Day 12…Circumnavigating the Australian continent….Answering a loyal reader’s questions in an email…Remembrance Day observation aboard ship

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View of the deck where the navigation of the vessel is provided by the master and his crew.

“Sighting on the Ship in Australia”

Stone sculpture/artwork in the lobby near the Cascades dining area.

In yesterday’s post we discussed an email we’d received from a loyal reader, Elaine, who with her husband decided to travel the world influenced in part by reading our site over these past few years.

It meant so much that we may have played a small role in inspiring them to be willing to sell their home to become unencumbered with stuff to enhance the affordability and enjoyment of the experience for a two year period. 

However, long one may choose to travel, without homes, cars and belongings in their home country, many find traveling to be a life- changing and enriching experience.

Tender boats which are actually the ship’s lifeboats were taking passengers to Benoa, Bali for sightseeing. After spending four months in Bali, we see no point in getting off the ship today.

In her email, Elaine had a number of questions, a group of which we decided to require and deserved a little more time and space than we’d provided in yesterday’s post.

Elaine wrote:

“One more question for you.  Which are your favorite booking sites?  Vacations to Go?  For cruises…VRBO for bookings (have you had any bad experiences with bookings?)  Favorite Airlines (sometimes a necessary evil)?   Any favorite ways to save money…ie Airline Miles plans etc.”

For ease in reading our responses to each of Elaine’s questions, we’ll address each one separately as indicated below:

What are our favorite booking sites?
Long ago in 2012 when we built our site, we began using our favorite booking websites, some of which are listed as advertisers on our home page. We selected these companies to fulfill our travel needs after considerable research as to:  quality of service, pricing, response time, reliability of website, length of experience and user reviews. 

Each company/website provides its own unique service which continues to serve us well with few, if any, issues over these past almost five years since the onset of our bookings which we began long before we actually left the US. Please see our list below with details.

Some passengers had booked outdoor activities on this rainy day in Bali.

Cruises:  Vacations to Go, rep Brooklyn Earnhardt. Exemplary service, quick response, best pricing possible on every cruise. Plus, if cruise’s price is reduced prior to final payment, all we do is notify our rep and she’ll lower the price accordingly, but it’s our responsibility to continually check for price reductions which Tom does daily.  We’ve saved several thousand dollars on this feature. (Price increases do not have any bearing on our pricing once the initial deposit is paid at time of booking).

Hotels: Almost in every case, we use this link on our site to Hotels.com. With a rewards program that includes “one free night after spending 10 nights” this has worked well for us. Their pricing is highly competitive and we’ve been very happy with the results. For our upcoming hotel stay in Minnesota for six weeks, they gave us an excellent corporate rate discount (based on long stay).

Vacation/Holiday Home Rentals: Since our first vacation rental booking in 2012, we’ve been primarily using this link on our site to HomeAway.com. On a few occasions we’ve used other sites such as VRBO.com but have found the most listings on HomeAway. 

Their easy to use site seems to have better priced listings than many other such sites. Also, on HomeAway it’s possible to pay a deposit to hold the property, whereas on Airbnb, which often includes shared rentals, (we’re not interested in sharing a house), they require payment in full at time of booking for the entire rental period. 

Benoa, Bail as seen from the ship.

We aren’t willing to pay three months of rent in advance, often as much as 18 months out, to a stranger. Note: DO NOT PAY RENTS OR DEPOSITS FOR VACATION HOMES VIA A BANK TRANFER. THERE’S NO WAY TO RECOVER LOST FUNDS IF ANY ISSUE ARISES. USING A CREDIT CARD THROUGH A BOOKING SERVICE, SUCH AS STAYZ (IN SOUTH PACIFIC), HOMEAWAY OR OTHER BOOKING SITES OR, PAYPAL (USE CREDIT CARD PAYMENT OPTION, NOT BANK ACCOUNT WITHDRAWAL) RESULTS IN SOME FORM OF RECOURSE IN THE EVENT OF FRAUD. CREDIT CARD COMPANIES WILL ASSIST IN RECOVERING FROM FRAUDULENT TRANSACTIONS.

How do save money using these sites? Simple, negotiate property owners/manager, if possible. If you have special circumstances such as only two people staying in large property or are requesting a long term stay (anything over two weeks), don’t hesitate to ask for a discount. Best way to accomplish this? Suggest an alternate price for the entire period. Don’t ask the seller to suggest a price unless you’re willing to wonder if you could have booked it for even less.

Bad experience? Yes! Our first vacation home rental outside the US was a beach house in Belize. It didn’t have regular running water, no insect screens and was unlivable for us.

We left in a week, losing our first month’s rent. The experience was awful considering it was our first international rental, but we learned a lot. Luckily, we found another property (more expensive) but ultimately fabulous and enjoyed the remaining period of our stay. See this link to begin this story which continues over a period of several posts.

Local tender awaiting passenger’s boarding for tours.

Flights:  As little as we like the necessity of flying, it’s difficult to see the world by cruise ship, train, car or other modes of transportation.  We’ve seen many options for cruises that we could use for further transportation to and from various continents in an attempt to avoid flying, but the cruise fares are often out of reach financially over the long haul. Instead, we bite the bullet and fly only when necessary on an average of four to six flights per year. 

Do we use one particular airline? No, it’s not possible. We check this site for an airline’s safety rating, and then choose  those with the best ratings based on best times and prices suitable for our needs.  Yes, we do sign up to become rewards members, but based on our travels to date, we’ve yet to accumulate enough worthwhile points since we keep changing airlines. 

Close up of local tender boats taking passengers to the shore when the port of Benoa is too small to accommodate the ship.

As for booking airline tickets, we exclusively use this link on our site to Expedia.com. One can accumulate rewards points, but they aren’t significant, but after considerable time and research, we’ve been happy with the efficiency, ease of talking to a “human” if necessary, and pricing. The site is easy to use and understand for even the most inexperienced traveler. One can shop for days for a flight in an attempt to save a few dollars and may in fact be able to save a little in doing so. But, if one researches carefully, you may find, as we have, that there’s always a tradeoff of one sort or another for even the smallest of discounts.

Saving money in general?  We’re always searching for ways to reduce our costs. Whether it’s the cost of a rental car, a trip to a farmers market or a hotel stay, we never hesitate to kindly ask for an upgrade and/or a better price when the situation calls for it. Only you can use your best judgment. We choose diplomacy and kindness when asking and a high degree of gratefulness whether they’ve been able to comply or not. Coupons, discount codes, special promos are often available at the above websites and other which are readily found on a simple google search.

The contraptions are “davits” described as:  “Any of various crane-like devices used on a ship for supporting, raising and lowering boats and anchors on a ship.”

Today, with time and space running out once again, we’ve left out a vital aspect of our travels: rental cars. In tomorrow’s post, we’ll discuss how to book and save huge sums on rental cars throughout the world and a variety of nuances to consider when selecting a vehicle. 

This morning, aboard the ship at 6:00 am, a Remembrance Day Sunrise Service (same a Veterans Day in the US) was held poolside.  A few minutes ago at 11:00 am today on November 11, 2016, the entire ship observed a few moments of silence by ringing of the ship’s bell at the beginning and end. Every person, including all staff and ourselves, stood and bowed our heads in respect for the fallen soldiers of World War I and other wars.  

Please check back tomorrow on how we’ve saved on both costs and time in renting cars over these past four years. 

Photo from one year ago today, November 11, 2015:

The special clothing in this shop window is often purchased for Diwali celebrations which was celebrating one year ago on this date.  For more details, please click here.

Day 11…Circumnavigation the Australian continent…Quite a day in US politics…Interesting email from a loyal reader…Medical emergency one year ago!…

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A small rescue boat anchored to the side of the ship.

“Sightings on the Ship in Australia”

Not sure what this display is about… footballs of some sort?

With the election behind us, we can now return our focus to life aboard ship. That’s not to imply that our focus has diverted from having a great time. But it has been on the minds of most Americans and others worldwide for some time, and often the topic of conversation among our fellow passengers, both Americans, and Australians.

I’m looking forward to being able to read the posts and see photos of family, friends and readers on Facebook without the toxic vitriol espoused by those expressing their personal views of either candidate. 

At times over this past year, I’d considered giving up on FB, but its also been a great means of seeing family and friends photos and staying in touch across the miles of sea between us. 

Clothing for sale in one of the ship’s shops.

Hopefully, now and in the future, opinions will be focused on our own efforts to make the US and the world a better place with love, understanding and compassion in the forefront. Amid that, supporting our new President’s efforts will surely unite our country whether we agree with his plans and ideas at this time. Time will tell.

Speaking of our readers, yesterday we received this letter from a long time loyal reader Tom met long ago on another cruise. Of course, I asked her permission to post her letter to which she happily agreed. I’ve also included my response.

Please see below:

“Jessica, you and Tom have been our inspiration. 
 
We just sold our house and our things are about to be given away/stored for now. We have taken a severance package from our employer. 
 
Our plan is a 2 year adventure for now. I have been reading your blog since we briefly met Tom on Brilliance of the Seas TA (I have written before) a few years ago now. We begin in January. Our plan is similar to yours, avoiding flying, cruising to destinations and AirBnb etc., monthly stays in cities we like, along the cruise repositioning routes.  (Continued below).
Men’s clothing.
I have learned a lot from your site. I still have not decided which direction we are going yet. I couldn’t plan as this all happened rather suddenly (sold our house while cruising to Australia lol). Any advice about direction?  Follow the sun in warm weather.. (Australia, New Zealand first, then Singapore to Dubai, then Suez canal to Europe) or do
 
South America followed with a Transatlantic with summer in Europe?
 
I hope you enjoy your Transpacific on Explorer of the Seas in April. We have done it both ways this year. If you ever make it to Pt Vila Vanuatu you must tour with Atmosphere tours and ask for a guide named Alfred – he is passionate about his culture and a fabulous guide. Best guide, we have ever had.
 
In closing, I wish you and Tom all the best and continued happy and healthy travel. The memories of the life you are leading mean more than all the “stuff” people have.
 
I hope we run into each other on a future cruise. Would love to chat.
Elaine”
Logo wear.
We replied as follows in bold type:
“Elaine, how excited we both were to see your message. We’re so excited for both of you embarking on your own adventure.
 
It’s not easy answering your questions when so much is predicated by what appeals to you both to see over the next two years. Our desires may be entirely different than yours.
 
We both believe your best guide is to make a list of where you’d like to visit and then using the world map, map it out so you don’t waste time and money jumping all over the globe.  (Continued below).
Perfume and cologne shop.

We don’t like big cities but you may. We no longer care if the weather is ideal. We’re looking for the experience.  We don’t care to live in apartments.  You may find this works for you.

 
Since our focus is wildlife and nature, you may find historic buildings more interesting. If we never enter another old building, we’ll be fine. But, Africa is calling us for another visit in 15 months.  Antarctica in on the schedule for 14 months. 
 
You see, how it’s so hard to say where and when to go. Our tastes are all so diverse and unique. But, I will say we’ve loved NZ and AU. By the time we leave the South Pacific for a 9 week family visit, we’ll have spent almost two years in this part of the world.
 
Thank you so much for reading our site. You have no idea how much it means to us if we’ve inspired you even one iota. We’d love to hear what you decided to do and wish we could be more helpful.
 
May I copy and paste your email to our site. We won’t use your names, but what a great story to share!
Warmest regards,
Jess & Tom
Tourist trinkets.

Then, Elaine responded again:
“Sure, go ahead and post my email Jess and Tom. Thank you for your responses. They actually do help a lot. We want to do Antarctica too, and the Northwest passage. We must see the pyramids in Egypt.   wo years probably won’t be enough, but as long as finances hold and we don’t get tired of travelling (not likely for us) we probably keep going. 

One more question for you.  Which are your favorite booking sites?  Vacations to Go?  For cruises…VRBO for bookings (have you had any bad experiences with bookings?)  Favorite Airlines (sometimes a necessary evil)?   Any favorite ways to save money…ie Airline Miles plans etc.  Diamond status is lovely isn’t it.  We just hit it on our last cruise and I expect it’ll be great.
 
Quote “You have no idea how much it means to us if we’ve inspired you even one iota”  (Continued  below)
Bargain tables with handbags.
Our whole idea for doing this began with the posts by Tom made on Cruise Critic which led us to your website, talking briefly to him and reading your words each morning before I go to work. We always intended to travel, as we do already now, but not to just cut loose and go. That cutting loose is what is enabling us to finance this trip by investing our money. 
 
The next 7 weeks are going to be crazy! We love Australia too, but have never been to New Zealand. I’m not sure what our focus is yet. We’ve seen many historic buildings already.  I love art and sculpture. My husband loves history. Wasn’t Petra amazing, but I could do without that walk in the heat!  I think we just want to go everywhere and see and experience as much as we can, while we can, make memories for when health fails us and have no regrets. So exciting to see all the wonders of the world we’ve heard about all our lives.
 
I’ll email our choices once I figure them out! Wish I had more time to plan, but what a wonderful conundrum to have!
 
So, Thank you both once again. You are changing our lives.
 
 Elaine”
Scuba, beach and snorkeling products.
Our dear reader posed some excellent questions as shown in blue above from her most recent response. Due to space and time limitations today, we’ll answer the above questions in blue in tomorrow’s post. Please check back.
Have a beautiful day!

Photo from one year ago today, November 10, 2015:
One year ago, we visited the dentist in Fiji when Tom developed an abscessed tooth. The bill for the dentist visit was surprising at FJD 6, USD $2.76, AU 3.60. The two antibiotic prescriptions were “free’ when we walked across the parking lot in the local hospital’s pharmacy. For the full story and photos, please click here.

Day 10…Circumnavigating the Australian continent…Sea day…Conversations surrounding US politics…

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The hallway of the Shops of Centrum.

“Sightings on the Ship in Australia”

More art from the art center aboard ship.

How is it possible that we’re having such fun day after day, night after night? It never seems to end. Nor do we have periods of time where we’re wondering what we should be doing to fill our time.

Each day’s pleasant routine allows us to be face to face with new people along with those we’ve already met. The interactions are filled with interesting conversations. Over the past few days, conversation has mostly centered around politics, escalating today on election day. 

The Shops of Centrum have an array of pricey shops.

Aussies, Kiwis, Brits and others are very interested in the results of this US election when the outcome will reverberate throughout the world in many ways.

As we mentioned in the past, we’ve chosen to avoid political views on this site. Although both of us are highly opinionated on the topic of politics we’ve decided that those views aren’t relevant to this site. 

Now that I wear the FitBit, no longer do I have any interest in watches.

Although we’re closely following the election results as they roll in, we won’t be discussing it here. We’ve all been bombarded with this campaign long enough. 

Our intent is to focus primarily on the stories and photos of our daily lives and experiences of two happily married retirees traveling the world, homeless, unencumbered and feeling free to make our decisions as to what appeals to us the most.

Jewelry stores are most popular shopping venues on ships.

This is as opposed to that which others may expect from world travelers such as a continuous travel log of sightseeing, adventure sports and dining. For us, it’s all about the people, the culture, the common features of where we live at any given time and the exquisite beauty of nature and our surroundings.

Living on board a ship for 33-nights leaves us reeling over the simplicity of this temporary life; no meals to cook, no dishes to wash, no bed to make, no cleaning and for now, no time to watch any of our favorite shows at night. 

For US $19.99, AU $26.11, these gift sets are hot sellers.

Our social life is beyond our hopes or expectations for this cruise or any cruise for that matter. No doubt, a part of it revolves around the fact that both of us are friendly and outgoing welcoming every opportunity to chatter with whomever comes our way.

Today, a sea day, once we’re done posting, we’ll head to the movie theatre, one hour before the movie begins in order to ensure two seats together. The tiny theatre only holds 50. We bring our laptops while we continue to work and research until shortly before the movie begins.

After not owning a handbag since 2013, I can easily pass by these displays without giving it a thought. In Kenya, I threw out my handbag when the risk of it being stolen was too high. I have learned to function without a purse, especially with Tom’s roomy pockets.

Yesterday’s movie, “Tarzan, the Legend,” was a favorite of mine. Tom only nodded off for a few minutes while I stayed awake and alert during the entire screening. Today’s movie, the 2016 remake of “Ben-Hur” should appeal to both of us.

Duty free liquor store. Any alcohol purchased during the cruise may not be brought to a cabin.  It is stored until the last night of the cruise.

Tonight, we’ll hang out with our new US friends at the Diamond Club and again for dinner. Gee… This is great! We’re loving every minute!

Be well. Be happy!


Photo from one year ago today, November 9, 2015:

Badal visited us almost every day in Fiji checking out what may be on the evening’s menu. We never failed to give him a plate of something delicious. After his meal he’d sit cross legged on the veranda looking at me, hoping for second helpings. For more photos, please click here.

Day 9 circumnavigating the Australian continent…Too poop to pop!

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The downtown area of Darwin with office buildings, restaurants and shopping.

“Sightings on the Ship in Australia”

Art sales and auctions attract a number of passengers during cruises. Happily, Tom always says, “We don’t have any walls!”

Today our ship is docked in the port of Darwin, Australia.  On April 24, 2016 while on another cruise, we visited Darwin, taking a bus into town to explore for a few hours. Mostly, it was about shopping, with the numerous shops lining the streets.

As a result, we stayed on the ship today along with about 25% of the other passengers who may have been to Darwin in the past and saw no reason to venture out on such a hot and humid day.  (It’s almost summer here in Darwin and the hot season begins early).

Here’s link #1 our visit to Darwin
Here’s link #2 our visit to Darwin

The port arrival building in Darwin.

After a poor night’s sleep, awakening at 3:00 am and falling back to sleep for only about 30 minutes, today I’m pooped, as sluggish as I can be. Having fun late into the evenings is taking its toll on me after many months of relative inactivity while my injury healed and staff had done all the cooking and cleaning.

Listen to me…complaining about having too much fun! Each morning when we’re tired from staying up late, I think, “Maybe tonight we’ll lay low, go to bed early, avoid the two glasses of wine.” 

Invariably, after we’d showered and dressed for the evening, we wander off to the Diamond Club Lounge at 5:00 pm. In a matter of minutes, we find ourselves engaged in interesting conversations with little motivation to end the evening early.

The ship is being fueled while in the port of Darwin.

We met two fabulous couples from the US, Cheryl and Stan from Texas and Lois and Tom from New Jersey, all within our age range, all lively and energetic travelers. 

These past several evenings, we’ve sat with them in the happy hour Diamond Lounge and last night we joined them and another couple for dinner in the Cascade dining room after the happy hour. What a delightful evening!

When they all decided to “call it a night” after dinner, Tom and I weren’t done and the evening continued for us for a few more hours.  We don’t seem to have trouble extending our evening well into the night; a little dancing, lots of laughing and leisurely strolls on the deck.

Some adventurous passengers decided to walk to downtown in the heat, returning to the ship exhausted and weary.

When I think back to all the nights over these past many months that I was pooped by 9 pm, struggling to stay awake, it feels great to be social and playful well into the evening. I’d begun to wonder if I had it in me or this late night lack of energy was a by-product of aging.  Apparently not.

Now I’ve mastered the ability to stay up later and enjoy a few glasses of wine. Now I need to master the ability to acquire a good night’s sleep after all of our fun to prepare me a similar repeat the following night.

Perhaps, today, after the movie at 1 pm, a nap will be in order. Never able to nap in the past, doesn’t mean I can’t learn to do it now.  You can “teach an old dog new tricks!”

Most of Australia’s 23 million citizens live close to the ocean since the barren interior, the Outback, is relatively uninhabitable.

Don’t forget to vote! We submitted our absentee ballots weeks ago and will carefully follow along tomorrow via the web.  

Photo from one year ago today, November 8, 2015:

One year ago, a Paul Gauguin cruise ship sailed by our view in Fiji.  For more photos, please click here.

Day 8…An amazing presentation aboard the ship!…How easily we’re entertained!

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This cantaloupe face was astounding!

“Sightings on the Ship in Australia”

A bottle of Pepsi constitutes an artsy display.

We saw long-term cruises often known as “Grand Voyages” or “World Cruises” and wondered if we would ever want to embark on such a long sail.

After all the cruises we have experienced in four years, this one in #15, the second stage from back to back will be #16. Averaging at about four cruises per year, one every three months, neither of us have a burning desire to cruise any longer than these 33-nights.

The head fruit carver, Manuelo, was in charge of the preparation of his famous fruit sculptures.

Oh, we love every moment, but we both feel that something longer, like everything else in life, can become mundane if over-done. A 90- or 120-night cruise could be too long.

During these four years we’ve encountered only a few passengers who’ve embarked on longer than 30-night cruises. While they explained that they greatly enjoyed the experience, none mentioned the desire to repeat the experience.

With the crowd at the table, it was hard to get a good position to take pictures.

For us, the novelty could be obliterated if we cruised over a month on a regular basis. In addition, the cost may be prohibitive if more than one or twice in three or four years. 

Although cruising makes lots of sense economically when it includes transportation, housing, food and entertainment, there are additional expenses that can make the cost per day way over the top.

While the cruise makes great economic sense when it includes transportation, accommodation, food and entertainment, there are additional expenses that can make the cost per day much higher.

Guided tours, stores, spa services, cocktails and other extras can take a final bill well in the thousands for some. With our cabin credits of US $350, AU 456 for each of the two legs of this 33 night cruise, hopefully, we won’t go over this sum and be able to end the cruises without any balances owing.

A huge cost factor as mentioned a few days ago, is the savings for our new Diamond Club membership in the Crown & the Anchor loyalty program for cocktails available to us for over four hours each evening, beginning at 4:30 pm and ending at 8:00 pm. 

A bird made from a pineapple.

At the end of each evening, Tom may order one additional cocktail after the 8:00 pm window as above. With the remaining cabin credit, most likely the additional cocktails averaging at US $9.50, AU 12.37 (with tip) will hardly use the first of the two balances ending on November 16th when we arrive in Perth and the second leg begins. 

At that point the new US $350, AU 456 cabin credit begins all over again. Any remaining amounts from the first leg are obliterated if unused. No doubt, we’ll make certain we use every last penny.

The carving chef shocked all of us with this exquisite watermelon carving of a donkey head.

Yesterday, for the first time on a cruise, I purchased an item of clothing, a cute pullover hoodie sweater. I wore it last night and for the first time since this cruise began I was comfortable and not freezing.  I’m one of those seniors who is cold all the time in air conditioning, especially in the movie theatre.

As soon as we wrap up here, we’re heading off to another movie.  Yesterday’s “Bad Moms” was cute as we both chucked through it all, along with the many Aussies, Brits and Kiwis who were in the theatre along with us, easily laughing through scene after scene. 

A honeydew melon rabbit.  Too cute!

We love these people with their easy senses of humor. Sorry for the stereotyping, but overall these are one friendly and cheerful group of people. They, along with many wonderful Americans, we’ve met (there are 140 of us on board this ship) have made this another memorable cruise, just the right length of time.

The display of Manuelo’s works. Amazing skill!

May all of YOU have a beautiful day! 

Photo from one year ago today, November 6, 2015:

A rusty sailboat remained on the shore in Savusavu, Fiji, where we lived one year ago. For more photos, please click here.

Day 7…Circumnavigating the Australian continent aboard RC Radiance of the Seas…Is boredom an issue?

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Yorkeys Knob under cloudy conditions at Cairns.  Since we’d spent three months at Trinity Beach (to the right in this photo) from June 11 to September 7, 2015 and had seen so much when there, we decided to stay on the ship.

“Sighting on the Ship in Australia”

I’m not sure what it is.

With 26 nights left on this long cruise, we are as happy as clams, loving every minute. Of course, some passengers complain about the food, their cabins, the ship’s facilities, the activities and that this ship is not as classy as other ships.

Royal Caribbean Radiance of the Seas is a mid-range ship, not high-end, but in no way inferior. The decor is nice having been recently renovated; each area is impeccably clean and well kept; the service is excellent and friendly. We don’t have a complaint in the world.

The gym on the ship.

Our toilet ran into the bathroom floor. We reported it and was repaired promptly. The bathroom sink stopped running. We pointed it out and it was corrected quickly. Not one of these scenarios bothered us. They were repaired while we were outside the cabin, back to find the finished work.

Our expectations, which we have learned to restrain in our journeys, can be very different from the average passenger. Perhaps that is their only vacation. In addition, many passengers do not stay on the ship for the complete 33 nights. Only 600 were mentioned to be on the back-to-back as we are, circumventing the continent.

Another comment we’ve heard from some passengers is they become bored on sea days with nothing to do. There are dozens of activities on board the vessel available at any time of day and night.

The fitness center has everything I prefer to use.

Each day is filled and fulfilling. Over these past days, we’ve evolved into an entirely pleasurable routine, leaving us with little time to spare. Our mornings begin in the dining room for breakfast followed by finding two chairs at Café Latte tudes on the 5th floor overlooking the Centrum.

As we prepare the day’s post, we can hear and see the classes and activities taking place below in the Centrum. During this time, I can go to the fitness center to work out while Tom saves my chair. Once we have finished and uploaded the post of the day, it is usually around midday.

By 12:15 we find our favorite seats in the theatre to watch the movie of the day beginning at 1:00 pm. It’s necessary to get a seat early. We bring our phones and play games while we wait for the movie to begin. 

Tender boat used to transport passenger from the ship to Yorkey’s Knob Marina which we’d visited over a year ago. Many were off to Cairns from there which we’d also thoroughly scoured when living at Trinity Beach.

Surprisingly, we hadn’t seen any of the movies being shown and although some are goofy, we’re still entertained. Tom’s only lost interest in one movie so far, Ghost Busters as mentioned in another post. Yesterday’s movie was Money Monster well worth watching.

After the movie, we head back to our cabin. By then, it’s already 3:00 pm. We lounge, sitting on the bed checking our email, downloading photos, saying hello to family and friends. A few days ago, during this period, we booked the flight to Tasmania for December 3rd and a rental car for the three months we’ll spend on the island.

By 4 pm, we dress for the evening. With my limited wardrobe its always challenging deciding what to wear. Invariably, I’ll pull something together and we’ll leave the cabin feeling we’re as ready as we can be for a fun evening aboard ship.

The ship’s library is often filled with passengers searching for reading material.

Usually before 5 pm we’re situated in the Diamond Club lounge on the 13th deck for free cocktails, appetizers and fabulous chatter with other members.  Before we know it, it’s 7:00 pm and time to wander into the Cascades dining room to get a spot at a “sharing” table for eight or ten. 

The next few hours fly by with the lively and animated table conversation. At times, we may sit next to less lively types, but overall, we find our table mates entertaining and interesting. Many are interested in our lives of world travel often asking us question after question while we pump them for their stories as well. 

By 9:00 pm or so, we head to the Schooner Bar for the piano bar entertainment beginning at 9:30. Within an hour or so, we head to the Centrum where there’s a live band and dancing. We dance, we laugh, we chatter! 

Most likely, we won’t be booking any cruises on this ship since those we may be interested in booking aren’t posted yet. When we book aboard a ship extra perks are provided and our cruise rep at Vacations to Go, Brooklyn, will still get credit for the booking.

Between 11:00 pm and midnight we usually head up to our cabin, hoping for a good night’s sleep. Neither of us has slept more than six hours since boarding the ship almost a week ago.

This is surely due to the fact that we can’t wait to get up to begin yet another pleasurable day.

Thus, we have no time or inclination for boredom. Cruising is especially appealing when we don’t focus on the small annoyances or inconveniences. We couldn’t be more thrilled with our cruise.

Be well.


Photo from one year ago today, November 6, 2015:

One year ago today Tom was standing outside Kumar’s Hair Salon which generally attracts more men than women. We awaited Tom’s turn while sitting on the bench to the right. For more details, please click here.

Medical emergency aboard the ship…Today, right back where we were in 2015…

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We stood on our cabin’s veranda awaiting the arrival of this medevac helicopter to transport a heart attack patient from the ship to an appropriate hospital.

“Sighting on the Ship in Australia”

Can of tomato soup. Hmm, what’s the significance here?

Yesterday afternoon, while at sea, shortly after I’d watched another silly movie, the remake of Ghost Busters, I headed back to our cabin.  Tom was relaxing after he’d walked out of the movie only minutes after it had started. 

I knew this wasn’t his kind of movie, but I stayed in the theatre to watch it on my own when my taste in movies is slightly more tolerant than Tom’s. It was a ridiculous plot, but I always get a kick out of the special effects.

No more than a few moments after I opened my laptop to check email, I mentioned to Tom that the ship wasn’t moving. Checking to see what was going on, in no time at all we discovered there was a medical emergency onboard that required a passenger be airlifted by helicopter to hospital.

As the helicopter approached the ship to land on the ship’s helipad. 

A few hours earlier, we’d heard announcements from the bridge (in code) that something was amiss in the fitness center. As it turned out, from what we heard later, a man had a heart attack while working out.  He had to be revived. Frightening.

On a previous cruise on RC Legend of the Seas, June 10, 2015, on its way to Sydney, a similar situation had transpired requiring the patient be lifted in the basket when high seas prevented the helicopter from landing on the heli-pad on the ship’s bow. 

This is the third medical evacuation we’ve witnessed while cruising, twice by helicopter, once by the ship rerouting to Burmuda.  Please see photo below for the first helicopter evac. Here’s the link to our story.

Photo we’d posted on June 10, 2015 while we were cruising on Royal Caribbean Legend of the Seas when a passenger also had to be evacuated, but in the basket when rough seas prevented the helicopter from landing on the ship’s helipad. The patient was wrapped in an exterior covering the basket with paramedic holding on to the passenger.  Scary.

With calm seas yesterday, the helicopter was able to land safely on the heli-pad which we weren’t able to see from our veranda, although we could see the touchdown from our TV that broadcasts a steady cam from the bow of the ship, as shown in this photo below.

It was heart wrenching to consider the worry and distress for the passenger and his spouse or travel companion with the necessity of being airlifted off the cruise. From what we’d heard, he’d been revived, but it was several hours later when the helicopter whisked him away to a hospital.

Based on the location of our cabin, we weren’t able to get close enough to the bow of the ship to see the helicopter land. Instead, we took this fuzzy photo of the TV display.

This further validates the value of travel insurance (which we have) when the cost for such evacuations can be outrageously expensive.  When passengers pass away on a cruise ship, the body is not evacuated instead being stored in an appropriate facility that most ships have available. 

In yesterday’s case, we can only pray for the passenger’s survival and return to health after being treated at whatever location he’d been transported. Of course, we’ll never hear and the scuttlebutt aboard the ship is unreliable.

Fortunately, the seas were calm and the helicopter was able to land. The ship had stopped during the rescue mission until the patient was safely in transit to the hospital.

We both researched online on a mission to discover how many cruise ship passengers are actually transported off ships for medical emergencies. We weren’t able to find any information or stats in this regard.  Perhaps cruise lines are particularly lax in providing such stats to avoid scaring travelers away from cruising.

As we age, this becomes more of a concern.  Not only is there the anxiety associated with a life threatening illness or injury a passenger may incur during a cruise, but loss of time in getting treated also adds the stress. 

Yesterday’s passenger wasn’t taking off on the helicopter until over five and a half hours later. We can only hope the doctor on the ship has sufficient knowledge and skill to keep the patient stable during this extended period.

The Medevac team preparing to land with medical personnel ready to get into action.

This is a reminder for all of us to have adequate travel insurance cover and to strive for the best possible health when choosing to travel. A high risk and/or elderly patient should seek medical advice prior to embarking on a cruise to ensure cruising is a suitable form of travel based on current health conditions.

Then again, many medical emergencies and accidents occur to passengers of all ages while on cruise ships, while on tours and when traveling to and from various points of interest. ‘This should be of the utmost consideration for possible travelers.

Today, we’re staying on the ship while it’s docked in Yorkeys Knob in Queensland, Australia. We lived in Trinity Beach adjoining this location for three months beginning on June 11, 2015. During that stay, we toured all the important sights, including many located in and around Cairns.

We’ll be back tomorrow with more new photos and stories as we continue on to Day 7 of this highly enjoyable 33-night cruise. 

Be well.

Photo from one year ago today, November 5, 2015:

In the one year ago post, we re-posted a few memorable photos. We took this photo of Mount Kilimanjaro from the window of our tiny plane on our way to the Maasai Mara for a photo safari, one of many great experiences in our then three years of world travel. Please click here for more details.

A playful “night on the town” aboard the ship…Cumberland Islands…

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This is one of the most important reasons why we prefer a balcony cabin. View of one of the 70 islands in the Cumberland group.

“Sightings on the Ship in Australia”

Interesting sculpture on display on the stairs.

As a couple its easy to slip into a life of routine and predictability.  We laugh at our humorous quips and jokes. We tolerate the whining/whinging and negative chatter. We empathize when things aren’t quite right. We celebrate  our efforts, successes and accomplishments.

Stepping out of this routine isn’t always easy. The true essence of feeling “in love” has the potential to envelope us in an entirely unique sense of joy as opposed to the solid sense of simply loving one another. 

Many times, this requires a change of scenery or circumstances, such as a holiday or vacation, dining at a romantic restaurant, walking along a beach or  picnicking in the park.

It wasn’t easy taking photos on the misty, cloudy morning, especially when the camera fogged up going from the air conditioned cabin to the humidity outdoors.

This is not to say that the consistent feelings of loving our partners are less important. Over the long haul, it holds more weight, purpose and value in ensuring a meaningful and lasting relationship.

This magical feeling of being “in love” while immensely attracted to one another is often lost in the stresses of everyday life. While on this year’s long journey to see the world, we can easily become immersed in that “I love you” state of familiarity and comfort, one that without a doubt, we’re blessed to possess.

More Cumberland islands.

Then, when that wave of feeling “in love” washes over us it can be euphoric, putting a smile on our faces and a twinkle in our eyes that is hard to erase. It’s an impossible feeling to constantly maintain, although many new or young lovers somehow believe it can be carried well into the future. More often we hear that those types of relationships ultimately fail in a plethora of unfulfilled expectations.

Last night, we both experienced an “in love” evening, certainly nothing new for us but memorable nonetheless. In part, in may have been us finally loosening up a little with a few cocktails, the “oldies” piano music played by a talented performer in the Schooner Bar and our close proximity to each other as we blissfully swayed to the music. 

Need I say, we had an extraordinary evening, never returning to our cabin until almost midnight, not falling asleep until 1:00 am and awakening way too early this morning at 5:00 am, anxious to get up and begin another glorious day at sea 

The captain explained that some of the islands are inhabited, while a few have resorts and facilities for tourists.

Tom says my eyes look sleepy today and I agree. Maybe a 15 minute nap should be on the agenda this afternoon after we watched the movie, “Ghostbusters” in the tiny theatre.  (Our taste in movies has changed for this cruise when yesterday we watched the silly movie, “Boss.”  Tom dozed while I chuckled my way through it).

This morning at 6:25 am, the captain announced we were entering the Cumberland Islands. Having showered and dressed for the day, we took a few photos we’ve posted today. 

Photos of islands taken from a ship at sea aren’t usually within my skill range, so I apologize if they aren’t very clear and defined. I do better on land.  Here’s some information about the Cumberland Islands:

From this website:
“There are about 70 islands in the Cumberland group, sometimes referred to as the southern Whitsundays. Almost all the islands are designated national parks. Apart from Keswick Island – home to the sophisticated and secluded Keswick Island Guest House – there’s no formal accommodation in the Cumberlands.
Brampton Island is well-known for its nature walks, and was until recently the home of a posh resort. Carlisle Island is connected to Brampton by a narrow sandbar, and during low tide, it may be possible to walk between the two. Scawfell Island is the largest in the group; on its northern side, Refuge Bay has a safe anchorage and a camping ground.
Campsite availability, bookings and permits for the Cumberland Islands and the nearby Sir James Smith Island group can be found online at www.nprsr.qld.gov.au or at the Mackay visitor center.
Facilities on all islands are limited and access can be difficult unless you have your own boat or can afford to charter one (or a seaplane); ask for more info at the Mackay visitor center.”
A few tour companies provide partial day tours to the islands.
Last night, at dinner, at a shared table, I had the opportunity to engage in conversation with a most delightful 86 year old man also named Tom. His wife had recently passed away and he is now cruising with his new “girlfriend,” as he described the kindly woman sitting at his other side. 
He and I chatted through dinner and it couldn’t have been more enjoyable. My Tom was thoroughly entertained chatting with the couple to his right.
Again, one more memorable evening spent in the dining room and, as explained above, the evening thereafter.  Is it evident why we love cruising?
Tonight, we’re playing it by ear. At this point, all we know for sure is we’ll be in the dining room sharing another large table for 8 to 10 passengers for more wonderful conversation and reasonably good food. 
No whinging here!
Photo from one year ago today, November 4, 2015:
One year ago today, we posted photos of the gorgeous upcoming vacation home rental in Costa Rica beginning in nine months on August 1, 2017. For more photos, please click here.

Day 4…Circumnavigation of the Australian continent aboard RC Radiance of the Seas…Wine drinking…

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The sun is setting over the industrial area at the port of Brisbane.

“Sighting on the Cruise in Australia”

Interesting metal “chair” art.

It’s already Day 4 on this Australian cruise. It’s a sea day today and tomorrow resulting in a flurry of activity in all areas of the ship as passengers mull around partaking in every possible activity and venue.

At the moment we’re situated in the Latte Tudes coffee shop overlooking the Centrum, a central area with lots of seating where passengers flock to listen to presentations, dance, drink, and commiserate.

We’d love to be able to sit in that area while preparing the post but the seating isn’t adequate for working on my laptop. In this café, there are tables and chairs along the railing overlooking the Centrum. Today, unlike other days, we were fortunate to find two available seats at a small table.

From the ship as we pulled away from Brisbane.

While I worked on today’s post Tom waited in line for the required onboard immigration processing. On many cruises it’s required to part with our passports for a few days, picking them up after they’ve been processed for upcoming ports of call.

Today’s particular immigration process is for Indonesia (here we go again, more Indonesian immigration) since we’ll be arriving in Benoa, Bali in a few days. Based on the four months we’ve already spent in Bali, we doubt we’ll get off the ship in this congested port and town. Most passengers do so for shopping based on Bali’s bargain pricing on many types of merchandise (mostly brand name knockoffs).

Last night we had yet another fine happy hour in the Diamond Club lounge and also during dinner in the dining room. For the first time in many years, I ordered a mixed cocktail, vodka, and Sprite Zero on the rocks. I rarely consume any types of soda so this was a stretch for me.

Freighter and tug boat in the bay.

Again after two drinks stretched over several hours, I was feeling it. Although I’ll admit having a cocktail was rather enjoyable especially while we were sitting with others doing the same. 

Oh, don’t get me wrong, I’ve had plenty of good times not drinking alcohol.   don’t need it to have a great experience. But, it’s fun to “step outside the box” and partake of the festivities after all these years of almost completely avoiding alcoholic beverages.

I’ve avoided drinking alcohol for health reasons although my way of eating allows it in moderation. I suppose two drinks a day during cruises only isn’t imbibing in excess and shouldn’t have a deleterious effect on my overall health in the long run.

We’re having no trouble getting in the 10,000 steps a day on the FitBit when we often walk down these long hallways.

After last night’s foray into drinking a mixed cocktail, I intend to stick to with wine. It affected me less than the cocktail and I can nurse a single glass for a few hours. 

White wines have slightly fewer carbohydrates and sugar than dry red wines although I’d always preferred reds in my old life. Twenty-plus years ago I loved having a tasty glass of red wine prior to and during dinner.

Here’s information on the carbohydrate content of red vs. white wine from this site:

“Dry wines contain minimal sugars. Choosing red or white doesn’t matter as much as opting for dry over sweet. Dry wines generally have less than 1 gram (g) of carbohydrates (sugars) per ounce while the carb content of sweet wines can be upwards of 1.5 to 2g per ounce. These sugars can add up quickly: Technically one serving of wine is five ounces, but six to nine ounces is generally more realistic, especially when you’re pouring a glass at home to unwind. However, it is impossible (and unnecessary) to avoid sugar completely, so just adjust your wine intake to fit your personal sugar guidelines.

Dry Reds
Pinot noir: 0.68g carbs per ounce
Cabernet franc: 0.71g
Merlot: 0.74g
Cabernet sauvignon: 0.75g
Shiraz/syrah: 0.76g
Zinfandel: 0.84g
Dry Whites
Pinot blanc: 0.57g carbs per ounce
Sauvignon blanc: 0.6g
Pinot grigio: 0.6g”

Shared puzzle making where anyone can pick up where others left off.

With the intent of keeping my daily carbohydrate count under 20 grams and the efforts I’ve made on this cruise to go a bit lower based on eating twice a day, as opposed to my usual once, I have sufficient room to factor in two glasses of wine each evening. 

The differences in carbs from white to red is relatively insignificant. I think I’ll give a glass of Cabernet or Pinot Noir a try sometimes in the next few days, maybe this evening if the mood strikes me. 

A few of our readers have thoughtfully inquired as to how my spinal injury is doing. It’s not 100% improved but at this date, five months later I’m feeling much better. Certain activities (or inactivity) seem to exacerbate the issue, mainly when sitting too long.

This morning’s breakfast table in the Cascades dining room.

This morning I worked out for the best session I’ve had since resuming nine days ago. Usually, I  find myself returning to a decent level of fitness after about three weeks of working out regularly. 

Today I began the HIIT (high-intensity interval training). I’m not certain I’ll ever be able to return to my highest performance but I’m carefully working on it with the intent of continuing after we arrive in Tasmania.

Tom is doing great after a smidgen of “overly grumpy” during the first day on the cruise as he became familiar with everything. The smallest inconsistencies and nuances may contribute to his angst-ridden state but now, he’s his otherwise usual chipper self and we’re having the time of our lives.

Tom, during this morning’s breakfast.

We’ll be back with more each and every day. If you don’t see a post in the usual time frame please keep in mind we’ll be posting a few or several hours later. A late posting will be due to our participation in activities, conversations, seminars, and tours.

Thanks to all of our readers for following along with us and a special thanks to all of you who have written. We always delight in hearing from YOU!

_

                                           Photo from one year ago today, November 3, 2015:

A blowhole spouting in Fiji. For more photos please click here.

Arrived in Brisbane…Benefits of RC’s Crown and Anchor Society’s Diamond Club membership…

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Notice the man on the left wearing a kilt for formal night. We’ve done our best with the clothes we have on hand.

“Sighting on the Cruise in Australia”

We have not really understood the meaning of this tree trunk in this entrance of the salon. That’s why I took a photo.

A few hours ago, we arrived in Brisbane Harbour, Australia. We chose not to leave the ship. Unless there’s something particularly appealing to us, we don’t care to get off at typical shopping ports.

The one hour shuttle ride each way held little appeal nor did the drop off point at the largest shopping area in Brisbane. The only means of transportation available was the round trip shuttle for US$50 AU 65 per couple.

Schooner Bar at nighttime.

We weren’t interested in spending $50 to go shopping. We decided to wait until we arrive in other ports to explore with a little more freedom to pick and choose what we like.

As our readers know from past experiences, we seldom get off the ship unless there is something profoundly available that appeals to our interests. A lot of people say, Get off the ship anyway. At least you can say that you have been to Brisbane.”

Decorative display.

We’re not traveling for bragging rights. We travel to discover the people, culture, sights and scenes we love the most. The rest of the time, we are really having fun, me, writing to YOU now, Tom engaged in his usual browsing and searching.

At 1:00 pm, we’re going to see a “guy movie, “The Nice Guys” when so often we watch movies that appeal to my tastes. Neither one of us cares about cartoon characters or cartoons, fantasy, zombies or vampires. Tom doesn’t like science fiction or futurist films, but he often watches them with me. It’s my turn to coalesce when I don’t like movies about the 50’s, 60’s or 70’s. 

We get a kick out of looking at the world globe considering how much we’ve seen so far and what’s yet to come in the future..

Today, we’d mentioned sharing information on the Diamond Club priority membership which we recently attained from our last cruise from accumulating 80 points as Crown & Anchor members (1 point per day on RC). 

We’ve already begun to enjoy our new status, which has not only saved us a considerable sum on our final bill, but greatly contributed to another opportunity to interact with other passengers in a different venue.

For us, the biggest perk is access to the Diamond Lounge from 4:30 to 8:00 pm for complimentary cocktails, any amount, any type. Since we usually do “happy hour” this time frame works perfectly for us. We have an opportunity to mingle with other Diamond Club members who have attained sufficient points to be provided this excellent perk.

Lounge area of The Colony Club, a place for dance enthusiasts.

With this benefit, we avoid spending on drinks of any type. Plus, if we leave the Diamond Lounge before and up until 8:00 pm, we’re entitled to three drinks each from any bar on the ship, even ordering three at once to bring into the dining room. The free drinks are not served in the dining areas, but passengers may carry them into the dining areas.

Complimentary specialty coffees are available 24 hours a day at the Diamond Lounge, available to Diamond Club and above members. The coffee drinks are made by a machine using milk, not cream, and are sugar sweetened making them out of the question for me. I do fine drinking our iced tea throughout the day.

Self-leveling (for rough seas) pool table in The Colony Club.

Other “spending” perks include the following, found at this site:

Diamond

  • Buy any wine, beer or soda by the glass and get a second free: $6.95 (beer)
  • Purchase any glass of wine, beer or soda and receive a 20% discount: $1.38
  • Buy one, get one free Johnny Rockets milkshake: $4.50
  • One complimentary non-alcoholic specialty coffee drink with the purchase of dinner in any specialty restaurant: $8 (coffees from Chops Grille)
  • Buy a Bingo Package and get 6 free Jackpot Card: $15
  • Three free Spin to Win at the Casino: $1 (We assume one wins a keychain with three spins, we’ll give a $1 value).
  • 25% off Casino tournament entrance fee (excluding Poker tournaments): $6.25 ($25 slot tournament)
  • 1 free day of internet usage or $30 off any Internet purchase: $30
  • Spend $25 or more on Royal Caribbean logo products and receive 15% off: $3.75
  • Free any size photo of your choice from your existing printed photograph selection: $19.99
  • Get 10% off a digital photo package or photo book: $19.90 (All inclusive digital photo package)
  • Get 20% off any one spa or salon service: $19.80 (60 minute Swedish massage)
  • Receive $10 off a $30 bag of Wash and Fold Laundry on 5 or more nights: $10
  • Receive $10 off a $30 bag of Wash and Fold Laundry on 8 or more nights: $10
  • $5 off any dry cleaning or pressing services of $25 or more: $5
  • Stateroom phone discount of $2 per minute: $11.90 (assuming a two minute phone call)
Each evening we dine in the Cascades dining room.  When we were seated at a table of 10 last night during the formal night, we were the first guests at the table.
Within minutes it was full and once again, we had a delightful evening meeting new passengers.

There are many more perks as listed here, many we’ll never use and others of any benefit as shown below:

Diamond Club Benefits

  • Crown & Anchor Society Onboard Offers
  • Priority check-in
  • Private departure lounge with continental breakfast
  • Exclusive Trivia
  • Exclusive Top Tier Event
  • Robes for use onboard
  • Signature lapel pin
  • Welcome Gift/Amenity including choice of beverage
  • Milestone recognition
  • Chef’s Choice Gift/Amenity
  • Priority wait list for Shore Excursions/VitalitySM Day Spa services
  • Diamond Lounge (on select ships)
  • Priority departure
  • Exclusive Nightly Diamond Event
  • Daily breakfast with specialty coffee
  • Entertainment Tour

For perks in other categories for Crown & Anchor members with more or less than the required 80 points for Diamond Club, please click here.

Dance floor and seating in The Colony Club.

With Royal Caribbean and Celebrity cruise lines owned by the same parent company, we’ll have similar perks on seven of our eight upcoming eight cruises except the Antarctica cruise on the Ponant line. Of course, as time marches on, we’ll add more cruises as they become available and suit our needs and desires.

Tonight is casual night in the dining room. That will be jeans and nicer shirts.  We have five formal nights ahead in this remaining month. Somehow, as always, we’ll make do with what we have on hand; each other, a joyful attitude and a strong sense of living in the moment.

Happy day, dear friends!

Photo from one year ago today, November 2, 2015:

Tom was thrilled with his first cocktail  he’d had in months at the Namale Resort & Spa in Fiji, one year ago, as we celebrated our three year travel anniversary.  He was working on the first of his delicious warm buns slathered in butter. We didn’t have any specific four year anniversary activities this year since we were busy getting situated on the ship on the actual date of October 31st. But, enough celebration is to be held each and every day over this month at sea. For more photos, please click here.