.
Flying in business class and having the opportunity to sleep in a lie flat seat is always worth the extra expense when traveling long distances, but this time had to content myself with a sightly reclining seat. Controls were messed up and it wouldn’t work, but thankfully I slept quite a bit (for me.) Also watched a good movie that one of my sons had recommended – Ford and Ferrari. Really good.
Taken from the plane on landing.
I left in a rain storm and arrived in a rain storm!! It is pouring here in Sydney. Thankful that once I arrived at the airport in San Francisco, I stowed my raincoat in an outside pocket of checked luggage, so it was ready to use once again.
The Four Seasons Hotel in Sydney is quite beautiful. My room on the 11th floor has a lovely view of the harbour with the Opera House taking center focus.
My friends from Canada who we met last year in Antarctica have already checked in. I'm looking forward to once again seeing Elin, Pete and Jana.
Where I’m writing now is The Club on the 32nd floor of the hotel where a varied level of booked rooms have the opportunity for breakfast, refreshments throughout the day, canapes and drinks toward afternoon and evening – all gratis. This time my view is from a different side of the hotel, also the harbour (note the spelling in deference to Australia!). Some islands in view, a couple of marinas filled with small pleasure boats, a very large cruise ship berthed right next to “The Rocks” and the occasional large commercial ship – all of this seen just beyond the busy roadway along the waterfront down below.
Ate very little on the plane, (and just realized that I'd had nothing alcoholic to drink - I must be slipping!) so decided I was hungry and would have a bite before tackling the luggage and a very long nap. The decaf latte was without equal, so am having a second one. The other highlight – an orange marmalade that beats mine. I’ve always thought the marmalade that our friend, Michelle, taught me to make many years ago, was the best ever. Without seeking have found one that beats it. Trying to find out the name so I can buy some and bring it home. (The name of the marmalade is Cuttaway Creek Three Fruits Marmalade)
A very restful afternoon watching some of the opening rounds of the Australian Open and it was suddenly 6:00 p.m. I was hungry again!
Freshened up and went down to the restaurant in the hotel – Mode. Enjoyed a glass and a half of lovely red wine from the Barossa Valley while nibbling on a unique dish of raw fish – believe it was locally caught Kingfish – served with mini nasturtium flowers and leaves, tiniest squares of apple, all swimming in an olive oil and vinaigrette dressing. (Forgot to take a photo!) This was followed by Sicilian Eggplant, an unexpected presentation – but delicious.
Sicilian Eggplant ??
While eating dinner I got an email from Elin. They and friends had just completed the bridge climb and tomorrow would be kayaking in the harbour. She invited me to join them for dinner tomorrow night at Whale Bridge. Done!!
I was now ready for sleep in a real bed!
Tuesday, January 16 - Sydney, Australia
A really beautiful night's sleep - so happy! Hopefully, this is a giant step toward getting my awake and sleep times back to normal - that is, Australian normal! Woke to more rain, though two hours later, it seems to have stopped. Hoping that I can get out and walk a bit, but won't in the rain!
On my to do list today is making a hair appointment for tomorrow. Before I left I hacked a bit of my hair in the back and know it's just not right. So will get that fixed, if possible. Then a walk, perhaps a bit of shopping, a nap and then dinner with friends.
Hair appointment made for 11:00 tomorrow, and then off for a walk in the drizzle to find a manicure and pedicure. Done! Very inexpensive, but not a really good job.
At 6:30, met Elin, Pete, Jana, Leigh Ann (Jana’s sister) and her husband David. Off we went to one of the most famous bars in the world – right around the corner from the hotel – Maybe Sammy. Noisy, full of life, great staff all suited in formal black suits – men and women alike. The menu is like reading a book, with each hand crafted ("with love") cocktail having a two page description. It takes the better part of the cocktail hour to figure out which one to imbibe!
Shapes
Rising Sun
Vino Bastardo (my favorite glass)
We each had something different, and tasted each other’s drinks – so happy that I liked mine the best! Drink named “Shapes”, and it had a clear disk at the bottom of the drink that was magnified by the large ice cube. In the clear disk was an assortment of colored different shapes. The glassware used by this bar is exquisite. Every drink has a unique glass or mug and we found out that although they use many purveyors, our favorite glass was made by a local firm in Melbourne, Australia – PLUMM. Have gone on line and found their site and will try to order some when I return home.
After our libations, we walked over toward the Opera House to eat dinner at Whale Bridge, located on the quay just prior to approaching the Opera House. We had a beautiful evening, balmy, slight breeze and the views were fabulous – the iconic Opera House to my left, and the bridge behind me – just picture perfect. So perfect, in fact, that I forgot to take a photo!
We tarried over our casual dinner and walked back to the hotel – a really nice evening – and so to bed!
Wednesday, January 17 – Sydney, Australia
It’s a beautiful morning! The sun is shining and I do hope it lasts the whole day. Now having breakfast on the 32nd floor and enjoying the activity in the harbor.
Today is Opera Day! Seeing La Traviata tonight. Can hardly wait. When here for the first time in 2004 – twenty years ago! – the weather was uncomfortably hot, so what began as a jaunt to the opera house ended up with Adolfo going on alone while I went back to the air conditioned ship. Tonight will be the first time that I enter this beautiful landmark.
Unfortunately, the good weather did not last, so it was more of the Australian Open in my room, and then got ready to have dinner with Elin and Pete in Mode, before we walked (if not raining) to the Opera House. One of the best risotto dishes ever - with shaved black truffle on top - oh my - so good!
However, after dinner it was raining quite hard. The hotel took care of transport for us to the Opera House – nice!
What can I say about my first experience at this beautiful venue, seeing one of my favorite operas – Verdi’s La Traviata? Words wouldn’t suffice to finally be here, and enjoying beautiful music.
Pete, Jeanne and Elin
The building is like a small city inside – so much larger than one would imagine from the outside. There are several large performing halls, stairs everywhere, windows, cement and wood designed to treat the eye . . . so much cement!!! Yet, it is beautiful!
After the opera we wanted to walk back to the hotel, and though it was drizzling slightly we almost made it. When within a half block of the hotel the skies opened up, the streets became rivers, and we hunkered down to wait it out under cover. Finally, Elin and I couldn’t wait any longer and we waded to the hotel lobby. We arrived fully soaked. My raincoat did nothing to keep me dry – was soaked through as was clothing beneath it, and the pretty hairdo of the morning was gone!! Pete had on a new pair of boots just bought that afternoon and he wanted to wait longer. I’ve no idea how long he did wait before finally arriving at the hotel. Will find out tomorrow.
Thursday, January 18 - Boarding the Silver Muse.
Woke early. Sun was brilliant and it continues throughout the morning. Packed, checked out and went for a lunch at Mode. Will tarry here a while until it is time for me to go to the ship in a little over an hour.
Left the hotel at 2:15 p.m. and arrived at the White Bay Terminal where the Silver Muse was berthed. This terminal is fairly new – built perhaps in the last four to five years. No crowds, no confusion – the boarding process took no time at all and I entered my suite shortly thereafter.
The Silver Suite is beautiful, with a fairly large balcony, living / dining room, bedroom, huge walk-in closet, a two part bathroom – part I with two basins, tub and shower – and part II with toilet and basin. All beautifully tiled in marble. And, once again I have a butler! His name is Mark who will be working with Juvie to maintain the suite and serve at my leisure. The problem is that “I’d rather do it myself”!!! After unpacking, attended the safety drill, then freshened up for cocktails with the group and dinner.
The silver obelisk on the left is the Crown Building. Apparently the owner / developer bought lots of land in this area, built this one first, and then another four or five more buildings to the right. Now, just like San Francisco, there are all of these empty buildings because more and more people want to work from home. It has also been stated that the silver building was initially meant to have a casino, restaurants and lots of condominiums, but difficulty in getting a gambling license led to the demise of that idea.
We ate dinner at the restaurant “Atlantide” – primarily a fish restaurant. My food was pretty good. Got a little excited at the prospect of a unique starter of cauliflower that also had a truffle influence, but when it arrived, believe the chef forgot the “influence”. It was just okay.
The entree however, was delicious – pan fried turbot on a bed of artichoke puree and some veggies. Really delicious. Must be off my game because I'm forgetting to take photos.
After dinner the group went out on deck to view the sail-a-way from Sydney, and particularly leaving under the iconic Sydney Harbour bridge. I chose to retire, and watched from my balcony.
Friday, January 19 – At Sea
A very good night’s sleep, quiet seas, faint sunshine – but at least it’s not raining!
I am used to knowing the geography of the ships I sail, so because this is my first time on the Muse, today will try to familiarize myself with this beauty. . . . coffee at the Arts Cafe, purchase of perfume and suntan lotion in the Boutique, lunch back at Atlantide, but this time I chose the homemade Penne alla Boscaiola along with a nice Sangiovese red from Italy. Am almost ready for my nap!!! I did try for a lunch out on deck at the grill, but it was too cold, which after the heat of Sydney is most welcome.
Nice easy day today. Enjoyed a nap, Bingo and then Team Trivia. Our team name is
a-MUSE-Bouche. Clever? Remember that the name of our ship is the Silver Muse? Out of 18 teams we came in fourth. Missed questions like the following:
1. How many years in an eon?
2. Brataslava is the capital of which country?
3. Which year did the Concorde debut?
After Trivia we all scurried back to our suites to make ourselves pretty for the first formal night before the Captain’s welcome reception. And then on to the Silver Note restaurant which is a jazz club with a unique menu and lovely jazz piano player and singer. This is a very small and intimate venue. I liked it a lot and thought the menu was really interesting.
Began with an appetizer of grilled octopus – delicious – which was then followed by a grilled lobster tail on puffy mashed potatoes and root vegetables. Good food. My only disquiet was caused by the dishes upon which food is served. Felt that the presentation was rather dark and/or dull and lacking in imagination – but that’s me! On further introspection, perhaps the presentation of the octopus appetizer is meant to resemble the bottom of the sea?
Trying so hard to be good and not order dessert, but did have a very small scoop of berry sorbet. Nice ending to the meal.
Answers to Trivia Questions:
1. 1,000,000,000. ( One Billion )
2. Czech Republic
3. 1976
Saturday, January 20 – Burnie, Tasmania, Australia
A view from my balcony
Breathe in deep - here in Burnie, you're tasting untouched air that is some of the cleanest anywhere in the world. Nearby Cradle mountain once registered some of the world's purest air - and the breezes here are purified by miles of uninterrupted ocean, stretching south to Antarctica. Tasmania itself is a place of sweeping National parks, soaring granite mountain ranges and lakes reflecting spectacular scenery in glass-smooth surfaces.
Last evening prior to going to dinner I received a phone call from Reception to remind me that I hadn't procured my New Zealand visa. I did get the Australian visa, but somehow, it slipped my mind to get the second one - so first thing this morning I tried to get on to the NZ visa site to no avail. I needed help.
After some time with Robert at Reception, not only did I procure the necessary visa, but also fixed my wifi problems and was able to update my WhatsApp. Our group is keeping track of events and meeting places on WhatsApp, because texting is more costly and sometimes not dependable when traveling. Now, all is well with technical issues. WHEW!!!
So, because of the visa problem, chose not to go into the town of Burnie which is a 15 minute shuttle ride. And it is cold today - not at all prepared for this weather. Thought the full vacation would be warm - wrong!
Lunch at La Terrazza and a nice make-it-yourself salad from a ton of choices in the buffet, a very small glass of red wine from the Cote du Rhone, and I'll be ready for a nap.
Team Trivia at 4:45 and this time we came in second! We're getting closer to the prize!
Trivia Questions:
1. What kind of animal is a Flemish Giant?
2. What year was the first mobile phone invented?
3. Which country has a red flag with a gold symbol in the center - what is the symbol?
After a quick change of clothing we met in Panorama Lounge for drinks, and then dinner at Indochine. Beautiful restaurant - lovely food. Enjoyed the sweet and sour soup and then the pork ribs (didn't have to use my fingers). Dessert was a pineapple concoction of which I ate only three bites.
The story inside the Indochine menu has a delightful story. Especially love the end of the third paragraph!
Trivia Answers:
1. Rabbit. (I knew that without question!)
2. 1976
3. Viet Nam - Star
Sunday, January 21 – Port Arthur, Australia
Port Arthur, an historically somber UNESCO World Heritage site sits in over 40 hectares (nearly 100 acres) of beautiful, landscaped grounds close to the Tasman National Park, itself famed for its dramatic beauty.
Today, Port Arthur brings the story of Australia’s colonial history to life through stories of the very people who lived here. A major site for punishing transported convicts who had further offended since deportation, many thousands of prisoners passed through the penal colony at one time or another.
Partly restored ruins of the colony and church, built with great skill by convicts in the 1830’s, and the aptly named Island of the Dead, an island cemetery for convicts are today’s main attractions.
Lovely smell of eucalyptus everywhere. Though there appears to be some lower shrubbery in the surrounding forest, what towers over everything are thousands of eucalyptus trees. Have never seen so many in one place!
After another Team Trivia, (we came in second once again!), a bit of lunch at the grill before tendering ashore. Pizza was piled high with prosciutto and arugula - delish!
Trivia Questions:
1. What is the capital of Cyprus?
2. Who was born Anna Mae Bullock?
3. Which Benedictine Monk invented champagne?
4. How many people are seated at “The Last Supper”?
I found the ruins of the convict cells of most interest as their size was approximately three and a half feet by eight to nine feet - so small! But the cell did have a small window - though doubt there was glass, just an opening high up in the wall. In some of the cells there were small signs describing who’d occupied the area, and why. Some samples follow.
After reading these convict descriptions, how odd it is that now in San Francisco, people can walk in to a drug store, steal what they want, and they are not stopped nor are they prosecuted!
With the sun trying to peek through the bleak skies, there were moments of beauty, but guides will fill you in on some of the stranger goings on that have been noted in what is considered the most haunted place in Australia - spooky events especially occurring once tourists leave for the day!
David, Leigh Ann and Elin
Sisters Leigh Ann and Jana
Answers to Trivia:
1. Nicosia
2. Tina Turner
3. Dom Perignon
4. Thirteen
Before dinner we meet at the Panorama Lounge for cocktails. There are some really good special cocktails made at the bar and I believe we've now tried them all. In the photo below, one would wonder just how many people are actually at the party - there are only six of us!! One of our favorite cocktails is called "Bees Knees" - a wonderful concoction that contains honey, citrus, and your choice of gin, vodka, rum, tequila or scotch whisky. Will try to get the recipe for this one!
Of Interest: A bees knees (or bee's knees) is a Prohibition era cocktail made with gin, fresh lemon juice, and honey. It is served shaken and chilled, often with a lemon twist.
Ingredients for a Bees Knees Cocktail
2 ounces gin (or your preference of scotch, vodka, tequila or rum - that's our invention! - favorites are vodka, tequila and rum)
3/4 ounce lemon juice, freshly squeezed
1/2 ounce honey syrup
Garnish: lemon twist
Add the gin, lemon juice and honey syrup into a shaker with ice and shake until well-chilled.
Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
Garnish with a lemon twist. (and if you'd like additional ice - serve with a glass of the "dirty" ice - dirty ice is what's left in the shaker after the drink is poured)
Elin and Jana
Dinner out at the Grill, but we were nicely protected from the wind. In the evening the Grill turns into Hot Rocks restaurant, where you can choose your cut of meat and cook it yourself on really HOT stone that arrives on your plate. . . or you can choose to have the kitchen fully prepare your food, which I did, with a lovely piece of salmon. My only problem with the Hot Rocks venue is that when you cook your meat right in front of you, once you leave the table you find that your clothing and hair has retained all of the cooking odors!!
Monday, January 22 - Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
Mount Wellington's looming, cloud-wisped form is an ever present sight as you explore booming Hobart, the cosmopolitan capital of Australia's most southerly state. A former British penal colony, nowadays Australia's second oldest city is a place to live the free and easy life. Encircled by dramatic cliffs, landscaped gardens and rolling vineyards, Hobart is also well stacked with cultural pursuits including museums, and respected - if controversial - galleries plastering new and old art to their walls.
An easy day - slept in - lunch at La Terazza. Then met the group for a jaunt into Hobart. Friends had arranged a Scotch Whisky tasting at Lark Distillery. While I'm not an ardent whisky drinker, some of these selections were quite good and a couple were super strong - almost took the skin off the roof of my mouth! Am bringing home some bottles for tasting purposes. Number #1 has my name on it!!
1. Amaro Cask - Take your tastebuds on a trip from Tasmania to Italy with this capitivatingly complex Whiskey. Vibrant citrus, gingerbread and fresh apples on the nose make way for a bittersweet taste of toffee, tangerine and orange oil. 44.5% ABV.
2. Rum Cask III - Our third Rum Cask release sees the return of a now classic LARK finish - a spectacular joining of Single Malt Whisky and our very own unique Tasmanian rum. A wonderfully lifted and treacly single malt with notes of dark toffee, nutty oak and candied citrus. 55% ABV
3. Brandy and PX Cask - A sticky, plummy homemade fruit cake in a glass. A dark and brooding single malt for a winter's afternoon fruitcake, crammed with forest fruits and bright citrus peel. 48% ABV
The jaunt included a nice walk to and from the distillery. Then it was on to Trivia - came in #2 once again. We're trying for #1 but it is illusive.
Dinner at Indochine where we tried more new and tantalizing tastes. The tuna starter was plated beautifully but the flavor - not so much!
It was an early night for me because of a scheduled Zoom meeting tomorrow morning.
Tuesday, January 23 - Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
Set my alarm for 3:45 a.m. this morning so I could attend a special board meeting via Zoom at the Century Club. First time I've ever attended a meeting while in bed!!!
Went back to sleep and got up in time to have a manicure and pedicure with Leizel, a charming young Philipino woman who spent three hours with me. Had gel put on my toes and fingers, fire and ice massage of arms and legs, and finally a hot paraffin treatment.
Then a quick lunch with room service, a short nap and now we're gearing up for another Trivia. . . . which we finally won!
While I was being pampered, the "youngsters" were driven up to the top of Mount Wellington where they mounted bicycles, and rode down the mountain, all geared up in helmets and extra clothing. It was very cold at nearly 5,000 feet!!!
Mt. Wellington, (and Wellington, New Zealand) are named after the Duke of Wellington, famous for defeating Napoleon at the Battle of Waterloo.
Weather continues to be cool and cold, with occasional spritzes from the sky.
Trivia Question:
1. Name the eight countries that border Turkey.
2. Name the only bird that can fly straight upward (It can also fly backward.)
3. What are the five colors of the Olympic rings?
4. What was the first James Bond movie?
Dinner at Indocine, where we enjoyed more good food, and a lovely house wine from Alsace which Elin and I requested for the second night in a row - a very good reisling. Then a really wonderful music show featuring the lead male and female singers of the cast treating us to all of the song themes from James Bond movies. It might be fun when I get home to do a "start to finish" viewing of all Bond movies - there just night be a couple that I've not seen.
(photos are not transferring over to proper device, so more photos will come later)
1. Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iran, Iraq, Bulgaria, Greece, Georgia and Syria (this was a very difficult question! - we missed Azerbaijan.)
2. Hummingbird.
3. Black, yellow, red, green and blue.
4. Dr. No.
We have been enjoying this house wine - a Riesling from Alsace.
Wednesday, January 24 - At Sea in the Tasman Sea
Happy Birthday, Elin!!!
While the youngsters danced the night away at the Disco, I went to bed, listened to a good book and finally fell asleep. We lost one hour last evening but my phone has not adjusted yet and won't until we land somewhere.
Woke up this morning to a very wet deck - looks like it rained during the night. Overcast skies continue along with us, while the temperatures today hover in the low 50's.
Today we are offered lunch in Dolce Vita. An Italian affair - pranzo - with assorted goodies on a buffet. Italian flags are in evidence and the piano player is regaling us with all sorts of wonderful Italian music while waiters circulate in the room with trays bearing glasses of Prosecco and Aperol Spritzes - both delicious! Food was pretty good, but home is better! Some of the offerings were Caprese Salad, gnocchi al pesto, risotto Milanese, assorted salumi and cheeses, caponata, etc. Just enough to get me ready for the elegant wine tasting at 2:30. We have been told that the wines being offered are extraordinary - and they were.
Each taster had his/her own plate of goodies!
. . and here are the wines!
Jermann Vintage, Tunina 2015 - from Italy - crisp, fresh, delicious - the best white wine I've tasted on this cruise. I drink much younger whites in the California wines, but this one at nine years has all of the freshness of a younger California wine. In fact ordered a bottle for Elin's birthday dinner.
Leeuwin Estate Art Series 2014 - from Australia - another white with lots of minerality - good (especially if you love Chardonnay!).
Chateau Lynch-Bages, 5eme Grand Cru Classe 2008 - from France - super dry red - not my favorite, but perhaps would change my mind should I have it with a rich dinner. Second most expensive wine in the tasting at $220 per bottle.
Concha y Toro, Don Melchor 2015 - from Argentina - a lovely red from the Maipo Valley, fruit forward, nice finish - also ordered this one for dinner tonight.
Allegrini La Poja 2013 - from Italy - another lovely red with hints of licorice. For me, good, but not as tasty as the Concha y Toro.
Vega Sicilia Unico 2013 - from Spain - a red that was the most expensive of the tasting at $425 per bottle - not worth that price on my palate!
The four unpriced wines varied from $80 to $125
Trivia Questions:
1. Which pharoah is noted to be the brother of Moses?
2. How many hearts does an octopus have?
3. What is the largest island in the Caribbean?
4. The city of Madeira is located in which country?
We arrived at our table in La Terrazza for Elin's dinner to find the table decorated with balloons that were soon put to further use!
Beef Carpaccio
Saltimbocca
And we added another wine - a lovely Brunello.
Trivia Answers:
1. Ramses
2. Three
3. Cuba
4. Portugal
Thursday, January 25 - At Sea in the Tasman Sea
Everything is wet outside. It must have rained all night and continues on today. Have a feeling that my bathing suits are not going to see the light of day this trip! Seas are a bit bouncy! Don't have to have a cocktail to look like you've been drinking.
Temperature aboard ship varies to the extent that you might be freezing in one venue, and travel to another venue to start peeling off your outer clothing! Very confusing!
1. In which shipyard was the Titanic built?
2. Have lost the question!!!!
3. Ditto!!
4. In which country did French fries originate?
5. Born William Cody, what was his most famous name?
We were treated to a wonderful pre-dinner show by the lead singer on board - a tribute to Billy Joel. Enjoyed it and will have to add some of this music to my favorites for at home listening.
We had another very nice dinner at La Terrazzo - began with an eggplant caviar and then enjoyed the Dover Sole. Good, but not really worthy of photos. The dessert was very colorful - a Strawberry Pavlova - sort of deconstructed!
Answers to Trivia:
1. Harlan Wolff Shipyard
2. Argentina
3. Kenya
4. Belgium
5. Buffalo Bill
Friday, January 26 - Bluff, New Zealand
The southernmost town in New Zealand, Bluff ( or The Bluff as it is locally known) is perhaps the most European of all the settlements in the country. Called Campbeleltown until 1917, the city was officially renamed after the 265 meter conical hill that towers above it. One of the farthest corners of the British Empire, the inaugural Royal Tour of New Zealand by Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, concluded at Bluff in January 1954. Nowadays, however, it is the Bluff oysters that are the stars of the show (and won't be available until March!). Reputed to be the best in the world, these local heroes are what have really put Bluff on the map and are celebrated every May with a lively festival honoring Ostrea chilensis (that's Latin for Bluff oyster).
The above photo is the view from my balcony. Have never seen so many felled trees and/or sawdust in one place, so neatly arranged!! If I had to guess, would think that these are local Kauri trees. On my last visit to New Zealand, learned that after the San Francisco earthquake and fire New Zealand sent lots of Kauri to San Francisco to help rebuild burned out Victorian houses. Also to the left, not in the photo are tons of containers getting ready for shipping. This is a busy port! On second thought, perhaps they are eucalyptus? Now not really certain, because New Zealand has a huge export business sending sawdust and assorted raw wood products to Korea. . . . on further discussion, it looks like the wood is eucalyptus.
It's another grey day, which suits my mood. Hardly slept last night, so ordered in suite breakfast - two poached eggs, English muffin and caffe latte. Perfetto!! . . . after which am going to take a long nap. Wondering if the time changes (we lost two hours in the last two days, pushing the clocks forward) might be the problem.
Tonight our little group has been invited to dine with Bruno, the Cruise Director. He's lots of fun so it should be an enjoyable evening - to say nothing, of course, about the scintillating personalities of our own little group!
Unable to nap - but do have an appointment in the spa at 3:00 p.m. for a foot / ankle treatment. When I was last in the spa, Leizel noticed the swelling in my left ankle and mentioned that there is a product that I can buy (of course!) that is a foot soak. Improbably, it removes toxins from the entire body through the feet! There are ten treatments and I should soak two times each week for five weeks. Then not repeat for one year. So, of course, I bought the product. Leizel said she would do first two treatments in the spa, and those will be complimentary - nice! So my feet are now tingling, swelling isn't down very much, but then this is only the first treatment!
Am just about to confirm a cruise in January 2025 where I will once again be traveling with this wonderful motley crew! This cruise will be on the Seabourn Encore, and will include the Philippines (long on my bucket list!), Taiwan, Hong Kong, Thailand and Vietnam. Will probably confirm tomorrow. Have been in touch with Eric and he's doing his magic!
Today most are on tours, so our Trivia team will be represented only by Sharon (the Silver Note jazz singer) and me! WELL!!!! For only a two person team, we got all 15 answers correct! We were very proud of ourselves. Admittedly there were only three questions that either Sharon or me had the answer. The rest we both knew . . . so one might just deduce that the questions weren't too difficult . . .
Trivia Questions:
1. What brand is the most expensive violin?
2. Which actress won the Academy Award for Moonstruck?
3. Which mammal has the thickest fur?
4. Grace Kelley's engagement given her by Prince Rainer was made by which jeweler?
Dinner with Bruno was fun. Always good food in La Terrazzo.
In the foreground is a dish we shared (Involtini of Eggplant)
and my main was Scottoditi (or "burn your fingers") lamb chops.
Trivia Answers:
1. Stradivarius
2. Cher.
3. Sea Otter.
4. Cartier
After dinner we adjourned to the Panorama Lounge for some good music, and then to bed!
Saturday, January 27 - Port Chalmers, (Dunedin), New Zealand
Dunedin (duh-NEE-din; Māori: Ōtepoti) is the second-largest city in the South Island of New Zealand (after Christchurch), and the principal city of the Otago region. Its name comes from Dùn Èideann, the Scottish Gaelic name for Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland. The city has a rich Māori, Scottish, and Chinese heritage.
With an estimated population of 134,600 as of June 2023, Dunedin is New Zealand's seventh-most populous metropolitan and urban area. For cultural, geographical, and historical reasons, the city has long been considered one of New Zealand's four main centres. The urban area of Dunedin lies on the central-eastern coast of Otago, surrounding the head of Otago Harbour. The harbour and hills around Dunedin are the remnants of an extinct volcano. The city suburbs extend out into the surrounding valleys and hills, onto the isthmus of the Otago Peninsula, and along the shores of the Otago Harbour and the Pacific Ocean.
More wood neatly stacked up for export!
When Adolfo and I were here years ago, we had an exceptional excursion out to Otago Point where we were able to see Royal Albatross nesting and sitting on their ginormous eggs. The weather was horrific and we were wet through and through after that outing. But it was truly unforgettable. I remember also seeing gun emplacements because during WWII, Otago was a strategic point where enemy could sneak into the area.
Today was the first day that we had sunshine - a pleasant change! Had an easy day, handled Trivia all by myself because rest of team was out and about. I went down in flames!! Questions were difficult!
Trivia Questions:
Name the jeweler who made the ring for Grace Kelly's engagement to Prince Rainer of Monaco?
Name the two animals that are on the Mexican flag?
Name the soccer team that plays in the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu?
Name the Caribbean island that owned by Sweden during the 19th Century?
Who was the lead guitarist of "Queen"?
We had a pre dinner concert by an Australian pianist - very skilled and fast with scales and technique. The "Heroic" Polonaise by Chopin was a little too fast for me, but then, that's me. Know that music well as I played that particular piece at age 12. Makes me sad that I can barely play it now - practice, practice, practice!!!!
Had a drink in the forward Observation Lounge, a nice, quiet and intimate venue, but with the boat rocking and being we were on the 11th deck, we had to hold on to our glasses!
Then on to dinner at Indochine where we opened the second bottle of that delightful white Tunina wine we had at the tasting, and I also ordered a beautiful Penfolds Shiraz - absolutely wonderful!
It's taken me 85 years to get up the courage to sing at an open Karoake session - last night I did it! Chose "It's a Wonderful World". Did okay, at least I thought I had until I watched the video that Elin took - oh my - we do sound wonderful in our own minds!!!!
Answers to Trivia:
1. Cartier
2. Snake and Eagle
3. Rial Madrid
4. St. Barth
5. Brian May
Sunday, January 28 - Akaroa, New Zealand
Akaroa - Maori for "Long Harbor" - with pretty painted cottages, overflowing verdant balconies and street names such as Rue Laved and Fleur Lane, you could be forgiven foe thinking rthat you have stepped onto the streets of Provence. And yet, here you are in New Zealand's South Island, less than 50 kilometers from Christchurch. The French connection stems from 1838 when Captain Jean Francois Langlois acquired the land for six British pounds (and questionnable circumstances) from the Maoris. He then travelled home to France in order to bring back anyone who might want to join him in his new life. However, during his travels, the Treaty of Waitangi was signed (signatories included two Akaroa Maori chiefs) and New Zealand's first Governor Hobson. It declared sovereignty over the whole of New Zealand. Thus when Langlois and his settlers arrived back, they were faced with a choice - either return home to France or stay on, They chose the latter, and their legacy prevails.
Overcast again - UGH! Up fairly early (for me), breakfast at La Terazza, a little smoked salmon, etc. Good!
Going ashore this morning to search for the bust of Frank Worsley, who was on Ernest Shackleton's ill-fated expedition as captain of the Endurance in Antarctica. He navigated the lifeboat James Caird from Elephant Island to South Georgia Island and thereby effectively saved the expedition.
It's actually become a beautiful day! Sunshine and blue skies with wispy clouds giving interest to the heavens!
I did go in search of Frank Worsley, and couldn't find him - so googled him, and here's a photo that's on the web. Chose this particular photo because his nose looks like it's frost bitten!
The lovely port of Akaroa is small, tidy, pretty, filled with restaurants, and souvenir shops, and a large "blue" pearl purveyor (I think made out of inside of abalone shells). Also did see a couple of beautiful necklaces in champagne pearls, probably between 12 and 15 millimeters, really beautiful (and expensive), but I resisted.
Beautiful rolling hills surround the harbor and there seems to be the beginning of some grape growing, absent on my last visit - twenty years ago. Believe this may be a popular vacation destination for New Zealanders.
While walking along and through outdoor cafes, there was a table recently vacated which still held the remnants of lunch. Large and really healthy looking seagulls were savagely attacking that table - and each other - incredible!
I think I'm getting a cold - honey is good for a cold - right? So just had two Bees Knees rather quickly. Feeling better already!!! . . . or I don't care that I'm getting a cold!
Dinner outside tonight at Hot. Rocks - once again I let the kitchen do the cooking while the rest at the table cooked on the "hot rocks".
Monday, January 29 - Picton, New Zealand
The gateway to New Zealand's South Island waits just across the Cook Strait from Wellington. Pretty Picton is a beautiful town lying on the cusp of the mighty scenery of the Marlborough Sounds Maritime Park, and providing an attractive link between New Zealand's two main islands. The journey into the scenic Queen Charlotte Sound is a vista that only New Zealand can provide, as you sail through crumpled green peaks and folding hills towards Picton's little flotillas of yachts and endearing waterfront appear.
Luckily, Elin had some vitamin C cold powders that could dissolved into water. I drank one last evening but still woke with a full blown cold. Cancelled my plans to drink wine in the Marlborough valley, ordered breakfast in, and proceeded to drown the cold with more tea and honey and more cold powders. Slept the morning away, and instead of my nose running at full steam, it is now only walking! After a hot lunch, was told that Niners vs. Lions was on the telly in the Dolce Vita lounge, so that's where I am right now. Score is now 24 for the Lions and 17 for the Niners. We do have a chance!! Go Niners!!
That was quite some game, with an explosive third quarter for the Niners, who ended up with the win by three points - 34 / 31. Niners will face the Kansas City Chiefs on February 11, and I'll be home to watch it.
Then on to Trivia where we came in second - I think.
Trivia Questions:
Which two countries share a boundary with the Gobi Desert?
On which continent did broccoli originate?
What is the winter national sport of Canada?
What gift is appropriate for a first wedding anniversary?
What is the make of car that James Bond drives?
In this port, as well as all of the ports in New Zealand, the ship was greeted with an unusually enormous supply of more neatly stacked logs ready for export! The photo below was taken looking toward the moorage, with our ship, the Silver Muse.
Room service tonight with another large pot of tea, honey, lemon and the cold powders. Tomorrow is a day at sea. If up to it, I should probably begin my packing. It's almost that inevitable time when we must leave the ship.
A couple of days ago, I pressed the incorrect button on the safe, and have effectively locked myself out of my belongings - UGH! Have just made arrangements to have an expert come to my room tomorrow so that I can get back in!
Last formal night, and I'm in my room eating room service and not wearing that last dress!!! Such a huge problem!!
Trivia Answers:
1. China and Mongolia
2. Europe
3. Ice Hockey
4. Paper
5. Aston Martin
Tuesday, January 30 - Day at Sea
What can I say about today?!?!?! Spent all day in bed - have the sickest cold in a long while.
Saw the doctor yesterday - diagnosed as a common cold. Interesting that he didn't even
test me for Covid. No fever. Gave me Paracetamol tabs, and a bottle of Robitussin. This, together with the super dose Vitamin C packets dissolved in water or tea should get me though the next few days. I just need the cough to cease so that other passengers on the plane Thursday night won't throw me out!
Getting a good look at room service - and not excited about either the choices or the
presentation.
Wednesday, January 31 - Bay of Islands, New Zealand
Today has been the most beautiful day weather wise. We are anchored between Russell and Bay of Islands. This is a beautiful spot.
The East Coast, up to the Bay of Islands, is Northland's most densely populated, often with refugees from bigger cities - looking for a more relaxed life - clustered around breathtaking beaches. If you're in the mood for a diversion you can slip to the beautiful coastline and take in Waipu Cove, an area settled by Scots, and Laings Beach, where million-dollar homes sit next to small Kiwi beach houses. An hour's drive father north is the Bay of Islands, known all over the world for its beauty. There you will find lush forests, splendid beaches, and shimmering harbors.
Lots of action today with locals and vacationers enjoying the beautiful region and perfect weather. It's like a show passing by!
I am still room bound - a self exile. My coughing, and my deep basso profundo voice would frighten others. So, have enjoyed opening both sliding doors and letting in tons of fresh air, while organizing my belongings and getting them into two large suitcases - which must be put outside my door by 11:00 p.m. this evening.
Having a very simple dinner tonight ensuite. Haven't had any liquor in a couple of days, so am enjoying a Margarita - tastes so good!!
I have really missed my Trivia sessions and evenings with the group. Peter, Elin, Jana, Leigh Ann and David are the best! Will miss them when I leave the ship and look forward to their promised visit in July!!
The "youngsters" went kayaking today, and also took a helicopter ride around the region.
Tomorrow morning I leave the ship between 8:00 and 10:00 a.m. and go to the Crown Plaza Hotel where I have a day room. Did this because my flight doesn't leave until 7:55 p.m. - given the way I'm feeling, this was a really genius decision!
Am not going to close out the blog at this point, because those of you who have read previous blogs know how much trouble I got into the last time I tried to travel home from Barcelona. Here's hoping all goes well!!!
Thursday, February 1 - Leaving ship in Aukland, New Zealand
Early this morning, two colorful tugs - one at the front and one at the back - were herding us into a safe position to dock in Auckland.
Auckland (/ˈɔːklənd/ AWK-lənd; Māori: Tāmaki Makaurau) is a large metropolitan city in the North Island of New Zealand. It has an urban population of about 1,478,800 (June 2023). It is located in the greater Auckland Region, the area governed by Auckland Council, which includes outlying rural areas and the islands of the Hauraki Gulf, and which has a total population of 1,739,300 as of June 2023. It is the most populous city of New Zealand and the fifth largest city in Oceania. While Europeans continue to make up the plurality of Auckland's population, the city became multicultural and cosmopolitan in the late 20th century, with Asians accounting for 31% of the city's population in 2018. Auckland has the fourth largest foreign-born population in the world, with 39% of its residents born overseas. With its large population of Pasifika New Zealanders, the city is also home to the biggest ethnic Polynesian population in the world. The Māori-language name for Auckland is Tāmaki Makaurau, meaning "Tāmaki desired by many", in reference to the desirability of its natural resources and geography.
I was off the ship and in a taxi by 8:45 a.m. - that was really smooth. Customs, luggage collection, etc., went very smoothly, no lines.
The last time I was in Aukland was 2004 - twenty years ago. The city has grown. There are tons of beautiful high rises, and a lot of the central portion of the city is torn up as they build a new underground train system, with a huge new terminal.
On the way to the hotel I snapped this photo of a very interesting building facade. Believe these are paintings of Maori pottery.
My taxi driver's name is "Happy" - he is a Sikh who came from New Delhi, India to New Zealand 15 years ago, has had additional education, works several jobs and tries to be a good person and support himself! That's a lot to learn about someone in 20 minutes!!
Trying to judge how much time to allow to get to the airport later today. I asked Happy what time he would recommend. He said that because of commute traffic I should leave by 4:00 p.m., and he would be "happy" to come and pick me up. Deal!
I rested for most of the day, freshened up, changed my clothes for plane travel and ordered a club sandwich through room service. Have never seen a club sandwich quite like this. The three pieces of bread were so thick that I'm certain a half loaf of bread was used! I "deconstructed" the sandwich, ate the two fillings between the three slices. It was enough! Just looking at it took away my appetite! There's no way I could even get the thing into my mouth! The presentation must be meant to stun the hungry person.
Happy arrived promptly and carried me to the airport for an easy check-in and directions to the Business Class lounge. Thought I should charge my computer and phone and perhaps catch up the blog. Damn, Darn, Drat! I left all the chargers and cables at the hotel on the bed. This is the second time I've done this in the last 10 years - because the white cords and connections don't catch my eye on the white bed covers!
Left the lounge and found an airport tech store. Bought a universal connector and the necessary cables and now am back in the lounge. Have about one hour before boarding begins for my flight, and have been assured that I'm in the right part of the airport (this time!), within an easy walk to the gate.
. . . and now it's time to end the blog. Am sitting in my kitchen, have coughed my way across the Pacific because while the effects of a common cold are gone, I know that the cough will linger for almost two months - believe it's a genetic defect! Am half way unpacked and trying to sort through what goes in the laundry, what goes to the cleaners, etc. The accumulated mail is sorted, and now I just have to do a few things to stay awake, put away the ordered groceries, and then crash into the comfort of my own bed - can't wait!
This year has a few things in store . . . a visit to Nashville coupled with a grandchild's college graduation, a family trip to Italy, and then the inaugural cruise on Explora Journeys II in the Mediterranean. Times a wasting!!!
. . . so until then . . .
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