Racing away from the weather, magnificent time circumnavigating Ireland before heading to the Mediterranean followed by a trip to the Caribbean
Once we had locked the house up we drove over to Stirling, stopping off at Loch Lomond. It was a wet day so we visited The Loch Lomond shores shopping outlet. Judith managed to find a handy wrap around bag to stuff all the usual rigmarole that you need to travel with these days. Passport, tickets, boarding cards, vaccine cards and all the other paraphernalia. There will come a time when we old farts will find it just too tedious to cope with the ever changing regulations. Already find it hard to remember simple things like renewals of insurance, MOT, car tax and the such. That’s even with SIRI on my iPhone and Alexa indoors using prime from Amazon to remind me.
From Stirling we headed down to Leicester for the night to see my sister, Iris who is now a nonagenarian and doing quite well, still has a sparkle in her eyes. Had a nice time chatting to her and my two nephews before heading to the Premier Inn for the night.
Then a short drive to Bracknell the following morning, visiting the Windsor Great Park and Savill Gardens. What a wonderful day, the Sun shone as we took note of many plants that would fit nicely into our wild garden. After lunch a good walk through the historic park with views over to Windsor Castle past the old houses and monuments.
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A feast of nature appeared before our eyes as we walked the great circle. Colourful Parakeets, squawking as they hopped from branch to branch before heading off in a group, an inquisitive hen Harrier darting in front of us to sweep down to plunk some morsel from the freshly cut grass. Then just as we were walking up to the obelisk by the side of the polo court, or Polo field whatever you call them, a little kestrel dived down within feet of us to pick up a dragonfly and then fly off. Amazing.
In the distance we heard deer bellowing, although we couldn’t see any in the near vicinity. Just the odd poo pellets along with rubbish left by a group of school children as they rested at a monument. And of course 100s of planes coming overhead from Heathrow, flying not far from the magnificent Windsor Castle.
Totally amazed at the size of Windsor great park, obviously there is a clue in the name.
Certain sections were overrun with giant chestnut trees, absolutely full to overflowing. Must have been used in cooking back in the day. Not so popular now, other than at Christmas in stuffing. They were prominently situated alongside some of the grand houses.
Just read about Am-poo-tations
Experts from Sheffield University have found that zoo-animal faces contain bacteriophages, viruses that fight antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which could be used to stop infections and prevent 7,000 amputations in Britain each year. It’s amazing what’s going on, all this research, all in the background. No wonder we are living so long.
23 September
Calm seas as we head out of Southampton on our around Ireland trip.
Must say l have missed cruising, the pick + mix choice of food, drinks, entertainment and array of Venues to visit. And the Norwegian Star doesn’t disappoint - Its a good ship, everything is clean and sparkling - fantastic selection of restaurants with amazing choice of food and they cook and present it well.
Entertainment is predominantly American,polished first class performers.
Our room - sorry we are at sea, so it's called a cabin in maritime speak.
To be honest it’s small, which isn’t a problem. After all you only sleep in it. Most of the time you are enjoying all that the ship has to offer.
Unfortunately in this instance you could not do that. Sleep that is. It materialises that we were located directly under the speciality Kitchen washing up area. Didn’t realise until midnight - Then after 2 hrs without any possibility of sleeping it was eventually sorted. But it took numerous calls to reception in the early hours to get it resolved
But the new Cabin - was amazing, more importantly it was quiet.
Will still need to write a note to the company to ask why they think it’s acceptable to sell a cabin in such a locaton. Then again if you are deaf or stay in the bar or casino until 3am, it’s fine. All the pots and pans will have been washed by then.
But he tells us that he has taken this ship through far worse around South America.
Our first full day onboard and it was hectic. In fact l don’t know where the hours disappeared to. What with listening to various artists, eating four meals. (Never eaten so much. My trousers will definitely need letting out at this rate. ), watching the rugby World Cup on the big screen, along with glimpses of the odd goal scored by Newcastle in the 8.0 thrashing of Sheffield Wednesday in the premiership. Not to mention 10,000 steps around the deck and a few drinks to celebrate Ireland’s win. Quite appropriate really. But then who needs an excuse to have a drink when on holiday afloat.
As soon as the ship had secured its lines we jumped ship. The railway platform was in spitting distance of the quay, so we hopped on the train for a 25 minute ride into Cork. A first for us.
The colourful architecture, castle, cathedral and historic shopping area positioned in a wide curved street, seemed to go on indefinitely.
Everything and everyone was charming. Yet the biggest treat was found in the old covered market on the fish stand. No, not a mermaid waiting to entice me back into the sea, or a leprechaun offering three wishes. It was more exciting than that. It was the largest, juiciest, tastiest oysters l have ever consumed.
We only had six, but that was equivalent to 18 from our local fishmonger in Loch Fyne. From all accounts they came from Ross Mor.
A reason for returning to this part of Ireland in the future. In fact, perhaps an annual pilgrimage is on the cards.
Especially when accompanied by the local brew. A black velvety Guinness. Judith opted for a Gaelic coffee, which went straight to her head and her ability to walk or talk straight. Not sure what spirit measure he used. But she didn’t complain.
She managed to get round all the other major sights without falling over. Then before we knew it, it was time to head back to Cobh. 20 minutes later the effects had worn off, so she was ready to explore the wee fishing village/town. Music seemed to be oozing out of every bar as we walked through the high street. Fortunately Judith had had enough alcohol for the day, so we gave them a wide berth. Otherwise l could see myself having to carry her onto the ship. I think it’s because she never drinks spirit, only white wine.
It still baffles me. How much whisky did he put in the coffee. Or perhaps how much coffee into the whisky.
Storm Agnes came through overnight, bringing with it Hurricane force winds to hamper our passage to Dingle. In fact it stops us from landing at Foynes and Galaway as well.
They added extra activities, one a Q+A with the Captain, Hotel Manager & chief engineer.
The quality of questons definitely showed the mind set of many of the guests. Cringeworthy to say the least
" Why can’t you tell us beforehand when ports are going to be closed.”
" If we cant go ashore , can you get closer to the foot of the cliffs" (Like the Costa ship in Italy perhaps.)
"If we cant tender, why dont we just moor up” (perhaps there is a reason, such as the ships too large to go into the small port)
"How do you expect me to sleep when the boat is rocking”
Very sad.
The one that made me cry the most.
“Can l make a request that you lower the volume of the musicians in the theatre. It’s far too loud, my hearing aids can’t take it”
The hotel managers response was simple. Perhaps you could turn your volume down or sit further back.
For us, sea days are great. We are sad to miss ports, but we can walk, play cards, read, catchup with diary, watch a movie “Top Gun” for the third time. Still excellent. And of course we have never ending food and drink on tap. What’s not to love?
Yet we do miss the quality of lectures found on Cunard.
Overnight whilst we were tucked up in our beds the captain pushes on up and round the top of Ireland and shelters us between Scotland and the NE tip of the country. In effect, not a million miles from our home in Innellan. Perhaps he’ll decide to visit Greenock. A nice sheltered port. Could nip home and pick up more winter and rainproof cloths along with my Wellington boots.
The ships amazing, you don’t feel the effect of the storm on board. It’s very stable.
After three days of pottering about out of the worst of the storm we head back to the NW coast and call in at Killybegs.
29 September Killybegs
Having said the ship was stable, last night saw it rise and fall. In fact we felt and heard the bang as the bow came thundering down into the churning sea with an almighty smashing sound.
Yet he did as he promised. We were moored along side the jetty by 7.30.
Relaxed with a good breakfasts, allowing the majority to trundle off the ship out into the murky weather before we headed out ourselves.
A mist of light rain was still falling as we walked round the harbour and into the small fishing village. Small but with a big fleet of large trawlers. From all accounts they are Mackerel boats, and they only go out for three months a year. During which time they earn enough to cover the whole year.
Surprisingly found the only fishmonger in the port, who was fortunately selling local oysters. Whilst tasting his fresh produce he explained it was his last day. The shop was closing that evening. Just couldn’t make a living from it. Locals were so used to having cheap fish, they weren’t prepared to pay the proper price. Instead he had decided to work as a carer for his 92 year old father. He was very philosophical about the turn of events.
The rain had stopped and the sun had appeared by the time we had finished our saltwater morsels from the deep. So we headed out on a 7k circular walk through the countryside and back along the coast. The map highlighted an ancient burial site, a castle and umpteen other interesting features to look out for. Yet we couldn’t find anything other than a few humps and bumps in the ground, hundreds of partly erected wind turbines and a few moth eaten sheep.
Then again, we wouldn’t have headed out if they had been totally honest.
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30 September
Belfast
The weather was miserable, heavy rain, strong winds. So our proposed outing to the Giants Causway was abandoned. Another time when the weather is kinder. Do they ever have good weather in Belfast?
Walked to the Titanic centre, firstly passing the enormous cranes of Harland and Wolff’s ship yards. They have to be seen to be believed.
Then into the Titanic Hotel, housed in the old offices and design house for the Titanic. The staff gave us free rein to walk around. They even gave us a map which highlighted what could be seen in each part of the hotel. Fascinating.
They had kept the master marine architects office in the centre of the main restaurant, using it as a private dining area.
One room was adorned with masses of black & white photographs covering the Titanic and the passengers on board the ill fated journey. All taken by Father Brown a Jesuit priest. Fortunately he got off before the journey set sail across the Atlantic.
From here to the Titanic Centre which was full to overflowing. Then into the city, walking by the river. As we walked we came across glass sculptures commemorating eight seasons of Game of Thrones in Northern Ireland. A massive money spinner for the area.
Once over the river we meandered through the city heading for the famous food market. A bustling place full of local produce, great food stores and pop up eateries. The smells were overwhelming. In a good way. So enticing.
But we stayed with our aim of trying the local oysters. This time from Gallahers. Not a patch on those in Cork. We had been spoilt. Never again will any oyster be able to match the giant juicy wonders of the South.
Dun Looghair, Dublin
What a-day - Reamone took us around his city, Memories, the University he attended, the Church where he got married- along with the dark history of the struggle for independence and the revolution, Irish against Irish - Brothers fighting Brother’s.
A personel meander, that was truly amazing. Such a privilege, so much to take in. A day isn’t enough, it doesn’t scratch the surface.
The queue to get back onto the ship was horrendous . Even though they had around five tenders in operation it was mayhem. We got aboard after an hours wait - Last boat was scheduled for 6pm. They were still picking people up at 7.30. Not their best day.
Last day on board. Watched the movie “Flash” but in two halves. Then read, walked, drank. Perhaps a little too many cocktails. But it was fun. And the last night on the NCL.
3/10/23 Southampton
Off the ship early and collect our bags.
As per usual, there is a scrum. We leave it as late as possible to depart enabling our bags to be easily seen and load up an a cart - A rather decrepit thing, yet it did have all its wheels, but an aversion to run true and straight.
Nevertheless after a few repositioning of cases we arrived at the Aurora terminal. Replacing one scrum for another. This time into a melee of people trying to depart, rushing to catch buses, see awaiting friends or get an Uba to rush them for their onward journey.
Not a great problem - we positioned ourselves out of the way near the conveyor ready to whisk our cases away into oblivion and settled down to wait, let the dust settle and the process to change mood.
It eventually calmed down and the area emptied, all but for a few stragglers with worried faces, wondering where their intended lift had got to.
Then the pace took off again as the arrival staff turned up for the next shift.
By 10.30 our cases were first on the conveyer. You know what they say, first on last off. As it materialised - they were the last to get placed in the Cabin. Or so it seemed.
Should have took the opportunity to go into the city, but one of the ground crew suggested we hang on and get onboard early. A pleasant idea. Save walking round in our winter cloths, rucksack on back with the unseasonal sun and heat baring down on us.
Instead we were put in the naughty queue whilst all the priority people were allowed into the processing hall.
It wasn’t until 1:30 pm that they freed everyone from the holding pen and allowed us to go through. Five hours after arriving.
Shouldn’t grumble, it’s not a problem for the fit and healthy young at heart people, especially as it was warm and dry outside. Would have been a different matter if it had been cold and wet.
Felt for the less able older people who could have done with a seat. Many had travelled by public transport, arriving early due to strikes and the knock on effect and possibility of cancellations. With this vulnerability it is not always easy to get to the location at an exact time . Companies are not always compassionate and flexible.
Aurora 4-5-6th October
At sea and the sun is out and with it the sun worshipers. The over nourished
oversied sprawl of blackened humanity is laid bare around the deck for all to see and manoeuvre around . It wont be long before they have to install traffic lights to control the ever increasing number of wheelchair’s - all moving at speeds akin to formula 1 cars, yet driven with the skill of professional stock car racers. My shins take a bashing, end up with more scars than l ever did from football. Then again l did wear shin guards. Need to invest in shin pads, and whilst about it, steel capped shoes wouldn’t go amiss to protect from the constant prodding of walking sticks.
Malaga 7 October
Arrive in Malga - Never Visited before and was impressed from the onset.
Busy Port, two other cruise ships moored alongside - Celebrity Infinity + Costa Fantastico.
Took the bus to the terminal entrance, then by foot headed the long slog up to the castle. Good job we started early whilst it had the early morning mist to block out the sun.
By the time we descended to the gardens at the foot of the hillit had become sweltering.
Heat exhaustion was sketched across the faces of those who were still attempting to climb in the midday heat. - on entering the gardens you immediately benefited from the cool air.
What a transformation, amazing, carefully positioned trees and shrubbery, plus the use of running water and ponds can mask the unrelenting heat.
Being a Saturday, it was mobbed with a mix of tourists and locals alike. The gardens were similar to those of the Alhambra in Grenada. Then again not surprising, both being Moorish in design .
After an interesting yet jostled couple of hours we popped into the Centre.
and walked through varies styles of architecture, ending up in a raucous Tapas bar, for nibbles and a couple of well deserved drinks to cool us down and revitalise the legs. But it was the entertainment provided by the wrinkled, yet sprightly owners and staff that made it so memorable. Although the cured ham, local cheese and garlic stuffed olives didn’t go amiss. The local beer must have been quite strong, my legs had a mind of their own as we tried our best to find our way back to the ship.
Palermo Sicily
Extremely hot as we came into our berth. Glorious blue skies, just a slight haze over the city.
Seems to be cradled in the palm of a hand of the magnificent mountains laid out in front of us.
As we exited the port it was noisy, dusty and dirty. Similar to most ports around the world. Frenetic activity. Cars and lorries speeding along the wide road vying for position, horns blaring constantly.
Quickly headed into the city, passed what seemed to be a prison. Large and imposing structure. Not sure if it’s a relict from the past or just an ugly building used to incarcerate the dross of Sicilian society. Many with Mafia connections if the image portrayed by the Italian detective series Montalbano is to go by.
Delve into the underbelly of the city, areas of deprivation full of life and piles of rubbish. Perhaps they have the same problem with strikes as we do in Glasgow. Walk through streets and up lanes with plaster falling off, greenery sprouts from every crack.
Within minutes you exit the underprivileged areas and enter tree-covered avenues with elegant people buying from chic expensive shops, protected by armed guards.
Men on scooters wearing Versace suites dash in between the traffic.
It has a real buzz. Traffic never seems to pause for a breather, not even at red pedestrian crossings. Need your wits about you. If that wasn’t enough of a danger, the payments are a mass of cracks and potholes. Tremors from earthquakes or just impatient lorries driving around obstructions.
A fascinating place, wall-to-wall monuments, the majority crumbling as you stand and view……..the churches temples, palaces and other derelict buildings are truly amazing, a walk-through history.
It’s just a pity we only had a day to wander around, there was just so much to see. We only scratched the surface. You need time to explore and delve into the back streets. Savour the sights and smells, absorb the living history. A truly magnificent place that bares all to those willing to walk the streets.
Roman aqueducts can be seen running down the mountainside
A city that shows that it’s lived in. All manner of life is out on display for public consumption
Aurora 8 Oct 2023
Back to normal, sun shining, yet the wind is up to force 7.
Both sun decks are filled to overflowing with the habitual sun worshipers. Not an inch of sun goes to waste. Reinforced loungers creak under the ever increasing burden, from the mahogany coloured individuals. Intent on getting their money’s worth in preparation for the long cold winters that lay ahead back home.
Have taken up cricket once again. Superb fun. At least it is until you get cracked in the unmentionables with a solid rather heavy cricket ball. Enough to make your eyes water. You soon become adept at side stepping such vicious returns. Your reactions are soon working overtime. Homed to peak performance.
Hopefully it helps the mind as well as the body keep ahead of this aging process.
Talking of which, we watched a movie the other night. Our future was played out before us. Called “Hallelujah” story of a geriatric ward in Yorkshire. Bleak to say the least.
9 Oct Aurora 2023
Another glorious day on Aurora, heading towards the Greek Islands.
After a light breakfast we head up to the top deck for a swift walk and our daily Tai Chi.
The older demographic on this cruise meant that the track wasn’t overladen with early risers. Yet the ones that were around tended to spread out in more ways than one, whilst progressing at what can only be described as a leisurely pace. As you get older your spacial awareness disappears. Or perhaps it’s a lack of hearing, as in my case.
Find a sheltered spot for our Tai Chi up at the bow. Think that’s the nautical term for the pointed end. Fortunately my jippy tummy and headaches have abated. Must have picked up a bug. People soon forget their hygiene, especially the washing of hands. My head had been banging away for the past few days, and my balance had become unstable. Especially when bending down. Need to sit down and drink more.
Athens -Port of Piraeus - 21°C
From all accounts it will be increasing to 27° (too hot).
Must say that every morning my throat feels like cracked bark - in the past it may be self inflicted from too many vodka martinis. But today Its the air-con in the cabin. Honest.
Decided to use the metro to get into the city. From all accounts the traffic on the roads is horrendous. Downside to using the metro is the abundance of pick pockets. Same the world over. Take the precaution of leaving the camera at home and burying my wallet into deep zipped pockets.
Walk the 30 minutes to the new underground station. Then within minutes whisked into the centre of Athens- popped into the hotel Grande Bretagne in the square. A plaque explained that it was the headquarters of Nazis durng II W war and Winston Churchill had an attempt to blow him up there in 1944.
Then we followed a walking route that took us around all the main historic sites including the Acropolis - Arthough we didn’t go into it - Too mary tourists. The whole centre was bombed out. Nevertheless, you could see the Roman artefacts where ever you looked.
Just dig those shoes. No wonder they have to lift their legs up so high when marching. They would otherwise fall over that great pom-pom ball on their toes.
Sat 14/10/23 Mykonos Greece
Mykonos- Greece - 22° - Tender-
Bad nights sleep, too much coffee late whilst playing cards.
That and the troubles surrounding Gaza+ Israel tend to play around in my mind.
If you keep pushing people into submission they will ultimately fight back. The Jewish people have been taking liberties with the Palestinians for so long. They have allowed terrorist to take hold. Now the rest of the Arab world could rise up against them. Then America and the rest of the Western world will be embroiled in conflict. Who knows how it will pan out.
Why can’t people live in harmony?
Back to the cruise, and the white buildings dotted around rocky outcrops are synonymous with Greek islands.
Four ships , seem rather over the top for such a small place - Virgin, ourselves and two smaller vessels. Perhaps - seabourne or a silverseas. Makes you wonder how such small communities can cope with the influx.
Perhaps as many as 10/12 thousand guests. All converging on a small fishing port.
Will have to wait and see.
That is if we can ever get off our ship via the tenders provided by the island.
presently we wait in line as the ship swings and rocks at anchor.
Eventually manage to get off and quickly escape the thronging mass by jumping on a bus heading into the Islands centre.
Getting off after a 30 minutes drive by a monastery located in a small village high up in the mountains.
- Nothing special, yet it was interesting and enabled us to walk and get some fresh air away from the maddening crowd.
Caught the same bus back into the town of Mykonos. If you discount the other passengers, crawling all over every inch of the place you could imagine what it must have looked like back in the 50s. A quiet white village framed by deep blue seas. Tranquility, quaint and beautiful.
But today the character is obliterated by the sheer volume of visitors. Yet great for the Island economy.
Nevertheless it is still fascinating, small narrow streets filled with upmarket shops , selling everything the wealthy could ask for, and more. Busy tavernas hugging the shoreline, serving fresh pastas and seafood as well as traditional Greek dishes - It has a youthful buzz about the place. Homed for the nouveau riche.
Sat 14/10 Heraklion Greece
Heraklion, Crete. 23°C- overcast. In fact the temperature increased dray as we walked from the dock gates. So much so, that we didn’t spend too long out.
The Harbour walk was interesting, once again ancient buildings, appeared around every corner, A castle, restored venetian boat houses, which were now landlocked and many other Roman or Greek remains.
Walked along the coast before diving up into the town.
The centre had started getting busy with locals and passengers from the ship.
Nipped into the supermarket on the way back to the ship for Coca-Cola and a bottle of white wine for Judith. The Vivino app rated it, so we will have to wait and see.
came accross a super local Knife shop where the actually manufactured the knives in house. Fascinating. The forging of the steel was truly magnificent. Just a pity l couldn’t add one to my collection. Ships often confiscated, and it’s not worth taking the chance.
Blades had been forged and folded, leaving each layer exposed. Wonderful craftsmanship
Monday 16/10/23 Messina
Sicily, Messina - 25°
Caught the train to the mauntain of TAORMINO) fantastic 1hour rail journey on a modern train. Hugging the mountainous cliffs virtually all the way. All for €10 return.
Then a hairy bus ride from the sea level, up a narrow twisting road to the top. Felt as if we were in the clouds. Even worse coming down.
Without warning, the ground seemed to shift from under me as if it were moving. I broke out in a sweat.
My breath turned rapid and shallow. It wasn’t Mount Etna coming back to life, It was vertigo
A terrifying, plunging sensation had overtaken my body; as if l were tipping, the ground was turning, sliding out from under me pulling me towards the edge.
Everyone says it’s the fear of heights. It isn’t.
It’s the brain receiving a scramble of messages. it can’t process all the sensory information. You become nauseous.
So it’s not the height but the void when you are at altitude.
Too much information. Boring!
Anyway, before this all took place we experienced freshly made Cannoli with pestchio - Looked out towards Mount Etna and sucked up the atmosphere of this amazing town with Its amphitheater, historical buildings, shops and restaurants perched in the cool mountain air of the hilltop town of TAORMINO.
Once back in the station we took advantage of the family run bar and relaxed drinking chilled wine and beer, whilst waiting for train.
As we approached Messina on the train we noticed a low cloud engulfing the mountain tops above the city. - Only to realise that the forest on the mountain was actually engulfed in fire - For the next two hours planes bombarded the area with plumes of Water - All seen fran our raised viewing platform at the rear of the ship. From our vantage point we could watch the planes return to the airport to replenish the water or chemicals. They then shot over our heads before heading out the mountain range.
But they succeeded. By the time we sailed out into the straights, the flames were extinguished, thank goodness.
Due to force ten winds the captain decides to miss out Gibraltar, so we head back through the Bay of Biscay back to Southampton before heading out to the Caribbean.
Only just returned home from the Christmas market cruise, so rather behind at posting the diary due to no internet on the ship. Feel the £18 per day is a bit rich. Especially as the service is so slow and intermittent. So l will only get to upload once home.
So will be loading the Caribbean section along with the Iona Mediterranean and Christmas market cruise shortly.
I hope your Christmas is filled with joy this year!
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