Making new friends..A couple, like us, traveling the world…

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Sue and Scott, our new world travel friends from the US with whom we spent the evening.

We’re not so unique when traveling among passengers on cruise ships. Many passengers are enthusiastic world travelers with many more years of experience and often having visited more countries than we have to date.

Sure, most have homes and a lifestyle that includes trips to Home Depot-type stores on weekends, planting gardens, mowing the lawn, and a wide variety of household tasks we forfeited years ago.

The lighting was poor for photos of the tango dancers at the party.

Many have the day-to-day interaction with friends and family that they may see in person regularly, whereby our interactions with family are conducted online through Skype calls and face time.

As we continue to cruise and travel this vast Earth, we find ourselves building many relationships that may prove to last throughout the remainder of our lives with fine people we stumble across along the way, many on cruise ships such as this most recent experience.

There was a show for Crown and Anchor members in the ice skating arena last night.

The speed with which these relationships grow is astounding. Still, when the interactions may almost be daily, it’s not difficult to escalate into a deep relationship in a relatively short period of time, such as the day/weeks spent cruising together, spent in idle hours of conversation and activities.

Such was the case last night, and over these past three weeks, we’ve spent sailing on Royal Caribbean Explorer of the Seas since April 22nd, soon to end in four days on May 15th. We’ve made as many new friends as the time allows when we’re not watching a movie or hanging out for short periods in our cabin.

Last night’s dinner table included Sue and Scott’s friends John, Susan, and their son Jonathan,

Whether we’re in one of the several bars, the main dining room, or preparing a post in the Diamond Club, there’s always an opportunity to make new friends if one so chooses. And, we so choose when the situation is right.

Several days ago, while waiting in a lengthy immigration queue in Salon B, the ice arena, we met a lovely couple Susan and Scott, who, like us, are traveling the world. We couldn’t wait to have an opportunity to hear their story and share mutual experiences and details of how and why they, too, travel the world and have been doing so for the past 13 months.

Tom in the Tavern bar waiting with me to see Sue and Scott.

Susan and Scott also sold their home and downsized their lives considerably. Although they have storage with a plan to own another home somewhere down the road, they’re always on the move to explore new lands during this period of time.

Years ago, Scott survived a horrifying bout with cancer changing their perspective on how they wanted to enjoy retirement down the road.  Now, both having retired, they’re free as birds to fulfill a lifelong dream of traveling the world. 

Tom and his two Diamond Club bar buddies.

With a decades-long plan in place, they’ve been able to “step outside the box” of traditional life in the USA and, like us, pursue this seeming adventurous life of world travel and exploration. They’ve done it well over these past 13 months and plan to continue until they’re ready to settle down once again. 

Last night, we met Susan and Scott in the Tavern Pub for happy hour, later attending a Crown and Anchor Welcome Back party at the ice rink and finally meeting three friends they’d made at dinner over these past many nights aboard the ship, another Susan, husband John and adult son Jonathan. 

Last night’s photo of friends Ray, Terry, Ulla, and Julie when I walked past them on the Promenade deck on my way to meet Tom and new friends Susan and Scott.

The seven of us met for dinner at the Sapphire Dining Room for an 8:30 pm dinner reservation. Seated at a round table, the conversation flowed with an intoxicating level of enthusiasm, myriad questions regarding ours and  Susan and Scott’s lifestyle of “living in the world” and general chit chat. It couldn’t have been more fun.

The highlight of the evening heard about Susan and Scott’s worldwide adventures. Although, unlike us, staying in countries for extended periods of time, they may stay as little as one to three days, seldom staying more than one week.

At the beginning of our planning, we decided against short stays of less than a few weeks, when we felt we’d become tired of constant travel days. That’s worked for us. For them, it’s been enriching, although they’re now expressing interest in staying for longer periods.

Captain Rick and other staff presentation to top Pinnacle Club members (pictured center), the top tier in the Crown & Anchor Society, requiring considerable cruises over many years of sailing to acquire.

We shared various tidbits of information between us, including; tours in Africa, international health insurance, VPN benefits, etc.  The conversation couldn’t have been more enjoyable with this delightful couple with whom we have no doubt; we’ll stay in touch as we continue after this cruise ends.

Yesterday, we met two women who’d sadly lost their husbands at breakfast, now traveling together. As it turned out, they’ll be sailing with us on May 17th on the Celebrity Solstice nine-night cruise to Alaska. We look forward to seeing Diann and Helen (another Helen) on this upcoming cruise.

Tonight, most likely, we’ll share the evening with friends Ulla, Ray, Julie, and Terry, with whom we’ve spent many evenings, always having a fabulous time. Tomorrow night, we’ll spend the evening with new friends Alice and Nate, another world-travel-experienced couple much younger than us. Here again, we love sharing the mutual stories of our adventures.

This towel monkey made by our cabin steward Mira (the best cabin steward we’ve had to date) was on display when we returned to our cabin last night.

Whew!  It’s been fun. With only four days remaining until we disembark the ship to head to Vancouver, British Columbia, where we’ll stay for two nights, we’re soaking up every moment relishing in the companionship of interesting and entertaining people.

May your day bring you face to face with interesting and entertaining people…just like YOU.

Photo from one year ago today, May 11, 2016:

Me in the pool waving at Tom when he insisted on a photo. We spent lots of time in the pool in Bali, especially on days like that, hot, humid, and with many flies after the previous night’s heavy rain. For a similar photo of Tom, please click here.

Our travel map and how to view it…Winding down the cruise…

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A view of Honolulu from the ship.

During the remainder of the cruise, which ends on May 15th, we’ll be posting the balance of our photos from this 24-night cruise. How quickly the time has flown as we near the end of this glorious sailing in returning to North America from the South Pacific.

Kona-Kailua, Hawaii swimming area.

After almost two years in the South Pacific (we arrived on June 11, 2015), we’re sad to say goodbye but feel confident we had a thorough sample of what this part of the world has to offer. 

When we walked along the shore in Kona after we visited the town.

When we look in detail at our travel map on the right side of the page under the photo of us in Petra, Jordan, you’ll see the words “Map our Travels.” Below that, click on “Travel Map” on the line reading, “View Full-Size Travel Map at Travellerspoint.”

Passengers o the beach in Vanuatu.

Upon opening the link, a full-size map will show everywhere we’ve traveled since the onset of our travels beginning in 2012. We’re amazed when we review this map, which Tom keeps up-to-date as we move from location to location.

View of Kona-Kailua from the ship.

In reviewing the map, it’s evident we still have many worlds left to explore, including China, India, South America (soon), and Antarctica (in eight months). In a week from today, we’ll begin the cruise to Alaska, which we’ll be adding to the map upon the completion of our foray into this exciting part of the world.

View of our ship, Royal Caribbean Explorer of the Seas, from Lahaina, Maui.

There’s no doubt the timing was right to head out of the South Pacific to journey to these many other parts of the world. The continent of Australia is so huge one could conceivably spend a lifetime exploring its outback, cities, and rural areas in between.

The mountain view from Lahaina on a cloudy day.

Many islands piqued our interest in the South Pacific, but we were ready to move on after lengthy stays on several islands. Although, tropical island living will always remain of great interest for its pleasing lifestyle in our way of living in the world.

Ships in the harbor in Honolulu.

At this point, we don’t anticipate returning to the South Pacific, but one never knows. Tom’s favorite place to date, Penguin, Australia, may someday result in our return for an extended visit. I loved it as well, but areas rich and abundant in wildlife will always remain at the top of my “favorites” list.

Inside the courtyard at a shopping center in Lahaina.

In a mere nine months, my passion will once again be fulfilled. From there, we’ll seek to book the areas as mentioned above/countries we’ve yet to explore. No, it’s not a marathon to see the world. 

The shopping area in Kona during a port of call stop a few days ago.

Instead, it’s a leisurely walk, predicted by good health and well-being.  To this point, there’s never been a lack of interest or lack of desire to continue on regardless of stumbles along the way. Life is good, actually great, and the passion continues. Continue along with us!

Photo from one year ago today, May 10, 2016:

This photo was taken from the second-floor veranda of high tide in Bali. For more details, please click here.

A great day with a great new friend in Lahaina, Maui…A very scary event on the returning tender…

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Yesterday, it was cloudy with a bit of drizzle as Helen and I wandered about Lahaina Maui, but the weather didn’t hamper the quality of the day.

While situated in the Diamond Lounge preparing yesterday’s post, new friend Helen popped in to say hello. We discussed the idea of heading to Lahaina on our own, leaving Tom behind.  

Craftspeople are often seen working with a variety of wood commonly found on the Hawaiian island.

Tom had no interest in shopping nor walking through Lahaina one more time after we’d visited the famous tourist town on five or more previous visits. I was thrilled at the prospect of leisurely strolling through the pretty village, perhaps doing a little shopping along the way.

It had been a long time since I’d gone shopping with a friend and was excited by the idea, especially when there was an “outlet mall” several blocks from the port. The ship was anchored in the bay, requiring tender boat rides to the shore.

Banyan trees in the local park in Lahaina.

Helen stopped by our cabin at 2:00 pm when I was ready to go with a shopping bag, camera, wallet and a few incidentals figuring we’d only be gone until 4:00 pm or so. The line for the tender moved quickly, and by 2:30 pm, we were ashore.

The famous tourist town was rife with cruise passengers shopping, dining, and reveling in the sights.

After browsing many shops looking for trinkets for the grandchildren, Helen and I decided to make the several block hike to the outlet mall, especially when we heard about the GAP store. I hadn’t shopped in a GAP store in almost five years. Tom and I both needed updates to our tee shirt inventory when many had become worn and tattered.

An old hotel in Lahaina.

It was a long walk to the outlet mall, which was very different from other outlet malls I’d visited years ago in Minnesota. But, many of the familiar stores were available, and after so long, it was fun to see them once again.

I purchased 12 items for a total of US $106, mainly tee shirts for each of us and three nightshirts for me. The three nightshirts I had remaining were practically threadbare after years of wear.

The last time we visited Lahaina in 2014, we also took photos of this art store.

As it started to sprinkle, we began the return walk to the port, hoping to get aboard a tender before a downpour. After we arrived at the port and a 20-minute wait, we were aboard the tender. 

Lahaina is often packed with tourists. This was our fifth visit to this Maui town since the onset of our travels four and a half years ago; twice by ship, three times by car when we lived in Maui for six weeks in 2014.

This particular ship uses its lifeboats as tenders to ferry passengers back and forth from the ship to the port of call when the port is inadequate for docking. In most cases, the ride from the ship to the land takes less than 20 minutes but boarding and disembarking can take anywhere from 10 to 20 additional minutes, at most.

It was apparent the seas were rough shortly before 5:00 pm on a cloudy, windy day. We bobbed side to side as the tender headed toward the ship at full throttle. 

An exciting piece of art in a local gallery.

At first, none of the passengers appeared worried or concerned during the rough seas until we reached the boarding and disembarking platform, a section of the ship that drops down to create a flat ramp that usually provides relatively easy access for most passengers.

Historic Hawaiian property under construction in Lahaina.

A few passengers were using canes and walkers, generally not precipitating a problem with staff available to assist. As the boat pulled up to the staging area, the driver was unable to steady the ship sufficiently to pull close enough to tie the boat’s mooring lines to the platform.

As the rough seas escalated, the boat rocked to and fro with such force; it was impossible to gain a firm enough hold with the thick lines to allow a single passenger to disembark. At that point, the conversation stopped as many passengers had worried and frightened looks on their faces.

We’d taken a photo of this tiny theater in Lahaina three years ago.

The boat banged against the metal platform with such force that some exterior lights and accouterments were smashed as we slammed harder and harder against the platform. Suddenly, a woman screamed who’d banged her head against the window, asking if she was bleeding. 

I was seated at the window and felt myself cringing and moving to the left each time the boat fiercely banged against the metal structure. As a boater for most of my adult life, I wasn’t frightened at all, nor was Helen. 

It was fun to go to a Gap outlet store for the first time in almost five years. I purchased several tee shirts for both of us.

Many passengers were terrified and anxious to get off the boat. It took no less than 30 minutes for the boat to become stabilized enough to allow one passenger at a time to disembark. One mentioned her fear of having a heart attack based on her level of sheer terror.

In all, it was about an hour from the time the tender reached the ship’s platform until we were all able to disembark. Throughout the remainder of the evening, several passengers chatted about the incident, shocked by the experience.

Of course, I’d hoped to make a video of the incident but it was impossible, based on where I was seated. I attempted to get the camera out of the shopping bag but could not hold on well enough to do a video or even take a single photo.

View of our ship from the sidewalk in Lahaina.

My paper GAP shopping bag had torn during the upheaval, and the new items began to spill to the floor. Helen and I hurried to gather the things which she placed into her backpack. 

By the time I entered the cabin, it was already close to 6:30 pm. Indeed Tom was at happy hour with our friends on the Promenade deck and waiting for me to arrive. I hurried to get myself changed and ready for the evening, able to get out the door by 6:45 pm.

Busy day in Lahaina.

The evening was pleasant as usual, with my dinner diligently attended to by Belik, the head waiter and my food restriction coordinator, who fusses over me more than any other such staff member on any of our past 17 cruises. 

We made a point of mentioning his exemplary and attentive service to Captain Rick and have already written a glowing review on a mid-cruise survey. When the cruise ends on May 15th, in six days, we’ll rave more about Belik on the online survey that follows each cruise, which Tom diligently prepares in every case.

A man caught a good-sized fish from the shore.

Today, we’re in Honolulu with no intention of getting off the ship.  After many prior visits and tours, we’re content to stay aboard and see the matinee movie in the Palace Theatre at 1:30 pm.

Tonight, we joining another lovely couple for a second “dinner date,” Leann and Chuck, for what indeed will prove to be yet another divine evening. We’re heading back out to sea at 6:00 for the final leg of our cruise to Seattle, Washington. 

Be well.

Photo from one year ago today, May 9, 2016:

We miss the fantastic food prepared by two cooks named Ketut in Bali which included Blue Fin tuna made with a tomato, lemongrass sauce, spicy vegetables with a side of coleslaw. For more details, please click here.

An unanticipated opportunity thanks to Captain Rick!…

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Yesterday, Captain Rick Sullivan chatted with us in Dizzy’s Jazz Bar. His warm demeanor and superb sense of humor have made sailing aboard Royal Caribbean Explorer of the Seas a sheer delight.

With plans to take the tender to Kailua-Kona, we busily prepared the day’s post while seated in the Diamond Club Lounge on deck 14, our favorite morning spot on this 24-night cruise.

After Tom stepped out to head back to the cabin for a few minutes, I stayed behind with my fingers flying across the keyboard to get the post uploaded so we could take off for a walk at the cruise port of call that requires a ride on the tender.

The group of dignitaries from Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, came aboard to present Captain Rick with a plaque welcoming the ship to the city.

At the time, I was the only passenger in the Diamond Club, keenly aware of the quiet and serenity usually lacking aboard this particular venue. A cloudy day, we weren’t in too huge of a hurry to go ashore, but, in typical Hawaiian style, a cloudy day could easily and quickly turn into bright sunshine.

Stopping to contemplate my next line of type, the door to the Diamond Club opened with a key card, and in walked our ship’s, Captain Rick Sullivan.

Having heard him over the loudspeakers, enjoying his lively and humorous demeanor and, seeing him wandering about the ship engaging so freely with passengers, I had no doubt it was him.

During the presentation…the official from the Mayór’s office and Captain Rick.

Let me clarify…we aren’t Captain or otherwise groupies. After all of our years of world travel, we’ve come to realize and embrace the fact that we humans are all alike in many ways regardless of ethnicity, celebrity, financial status, or notoriety. 

We’ve never attempted to dine with a ship captain, meet with a ship captain or engage in any particular conversation with a ship captain.  We always felt we could leave that up to those who found it most appealing and vital to their personal experience.

A representative from the Mayor’s office in Kailua-Kona and Captain Rick.

For us, we are always able to glean the best experiences from engaging with anyone of any culture, whether it be a local carrying a basket of fruit on her head or a local taxi driver scurrying us around.  They all matter to us.

As he entered the room with a wide and warms smile on his face, he suddenly fell into the category of another kindly human open to engaging in conversation with a fellow human in his path.

Hotel Director Michael Landry, Kailua city official, and Captain Rick accepting the plaque

Easily, the conversation flowed, and in no time at all, we were sharing personal anecdotes. Moments later, Tom entered the room and, without missing a beat, stepped right into sync into our discussion in Tom’s usual welcoming manner.

After a chat, Captain Rick, upon hearing about our website, invited us to attend the upcoming presentation by local officials, marine and city staff to present Royal Caribbean Explorer of the Seas with a welcoming plaque for its first destination port of call in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.

Plaques and gifts were exchanged between the city and the ship.

The presentation was scheduled within the hour in the bar/lounge Dizzy’s Jazz Bar located outside the door of the Diamond Club. Captain Rick suggested we sit and chat in the bar while we wait.

Captain Rick also presented a plaque to the city of Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.

The conversation flowed with ease as we shared our story of world travel, our site, and why we decided to travel the world.  In turn, Captain Rick shared his story, including his vast experiences at sea, all of which further exemplified the fine details of the life of this special man.

When the guests arrived, Captain Rick reminded us, as he stood to greet his guests, to stay put and embrace the experience taking as many photos as we desired and joining in conversation with the group.

The gathering took place in Dizzy’s Jazz Bar on deck 14, outside the Diamond Club Lounge.

Regarding the event, we stayed back a little, but in no time at all, we were approached by a few visitors, not hesitating to share in the conversations. What a pleasant surprise to our day in Kailua-Kona, unanticipated and surely serendipitous, as are many of the memorable events in our lives.

We enjoyed speaking to Mark, one of the representatives from the city.

It never seems to be about the tourist sites, the organized tours, and old buildings. The best moments are always about the creatures God placed upon this Earth, both human and animal.  We’re grateful, forever grateful, and eternally humbled by that which crosses our path on this worldwide journey.

Be well.  Be happy.

Photo from one year ago today, May 8, 2016:

The two Katuts and Ribud (the pool and landscape guy) hold up the three kilo Blue Fin tuna for our next meal. After it was cleaned and filleted, there were two huge portions that we’re sharing each night. Such wonderful people! Such fabulous fish! For more details, please click here.

We’re in the US!…Kona, Hawaii….Photos to follow…

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The veranda in our cabin is great for photos but also relaxing and drying hand-washed clothing.

We’ve been in and out of the US a few times over these past years.  Once in September 2014, when a cruise ended in Boston, we stayed for three days to visit my uncle and cousin.

In 2014/2015 we spent a total of eight months in Hawaii on four islands. On three other occasions, we sailed in and out of Florida.

The coral reef at our last port of call over a week ago.

We haven’t been back to Minnesota since October 2012 or Nevada since December 2012. This morning at 6:00 am our ship anchored out to sea in Kona, Hawaii (the Big Island of Hawaii).

At this point, we’re planning to go ashore in Kona, Hawaii after we upload today’s post. In 2014/2015, we spent six weeks on this island. After having seen so much while there, we aren’t decided yet if we’ll disembark the ship to take photos and walk around.

Passengers checking out the sea for photo ops.

This morning was spent in one of the most painstaking immigration processes we’ve encountered (since our scary illegal immigrant situation in Australia in March) in all these years of travel.

All Americans were instructed to meet in Studio B, where the ice skating rink is located, and wait for our numbers to be called. By the time we arrived at 6:32 am all the seating was occupied leaving us to stand for almost two hours.

Boat in the bay.

Finally, we were able to sit for about 10 minutes while the crowds who’d arrived before us filtered out to meet with immigration. While we were waiting we met a lovely couple who’d been traveling the world, homeless like us for the past 13 months. We were thrilled to meet Sue and Scott.

Immediately, we set up a dinner date for the next sea day when we’ll have an opportunity to share our mutual experiences. We’ll surely “pick their brains’ on some occasions we’ve yet to have and vise versa. We’re looking forward to that evening!

Afternoon island view from the ship.

Finally, our group moved along for the 10 seconds it took for an immigration officer to verify our faces against the photos on our passports. Non-US citizens had a lengthier process which included filling out a complicated two-page document.

By 9 am we made our way to the Windjammer Buffet for a small bite to eat. The main dining room is closed for lunch on “port” days.  Lately, I’ve found I feel better if I eat lunch and then dinner about eight hours later, entirely avoiding breakfast or snacks.

After seven full days at sea, it’s odd to see land, although we’ve thoroughly enjoyed each sea day.

Today, we had no choice but to dine in the Windjammer when it would be a long haul until dinner. Many nights we have dinner with our four friends from Australia who traveled together; Ulla, Ray, Julie and Terry. 

We all have drinks (I drink one cup of peppermint tea) while gabbing incessantly prior to heading to the dining room around 7:00 pm, (served by 8:00 pm) in ample time to make the 9:00 pm show at the Palace Theatre. The past few nights we’ve attended a few shows which proved to be highly entertaining.

Now, close to 11:30 am, we’re seated comfortably in the Diamond Lounge, laptops in hand while busily preparing today’s post.  Every so often, a few passengers stop by to chat slowing down the posting process. But, we don’t mind at all. It’s a joyful part of cruising that definitely adds to the experience.

Have a blissful day!

Photo from one year ago today, May 7, 2016:

This was moving in the river next to our villa in Bali. It must have been some peculiar fish. For more photos, please click here.

Retelling our story over and over again…Our answers to frequently asked question…

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The coral reef at Mystery Island is defined by the change of color of the sea.

Often to our surprise, other travelers are curious to hear about our story. In a nutshell (for our new readers); we sold everything we owned in Minnesota; leaving everyone we love; leaving no storage behind, and now with only three checked bags and two carry-on bags, we travel the world on a joyful quest to learn more and more about our planet, it’s people, its wildlife and it’s scenery.

The tender awaits our return to the ship. Lifeboats are often used as the tenders with several in service to avoid passengers waiting for extended periods.

It was only a result of vastly improved health from an incomprehensible change of diet in 2011. In January 2012, we decided to travel the world, leaving Minnesota on October 31, 2012, a little more than nine months later.

Many small bus tours headed up and down this paved road in Mystery Island.

When asked about our travels, the most frequently asked question is, “What is your favorite place in the world so far?”

For the first four years, Tom didn’t have an answer. He always replied, “The next one.” 

Cloud-covered beach view in Vanuatu.

This always made me chuckle when I wondered if he’d ever pick a favorite, and if so, how long would it stay his favorite? For me, as all of our readers are well aware, Marloth Park in Mpumalanga, South Africa, remains my “dream spot,” to which we’ll be returning in a mere nine months in February 2018.

Tom has finally chosen a favorite place, Penguin, Tasmania, the most quaint and charming small town we’ve visited in our travels. His eyes light up when he describes this special place. If he had to pick a place to live out our days, Penguin would be on the top of the list…so far, that is.

The color of the sea is breathtaking.

But there’s so much more to see. Are we on a mission to see as much of the world as possible? Are we attempting to visit most of the world’s 196 countries, many of which we’ll avoid due to political unrest and terrorism?

What about all of the continents? By the time we visited Antarctica in January 2018, we’ll have seen all seven of the world’s continents, some only touching the surface, others in a more comprehensive manner. 

No doubt we’ll be returning to most of the continents when there are many other points of interest that we’ve yet to visit.  With our usual desire to “live” within a region/country to learn about its people, its culture, its wildlife, and its beauty, the process is slower than it may be for others who may hop, skip and jump from country to country for shorter stays.

Rows upon rows of pine trees line the beach near the coral reef.

We love sharing our stories with people we meet along the way. We equally love hearing their stories of travel, their cruises, and their land experiences but, most of all, their lives. How did they get to this point? What inspired them to travel? Why do they like cruising? What is their favorite destination? What was their favorite cruise line or ship?

We all have a story to tell whether we travel the world or enjoy quiet time at home, simply living life to the fullest within a framework that works for us. We love hearing from all of you, sharing your story with us. Would you please stay in touch?

Photo from one year ago today, May 5, 2016:

The Buddha fountain by the pool in Bali.  At high tide, the sea almost reached the end of the infinity pool at the villa in Bali.  For more photos, please click here.

Pollywogs and shellbacks, the Equator crossing…The generosity of people we meet…

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This passenger at the King Neptune Equator crossing ceremony seemed to get the brunt of the food rubbed into his beard.

Yesterday was the King Neptune celebration poolside in commemoration of crossing the Equator. This particular observance is traditional on many cruise ships as they cross the imaginary line of demarcation of the Southern and Northern Hemispheres.

Pollywog or Shellback: The Navy’s Line Crossing Ceremony Revealed

The Navy is chock full of myth and tradition, and what happens at sea even affects our language. From the Sirens and Sea Monsters of the Odyssey to the boatswain’s call, many naval traditions date back hundreds and even thousands of years.

The Line Crossing Ceremony might be the most interesting of today’s naval traditions.

A Time-Honored Tradition

Line crossing ceremonies have been a part of naval tradition for at least 400 years.
No one is sure when or how the Line Crossing Ceremony, “Order of Neptune,” came about. The ritual dates back at least 400 years in Western seafaring.
The ceremony observes a mariner’s transformation from slimy Pollywog, a seaman who hasn’t crossed the equator, to trusty Shellback, also called a Son or Daughter of Neptune. It was a way for sailors to be tested for their seaworthiness.
When a ship crosses the equator, King Neptune comes aboard to exercise authority over his domain and judge charges against Pollywogs that they are only posing as sailors and haven’t paid proper homage to the god of the sea.
What proceeds is a day of festivities, which builds camaraderie among the seafaring crew? High-ranking crew members and those who have been Shellbacks the longest, dress up in elaborate costumes, and each plays the part of King Neptune’s court. For instance, the ship’s captain might play the part of King Neptune himself.


 For more details on the above website on this celebration at sea, please click here.

Our captain Rick Sullivan and cruise director Graham prepare for the King Neptune ceremony to begin.
On the cruise to the South Pacific in May 2015, we were delighted to see the hilarious poolside activities as the crossing was made, and again on our return to the US, we were camera-ready to see it once more.
Captain Rick describes the significance of the Equator crossing celebration.

Please click here for our previous Equator crossing in 2015 and the resulting King Neptune celebration aboard Royal Caribbean Legend of the Seas.

King Neptune and his court make their way to the stage poolside.

In many ways, it signified the reality of our leaving this part of the world perhaps for the last time in our world travels when we have so much more world to see in years to come.

King Neptune’s beard reminded us of fake Santa Claus beards.

Many Aussie and Kiwi friends we’ve made aboard the ship over these past two years in this part of the world have graciously offered we stay with them when and if we return someday. 

Volunteer participants, both passengers and ship staff, were led to the stage by RC staff members.

As much as we appreciate these generous offers, it’s unlikely we’d take advantage of staying with newly made friends since we’re not the easiest house guests in the world with our myriad idiosyncrasies and routines. 

The brave participants face the stage to determine their fate.

Nor would we ever want to take advantage of such kind offers when it would be impossible for us to reciprocate when we have no home of our own to extend such an invitation.

The volunteer passenger with the real beard could easily have played King Neptune.

As for yesterday’s King Neptune Equator crossing event poolside, we waited until the last minute to head to the pool. We anticipated we’d end up standing in the hot sun for lack of better spots available when it appeared most passengers aboard the ship, roughly 3200, were attending.

Oh, oh. I ordered grouper for tonight’s dinner. I hope it’s not this same fish! The first part of the ceremony included kissing the grouper.

The bright sun wouldn’t bother me, but Tom hasn’t had sun exposure lately and is prone to getting a sunburn within 10 minutes of exposure. Since the onset of our travels, he’s always been extra careful to avoid a sunburn due to his pale Irish skin.

Dr. Wesley, the ship’s young doctor, participated in the ceremonies by dumping food on the top of the heads of the brave participants.

We haven’t been out to the pool since we boarded the ship for this reason and also due to the fact we’ve been busy indoors mingling with other passengers, working on our posts, and generally having the time of our lives. 

Red pasta sauce and a white cream sauce were poured over the heads of these two participants.

Once we maneuvered our way to the right in front of the activities near the outdoor stage, we were in a good position to take photos. At the same time, we laughed and cheered over the loud and raucous litany of traditional events typical for shipboard observations of the Equator crossing.

Upon taking many photos, the festivities came to an end while we dashed to the closest elevator to return to our cabin so we could finish and upload the day’s post.

Every deck with a possible view of the festivities was packed with passengers anxious to see the show.

We packed our laptops in our smaller computer bag. We headed back to the Diamond Lounge until it was time to dress for the evening for yet another night of engaging conversation and interaction. 

We’d planned dinner with a lovely couple we’d met the prior evening during dinner, Alice and Nate, with whom we had much in common, although they’re more than 20 years younger than us.

King Neptune was pleased with the punishment bestowed upon the pollywogs and shellbacks.

After a superb dinner, we all headed to the Palace Theatre for the “hypnotist” show, a silly compilation of typical hypnotist jokes and ridiculous performances by willing passengers who didn’t seem to mind the antics presented in these types of shows.

Today at noon, we’ll attend the Diamond Club luncheon specifically offered for Crown & Anchor members with a designation of Diamond Club or higher. There are two categories above ours which include Diamond Plus and Pinnacle. We’ll eventually reach Diamond Plus, which offers a few more perks, but it’s unlikely we’ll ever reach Pinnacle, the highest perk-laden top tier. More on that later.

They all were such good sports.

We’ll be back tomorrow with more photos of this amazing return trip to North America. We’re well into the second half of this 24-night cruise, now on day 14 with 10 days remaining until we disembark in Seattle.

Happy day to all!

Photo from one year ago today, May 4, 2016:

In Bali, Gade stopped at the side of the road when he spotted this monkey and baby. We had no idea we’d see much wildlife here. Of course, we were thrilled! For more details, please click here.

Meeting with a medical researcher and presenter aboard the ship for helicobactor pylori…

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How many times a day should we poop?
Dr. Peter Dingle’s latest book.  See his website here.

Most mornings, we don’t attend any of the “enrichment lectures” aboard the ship when our primary goal is to get situated to complete and upload the day’s new post, after which we’re free to spend the day and evening as we choose.

After hearing comments from other passengers that Dr. Peter Dingle’s 9:00 am lectures on health and wellness were more than enriching and highly entertaining with his effortless style, we were intrigued.

As it turned out, we decided to prepare the post later in the day to attend Dr. Peter’s presentation on “gut health” of particular interest to me. With residual effects remaining after the two-week antibiotic treatment ending in March due to 16 months of discomfort with the helicobacter pylori infection, we were both anxious to hear what he had to say.

Keeping in mind that I’d seen three doctors in Tasmania and still suffering, I was desperate for some new advice that might set me on the right path. Oh, yes, I know…I wrote I was getting better. But on the days I posted such comments, I may have been feeling a little better and subsequently more hopeful.

Plus, after many comments on the topic, I assumed our readers might be tired of reading about it. But, alas, since we boarded the ship 16 days ago, I’ve struggled with the food, experimenting through a process of elimination which hasn’t been easy with my already restrictive diet. Layering one strict diet over another is challenging.

On several occasions, we watched the replay of Dr. Peter’s other presentations on the TV in our stateroom while getting ready to go out for the evening. In each of those presentations, we saw a pattern mimicking the way of eating and lifestyle we’ve adopted over the years. Could this fine man have a solution for me beyond what I’ve tried thus far?

After watching the informative presentation live with several mentions of the h pylori infection, I longed to meet with him face to face. Writing a short email informing him of my lingering condition, he agreed to a meeting in the cafe while he met with a few other attendees who had a similar request.

I was determined that if it took hours for him to get to me, I’d wait patiently in the Cafe Promenade. So, shortly after his presentation ended, I headed to the cafe bringing along my laptop to work on the day’s post. At no time, I was seated at a booth/table with three other passengers with questions while we each shared our stories.

Ironically, many of our conditions and symptoms were similar, and collectively we learned possible solutions befitting our needs. After the group presentation, Dr. Peter focused on my dilemma, leaving me with a litany of potential answers to this ongoing issue.  I was very grateful.

Upon returning to the Diamond Club lounge where Tom was waiting for me, I made of list of his suggestions on my phone on a variety of supplements that were one step above what I’d been doing thus far. I’d already been taking some of his suggestions but in doses inadequate to have any effect upon improvement, particularly in the case of probiotics.

I won’t list his suggestions here right now to avoid attempting to offer medical advice when I’m not a medical professional. However, many of them may be found on his website and Facebook page.

No words can express how grateful we are to have received what we perceive as valuable and meaningful advice. So, once we arrive in Kona, Hawaii, tomorrow, we’ll be heading to a local health store to purchase some added products that hopefully will get me on the right path to healing.

Thank you, Dr. Peter Dingle. Surely your informative and valuable suggestions will inspire many passengers to rethink their lifestyles and adopt a cleaner and more beneficial manner of eating, exercising, reducing stress, and dealing with a wide array of physical conditions. 

Be well.

Photo from one year ago today, May 6, 2016:

Sorry, this Bali photo wasn’t clear. We were too far away, and my hands were unsteady after witnessing the dog shot being shot. This guy picked up the dead dog by one hind leg and placed him in a laundry bag as he carried him away. Wild dogs are often shot for rabies control in Bali. For more details, please click here.

A bit of “this and that” aboard the ship….Group photo…

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A path to the aqua blue bay.

Today is day 12 of the 24-day cruise. It’s hard to believe that we’re halfway through this cruise.  In a few days, we’ll reach Hawaii. Then, in 15 days, we’ll board the cruise to Alaska from Vancouver, British Columbia, ending in Seattle. Then, in a mere 24 days, we’ll be in Minnesota to visit our family and friends.

Sunbathers and swimmers on the beach.

From there, in 66 days, we’ll arrive in Nevada, visiting more family and friends. Ninety days from today, we’ll be leaving the US heading for the next leg of our journey, most likely not returning to the US for two more years for another visit.

With the number of people we’re meeting, the over-the-top experiences we’re adding to our repertoire of cruising adventures, and the sheer pleasure of spending this time together, we couldn’t be having a better time.

Boats at the beach.

The anticipation of seeing our loved ones only adds another layer of joy to this busy and action-packed period. Yet, the ease with which each day flows into another is barely interrupted.

This morning we noticed an error or our account when charges for two drinks were listed US $17.00. Calling guest services for an adjustment, we reached a roadblock when they explained the only way to resolve the issue was to go to deck two during certain hours.

Passengers were walking along the beach.

That solution was unbelievable to us. Why couldn’t this be handled over the phone? But, in our usual manner of problem-solving, we addressed the issue with Jorge, our Diamond Club concierge, who spends most days in the Diamond Lounge on the 14th deck. 

Upon entering the private Diamond Club Lounge to prepare our post for the day, Jorge had the issue resolved within minutes. We expressed our gratitude for this prompt and seamless resolution.
The beach at Mystery Island, Vanuatu.

We seldom run across such an issue, but when they arise, we look for the most uncomplicated and quick solution to avoid tainting our perception of any cruise line or ship. Diplomacy and kindness seem to get us from Point A to Point B with the least amount of stress, always our top priority.

Having control over my two daily meals, breakfast and dinner, can be a challenge. We’ve had the fortunate opportunity to work with Belik, head waiter in the Sapphire Dining Room on this cruise. 

Ship passengers out for a boat ride on a tiny sailboat.

Belik makes more effort to fulfill my dietary needs than any head waiter who’s worked with us on the past 17 cruises. However, having experimented with various foods within the framework of my usual diet, I’ve found some foods that seem to exacerbate the symptoms of the past many months; mainly garlic, onions, cruciferous vegetables, and dairy.

Over the past 24 hours, I’ve eliminated all dairy products, including cheese which has been a staple in my way of eating over these past five and a half years. 

View from the ship as we sailed away from the Fijian islands.

I’m hoping being dairy-free will help when yesterday was my best day since the onset of the h. pylori symptoms.  Perhaps now, I’ll see why drinking coffee with cream only seemed to make matters worse.  I blamed it on the acidity of the coffee when in fact, it may have been the cream.  We’ll see how this goes over the next few days.

Belik has been so helpful as I work my way through figuring out what I can and can’t eat.  There’s no doubt it’s added more limitations to my eating method, but he remains determined to ensure my food is satisfactory. I’ve never seen anything like this guy…except, of course, Tom, who puts up with me beyond my expectations.

View of Fiji from the ship.

We’ve settled into somewhat of a delightful groove with new friends Ulla and Ray and Julie and Terry, all from New South Wales, Australia. (See the photo below). It’s so easy to “hit it off” with others aboard the ship, whether couples or singles, of which there are many aboard this ship.

Yesterday, we watched a fantastic movie, Collateral Beauty, well worth watching. Today, we’ll head to the Palace Theatre for the 2016 movie, “Sully,” which starts at 1:30 pm. Unfortunately, it will be necessary to arrive at the theatre 45 minutes before showtime to ensure good seating as another sea day.

Our new Aussie friends, from left to right, Julie and Terry, Ray and Ulla and Tom and I. We’re having a fabulous time with these two couples as we meet for happy hour and dinner most nights.

After the movie, we’ll mingle with other passengers throughout the ship. By 4:15 pm, we’ll return to our cabin to dress for the second formal night. As much as we dislike formal nights due to our lack of dressy clothing, we make the best of it with what we have on hand, ultimately having another memorable evening.

A sense of contentment and serenity wafts through our minds as we continue on this leg of our journey. Thanks to all of our readers for sharing it with us!

Photo from one year ago today, May 2, 2016:

The covered huts and cabana poolside at the villa in Bali, one year ago today. For more photos, please click here.

A new day…Oops, the same day!…Cannibalism in the South Pacific…

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After a bit of research, Cute found this “cooking pot” to stir us dreadful thoughts of life for many in decades past on many islands in the South Pacific.

Over the millennium, cannibalism has been prevalent in certain parts of the world. We’ve all watched it depicted in various movies over the years whereby humans were cooked in a large pot such as that in our main photo and consumed not so much but as a form of spiritual and cultural significance.

During the visit to Mystery Island, we noticed over a dozen tour booking spots such as this.

Of course, the concept of such savagery is repulsive in most cultures throughout the world but when practiced, it carried a powerful message to those who had the potential of being captured for such a barbaric end to life.

Many types of trinkets were offered for sale in a long row of shops.

Please read the following article we found interesting in our research from this site:

“Culture Facts

Where: Throughout the Pacific Islands, but only in days of yore.
What’s it about: Eating your enemy as the ultimate disgrace – the stuff of seafaring legends.
How to join in: We advise not to steer clear if you want to stay out of the cooking pot.

When the Pacific Islands were first ‘discovered’ by Europeans, they soon gained a reputation for being a fierce and hostile place where tribal warfare and cannibalism were rife. During the early 19th century, if you were a sailor who became shipwrecked in the Pacific Islands, you probably wouldn’t live to tell the tale but would end up in the cooking pot. (Continued below).
We walked the entire length of the shops perusing their wares.
The intensity and significance of cannibalism varied considerably across the islands, but it was generally believed that by eating your enemies you would absorb some of their better qualities such as bravery and strength. But, more importantly, it was also the ultimate revenge to consume the body of someone you despised; the conclusive domination of the enemy and a major humiliation for their family. 
Warriors usually kept a memento of their victim, or at least put another notch in their club. Necklaces, hairpins or ear-lobe ornaments carved of human bone were often held, or possibly the skull would be made into a drinking bowl called a ‘yaqona’. The whole affair would be celebrated with song, dance and formal sacrificial rites. Men would sing the ‘cibi’ or death dance, and women the ‘dele’ in which they would sexually humiliate the corpse. Finally, bodies were usually brought back to the village spirit house and offered to the war god before being eaten.
 
Today cannibalism has long since disappeared although it is still very much a part of the legends and history that make up the mystique of the Pacific Islands.
By Debbie Fabb”

A few days ago, we visited Mystery Island, an island in the Vanuatu chain of islands as indicated below:en.Wikipedia.org83

Vanuatu is a South Pacific archipelago made up of 83 small islands of volcanic origin and around 12000sq km. Approximately 65 of the islands are inhabited. The total population of Vanuatu is just over 200,000.
The outdoor cafe was packed with cruise passengers.

It was during the visit to Mystery Island, Vanuatu that for the first time, we saw a “cooking pot” that was both fascinating and frightening at the same time. Unfortunately, neither of us cared to enter the pot for photos when a long queue of passengers waited for their own personal photo op. 

Some passengers wandered down the path to the Kava ceremony. After our four-month stay in Fiji, we were familiar enough with Kava to pass this by.
It definitely was intriguing to see the cooking pot imagining days of yore and a time and place we were grateful we’d never experienced.  Our olives’ lives appear so safe and insignificant from that of the lives of others from centuries ago when hardship and fear motivated the actions and responses each and every day.
The pristine white sand beach was very appealing.

It’s these types of encounters that rock us to the core of how fortunate we are to live during this period in time, although in many ways, today, throughout the world that same sense of hardship and fear predicates the daily actions of billions of citizens.

The colorful scene at the beach in Mystery Island.
As much as we fear the result of natural disaster and circumstances beyond our control, our biggest fear and circumstances may center around that which us humans perpetrate in our desire for power, greed, and dominance. 
Signs posted promoting the many tourist-type activities.

No, in today’s world, we don’t have to fear the “cooking pot,” but in essence, many of the fear we face present an equally imposing demise of humanity. So may we all pray for our mutual safety and cohesiveness in protecting our people and our vast world in front of us. 

Be well.
Photo from one year ago today, May 1, 2016:
In Bali, these types of stone statues are frequently included in new construction design to maintain the integrity of the Balinese culture. For more details, please click here. (We’re unable to post the one year ago link due to the poor Wi-Fi signal aboard the ship).