Last section of our trip. This time, up the East coast of America by train, then return on QM2
Eventually the transfer car manoeuvre’s around the floods and we get to the hotel. A tired looking Art Deco hotel on Collins.
The Riviera Hotel 1424 Collins Avenue Miami Beach. The room was situated on the ground floor behind tall secure gates. Possibly due to the nighttime habitant’s that frequent this area in the early hours. Party goers, drunks, druggies and the undesirable.
Very adequate and reasonably clean. Biggest problem was the paper thin walls. You hear everything.
On the first night we had what sounded like a kindergarten next to us, children running up and down screaming. Whilst above we had a herd of buffaloes. Continued until 1015pm when I went to see the receptionist . Within minutes all the noise had stopped once reception phoned them and told them to be quite. Amazing. Not sure what he had said or done to them.
Breakfast was hit and miss affair. The first day we managed to get some croissants and toast and a bowl of cereals, coffee and milk. But when we asked for yoghurt, we were told they had run out. Nevertheless, other guests who were Spanish speakers seemed to be able to get hold of some, so one rule for one and another rule for us.
Second morning we get up for breakfast and found no cereals or yoghurt whatsoever . Asked for some and informed that they didn’t have any more. In fact all they had left was some toast, croissant and some dried up scrambled egg. This was at 8.30am. So not impressed.
On our last night went to bed at 10pm, only to be woken at quarter to midnight by a group of loud singing raucous women and young men arriving with their suitcases. Causing an absolute commotion out side our bedroom door, no consideration whatsoever to any of the other guest. Judith got up and asked them to be quiet and was totally ignored. I phoned reception, but it was unmanned. A notice with an emergency telephone number stated, if you wish to complain about noise during the evening, please report it in the morning.
Says volumes about the ethos of the management.
Nevertheless the location was perfect for exploring the area. Mainly by foot, along the broadwalk.
Fantastic lifeguard stations in every shade of colour imaginable.
Rough seas had dredged up all manner of things, like the blue stingers
When the gale force winds subsided, caught the local bus up the coast and walked back along the beach until we couldn’t walk anymore. The Canal channel used by the cruise ships blocked our path. So headed inland and walked back via the shops and restaurants. Popped into one of the most well known restaurant, Joes Stone Crab. Brilliant place, very upmarket with a take out section to match Harrods food hall, and prices to match. But the seafood on display was mouthwatering.
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Then we had a Rastafarian join the trolley bus with hair that went down to the floor. His hair was amazing, just couldn’t stop looking at the unkept tangle of hair, that must have weighed kilos dragging along the floor. Would imaging the ends would need washing when walking along popular dog routes.
Then we had this fifty something male, really odd looking creature with an unusual ensemble. A mixture of a priest habit and vicars tunic, which had definitely seen better days. He boarded the bus and immediately started preaching gospel to the overflowing crowd. But all of these were put to shame by the next weirdo who joined our motley crowd.
An old hobo waited in his wheelchair at the bus stop. The driver stopped, lowered the suspension to allow him to wheel on. He moved along the bus, passengers quickly scuttling away to escape the thick haze of a undefined smell that encompassed him. Once in the centre of the bus, he emerged from the wheelchair and proceeded to empty the contents of his rucksack onto the wheelchair seat. All manner of things to sell, a mobile pop up shop. Which he then started to offer up for sale. Would have done well down Petticote Lane in London. Obviously knocked off items. For those of us not too close to be effected by the stench, it was hilarious. Fortunately he left, pushing his mobile shop off the bus once we had arrived in the down town centre of Miami Beach. Presumably hoping to make a killing with his cut price offerings. This is real life live theatre at its best.
Next day we caught the bus to the Miami Amtrak station. Initially we were going to go to the airport and catch a train to the station. But when going through the bus schedule we find that one of the buses went directly to Amtrak. Brilliant. It cost us $2.50, compared to $50 by Uber. And if we had paid by cash instead of Apple Pay it would have been free. The machine that accepted cash seemed not working. I think we were the only fare paying passengers on the whole 45 minute route.
Overnight sleeper from Miami to Washington, but it’s a convoluted route. It heads over to Tampa before heading East again, through Orlando before hugging the East coast striking North to Washington DC
24 Nov
Washington Union Station
Virtually empty due to it being Thanksgiving
Walked to our hotel. We had spent two days virtually stagnated on a train, doing nothing but sit, sleep, eat and drink. So it was great to get some air and exercise. It was like a ghost town. But this enabled us to get our bearings and enjoy the solitude, prior to the resumption of normality.
Checked into the Hotel, but it only took a couple of minutes before we headed back out. Wanted to get down to the White House before dark. Didn’t manage it, but in fact it was spectacular lit up, as was the Washington Monument. A enormous Cleopatras needle piercing the sky. Illuminated from below, it stood out dramatically against the wintery black sky. Unfortunately too many people doing the same to get a clear shot.
Walked back to the hotel and collapsed into bed.
Lovely clear morning, although really cold. But it was dry, a great benefit when you are hiking around sightseeing.
First up the Capitol Building. Wanted to go in, but you had to reserve tickets. Not a problem if you have internet on the go, but since Three removed its free roaming it’s more complicated, especially on the hoof.
Then moved onto the the Supreme Court, fashioned on the Greek style with giant columns and decorative frieze.
Continued to visit all the major buildings, managed to get entry into the magnificent Thomas Jefferson Library. Didn’t want to leave, it was spell binding. But today there were hoards of families, escaping from the previous days celebrations and presumably over imbibing.
We spent the whole day hopping from one famous building to another including the majority of the museums. Quick skirmishes, pop in and out for a taster. All deserved lots more time, but we just didn’t have enough. Yet it was a great insight in preparation for a future visit. Albeit it would be a great deal more enjoyable if the pound / dollar ratio was a little more in our favour. Preferably two dollars to the pound.
The Hirshorn Museum & Art Gallery and sculpture park were truly amazing, albeit rather out of this world and totally off the wall. Mind blowing in fact
Once again, not enough time to truly digest and take in. Presently undergoing major external work, so they have covered it with even more art.
Some of the exhibits are not for the faint hearted.
But what fascinated me most was the remnants of the old Chesapeake & Ohio canal and Lock system. The Canal and its towpath runs over 180 miles into Cumberland. From what l was reading they operate barge tours and trips at certain times of the year. Although all we saw was mud, hardly any water at all. In fact the largest section that passed through the town was totally dry, and the locks looked rather worse for wear. But it didn’t impact on the enjoyment of strolling along the towpath.
Then it’s back into town, and we finish our day walking to the Washington monument and then head out past the reflecting pool by the World War II Memorial and do a complete circumnavigation of the tidal basin, past the Martin Luther King memorial and through the Franklin D Roosevelt Memorial and onto the Thomas Jefferson Memorial before heading home. I think we had our fill of memorials.
I SEE ONE THIRD OF A NATION ILL HOUSED, ILL- CLAD ILL- NOURISHED
THE TEST OF OUR PROGRESS
IS NOT WHETHER WE ADD MORE
TO THE ABUNDANCE OF THOSE
WHO HAVE MUCH, IT IS WHETHER
WE PROVIDE ENOUGH FOR
Stay over in New York at the most awful hotel. The #Edison. Reputably a 4star hotel, the quality of the offering was disgusting. Would be lucky to get 1 star in the U.K. Obviously no maintenance or upkeep had been lavished on this room for many years. It was dire.
Least said, especially as they had the gaul to add $40+ dollars as a resort tax, yet offered nothing extra.
Left the hotel in New York very early, alarm clock set for 5.25 and we were out by 5.45
Met many of the other English passengers who had come across on the carnival Celebration who were also catching the train up to Niagara Falls.
Whilst waiting met a lovely girl at the checkin desk. Did all the formalities and told us we could leave the bags just there, at the front of the queue and would lead us down as soon as it was ready for boarding.
Had plenty of time to go and get some coffee. So Took the opportunity and nipped out of the railway station to look for a McDonald’s.
As per usual didn’t disappoint, It was just round the corner. So purchase two coffees, one for the flask and one to drink now.
Returned to find hundreds of people waiting to get on the train. One of the assistants told us to line up at the back of the queue, but was quickly put in his place by our little girl, who informed him that we were the start of the queue, and not to interfere. What a lovely girl.
Lead us to the train, only coach seats, but masses of space. Only downside. Similar to yesterday, all cases had to be lifted onto the overhead racks. We were lucky, we had an area behind our seats to store our two cases.
Mixture of passengers, some just doing short journeys, others overflowing with, cases, pillows & blankets. More importantly, giant goody bags full of all manner of treats. Ranging from pastries and humongous muffins. Packets of biscuits, buckets of popcorn and of course oversized cups of iced tea. In winter! But within a few hours of stripping down to a single layer of clothing, could understand their wisdom , and the need for chilled liquids.
Must say that the majority just curled up on the ample seats, covered themselves in a blanket and immediately fell into snoring mode.
It was only just past 7am, so you couldn’t blame them. In fact truly Impressed with their initiative and preparation. That was until they were all woken up by the train guard, explaining he was on his rounds and was checking tickets. Along with other requests. Do not remove shoes, make sure you place rubbish in appropriate receptacles at the end of each carriage, don’t put luggage on seats as all seats are required. Don’t do this, can do this, but make sure you definitely don’t do that.
Seemed to go on for ages. By which time all the sleepers were starting to splurge on their carry on food and drink. Well l suppose if your not sleeping, you may as well be eating.
Although they do try and restrict the availability of food from the buffet car. Initially it’s closed until we reach a certain stop. Then it’s closed because we are continually stop- starting at local stations. Then just as it’s nearing lunchtime at 12.10. The guard informs us that the buffet is closing for a meal break. I kid you not.
Countryside not amazing, although as we neared Buffalo the towns seemed to be more productive and affluent. Not the ramshackle timber framed houses we had seen dotted throughout the brush.
Stopped in Niagra New York station and all US guests got off. We then trundled over the bridge into Canada. It was our turn to be processed. A fairly straightforward manoeuvre through the custom and immigration section of the station. Every one was lined up with their bags in front whilst the sniffer dog did it’s job. Happily sniffing the bags, wagging its tail, hopping from case to case, nosing into sacks and bags looking for food and drugs. Fortunately, nothing exciting. Everyone clean, and we were able to escape into the cool dry air of Canada.
Can’t explain how exciting it was. Had no preconceived ideas of what to expect. But it was awe inspiring. It was freezing cold, the wind was blowing a gale and it was trying to snow, but it was something very special. We stood and admired until we virtually froze to the spot, at which point we headed into the hotel.
As per usual you get what you expect at a Sheraton. Clean, spacious with all the bells and whistles.
Still on a high, we headed back for another view of the falls before heading through the tacky town. It’s a bit like what l imagine the Blackpool mile is like. How many haunted houses do you need to visit. There must have been five in the first 50 metres. Plus a Ferris wheel, dinosaur park, go cart track, waxworks. Tacky, to say the least. But it didn’t take away from the falls itself. The other plus was the brewery and craft beer bar & restaurant next to the hotel.
Yet for most it’s the abundance and availability of gambling in the casino’s.
Visited both, but didn’t get cajoled into giving money away. Its amazing how many people manage to stay or cruise virtually free, just because they spend lots of time on the tables or slots. Not sure if you can count it as being free if you hand over buckets of cash to win on the odd occasion.
I hasten to add, it’s not from my personal experience. It’s from bumping into another couple who are on the same trip. They were all of the above and more. In fact, some of their attire was starting to become solid, as it stiffened and froze it was that cold.
Snow started settling, so headed for the other major casino complex. The latest, largest and flashiest, the Fallsview Casino Resort. Food court, restaurants, shops, theatre and an enormous casino.
As the weather was deteriorating, we booked into to see Christmas on Ice show. Fantastic. Puts you in the festive mood.
View as we head South back to the USA over the gorge
đŸ‘¿Arrived out our hotel in Time Square at 11pm. But due to too many problems to bore you with, we didn’t get into a room until passed midnight. Another hotel that fails to fulfil the basic provision of providing a clean, safe comfortable nights sleep in pleasant surroundings. It makes you wonder if #Jetlinecruise actually validate the type of hotels they book in their packages. One feels that they just book through a clearing agency, and they are booked on price, no real concern on quality.
One of the basic requirements of a hotel room is the ability to get a restful relaxing nights sleep. As per usual l have come prepared, Judith hates light in a room, so l have taken to travelling with a roll of insulating tape. Great for covering those annoying little standby lights on the tv, fire alarm and smoke detector.
Normally, quality hotels have sufficient soundproofing, soft close doors and considerate guests. But the Manhattan at Times Square Hotel was definitely not a quality hotel.
What with connecting doors, that we’re cheap and poor fitting. Guests that were coughing their hearts out and the background chorus of the eternal air-con, which in fact only produced heat, (controls were not working) and made the room more akin to a sauna. Sleep was difficult.
Eventually l did manage sleep only to be awoken in the early hours by another neighbour excitedly talking at the top of his voice to a family member. Things managed to deteriorate further as the happy room maids started their shift, laughing and giggling as they pushed their rattling trollies into position. Banging into walls and doors along the way.
So after a disturbing sleep, we head out for breakfast. Must remember to bring ear defenders, blackout mask, soothing background music. And if all else fails, a sawn off shotgun and some 15g shot to eliminate all that disturb. Won’t mention all the other defects in the room and bathroom. Just be assured, l won’t be using #Jetlinecruise again. And will certainly pick my New York hotels myself. Ones that meet my basic criteria, and don’t charge resort fees for non existent products or services.đŸ˜ˆ
Nevertheless, spend two full days walking through and around Manhattan. And it was enjoyable. Managed to walk the Brooklyn Bridge, something we had tried on many occasions, only to be thwarted by the weather. We had glorious sunshine, albeit rather chilly.
Headed out into the sun for breakfast, after which we slowly head through the milling crowds down 5th Avenue. Through the now familiar smell of pot. All these young adults killing their brain cells, whilst walking through oblivion. Either that or they are on opioids. Such a pity.
Next stop, Barns & Noble. Last time in NY we had seen a book specifically designed for web site addresses and passwords. Judith thought it was time to update her scrappy little dog eared pad to a new purpose made book. Sod’s law, they had sold out.
Did find a magical journal instead, for all her daily thoughts, reminders and special events. Along with goals and personal notes on what she is currently doing. Such as what’s her favourite tipple, best friend for the month, bit of gossip, amusing anecdote or possibly what she’s getting excited about. That is other than her favourite alcoholic cocktail and her mouthwatering concoction of foods or forthcoming excursion into the unknown.
It’s an amazing little aid memoir. That is if she ever puts pen to paper. Post scrip - she is definitely putting pen to paper on a regular basis. Brilliant.
We meander around, but give the ongoing Black Friday sales at Macy’s a miss, just too many crowds. Skirt in front of the grand and illustrious National Library and continue south trying to avoid the numerous vagrants who seem to come out of nowhere, hands outstretched for any offering. Be it food, money or a smoke. Some look half decent, others you can detect at a distance if approaching from downwind.
The world is going mad, the richer is getting richer and the poorer are getting poorer.
Kept hopping from one side of the road to the other, seeking the warmth of the sun. The height of the skyscrapers has a distinct effect on the climate. Often in surprising ways, with glass faced buildings reflecting the sun in otherwise blackened corners of the streets.
Came across a wonderful flower shop, that had diversified and reinvented itself by adding a coffee shop. A mixture of autumn colours and vibrant blooms. Tropical’s draping from the ceiling, a hidden floral grotto. This had spilled out onto what Americans call the sidewalk. In the form of a line of miniature greenhouses, kitted out with tables and chairs. Outside dinning, protected from the elements. Little heaters added that extra lift to combat the single digit temperatures. Ingenious way to add extra outdoor space
Then, happened across a game fishing shop. Orvis, some amazing cloths, especially their waders. Judith was getting rather board, but unfortunately for her l found upstairs, full of fly rods and reels. But more importantly an assistant who started giving me the insider news on where to go fishing whilst in NY. By this time Judith was snoring in the corner. So it was time to go.
Judith happens upon a pop up designer sale shop. I was oblivious to it. A warehouse sized place, windows blocked out with brown paper. Just a small sign on the door. Yet people were pouring through. As were we, only to be halted by big burly security guards who directed us to a desk where we had to handover, bags, coats. Wondered how far they would go before they allowed us on.
Once inside, all you could see where automated hands delving into the rows and rows of designer cloths. Women delved into the myriad of coloured cloth , l say women because l was perhaps the only man other than security in the building. Most had armfuls of cloths to try on at the rear of the warehouse , others were already down to their undergarments, busying themselves, pouting their lips as they visualised their look in numerous strategically placed mirrors, positioned in an area of soft lighting for the best effect.
Chinese girls stood in front of iPhones perched on tripods, showing their business partners various garments they were modelling on their size 8 bodies. In front of them massive plastic tubs overflowed with cloths to be purchased, presumably to then be uploaded onto the net and hopefully sold at a profit. Prices were unbelievably low, only because the original masterpieces were priced so high. T shirts were down from $190 to $20, dresses $900 down to $90.
At this rate the place will be sold out by midday. Tried to direct Judith to the exit, but not before she had bagged two tops and a pair of earrings.
Why is it that women always refer to their purchases as how much they have saved. Judith saved at least $700. Pity l can’t bank it. She did by me a super Moschino tie as a thank you for my unwavering patience.
Manhattan, is designed sensibly on a grid system. So if walking North to South as we are on 5th Avenue, it entails constantly crossing streets, slowing down our progress. Crowds mill around awaiting at every crossing.
Judith eagle eyes homed in on a full sized raffia Halloween pumpkin in one of her favourite shops, Crate and Barrel. The shop oozes style. And their prices are so reasonable. The shop reminds me of the old Habitat in the UK, before they got expensive. Anyway, we came out with a bagful of stuff.
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If only l lived in New York, could fill our flat with art, furniture and tableware from this shop. Only problem, couldn’t afford to live here. Well not at the pound dollar rate at the moment. Then again, would l really like to live in NY. A BIG NO. Yet, in a perfect world, with oodles of money, could quite happily live in the countryside around Delaware water gap. Great fishing and close enough to the city to pop in and out. But it’s never going to happen. Pockets aren’t big enough. Would be scared stiff of the gun toting maniacs, plus many Americans speak too loudly. It infuriates and annoys me. My ears are offended. But Judith believes most things infuriate me. It’s my age. Although she believes l have always been like it. Perhaps so.
Continue walking South. The goal, Brooklyn Bridge. But that’s miles away. Yet there is no hurry. As long as we keep walking in the sun, meandering through the various districts.
Reach the bridge and totally astonished at the number of people out for a stroll, doing the same touristy bit as ourselves. Heaving mass of humanity, all trying to manoeuvre past the pop up video stands, the tacky tourist stalls selling everything from the obligatory kiss me quick hat to the Empire State Building fridge magnet. Must say it was a beautiful evening, and the sun was just setting, remarkable views. That is if you can get a picture without a head in it. People were going to amazing lengths to get the right shot, even to the point of clambering up on the railing! Doing their Titanic stretch out into the ocean scene, but balancing on the slippery rusty rivet encrusted flaking balustrade.
Dinner then bed, totally exhausted.
Up and off to the ship, although our Chinese driver hadn’t a clue how to get us there. She kept trying to head down 5th which was entirely fowled up by drivers wanting to see the Christmas decorations. Eventually managed to get her to head North before eventually taking the road West and ultimately South along the river. Time square to Red Hook in 25 minutes. Not bad considering it was raining and a weekend.
Back on board the QM2, home, cocooned in a bubble of peace , tranquility and familiarity.
In fact it was definitely not tranquil. Far from it. We had walked into the Sunday Times & Times, Cheltenham literature Festival on board.
Talks, readings, disclosures, workshops. Hardly had time to eat, and that’s saying something for a cruise.
First we new about it was when we went to our cabin, sorry, state room. And found the brochure highlighting around 25 authors taking part in the festival.
Then as we settled down for lunch, got talking to two other couples about the fast diet. Only to realise that it was one of our favourite authors, Alexander McCall Smith, famous for his 44 Scotland Street, with six year old Bertie who plays the saxophone. The other being Mick Herron, spy fiction writer.
I was fortunate to get places on many of the workshops. One by Rachel Johnston, Boris’s sister. Same hairstyle as Boris and similar scatty manner, known for her diaries in the Times. Then there was Charles Cumming, who writes spy fiction, a keen chess player and l believe an ex MI5 agent. Talked about sections of a book. Ian Rankin on how to write a crime thriller, and many others.
The day normally started at 8.30 with journalists, authors including Ed Balls, discussing and dissecting the News Headlines. Then there were discussions and biopsies from various authors, readings of new books, poetry readings. It was fun, totally all encompassing, and enlightening. We even had films derived from some of the books, like JoJo Moyes with Me before you. And now she has a new book we purchased it from the on board bookshop. A breathtaking story of five extraordinary women and their remarkable journey through the mountains of Kentucky in Depression-era America. The team of women sign up to deliver books as part of Eleanor Roosevelt's new traveling library. The Giver of Stars…….
But our favourites were, Pru Leith foodie judge and writer, Alexander McCall Smith, Ed Balls and Ian Rankin.
Enjoyed the week so much, now looking at next years literature cruise, but not sure if we are already booked on something else.
Then four days at home before heading back out on the QM2 to New York.
Managed to get out of Scotland, just. Headed out early and the temperature ranged between minus 9 and minus 13 until we got past Preston.
QM2 15/22Dec
As usual, plenty of lectures on board, a real mixture. The first on the White Star Line, others on the night sky, and the theatre focusing on musicals such as west side story and Oklahoma, not forgetting the master of all musical writers, Andrew Lloyd Webber.
We also had a very interesting talk given by Squadron Leader John Peters. Former RAF Tornado pilot who was shot down in the gulf war in 1991 and tortured by the Iraqis. Amazing description of the reality of war.
As well as discussions with the cast of the stage version of The Best exotic Marigold Hotel with Hayley Mills, Paul Nicholas, Rula Lenska and a host of other fantastic artists on tour.
An amazing production in the theatre lasted all afternoon with a 15 minute break in between so people could top up their gin and tonics, And check on the World Cup scores between Argentina and France.
Treated to a talk from Haley Mills
Pleased to say that the food on board has definitely improved, from that of earlier this year. Some gorgeous morsels on offer throughout the various eateries. Trying to make sure we don’t go too mad, but it is difficult when there are so many wonderful items to choose from. Perhaps that’s why we like the Kings Court buffet. You can just dip in and out. A little of this and that. Last night l started with a plate of assorted sushi, accompanied by seaweed, pickled ginger and a Japanese horseradish cream. Delightful
Then stumbled on some jumbo shrimp freshly cooked in butter and served with hot chilli jam, so we shared a dozen between us. My nose then caught the aroma of the sizzling leg of lamb, cooked beautifully pink, so l just had to have a nice chunk with that gloriously juicy creamy fat on the edges. Died and gone to heaven.
Met up with our cruise buddies and our Scottish neighbours who had decided to also try out the QM2.
Great to be able to play various games in the evening after dinner. Yet very competitive. Or should l say the testosterone filled males are always pushing for a win. Nothing wrong with that, says me. Just have to remember not to sulk when l loose.
But then again, we are not playing all the time, there’s the musical entertainment and of course the odd movie or two. Not to mention all the stunning lectures.
The theatre buff Andrew Killian explained all about Stephen Sondheim and his rise to popularity with the help of Oscar Hammerstein. Fascinating story. His parents had divorced, and even though he would have preferred to stay with his father, his mother wouldn’t allow it. He had an unhappy home life, but he built up a strong friendship with Jimmy, his class mate. He eventually spent a lot of time at Jimmys home, where the father treated him as another son. The father being Oscar Hammerstein, who ultimately mentored and encouraged Stephen through his initial years. His first major opening came when he assisted with the lyrics for West Side Story.
Whilst visiting his elderly mother in her last days, she turned to him and said she had only one disappointment in her life, and that was having him. My god.
The speaker was amazing has he dissected the various musicals, Company, Gypsy, West side story and A funny thing happened on the way to the forum plus many more. It’s great to understand the mindset of the lyricist, how they balance words with music.
Then off at New York,stay overnight before jumping on the Norwegian Getaway for Christmas.
We stayed at the Westin on 42nd and 3rd, close to the East side, and handy for the ferry from Red Hook.
Checkin was simple, and we were allocated our room early, which was great. Enabled more time to head down and around.
Jumped into the lift, which seemed to have a mind of its own. Pressed our floor number but the light just kept flashing and the lift shot up at a tremendous rate.
Initially we were heading up to 39, then down to 20, back up to 27 before hurtling down to 4.
Not good when you hate tall buildings. Eventually realised it was because we hadn’t zapped our card. So the lift was just off on its own answering calls from any of the floors.
Settled into the room, nice and spacious, more importantly, clean and well maintained.
Then off out in the bitterly cold to buy a few presents fore ourselves in the sale at Macy’s. Just something small to open on Christmas Day. Found the presents, but couldn’t find paper and tape for wrapping. Nipped up to the top of the shop and got in line for gift wrapping. It was so long, we gave up and headed back for dinner.
Following morning the news was forecasting a white Christmas, not a postcard image, but a blizzard brought on by a so called “bomb cyclone", it sounds like a nightmare. Airports have cancelled thousands of flights as the storm heads towards us in the East. The US National Weather Service (NWS) says temperatures of -50F (-45C) and -70F are possible by the end of the week in places.
Walk over to the West side and check in. Fairly painless, swift and straightforward.
On board the Getaway, and not sure if we will be heading anywhere. Snow is horizontal, winds are presently 47mph. The ship next to us should have left last night, but it was postponed due the weather and is going out this evening. Only thing is, the weather is worst tonight.
Eventually we understand that the port has been closed but should reopen at 6am the following morning to allow our journey south to escape the cold snap.
Awake at 5.59 when the lines are pulled in. By the time that we get out of bed and head up on deck, the sea is covered in a low level mist, as the sea tries to freeze. Only seen the like once before, and that was off the coast of Russia out of Vladivostok.
The place is totally mad, presumably because you can’t get out, the internal areas become overflowing with a mass of humanity intent on partying. Understand the highest proportion of guest are from NewYork and New Jersey.
We find a pleasant couple of seats in a quiet area, just off one of the cocktail bars.
Every nation, ethnicity, colour and creed passes before us wearing all manner of attire. In a nutshell l could have reduced my packing weight dramatically by just bringing, shorts, joggers, a T and possibly a hoody.
It seems that dressy up night on this ship over Christmas is what ever you want it to be.
Girls in Hawaiian traditional dress, grass skirts with masses of garlands around their necks. Matching striped Ts and shorts, beanie hats. Really bad Christmas jumpers, T’s and PJs. Cowboy hat and boots with jeans, white dress shirt and dicky bow with red joggers. Hawaiian shirt and kilt. Ballgown, stole and flip flops, in fact virtually anything goes. People feel right at home in their onesie’s, slippers, PJs whilst walking round the ship. But it’s bloody cold. I am still in my thermals.
Food is excellent, as is the service. The crew really go the extra mile to look after you.
But certain things do make me despair. I kid you not I was sat in the main restaurant the other night and my eyes were just too astonished to see four Americans, I believe mother, father and two grown-up sons. They were in restaurant before we arrived, but they were ordering virtually two or three plates of everything.
So they started with three starters each, plus extra bread, olive oil, the full gambit.
When it came to the main courses, the entrees as they call them in the states, each and every one of them had two dishes. Can you imagine that. The table wasn’t even big enough to actually cater for the amount of plates on the table. Asked our lovely waitress if this is normal for Americans to do. She pulled a face, and whispered, increasingly it was. Gross.
Love to know the back story of the family with the big appetite. They weren’t overly big. From the faces of the two boys, this wasn’t their biological mother. As the evening progressed, cracks were physically noticeable.
People watching, makes a visit to the restaurant more exciting.
Then into one of the booked shows. “Burn the Floor”. You guested it, a dance routine. A non-stop display of movement and style based on the world-renowned Broadway show of the same name.
An hour of dance filled with breathtaking choreography, heart pounding music and unforgettable moves. A real extravaganza. From Harlem's Hot Night at The Savoy, where the Lindy, Foxtrot and Charleston were born, to the Latin Quarter, where the Cha-Cha, Rumba and Salsa steamed up the stage.
Personally l couldn’t imagine that l would enjoy sitting through an hour of people waltzing and gyrating across the stage. How wrong could l be, it was fantastic. A real story with fantastic singers, music and dancers, very professional.
In fact the entertainment on board is totally unbelievable, the quality of the performances. Plus the participants seem to really enjoy themselves.
Second show during the trip, Broadway unplugged.
Fantastic group of artists, musicians and singers. Remixing and jamming well know Broadway songs from musicals. Joyous and uplifting. Playing for the pure pleasure. Felt as if you were in their front room, participating in something honest and spontaneous. Twists to well known songs, such as Jonny Cash singing Le miserables.
Then the same singers and musicians performed in the Million Dollar Quartet - A Broadway hit. utterly spectacular, 105 minutes of high Adrenaline. Foot stomping, hand clapping, sing a long with some amazing artists. Showcasing great songs from Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley. A reincarnation of one of the greatest jam sessions of all time.
incredible rock 'n' roll, gospel, R&B and country hits like Blue Suede Shoes, Walk the Line, Great Balls of Fire.
As previously mentioned, the food was amazing, especially Cagney’s, the steak restaurant and the Japanese teppanyaki restaurant. Fantastic seafood cooked in a theatrical atmosphere. Brilliant
The waterside outdoor space was great once the sun came out. A peaceful location to read with the odd drink. And once the heat peaked, fantastic eating out space. All the internal restaurants had a section that sat on the Waterside deck. Unfortunately not quite hot enough in the evenings, but certainly used them during the day.
The Waterfront, a rap around eating and drinking deck
loved Kristin Hannah's The Nightingale. Well worth getting on Kindle.
life in France during World War II with wonderful details and drama. Especially the relationship between the two sisters who live in a small village, with the imminent threat of occupation. Action packed and totally enthralling.
You are transported to the haunting existence of occupied France. An emotional rollercoaster. A page turner you will have difficulty putting down.
Had an early night and watched ‘Buzz light year”
2022 Animated film, absolutely amazing, truly stupendous, heart wrenching at times, at other times, your sides ache from too much laughter. But you have to be a child at heart.
To sum up, loved the cruise once we had worked our way around the queues. But it seems at times like we are on the Mumbai or Shanghai Express. When we can get on the top deck, we expect to see thousands camping out and clinging to the side of the ship.
The captain at his greeting explained that nearly 99% of the guest have come from NY and New Jersey. So are the majority of residents now Chinese or of Indian origin?
It doesn’t matter, most do not know how to queue. They all prefer to be the first in line, even though they are the last to arrive.
Far too soon the cruise ends, and it’s time to depart the ship. unfortunately it’s total mayhem everyone’s trying to get off at the same time. For us we don’t to have rush because we can’t check in before four. So we have a nice relaxed breakfast in the restaurant and head back to our cabin to collect our bags at 9:45.
As we have our cases with us, we managed to just get off very easily and walk back to the hotel through sunshine, the odd cloud and little spit of rain, but it’s so much warmer than it was when we left New York eight days ago .
Check in at the hotel although the rooms aren’t ready so we just check our bags in and disappeared out into the New Year crowds who were heading out to time square.
Seems that they pen most of the people in, for safety and crowd control. So most people are trapped for at least eight hours without any facilities. From all accounts, the sale of nappies, grown up pads rocket at this time of year. Doesn’t bear thinking about.
So pleased we are well out of it. Found a family Mexican restaurant for our New Years dinner, then it’s off to watch the crowds and ludicrous antics of the presenters trying to fill the time till the ball falls at midnight. Where do they find these celebrities to fill in the time. Most look as if they have been resurrected from the crypt.
In the end we fall asleep long before midnight, only to be awoken by the returning revellers at 2.30am. Presumably to change their nappies.
Most decided to phone girl friends, mothers or colleagues to wish them a happy new year just outside our room. At a volume only New Yorkers find acceptable. It was so clear l was able to became very intimate to the comings and going’s of the families or friends concerned.
Then some pleasant person decided it would be fun to play musical doors. Nipping between rooms, banging the doors behind him. This happened on three or four occasions. Definitely had stamina, or an extra supply of the blue tablet. He must have collapsed at some point, because he never returned to his own room.
As you can imagine, this disturbs our rest and equilibrium. Judith isn’t good with lack of sleep. Has been known to rip heads of chickens, or unsuspecting humans in the past . I keep well out of her way, under the covers until it subsides. Normally around midday.
So after a little stroking, lots of coffee, we head out for some fresh air in the form of retail therapy.
Walk up 3rd Av not an area often visited, yet quite interesting. Plenty of restaurants and bars that seem to cater to the locals. Even found a proper supermarket with gorgeous foods. Fresh vegetables, salads and fruit and an amazing selection of meats and fish.
Great mixture of architecture, old buildings dwarfed between spanking new skyscrapers.
Another revelation, Saks off 5th located on 57th and Lexington. A magical shop hiding away below ground in an Art Deco building. Everything 70% off. Wonderful cloths and accessories. Fortunately most were sizes that didn’t fit. Otherwise l might have been encouraged to buy a wonderful dinner jacket, reduced from $800 to just over $200. Judith managed to find a new pair of Oscar de La renta reading glasses at a snip.
Popped into Bergdorf Goodman - fantastic window displays. Inside the odd necklace for $15000. Handbags to die for. That’s because most females or males wouldn’t earn enough in a lifetime to afford one.
Pass Carnegie Hall, which is presently under redevelopment. Then its into TKMax - to buy new ear buds, my batteries have decided to give up on me. Managed to find a new set, hopefully they will last me until the end of the world cruise.
A few more shops, then it’s one our favourite places, the Museum of art and design before heading back to the hotel and dinner.
Last day before getting back on the QM2 for the start of the world cruise.
So we decide to tick of a few more of our to do in NY, including a visit to Roosevelt Island , using the island tramway, which in fact is supposedly the most modern aerial tramway in the world. Hate heights, but this wasn’t too bad, quite stable, although we nearly didn’t get on. For some reason it would accept any of our debit or credit cards, then it wanted our zip code attached to the card. Only it would not accept our U.K. format. Frustrating to say the least. So knocked on the assistants window, who kindly came out to help. Eventually he just took us through the side door, winked, and said enjoy. What a kind chap.
In 1856 the smallpox hospital opened, the ruins of which are still visible in the Four Freedoms park.
Roosevelt Island was named in honour of the former president in 1973. And the freedom park opened in 2012.
President Roosevelt made his Four Freedoms speech to the United States Congress in 1941.
In the future days, which we seek to make secure, we look forward to a world founded upon four essential human freedoms.
The first is freedom of speech, and expression—everywhere in the world.
The second is freedom of every person to worship God in his own way—everywhere in the world.
The third is freedom from want—which, translated into world terms, means economic understandings which will secure to every nation a healthy peacetime life for its inhabitants—everywhere in the world.
The fourth is freedom from fear—which, translated into world terms, means a world-wide reduction of armaments to such a point and in such a thorough fashion that no nation will be in a position to commit an act of physical aggression against any neighbor—anywhere in the world.
That is no vision of a distant millennium.
It is a definite basis for a kind of world attainable in our own time and generation.
That kind of world is the very antithesis of the so-called new order of tyranny which the dictators seek to create with the crash of a bomb.
— Franklin D. Roosevelt, excerpted from the State of the Union Address to the Congress, January 6, 1941
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