Day 46 – Sea Day
Drink of the Day - West Coast
Final thoughts…
Who would have thought that 45 days could go so quickly? As we reflect on the time spent aboard Mariner of the Seas we go back to the many times we were asked as we planned the trip, “What are you going to do on a 46 day cruise?” So we thought we give you a few of the “travelin’ trio” statistics.
-We have consumed 40+ breakfasts at the Windjammer…usually consisting of cereal, oatmeal or muffins. We’re not into the big breakfasts.
-We have eaten enough guacamole and chips as our afternoon meal/snack to supply any good Chicago based Mexican restaurant.
-We have attended major dinners most nights (getting dressed for dinner is getting to be real drag), attending the buffet in the Windjammer only twice. We attended dinner at Portifinos, the Italian specialty restaurant twice.
-Had our picture taken by the ship’s photographer a minimum of 15 times….some planned and many not.
-Traveled a total of 14,689.7 nautical miles…you figure out the statute miles.
-Gotten off the ship at 16 different ports.
-Consumed 6 bottles of contraband liquor and 7 bottles of wine of addition to the drinks we brought on board.
-Logged more than 300 hours sitting in the sun.
-Shared toiletries for the first time since college days.
-Washed ‘unmentionables’ in a thimble sized wash basin numerous times.
-Read 10 books.
-Saw 30 performances including some big names like the Jimmy and Tommy Dorsey Band, Carol Channing, Cloris Leachman, Marty Allen, the Nelson Brothers.
-Spent enough money on jewelry (cumulatively) to finance another 2 cruises. (Don’t panic loved ones…some are gifts)
-Met hundreds of wonderful people from all over the world ( and a few downright mean ones). Some that we will actually keep in touch with and some that we will be eager to sail with again.
-Took over 2000 pictures of beaches and churches. Add another 1000 or so of wild life, water and miscellaneous.
-Spent more than 15 hours on-line posting this blog with many others going into the writing and photo editing….No applause please…you’re enjoyment is our pleasure.
-Established a trunk load of stories to tell, snippets to share and memories to last a lifetime.
Thanx to all who have followed the travelin’ trio. Jane and DeeDee return home the day after tomorrow (Thursday) and Linda will arrive home the following Wednesday after visiting with Erin for a week. The journey has been a ‘once in a life time experience’ that we will carry with us forever.
And yes we still do like each other. If fact, we have a date for lunch next week. Signing off until next time.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Day 45 - Cabo San Lucas
Drink of the Day MiAmore
Cabo was not a new port for any of us so it wasn’t one that we could say was high on our list of expectations. But…we were pleasantly surprised. Cabo has always been a tendered port, which typically leaves something to be desired. Fortunately since the Mariner is now going to be a regular visitor to Cabo, they have built new tender loading docks that streamlined the process and made egress and reentry much easier. For those of you who have sailed you know that tendering can add a lot of frustration to the day. Happy to report…RCI got this one right and did a fine job of preparing for the new ship.
We had decided that since we were ‘shopped out’ we would try and do some whale watching. Both Humpback and Grays populate the area around Cabo and the Sea of Cortez from December through March as they birth the calves and teach them proper behavior for survival. We signed on with a local guide who promised us with a ‘money back guarantee’ that we would see whales. The first sight of our small sea going craft frightened us some and we all surreptitiously looked to see where the life preservers were.
Cabo was not a new port for any of us so it wasn’t one that we could say was high on our list of expectations. But…we were pleasantly surprised. Cabo has always been a tendered port, which typically leaves something to be desired. Fortunately since the Mariner is now going to be a regular visitor to Cabo, they have built new tender loading docks that streamlined the process and made egress and reentry much easier. For those of you who have sailed you know that tendering can add a lot of frustration to the day. Happy to report…RCI got this one right and did a fine job of preparing for the new ship.
We had decided that since we were ‘shopped out’ we would try and do some whale watching. Both Humpback and Grays populate the area around Cabo and the Sea of Cortez from December through March as they birth the calves and teach them proper behavior for survival. We signed on with a local guide who promised us with a ‘money back guarantee’ that we would see whales. The first sight of our small sea going craft frightened us some and we all surreptitiously looked to see where the life preservers were.
Our fear was quickly assuaged as the pilot put the craft into a high speed chase with a finger point to the horizon. Yup…we now had to pay up…we saw whales.
The next two hours were spent at varying speeds as we either sped toward a ‘blow’ in the distance or coasted and watched the whales frolicking in the water. We have no definite count as to the number of whales we spotted but they were closer to us than any of us has ever seen them that they weren’t behind a glass wall. It was an awesome site that can’t be totally captured in pictures. Additionally, we saw several pods of dolphins jumping and playing in the water and even spied a shark. DeeDee was quite happy with the cruise and didn’t mind the bouncing of the small craft until Jaws was spotted.
As our two hours was up we headed back to the port. Our guide did, however, take the time to cruise over to Land’s End so we could see some of the interesting land features up close, including Lover’s Beach, Pirate’s Cove, Seal and Pelican Island, Keyhole Cay and the famous Arch that is so representative of Cabo.
At the end of our boat ride we did decide to walk into the main shopping area. We had never been to this part of town before and walked it with just mild curiosity. Souvenir shop…jewelry store…T-shirt shop…jewelry store…pharmacy…jewelry store…jewelry store…jewelry store…well you get the idea. It appeared in most ways to be just like any other Caribbean port, even sporting our first Diamonds International since leaving Barbados.
Needless to say we had to duck into more than a few jewelry stores…just to look you understand. A hint to all US jewelry store merchants that might be reading this…not everything goes better with Coke. Shortly after entering our last shop we were approached by the clever clerk that suggested we might be parched by our long walk and offered us a beer…a “pochito” one of course. Well the shop was delightful…the clerks were accommodating and the beer was cold. So what could be do but spend a little money on baubles. (More on that topic later) Anyway, our new trip motto, “Friends don’t let friends shop drunk.”
We concluded our day on Cabo with s fabulous lunch at the Shrimp Factory. Six different varieties of shrimp with the best guacamole and chips we’d had since the day before. Back to the ship…tired…well fed and definitely shopped out.
It’s Tuesday evening and we have left Cabo San Lucas, our last port. Tomorrow we sail to our final destination Los Angeles. The weather is getting colder and the days are getting shorter. Today the temps were is the 70’s-80’s, tomorrow is predicted to be only 62. Guess we will use the time to get our bodies used to the winter temps back home.
Day 44 – Sea Day
Drink of the Day – Charo Negro
As the trip start to start winding down we are beginning to clutch. This is officially our last “free” sea day to enjoy as we see fit. The day was a usual sea day filled with sea day activities. You have already read all about them so no need to elaborate.
Marty Allen along with his wife Karen Kate Blackwell performed for us during the evening show. Karen sang and danced a little while Marty did a comedy routine. They were quite good together.
Tomorrow is our last stop of the journey. We shoul be pulling into Cabo San Lucas at sunrise.
As the trip start to start winding down we are beginning to clutch. This is officially our last “free” sea day to enjoy as we see fit. The day was a usual sea day filled with sea day activities. You have already read all about them so no need to elaborate.
Marty Allen along with his wife Karen Kate Blackwell performed for us during the evening show. Karen sang and danced a little while Marty did a comedy routine. They were quite good together.
Tomorrow is our last stop of the journey. We shoul be pulling into Cabo San Lucas at sunrise.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Day 43 – Acapulco
Drink of the Day – La Bamba
We awoke this morning to the sounds and sights of Acapulco. From our balcony the port looked very inviting.
After walking and walking we ended up at the beach. There are so many beaches along the coastline with many interesting sights. The first beach we came too was lined with boats and men cleaning and selling fresh fish.
Later in the afternoon we again took a “bug” to the resort area and walked along the street and beaches. It was fun to just walk around and people watch.
Once we got back to the ship it was time for a shower and to watch the ship pull put of the harbor. Over all, Acapulco was a pretty, festive, and relaxing stop with lots of sites, music, and foods.
As we returned we had another star sighting. Carol Channing was in the terminal and boarded the ship in Acapulco. She seemed rather frail to us at the time. According to the cruise staff she will be making an appearance for the guests. Time will tell.
Tomorrow is a sea day. Time to relax.
We awoke this morning to the sounds and sights of Acapulco. From our balcony the port looked very inviting.
The parot below was in the terminal walking around the vendor area.
After a quick breakfast we were off the ship by 10:00. As we left the terminal we were greeted by a man in a blue shirt who claimed to work for the government to help tourists find their way around. There were quite a few men throughout the area dressed the same way all claiming to work for the government, not for tips. He did insist on following and helping us as we headed toward a flea market about ¾’s of a mile from the ship. We finally ducked into a small vender’s booth until he was gone.
We did walk around the flea market checking out all the booths. As we exited the area we started to walk up and down streets filled with local stores and venders. For several blocks we were definitely the only tourists on the street. Many of the open front stores were very interesting. We saw all types of meat and fruit stands with wonderful smells. As we traveled along the streets Linda gave out Royal Caribbean hats to some of the children we met.
After a quick breakfast we were off the ship by 10:00. As we left the terminal we were greeted by a man in a blue shirt who claimed to work for the government to help tourists find their way around. There were quite a few men throughout the area dressed the same way all claiming to work for the government, not for tips. He did insist on following and helping us as we headed toward a flea market about ¾’s of a mile from the ship. We finally ducked into a small vender’s booth until he was gone.
We did walk around the flea market checking out all the booths. As we exited the area we started to walk up and down streets filled with local stores and venders. For several blocks we were definitely the only tourists on the street. Many of the open front stores were very interesting. We saw all types of meat and fruit stands with wonderful smells. As we traveled along the streets Linda gave out Royal Caribbean hats to some of the children we met.
After walking and walking we ended up at the beach. There are so many beaches along the coastline with many interesting sights. The first beach we came too was lined with boats and men cleaning and selling fresh fish.
We later caught a cab to go to watch the cliff divers. Please note – all the cabs in Acapulco seem to be older, VW Bugs. The cabs only carried three passengers and were not the most comfortable to ride in.
After a brief ride we were dropped off at the Hotel Mirador where, for $12.00 each, you could sit on the restaurant terrace and enjoy two drinks while having an unobstructed view of the divers. It was wonderfully relaxing to sit in the terrace with a cool breeze sipping Tequila Sunrises and eating chips and guacamole. At 1:00 the divers began climbing the steep cliffs and getting ready. For the next half hour or so we sat in awe watching daredevils as the dove into shallow waters below.
After a brief ride we were dropped off at the Hotel Mirador where, for $12.00 each, you could sit on the restaurant terrace and enjoy two drinks while having an unobstructed view of the divers. It was wonderfully relaxing to sit in the terrace with a cool breeze sipping Tequila Sunrises and eating chips and guacamole. At 1:00 the divers began climbing the steep cliffs and getting ready. For the next half hour or so we sat in awe watching daredevils as the dove into shallow waters below.
Later in the afternoon we again took a “bug” to the resort area and walked along the street and beaches. It was fun to just walk around and people watch.
Once we got back to the ship it was time for a shower and to watch the ship pull put of the harbor. Over all, Acapulco was a pretty, festive, and relaxing stop with lots of sites, music, and foods.
As we returned we had another star sighting. Carol Channing was in the terminal and boarded the ship in Acapulco. She seemed rather frail to us at the time. According to the cruise staff she will be making an appearance for the guests. Time will tell.
Tomorrow is a sea day. Time to relax.
Day 42 – Sea Day
Drink of the Day – Casablanca
Happy Valentines Day!!!
This was another day like the day before with the exception that they were selling lot’s of flowers on the ship. We did hear that our sighting was accurate and that Marty Allen is onboard and will perform later in the week.
Tomorrow we will be in Acapulco. It is supposed to be hot hot hot but we are all looking forward to exploring on our own and checking out the beaches, restaurants, and possibly see some cliff divers.
Happy Valentines Day!!!
This was another day like the day before with the exception that they were selling lot’s of flowers on the ship. We did hear that our sighting was accurate and that Marty Allen is onboard and will perform later in the week.
Tomorrow we will be in Acapulco. It is supposed to be hot hot hot but we are all looking forward to exploring on our own and checking out the beaches, restaurants, and possibly see some cliff divers.
Day 42 – Sea Day
Drink of the Day – Casablanca
Happy Valentines Day!!!
This was another day like the day before with the exception that they were selling lot’s of flowers on the ship. We did hear that our sighting was accurate and that Marty Allen is onboard and will perform later in the week.
Tomorrow we will be in Acapulco. It is supposed to be hot hot hot but we are all looking forward to exploring on our own and checking out the beaches, restaurants, and possibly see some cliff divers.
Happy Valentines Day!!!
This was another day like the day before with the exception that they were selling lot’s of flowers on the ship. We did hear that our sighting was accurate and that Marty Allen is onboard and will perform later in the week.
Tomorrow we will be in Acapulco. It is supposed to be hot hot hot but we are all looking forward to exploring on our own and checking out the beaches, restaurants, and possibly see some cliff divers.
Day 41 – Sea Day
Drink of the Day – Speedy Gonzalez (Again)
We are already starting to wind down. With one week left to go there seems like we still have so much to do and see. With clear skies and warm temperatures it is best to take advantage of our time on board and get all the sun we can get. Today Deedee is at the pool swimming, sunning, and reading. Linda has been working on her scrapbook and will actually have a completed photo journal of the trip when we get off the ship. Jane has been organizing photos on the computer, reading, and trying to win big at Bingo.
Our star sighting for the day was Marty Allen on the elevator. He was with a woman who we didn’t recognize.
It’s a sea day. What more can we say?
We are already starting to wind down. With one week left to go there seems like we still have so much to do and see. With clear skies and warm temperatures it is best to take advantage of our time on board and get all the sun we can get. Today Deedee is at the pool swimming, sunning, and reading. Linda has been working on her scrapbook and will actually have a completed photo journal of the trip when we get off the ship. Jane has been organizing photos on the computer, reading, and trying to win big at Bingo.
Our star sighting for the day was Marty Allen on the elevator. He was with a woman who we didn’t recognize.
It’s a sea day. What more can we say?
Friday, February 13, 2009
Day 40 – Puntarenas, Costa Rica
Drink of the Day – Speedy Gonzalez
Morning came very quickly for us. We had a 5:30 wakeup call so we could dress, eat, and be ready to go by 7:00.
After the last minute port change we were still able to take our scheduled “Costa Rica Highlights” tour. We boarded a bus at 7:15 and began our travels along the Pan American Highway. Our first stop was in San Ramon to visit the town square and Cathedral de San Ramon. As has been the case in most of the churches we have visited, it was beautiful.
As we traveled toward San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica, we passed through many rustic towns. Once at our destination we visited Teatro Nacional which is a magnificent opera house filled with over a century of history. The opera house was dark and a bit dated. The ceilings and walls however were covered with detailed paintings and intricate moldings that were quite lovely.
A highlight of the day was having lunch at a privately owned coffee plantation. We were all served a traditional Costa Rican lunch in an outside pavilion while being serenaded by two musicians playing polkas with a Central American twist. After lunch we were free to walk around the gardens. We all wished we had more time to wander and look at the unique flowers and plants.
As we headed back to the ship we did have a chance to souvenir shop in the town of Sarchi. This resulted in an extra pound or so added to our luggage. After boarding the bus we were informed that due to a major accident on the highway, we would be forced to return to the ship by way of a lesser thoroughfare, the narrow 2-lane Balboa Road. This was a little slower and at times exciting with the S-curves through the mountains. It was also more scenic and worth the delay. We did not get back to the ship until after 6:00 PM, just in time for sailing.
Though we had hoped to be back at the port early enough to do a little shopping we had to pass on that but did see and hear some of the celebration for Carnavale which was starting in Puntarenas that evening. Back to the ship for showers and sipping on the balcony while we watched the coast disappear into darkness.
Tomorrow – thank goodness, is a sea day.
Morning came very quickly for us. We had a 5:30 wakeup call so we could dress, eat, and be ready to go by 7:00.
After the last minute port change we were still able to take our scheduled “Costa Rica Highlights” tour. We boarded a bus at 7:15 and began our travels along the Pan American Highway. Our first stop was in San Ramon to visit the town square and Cathedral de San Ramon. As has been the case in most of the churches we have visited, it was beautiful.
As we traveled toward San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica, we passed through many rustic towns. Once at our destination we visited Teatro Nacional which is a magnificent opera house filled with over a century of history. The opera house was dark and a bit dated. The ceilings and walls however were covered with detailed paintings and intricate moldings that were quite lovely.
Just across the courtyard from the opera house we visited the National Museum of Pre-Columbian Art. We spent a short time looking at many gold and stone artifacts from the Pre-Columbian time. There were many beautiful pieces that we would have loved to have had. But we already have too much stuff to pack.
A highlight of the day was having lunch at a privately owned coffee plantation. We were all served a traditional Costa Rican lunch in an outside pavilion while being serenaded by two musicians playing polkas with a Central American twist. After lunch we were free to walk around the gardens. We all wished we had more time to wander and look at the unique flowers and plants.
As we headed back to the ship we did have a chance to souvenir shop in the town of Sarchi. This resulted in an extra pound or so added to our luggage. After boarding the bus we were informed that due to a major accident on the highway, we would be forced to return to the ship by way of a lesser thoroughfare, the narrow 2-lane Balboa Road. This was a little slower and at times exciting with the S-curves through the mountains. It was also more scenic and worth the delay. We did not get back to the ship until after 6:00 PM, just in time for sailing.
Though we had hoped to be back at the port early enough to do a little shopping we had to pass on that but did see and hear some of the celebration for Carnavale which was starting in Puntarenas that evening. Back to the ship for showers and sipping on the balcony while we watched the coast disappear into darkness.
Tomorrow – thank goodness, is a sea day.
Day 39 – Sea Day 3 of 3
Drink of the Day – Desperado
This was our last day at sea before reaching Costa Rica. The captain announced at noontime that there was a slight problem with plans to dock in Puerto Caldera. He informed us that there was a tanker parked in our spot which would be very expensive to move. He also said the water was too shallow. Instead we would be going to Puntarenas which was across the bay. Based on comments from people who have been there, Puntarenas is a much better port with shops and places to go right at the end of the pier.
Jane went to play Bingo during the morning and again won one of the games. Because there aren’t as many people playing this cruise the prizes are not all that spectacular. She ended up splitting a prize of $58 with another winner. Still, not bad since it covered the cost of the game.
At 2:00 we attended “A One Woman Show” starring Cloris Leachman. During the show Cloris presented a journey through her life from age seven to present. The show included snippets of her experiences in movies and television. While a bit disjointed at times, her show was very enjoyable.
This was our last day at sea before reaching Costa Rica. The captain announced at noontime that there was a slight problem with plans to dock in Puerto Caldera. He informed us that there was a tanker parked in our spot which would be very expensive to move. He also said the water was too shallow. Instead we would be going to Puntarenas which was across the bay. Based on comments from people who have been there, Puntarenas is a much better port with shops and places to go right at the end of the pier.
Jane went to play Bingo during the morning and again won one of the games. Because there aren’t as many people playing this cruise the prizes are not all that spectacular. She ended up splitting a prize of $58 with another winner. Still, not bad since it covered the cost of the game.
At 2:00 we attended “A One Woman Show” starring Cloris Leachman. During the show Cloris presented a journey through her life from age seven to present. The show included snippets of her experiences in movies and television. While a bit disjointed at times, her show was very enjoyable.
It was an early to bed evening since we all needed to be up and off the ship by 7:00.
Day 38 – Sea Day 2 of 3
Drink of the Day – Mariner Rita
For a day at sea this was a rather eventful day. We had picture perfect weather throughout the day which was perfect for sunning and playing.
In the afternoon, during the “Royal Caribbean International Film Festival”, Young Frankenstein was played in the large theater. After the show Cloris Leachman, who had the role of the Frau Blucher in the movie, came on stage and spoke and answered questions from the audience.
Later in the afternoon the ship once again attempted to cross the Equator into the Northern Hemisphere. During a ceremony on the pool deck, King Neptune appeared and demanded that certain crew and passengers be punished for their offenses by being smeared with whipped cream and tossed in the pool. He later demanded that the captain be brought to him and declared him guilty of serious charges. Captain Johnny was then covered with whipped cream and thrown into the pool. It was a cute ceremony and of course we were eventually given permission to cross the Equator.
The truth be told, while the ceremony was held at 5:00 PM, we really didn’t cross until later in the evening during dinner and show times.
For a day at sea this was a rather eventful day. We had picture perfect weather throughout the day which was perfect for sunning and playing.
In the afternoon, during the “Royal Caribbean International Film Festival”, Young Frankenstein was played in the large theater. After the show Cloris Leachman, who had the role of the Frau Blucher in the movie, came on stage and spoke and answered questions from the audience.
Later in the afternoon the ship once again attempted to cross the Equator into the Northern Hemisphere. During a ceremony on the pool deck, King Neptune appeared and demanded that certain crew and passengers be punished for their offenses by being smeared with whipped cream and tossed in the pool. He later demanded that the captain be brought to him and declared him guilty of serious charges. Captain Johnny was then covered with whipped cream and thrown into the pool. It was a cute ceremony and of course we were eventually given permission to cross the Equator.
The truth be told, while the ceremony was held at 5:00 PM, we really didn’t cross until later in the evening during dinner and show times.
Day 37 – Sea Day 1 of 3
Drink of the Day – Ya Mann Caribbean
After an action packed day in Lima a sea day was a welcome break. We all spent most of the day relaxing and trying to catch up on needed sleep. While slightly overcast during the morning there seemed to be plenty of sun leaking through for the sun lovers in the group.
The highlight of the day was a possible Cloris Leachman sighting by Jane in the Windjammer (buffet-style restaurant). While Jane and Linda were having a mid afternoon lunch break a woman and younger gentleman sat at the table right next to them. Jane thought that the woman looked like Cloris. Once she started to talk she was sure it was Cloris. While Linda agreed that the resemblance was there she wasn’t as sure. It was confirmed later in the evening in the daily cruise publication that she was on board and planning a performance.
After an action packed day in Lima a sea day was a welcome break. We all spent most of the day relaxing and trying to catch up on needed sleep. While slightly overcast during the morning there seemed to be plenty of sun leaking through for the sun lovers in the group.
The highlight of the day was a possible Cloris Leachman sighting by Jane in the Windjammer (buffet-style restaurant). While Jane and Linda were having a mid afternoon lunch break a woman and younger gentleman sat at the table right next to them. Jane thought that the woman looked like Cloris. Once she started to talk she was sure it was Cloris. While Linda agreed that the resemblance was there she wasn’t as sure. It was confirmed later in the evening in the daily cruise publication that she was on board and planning a performance.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Day 36 – Lima, Peru
Drink of the Day – Hot Summer
Our ship was docked in the harbor in Callao, Peru by the time we woke up. This was the last South American port-of-call for this trip. Based on the advice of several crew and passengers we decided to rent a cab to take us to Lima and show us the sites. We found a gentleman just as we stepped off the gangway who offered to show us the highlights of both cities in his brand new Toyoto. We decided we should go for it and ended up having a wonderful day.
We were pleasantly surprised to discover how modern and metropolitan this part of Peru was. Although like any large city there were impoverished areas with rundown stores and homes, most of the areas were clean and well kept. Most of the homes are painted with very bright colors and have beautiful gardens with flowers and shrubs. The downtown sections of each town had a mixture of old traditional open air markets and modern big box stores similar to our home centers, department stores, and grocery stores.
While the US seems to have a Starbucks or Walgreens on every corner, cities and town around Lima seemed to have a church or cathedral on every corner. (They also had quite a few Starbucks and Inka Farma stores, too).
Our tour started at a Park and Naval Museum in Callao. Typical of most parks we have visited, a large monument stood in the center surrounded by colorful landscaping and artifacts.
Tomorrow will be the first of three sea days before we reach Costa Rica. Believe it or not we are looking forward to some time at sea.
Our ship was docked in the harbor in Callao, Peru by the time we woke up. This was the last South American port-of-call for this trip. Based on the advice of several crew and passengers we decided to rent a cab to take us to Lima and show us the sites. We found a gentleman just as we stepped off the gangway who offered to show us the highlights of both cities in his brand new Toyoto. We decided we should go for it and ended up having a wonderful day.
We were pleasantly surprised to discover how modern and metropolitan this part of Peru was. Although like any large city there were impoverished areas with rundown stores and homes, most of the areas were clean and well kept. Most of the homes are painted with very bright colors and have beautiful gardens with flowers and shrubs. The downtown sections of each town had a mixture of old traditional open air markets and modern big box stores similar to our home centers, department stores, and grocery stores.
Peru also had many casinos, some for public use and some for private members. Even in the nicest areas we found some casinos that seemed to not fit with the surrounding ares. The one below had a giant Statue of Liberty on the roof. We didn't see any Eiffel Towers or exploding volcanoes though.
While the US seems to have a Starbucks or Walgreens on every corner, cities and town around Lima seemed to have a church or cathedral on every corner. (They also had quite a few Starbucks and Inka Farma stores, too).
Our tour started at a Park and Naval Museum in Callao. Typical of most parks we have visited, a large monument stood in the center surrounded by colorful landscaping and artifacts.
It seemed like there were numerous squares in La Perla, San Miguel, Miraflores, and few other towns we traveled through. Each square had impeccably manicured gardens and fountains and monuments. The squares were also surrounded by important landmark buildings such as churches and government offices.
We did have an opportunity to visit two cathedrals while Sunday Mass was taking place. Although it seemed strange to walk around the inside of a church during a Mass, it did not appear to distract any of the worshipers.
While visiting the Inglesia San Francisco Church in Lima we also took a tour of the museum and catacombs below the cathedral. The museum contained many paintings, artifacts and a huge library with thousand of volumes of books and manuscripts still in place. The entire museum and library were sadly open to the air and elements. Many of these priceless items from the 17th century don’t look like they will last another 100 years.
After lunch we had an opportunity to visit the local open air markets and look at Peruvian art and goods made from Alpaca wool. Our drive back to the pier took us along the coast and sharp volcanic cliffs. We returned exhausted and ready for naps.
Rather the taking a nap, Linda decided the wind behind the ship as it pulled out of the harbor was perfect for kite flying. This time she was successful and was able to get the kite up above the deck and in view of anyone eating in the Windjammer restaurant above us. It was exciting but as soon as the ship turned the kite came down.
We did have an opportunity to visit two cathedrals while Sunday Mass was taking place. Although it seemed strange to walk around the inside of a church during a Mass, it did not appear to distract any of the worshipers.
While visiting the Inglesia San Francisco Church in Lima we also took a tour of the museum and catacombs below the cathedral. The museum contained many paintings, artifacts and a huge library with thousand of volumes of books and manuscripts still in place. The entire museum and library were sadly open to the air and elements. Many of these priceless items from the 17th century don’t look like they will last another 100 years.
The catacombs were very macabre. To get to them we had to climb down stone steps and through dark winding tunnels that were only five feet high. Once totally inside we saw the actually burial pits filled with bones. Around 1950 a team of archeologists, in an attempt to organize the remains, sorted the bones and placed them in deep pits by bone type. Femurs in one pit, skulls in another, etc. Along some of the passageways we noticed grates in the ceiling above us. Looking up we could see the inside of the church and people praying or walking about. While this was really interesting and something we are glad we saw, we were all anxious to get out into the fresh air. We were not allowed to take pictures so you will have to use your imagination or look up the church and museum on the Internet.
One of the highlights of the day was eating in an authentic Peruvian restaurant. Our driver took us to the Bahia Azul (Blue Bay) for a seafood lunch. The restaurant was filled with local families with the exception of the three American women who could not read the menu. Our driver ordered for us and the food that appeared before us was unbelievable. Each dish contained fish in some form. We never got the names of each dish straight and can only say the first one, cerviche, which had three kinds of raw fish prepared with different sauces and vegetables only grown on Peru. We also had either clams or muscles covered with cheese and a sauce on shells. A fish pate wrapped with orange potato-like stuff, and what we think was salmon covered with a molasses-type syrup and fried. While we are not sure what the actual cost was, we think it came out to about $40 or so for the four of us.
One of the highlights of the day was eating in an authentic Peruvian restaurant. Our driver took us to the Bahia Azul (Blue Bay) for a seafood lunch. The restaurant was filled with local families with the exception of the three American women who could not read the menu. Our driver ordered for us and the food that appeared before us was unbelievable. Each dish contained fish in some form. We never got the names of each dish straight and can only say the first one, cerviche, which had three kinds of raw fish prepared with different sauces and vegetables only grown on Peru. We also had either clams or muscles covered with cheese and a sauce on shells. A fish pate wrapped with orange potato-like stuff, and what we think was salmon covered with a molasses-type syrup and fried. While we are not sure what the actual cost was, we think it came out to about $40 or so for the four of us.
After lunch we had an opportunity to visit the local open air markets and look at Peruvian art and goods made from Alpaca wool. Our drive back to the pier took us along the coast and sharp volcanic cliffs. We returned exhausted and ready for naps.
Rather the taking a nap, Linda decided the wind behind the ship as it pulled out of the harbor was perfect for kite flying. This time she was successful and was able to get the kite up above the deck and in view of anyone eating in the Windjammer restaurant above us. It was exciting but as soon as the ship turned the kite came down.
Tomorrow will be the first of three sea days before we reach Costa Rica. Believe it or not we are looking forward to some time at sea.
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