Part 2…Pros and cons of living on a cruise ship…What can it cost?..

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We were at a ship’s Celebrity Solstice cocktail party, which featured free drinks and appetizers and was held for priority club members only.

We hear many stories about retirees living on cruise ships, as opposed to the costs of living in various retirement communities and facilities. Not only do they find the cruising lifestyle more affordable with its many amenities, but they also love the novelty of continually sailing worldwide.

Living on a cruise ship in retirement has become an enticing option for some, combining the luxury of travel with practical living costs. The overall expense varies based on the type of cruise, accommodations, duration, and included amenities. Here’s a breakdown of the main costs:

1. Cruise Fares

The cost of living on a cruise ship can range from about $2,000 to $10,000 per month or more, depending on the ship and cabin type:

  • Budget-friendly cruises cost around $2,000–$4,000 monthly or more and usually offer an interior cabin on a standard ship. They include basic amenities but might lack the perks of more expensive options.
  • Luxury cruises: Suites or rooms with balconies on upscale ships can cost $8,000–$10,000+ per month or more.

2. Inclusions

Cruise fares often include a lot of everyday living expenses, which can make the overall cost comparable to, or sometimes less than, living on land:

  • Meals: Most meals in various dining venues are included, with specialty restaurants sometimes costing extra.
  • Entertainment: Onboard activities, shows, fitness centers, and lectures are typically included.
  • Housekeeping and maintenance: The package includes regular cabin cleaning, laundry, and property maintenance.

3. Medical Expenses

Many ships offer onboard medical facilities for basic healthcare needs, but retirees may need comprehensive travel health insurance to cover more serious medical expenses. Insurance prices depend on age and health, typically ranging from $200 to $500+ per month.

4. Gratuities and Tips

Cruise lines often have automatic gratuities, typically adding $15 to $30 or more per person added daily to your bill. This is for crew service in dining rooms, housekeeping, and other areas.

5. Excursions and Activities

Shore excursions, special events, and premium services are an extra expense. Depending on how often you venture out, these can add $50 to $500 per excursion.

6. Internet and Communication

Wi-Fi on ships is often expensive and can range from $150 to $600 monthly. Some long-term or luxury cruises may include it in their package.

7. Taxes and Port Fees

These fees depend on the cruise itinerary and are typically $100–$500 per month, depending on how frequently the ship docks.

8. Discounts for Long-Term Stays

Retirees can benefit from discounts if they book extended stays or back-to-back cruises, significantly reducing the overall cost. Some cruise lines also offer packages for retirees, making a full-time living on a cruise more affordable.

9. Comparison to Traditional Living

If you compare the cost of living on a cruise to traditional retirement living (especially in high-cost areas), the cruise can sometimes offer savings:

  • Retirement community: Monthly fees, housing, utilities, meals, and activities in senior living communities can easily cost $5,000–$8,000 per month.
  • On a cruise, many of these expenses are bundled into a more predictable price, plus you get the added benefit of constant travel.

Living on a cruise ship in retirement offers a unique and adventurous lifestyle, with relatively predictable expenses and the chance to explore new places daily. It can be an ideal setup for someone looking for a travel-focused, maintenance-free lifestyle.

This lifestyle is not for us. As mentioned in post Part 1 two days ago, we love the novelty of cruising. But doing so permanently would diminish the uniqueness of cruising and eventually become mundane.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, September 29, 2014:

A flower we spotted on our rainy walk to the grocery store in Vancouver. For more photos, please click here.

Unusual event on Delta flight…Nothing surprises us…

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View of downtown Vancouver, British Columbia, in 2014.

Numerous media accounts have provided information about events occurring on various flights by many airlines. We ask, “What’s going on?”

Is all this news due to increased reporting of any situation that can be sensationalized, or are the airlines being less diligent in ensuring safe flights for travelers? Are careless inspections being performed by disgruntled employees, or are checks and balances ignored in certain situations?

We don’t know the answers to these questions, but we don’t perceive flying as safe as it may have been a few years ago. The average flyer can do nothing to eliminate such concerns as they continue to flood the press. Today’s story is a perfect example of such an event. Why was this allowed to happen?

“FAA investigating after Delta passengers report bleeding ears and noses (from this site)

SALT LAKE CITY —

The Federal Aviation Administration is investigating after a Delta Air Lines flight leaving Salt Lake City last weekend developed cabin pressure issues and left some passengers with bleeding eardrums, headaches, and bloody noses.

The flight was traveling Sunday from Salt Lake City to Portland, Oregon, when the five-year-old Boeing 737-900ER aircraft’s pilots noticed a pressurization problem and made an emergency landing back in Utah’s capital, according to the flight log.

Passengers told KSL they noticed people bleeding as the plane decreased in elevation over the Great Salt Lake. Passenger Caryn Allen said the pilots announced they were returning to the airport but did not explain why. Oxygen masks did not deploy.

Allen described watching her husband cover his ears in pain while other passengers tried to help a man on the other side of the aisle who had an uncontrollable bloody nose.

Another passenger, Jaci Purser, told KSL it felt like someone was stabbing her inner ear.

“I grabbed my ear, and I pulled my hand back, and there was blood on it,” she said.

Paramedics met passengers at the gate and identified at least ten people out of the 140 on the flight who required medical attention. They recommended that anyone who was bleeding go to the hospital for further evaluation, and Delta offered to cover those transportation costs, the airline said.

“We sincerely apologize to our customers for their experience on flight 1203 on Sept. 15,” Delta said in a statement. “The flight crew followed procedures to return to SLC where our teams on the ground supported our customers with their immediate needs.”

Delta said the plane was taken out of service Sunday and returned to service Monday after technicians resolved an issue that prevented it from pressurizing above 10,000 feet.

The Boeing aircraft involved in Sunday’s emergency landing is not part of the manufacturer’s newer MAX fleet, which was investigated this year after a door plug blew off during a Jan. 5 Alaska Airlines flight while the plane was at 16,000 feet over Oregon.

However, in late January, the FAA recommended more thorough inspections of other Boeing aircraft, including the 737-900ER involved in the incident over Salt Lake City, because it shares the same door plug design as the MAX jets.”

This obviously resulted from human error, which seems to have caused many such flight events. Notice the above statement in bold: “Delta offered to cover those transportation costs, the airline said.”

What about the cost of medical bills incurred for those who sought medical assistance? What about the potential loss for those who had connecting flights or other forms of awaiting transportation?

To enjoy world travel, one must fly. In a perfect world, one could cruise from location to location, as we attempted during the first year of our travels. It was often more cost-effective and certainly more enjoyable than flying. Unfortunately, it’s not always possible, although we continue to search for cruises to get us to our following preferred location.

That’s it for today, folks.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, September 19, 2014:

My breakfast was served in the restaurant of the membership hotel, Club Intrawest, Vancouver, British Columbia, where we waited for a cruise. For more photos, please click here.

Part 1…Pros and cons of retiring on a cruise ship…

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Could you retire on a cruise ship?

Over our years of world travel, we’ve been asked countless times if we’d ever consider living full-time on a cruise ship. In each case, we’ve always said “no.” The novelty and excitement of cruising would soon diminish due to the cons, as listed below, when, over time, it became less and less of a novelty.

We don’t have a problem living in a small space, so that wouldn’t be an issue, as we’ve proven to ourselves repeatedly staying in hotels long-term, as we have most recently as we’ve faced my medical issues.

However, living on a cruise ship as a long-term lifestyle choice has unique advantages and challenges. Here’s a look at some of the main pros and cons:

Pros

  1. All-Inclusive Lifestyle:
    Many cruise packages include accommodation, meals, and entertainment. This makes budgeting easier since many living expenses are bundled into one price. You won’t have to worry about utility bills, grocery shopping, or routine house maintenance.
  2. Travel Without Packing:
    One of the biggest perks of living on a cruise ship is the ability to travel the world without the hassle of constantly packing and unpacking. Your room becomes your home base as you explore different destinations.
  3. Access to Unique Destinations:
    Cruise ships visit ports that might be difficult or expensive to access otherwise. You can wake up one morning in the Caribbean and the next in a European city, all while maintaining a consistent place to sleep and eat.
  4. Built-In Social Life:
    Living on a cruise ship means being surrounded by other passengers and crew, creating an environment ripe for social interaction. With communal dining areas, events, and activities, there’s always the potential to meet new people worldwide.
  5. Entertainment and Amenities:
    Cruise ships have various amenities like pools, gyms, theaters, and spas. There are also frequent shows, live music, classes, and other activities, so boredom is rarely an issue.
  6. No Need to Cook or Clean:
    With restaurants on board and staff to take care of your room, your daily chores are significantly reduced. This frees up time to relax or engage in other activities.
  7. Health Services on Board:
    Most ships have medical services available, so there’s some peace of mind in knowing healthcare is just steps away, especially for those with chronic health concerns.

Cons

  1. Limited Space:
    Cabins on cruise ships are often small compared to typical apartments or homes. Living in tight quarters can feel cramped, and lacking personal space can become challenging over time, primarily if you’re used to a larger living area.
  2. Limited Internet and Connectivity:
    While most ships offer Wi-Fi, it’s often slow and expensive. This can be frustrating if you need reliable internet for work or staying in touch with loved ones.
  3. Constant Movement:
    There’s a slight sense of movement even on the most stable ships. This can lead to seasickness or discomfort for some, particularly during rough seas.
  4. Lack of Personalization:
    Cruise ship cabins are standardized, unlike a home or apartment where you can personalize your space. You might miss the ability to create a space that feels like yours.
  5. Long-Term Friendships and Connections:
    While meeting people is easy, cruise passengers are often transient, and the crew has strict work schedules. Maintaining long-term relationships or forming deeper connections can be challenging, especially if people are only on board for a week or two.
  6. Health and Wellness Concerns:
    Although ships have medical services, if a severe health issue arises, getting advanced care could require being airlifted or evacuated to the nearest port. Living in a somewhat enclosed environment can increase the risk of spreading infectious diseases quickly, as seen during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  7. Missing Life on Land:
    While traveling by ship can be exciting, it may also lead to feelings of disconnection from the routine pleasures of life on land—like access to familiar places, walking to a favorite café, or attending events in a community you’re invested in.
  8. Cost:
    While cruising offers an all-inclusive lifestyle, the cost can vary depending on the ship and route. Luxury cruises, in particular, can be expensive, and not all extras (like premium dining, excursions, or specific activities) are included in the base price.

Living on a cruise ship can be a dream for those who crave constant travel, minimal responsibility, and adventure. However, it’s also a confined, somewhat isolating lifestyle that may require certain sacrifices and adjustments to feel at home. It’s a unique experience that works beautifully for some but might not be sustainable for everyone.

In tomorrow’s post, Part 2, we’ll share the varying costs of retiring on a cruise ship.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, September 18, 2014:

While awaiting a cruise to Hawaii, we stayed in Vancouver, British Columbia, for a few days. This was the view from our beautiful condo in downtown Vancouver. For more photos, please click here.

Beware entry fees to various countries…Research before traveling….Here’s a list…

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We posted this photo ten years ago today and perhaps a time or two since then. But whenever I reencounter it, I feel compelled to post it again. My father, George, was a fine man. He’ll remain in our hearts forever. For the tragic story of his loss, please click here.

Here’s an interesting article from Travel and Leisure Magazine with important information for world travelers from this site:

“Here’s When the UK Will Implement Its Entry Fee for U.S. Travelers

The electronic travel authorization (ETA) fee will be implemented next year. By  Alison Fox

Next year, travelers heading to the United Kingdom will have to pay a fee to enter as the country prepares to implement its long-anticipated electronic travel authorization (ETA) fee.

According to the UK government, the ETA will go into effect for visitors from most countries, including the United States, on Jan. 8, 2025. Eligible non-European travelers can apply for the authorization starting Nov. 27. Once secured, the ETA will be digitally linked to a traveler’s passport. The authorization will cost £10 ($13.05) and be valid for multiple trips over two years (or until the traveler’s passport expires) for stays of up to 6 months at a time.

“The worldwide expansion of the ETA demonstrates our commitment to enhancing security through new technology and embedding a modern immigration system,” Seema Malhotra, the UK’s minister for migration and citizenship, said in a statement.

The UK introduced the ETA last year, rolling out the new system for visitors from several Gulf countries, including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. Travelers from those countries can apply using the UK ETA app or online. Each traveler must have their own ETA, including children of any age. Applicants should typically expect a response within at least three business days.

In addition to the U.S., the UK will expand the ETA to dozens of other countries and territories on Jan. 8, including Canada, Australia, Japan, Mexico, and more. Then, on April 2, 2025, the ETA will be extended to travelers from other European countries. The decision to roll out an online ETA is part of the U.K.’s effort to fully digitize its borders by 2025.

Beyond the UK, Europe plans to implement a similar pre-authorization system next year called the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). The travel authorization fee is expected to go into effect before mid-2025. It will cost €7 ($7.71) and require travelers from visa-exempt countries, including the U.S., to enter 30 different European countries.

Several countries require travelers to pay a fee or obtain a visa before entering. These fees may include visas, tourist cards, entry taxes, or environmental fees. Here’s a breakdown of some common examples:

1. United States (ESTA/EVUS)

  • Citizens from certain countries under the Visa Waiver Program must pay a fee for the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).
  • Chinese nationals are required to enroll in the EVUS (Electronic Visa Update System), which also carries a fee.

2. Australia (ETA)

  • Travelers from many countries must obtain an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or eVisitor visa, which involves a processing fee.

3. Mexico (Tourist Card – FMM)

  • Mexico requires tourists to fill out a Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM) and pay a fee unless visiting border regions for a limited time.

4. New Zealand (NZeTA)

  • Some visitors must apply for a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) and pay an associated fee, along with an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL).

5. Bhutan (Daily Tourist Fee)

  • Bhutan has a unique policy of requiring travelers to pay a daily fee, which includes accommodation, meals, and a guide. The fee supports sustainable tourism.

6. Argentina (Reciprocity Fee)

  • Argentina used to charge a reciprocity fee for citizens of certain countries (like the U.S.), though this has been suspended or eliminated for some nationalities.

7. Chile (Reciprocity Fee)

  • Depending on their nationality, some travelers must pay a reciprocity fee before entering Chile.

8. Turkey (eVisa)

  • Many tourists must apply for an eVisa and pay the associated fee before traveling to Turkey.

9. Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam (Visa on Arrival)

  • These countries offer a visa on arrival, but travelers must pay a fee at the border or airport.

10. Indonesia (Bali) (Visa on Arrival)

  • Indonesia, specifically Bali, requires a visa-on-arrival fee for many nationalities.

11. The Maldives (Green Tax)

  • The Maldives charges a Green Tax to tourists, usually included in accommodation costs.

12. Thailand (Tourism Fee)

  • Thailand plans to implement a tourism fee for travelers in the future, which would cover insurance and contribute to tourism development.

13. Madagascar (Visa Fee)

  • Visitors to Madagascar must obtain a visa on arrival, which includes a fee.

14. Sri Lanka (ETA)

  • Sri Lanka requires an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), which is charged, even for short-term visits.

15. Jordan (Jordan Pass)

  • Travelers can buy a Jordan Pass, which covers the visa fee and entry to major tourist sites, making it a good deal for longer stays.

These fees and requirements are constantly changing, so it’s always wise to check the latest regulations from the embassy or consulate of your destination before traveling. Many of these fees are meant to support tourism infrastructure and environmental protection or are reciprocal arrangements based on the travel policies of other countries.

This list is changing rapidly. It is imperative to check the requirements of each country you plan to visit well in advance since some visas may take weeks to obtain once the application process begins.

Photo from ten years ago today, September 17, 2014:

While in Boston ten years ago, we visited the cemetery where many of my family members were buried. Here is a photo of the family; my father is on the left, his brother Red and sister Ida, and their mother, my dear grandmother Ethyl. Uncle Bernie was yet to be born. For more photos, please click here.

Back to the clinic today…More testing…Minnesota Vikings didn’t disappoint…

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We spotted interesting artwork in Iceland on a tour off the ship. I can’t recall where this was.

In 90 minutes, we’ll depart the hotel and head back to Cleveland Clinic, where I will be fitted with a Holter monitor. What is a Holter monitor?

“A Holter monitor is a portable device that records your heart’s electrical activity over a period of time, usually 24 to 48 hours. It’s used to help diagnose irregular heartbeats, arrhythmias, and other heart-related conditions.”

The electrophysiologist, Dr. Keogh, a cardiologist with additional training in the heart’s electrical systems, will read the results for my next appointment with him on September 27. His goal was to determine if the new medication I was taking is working since they took a baseline while I was in the hospital for three days.

The doctors I saw while in the hospital recommended I purchase a KardiaMobile to perform a six-lead EKG at any time to determine how I am doing. I can send him the results when I see a problem in the future to make any necessary medication adjustments.

I purchased the device from Amazon for $129, which the FDA has approved for accuracy. However, I need to call the company since, for some reason, it’s challenging to get a reading, although I’ve diligently followed all of the instructions to a “t.”

I will wear the Holter monitor for only 48 hours and return it to the clinic at the end of that time so the doctor can read the results in preparation for my upcoming appointment.

On another note, yesterday afternoon, we watched the Minnesota Vikings play the San Francisco 49ers using Tom’s app DAZN, formerly NFL Game Pass. Recently, we’ve had some issues getting the app to work, which requires a VPN, making it appear as if we are outside the US. The app doesn’t work while in the US.

As mentioned earlier, we use Express VPN not only for this app but also for added security when using “open” Wi-Fi, such as those provided by many hotels. We can choose the country we’re selecting while using the app. When it wasn’t working recently, we contacted Express VPN, and they explained that many of their customers were having problems streaming using the app to stream DAZN.

After spending considerable time trying to get DAZN to work, we finally figured it out, and once again, we could watch the US football games. Of course, Tom was especially thrilled when Minnesota won its second regular season game. I watch with him, but I have been a fan since we began traveling and using this app. Tom has been a fan his entire life.

When the game ended, we cooked dinner, a big pan of a keto dish, Mushroom Hamburger Scramble, another favorite of Tom’s, which we’d prepared in the morning. All we had to do was pop into the oven for 40 minutes and enjoy it with a fresh batch of coleslaw I made in the morning.

We enjoyed dinner and then settled in for the evening, streaming a few shows on Hulu. Now, it’s time to get ready to return to the clinic. Although I walk daily now, I am not quite prepared for the long walk at the clinic, so we’ll use the wheelchair. Hopefully, next time, we won’t need to.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, September 16, 2014:

This generous gift was sent to our hotel room in Boston by the management of Four Points by Sheraton Norwood. For more, please click here.

Does world travel only include the Earth?…Times and travel are ever-changing…

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SpaceX An astronaut waves at the crowd. She's smiling broadly and wearing her white-and-grey spacesuit and is standing infront of the Dragon capsule.
The SpaceX crew spent five days in space and participated in the first commercial spacewalk. Photo from BBC.

We often think of world travel as only including travel on Earth. But times and technology are rapidly changing. Although many of us won’t be around to experience space travel, perhaps young children and our grandchildren will experience far-reaching adventures into space in decades.

Space travel for the average person is becoming more of a reality, but it’s still in its early stages. Companies like SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Virgin Galactic are leading the charge with private space flights, mainly for the ultra-wealthy. For instance, Virgin Galactic’s commercial suborbital flights started in 2023, offering passengers a brief trip to the edge of space for around $450,000 per seat.

However, costs are expected to come down over time, just as air travel did in its early days. Experts believe that within 10 to 20 years, space tourism could become much more accessible. Advances in reusable rockets, competition among companies, and technological innovations will likely help lower prices. As that happens, we might see more “average” people going to space, perhaps first for short trips and later for longer journeys.

Another aspect that could influence space travel’s accessibility is the development of space hotels and moon bases. These will need to be built, staffed, and maintained, which could create more opportunities for people to live and work in space. But all this depends on continued investment, public interest, and technological breakthroughs in safety, sustainability, and cost reduction.

Would you be interested in taking a trip to space when it becomes more affordable?

“SpaceX crew returns to Earth after historic mission

Ruth Comerford BBC News

From this site:

SpaceX’s Polaris Dawn crew has returned to Earth after five days in orbit, following a landmark mission featuring the world’s first commercial spacewalk. The Dragon capsule splashed down off the coast of Florida shortly after 03:37 local time (07:37 GMT) in an event stream live by SpaceX.

“Splashdown of Dragon confirmed! Welcome back to Earth,” SpaceX said on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter.

The US space agency Nasa said the mission represented “a giant leap forward” for the commercial space industry. After re-entering Earth’s atmosphere, the spacecraft reached temperatures of 1,900C (3,500 degrees Fahrenheit), caused by the intense pressure and friction of pushing through the air at around 7,000mph (27,000kph).

The four-member civilian team, bankrolled and led by billionaire Jared Isaacman, traveled further into space than any humans for over fifty years. Scott Poteet, a retired US Air Force pilot, and SpaceX employees Sarah Gillis and Anna Menon were also on the crew. Mr. Isaacman and Ms. Gillis are the first non-professional crew to perform a spacewalk, a risky maneuver that involves depressurizing the crew compartment and exiting the spacecraft.

Before this flight, only astronauts from government-funded space agencies had attempted the feat. Speaking to mission control in Hawthorne, California, during the spacewalk, Isaacman said, “Back at home, we all have a lot of work to do, but from here, it looks like a perfect world.” As Dragon doesn’t have an airlock, the crew was exposed to a space vacuum during the spacewalk.

This spacewalk, higher than any previously attempted, was made possible by innovative astronaut suits fitted with new technology. During the five days, the crew conducted more than 40 experiments, including investigations into the impact of space missions on human health and testing inter-satellite laser communication between the Dragon Spacecraft and Space X’s Starlink satellite.

Gillis, a trained violinist, brought her instrument and performed “Rey’s Theme” from “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” alongside orchestras on Earth. Her rendition was sent back to Earth using SpaceX’s Starlink to test the satellite network’s potential to provide in-space connectivity. The video was created in partnership with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, which the Polaris Program was fundraising for throughout the mission.

The crew spent five days in orbit inside the Dragon spacecraft Resilience, launched early Tuesday morning from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The mission made history by reaching a maximum altitude of 1,400km (870 miles), higher than any human flight since the final Apollo Mission i972. Polaris Dawn is the first of three planned Polaris missions, a collaboration between Mr Isaacman and SpaceX.

This includes the first manned flight of the new SpaceX rocket Starship, which is still under development.”

If space travel were feasible for me, would I be interested? Yes! I’d love such an experience! Tom, not so much. But realistically, this is not a possibility. But I can dream, can’t I? Isn’t that what travel is all about, anyway? Fulfilling a dream, and we have lots of dreams yet to fulfill in the future.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, September 15, 2014:

It’s late in the season for blooms like this in Boston, but I couldn’t resist taking a photo. For more photos, please click here.

Time flies, even when its not as fun as we’d prefer..

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We stopped to take a photo of a pretty flower.

Time seems to fly as we age because of the way our brains perceive time. Everything is new and unfamiliar when we’re young, so our brains process these experiences with intense focus, creating many vivid memories. Each day feels longer because we’re constantly learning and noticing details.

But as we age, life becomes more routine, and our brains don’t have to work as hard to process familiar events. This creates fewer “new” memories, making time seem to speed up.

There’s also the relative perspective. When you’re 10, a year is 10% of your life. But by the time you’re 50, a year is just 2%. As a result, each passing year feels proportionally shorter compared to the ones before.

Emotionally, it’s also tied to how we approach life. Many people reflect on missed opportunities or unfinished goals as they age, which can amplify the sensation that time is slipping away. The more we focus on the rapid passage of time, the faster it seems to move, leading to that bittersweet feeling of time flying when we’re older.

Yes! “Time flies when you’re having fun” taps into how our brains handle enjoyment and focus. When deeply engaged in something that brings us joy, we enter a ” flow state.” In this state, we’re fully immersed in the present moment, losing track of external factors…like time.

Our brains aren’t constantly clock-watching or overanalyzing; instead, they’re soaking in the experience, and before we know it, hours have passed.

It’s almost like when we’re having fun; time slips into the background because we’re more focused on the joy and connection we’re feeling. The irony is that the more we wish to hold onto those moments, the faster they seem to slip through our fingers. It’s as if fun compresses time, making it feel fleeting.

This sense of time speeding up during fun is a reminder to embrace the present fully—while it lasts!

We can’t waste time worrying about how much time we have left, nor can we become obsessed with always having fun. Life’s reality dictates that sometimes it’s challenging and far removed from our preferred reality. However, having “downtime” is crucial to embracing those special times when we engage in joyful and playful activities.

As we also know, during downtimes, we can fall into the trap of believing this is our permanent state of being. God, Life, or whatever spiritual means you surround yourself with (or not) usually provides us with the choice to make the best of every situation. However difficult it may seem, our state of mind determines the quality of our lives, regardless of the challenges. As world travelers, we are temporarily in another type of lockdown preventing us from exploring the world at this time to find even snippets of pleasure and purpose in our currently mundane state of being.

Thank you for sharing this time with us.

Be well.\

Photo from ten years ago today, September 15, 2014:

Buildings at the busy port of Boston. For more photos, please click here.

Hopeful…

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The dancers’ costumes on Royal Caribbean’s Brilliance of the Seas were elaborate for the upcoming evening’s entertainment.

This morning, for the first time in almost two months, I walked to the end of the corridor and back without getting out of breath. My legs, from lack of mobility and residual effects from the toxic drug I was taking for almost a year, are unsteady and fragile. Since today is the day I have been cleared to start walking after last Friday’s angiogram, as soon as we returned to our room after breakfast, I got up from the wheelchair and embarked on the walk.

After months of limited mobility, my legs felt weak, but this time, it was not painful, as had been the case on that drug that caused me life-threatening side effects. Little did I know, regardless of how much research I did. It was the insight of the highly trained and experienced doctors at the Cleveland Clinic that determined the reason for my breathing issues and inability to walk was caused by the drug, more so than the condition of my cardiovascular disease.

After last Friday’s angiogram, which indicated I have ongoing cardiovascular disease with one artery that is 100% blocked and not fixable. However, surgery is not indicated at this time. As for the Afib and the PVCs, it’s entirely under control with the new drug, a drug that costs over $800 a month. (As soon as I get the OK from the doctor to continue the drug, I will order it from the Canadian pharmacy for a considerably lower price).

What are PVCs? See below as described by the Cleveland Clinic at this site:

“Overview
Ventricular arrhythmias are abnormal heart rhythms that originate in the bottom chambers of the heart, called the ventricles. They can occur as a result of damage to the heart muscle from a heart attack or cardiomyopathy or in patients with hearts that seem structurally normal.

Premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) are premature beats originating in the lower chambers that may be bothersome to patients, causing symptoms such as palpitations or shortness of breath. Over time, frequent PVCs can, in some patients, cause changes in heart function.

Ventricular Tachycardia – a sustained pattern of premature ventricular contractions, which can be life-threatening.
Ventricular Fibrillation – a fast, disorganized beating of the ventricles, which quickly leads to sudden death.”

If this drug continues to control my heart rhythm, even considering its high risks, I prefer to take those risks rather than live a life limited by feeling unwell from abnormal heart rhythms.

If the doctor gives me a “good to go” confirmation on my upcoming appointment on September 27, we will excitedly and quickly plan to continue our travels. We have some ideas on what we’d like to do between October and March or April before we return to South Africa. We will share those ideas once we know more.

No, my heart health journey isn’t over. I am going to have to live with the realities of heart disease. But, many people go on to live rich and fulfilling lives with conditions such as mine. At this point, at 76 years of age, I strive for” quality of life” for whatever time I have left to explore this world with the man who’s lovingly been at my side all along.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, September 13, 2014:

Tom is caught off guard while chatting with another passenger on a cruise. We can’t wait to be cruising once again. For more photos, please click here.

Its all about an apple…

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The Honeycrisp apple was created at the University of Minnesota Arboretum.

As mentioned in a post in 2012, I started eating a low-carb, grain-free, sugar-free, and starch-free diet in 2011 to reduce inflammation. Ironically, I followed a copy of the diet from researchers at Cleveland Clinic that I received from an integrative medicine doctor. Inflammation is a huge factor in diabetes, heart disease, and countless other medical conditions.

However, the damage to my arteries was already done from years of eating a high-carb, low-fat diet. There was nothing I could do to reverse it. But, perhaps I could slow down the progression. My blood sugar was high then, and insulin injections were the next step. Diabetes and heart disease were the cause of death of many of the family members on my mother’s side of the family. If I reduced my blood sugar, I felt I could live longer. I am now the matriarch of the family.

When I started this diet, I tried eating various fruits to see which raised my blood sugar, testing my blood with a test kit. In our old lives, every day before I changed my diet, I ate one Honeycrisp apple, my favorite fruit. When I ate the apple on an empty stomach, my blood sugar rose as much as if I’d eaten a candy bar.

When I discovered this, I called the University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum across the lake from us to see if I could speak to Jim Luby, the scientist mentioned below, who developed the apple, about how much sugar is in one Honeycrisp apple. He was delighted to share the information with me.

A few hours after we talked, he called me back, explaining that one Honeycrisp apple contained the equivalent of 9 teaspoons of sugar. I was shocked it was this much. Looking online, I discovered that a single can of Coke contains 9.75 teaspoons of sugar.

Some people can eat fruit without colossal blood sugar spikes since the fiber may offset some of the response to the sugar, but I am not one of those people. Thus, my story today is about the Honeycrisp apple, which I dearly miss, having stopped eating it 13 years ago. My way of eating prevents me from needing diabetic medication.

When Tom stumbled across the following article on one of his Minnesota history sites, he sent it to me, prompting today’s story. In any case, if you can eat apples freely, these have always been my favorite. Before we left Minnesota, it cost $1 per apple at Cub Foods. I treated myself to one Honeycrisp apple daily as a midday snack each week. My mouth waters when I think of it. No wonder…sugar tastes good.

From Kare11 News in Minneapolis, here’s the article:

“Local News

The man behind the iconic Honeycrisp apple retires, passing the torch to a former student.

Jim Luby retired this summer after a 40-plus-year career in fruit breeding at the University of Minnesota Horticultural Research Center.

VICTORIA, Minn. — The man behind Minnesota’s favorite apple has decided to call it a career.

This summer, Jim Luby retired after a 40-plus-year career in apple breeding at the University of Minnesota’s Horticultural Research Center. During his career, Luby and his team created some of the tastiest apples in the country, including SweeTango, Zestar!, and their biggest success, Honeycrisp.

Luby is now passing the torch to a new generation of apple breeders led by one of his former students.

“It’s a little overwhelming,” Matt Clark said. “It’s a lot to take in.”

Clark enrolled in the master’s program at the University of Minnesota’s Applied Plant Science program in 2009. He received his degree a year later and started working on his PhD. That’s when he developed a strong appreciation for apple breeding.

“I did my PhD in the fruit-breeding lab. I studied, actually, Honeycrisp. I had an opportunity to take a deep dive into why Honeycrisp has this special gene and to be part of the legacy of Honeycrisp in Minnesota,” Clark said.

After graduation, Clark joined the department as an associate professor in their grape-breeding department to develop new wine grapes that can survive in Minnesota winters. In late 2023, Clark was asked if he would be willing to transition to Apple and take over for his former professor.

“Jim is an exceptional scientist and a wonderful person, and there are some big shoes to fill,” Clark said.

Yes, some big shoes indeed, but also an iconic apple to live up to.

“Honeycrisp was our gem. It still is, and we use it a lot in breeding, and what we’ve realized is our competition is too, because of that excellent quality, the crispiness. So, we have to step up our game to compete with everybody using Honeycrisp as a parent,” Clark said.

Clark said almost every apple they’re developing is somehow connected to Honeycrisp.

“Honeycrisp was either the grandparent, maybe even great-grandparent, or maybe even the parent to many of the apples we work with,” Clark said.

Every year, the research team plants hundreds of seeds, each slightly different. If the seed grows into a tree that can survive a Minnesota winter, the apples return to the taste test.

“It can’t taste bad, it can’t be bitter or astringent, but it might be a little tart, might be a little sweet, might have some interesting flavors, but if it’s not crisp and juicy like Honeycrisp or SweeTango, there’s no way it’s going to end up in our cooler,” Clark said.

The apples that show enough qualities to earn a spot in their cooler are then tested to see how long they can survive on the shelf.

“If they can only survive for a month and a half, then we kick them out,” Clark explained.

Very few apples meet their strict quality, taste, and shelf-life standards.

Clark said the research team usually tests out more than 10,000 combinations before finding one new variety that is good enough to release to the public.

“Apple breeding is a long-term investment,” he said. “20-ish years to develop a new variety.”

Clark said the next great apple may grow in their orchard, but he understands that discoveries take time.

“I’m not looking to retire any time soon, but if I’m here in 25 years, at the end of my career, we’re hoping to have more success stories on which we can look back.”

We are all different, and our bodies respond in various ways to foods and environmental influences. May we all strive to achieve the best possible health outcomes through good choices suitable for our personal makeup and health considerations.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, September 12, 2014:

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The indoor pool on Royal Caribbean’s Brilliance of the Seas. For more photos, please click here.

How the 9/11 attacks impacted travel in the past 23 years…

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Photo by Thomas E. Franklin/The Bergen Record/AP. Firefighters George Johnson, Dan McWilliams, and Billy Eisengrein raise an American flag at the site of the World Trade Center on September 11. Some have compared it to the iconic flag-raising at Iwo Jima, and the photo was later used as a postage stamp.

Travelers like ourselves have been significantly impacted by strict regulations at every port of entry, including more comprehensive scrutiny of checked baggage and carry-on bags. Travelers’ comments could be construed as potential indications of intent to commit a terrorist attack.

Visa restrictions made travel to certain countries time-consuming and cumbersome. Visa extensions have been challenging to obtain.

The 9/11 attacks fundamentally transformed the experience of traveling, especially air travel, in the United States and around the world. The changes were immediate and far-reaching, from tightening security measures to the psychological effects on travelers. Here’s a closer look at how 9/11 impacted travelers:

1. Tightened Airport Security

  • Creation of the TSA (Transportation Security Administration): Before 9/11, airport security was relatively relaxed. After the attacks, the TSA was established to oversee airport security, implementing stricter procedures that dramatically changed the airport experience. Travelers now had to pass through metal detectors, remove shoes, jackets, belts, and laptops, and subject their belongings to more rigorous scanning.
  • Liquid Restrictions: In 2006, further restrictions were added after a foiled plot involving liquid explosives. Travelers were limited to carrying liquids in containers of 3.4 ounces or less, all of which had to fit into a quart-sized bag. This became a routine part of air travel packing.
  • More Thorough Screening Processes: Random additional screenings, full-body scanners, and pat-downs became commonplace. Many travelers found the process more invasive, and some felt anxiety about the potential for racial profiling or being singled out for additional checks.
  • Changes in Identification Requirements: Travelers must present government-issued identification to board flights. This increased security surrounding personal information led to longer lines at security checkpoints.

2. Flight Experience and Changes in Airplane Policies

  • Restricted Cabin Access: One of the most notable in-flight changes was the introduction of locked cockpit doors. Before 9/11, it wasn’t uncommon for passengers to see the cockpit or for pilots to leave the door open during a flight. After the attacks, airlines reinforced doors to prevent access to the cockpit, ensuring only authorized personnel could enter.
  • In-Flight Protocol: Flight attendants and crew members became more vigilant in identifying potential threats. Passengers were also encouraged to report any suspicious behavior. The sense of camaraderie among passengers shifted, as many felt a new level of responsibility in ensuring the safety of their fellow travelers.

3. Psychological Impact on Travelers

  • Fear of Flying: In the months and years following the attacks, many people developed a fear of flying. Anxiety about potential hijackings or terrorist attacks made air travel more stressful. Some people opted for alternative means of travel, such as driving or taking trains, while others avoided travel altogether.
  • Heightened Awareness: Even frequent travelers became more hyper-aware of their surroundings at airports and on planes. The once-carefree attitude of going through an airport was replaced with a constant sense of vigilance. Over time, this created a new kind of travel culture where security was always on our minds.
  • Impact on Muslim and Middle Eastern Travelers: Unfortunately, Muslim travelers, as well as individuals perceived to be of Middle Eastern descent, faced an increase in racial profiling and discrimination at airports. Many were subjected to additional screenings and questioned more often, which added stress and frustration to the travel experience. Some even reported avoiding air travel due to the fear of being singled out.

4. Changes in International Travel

  • Stricter Visa Requirements: The U.S. government imposed more stringent visa requirements for people traveling to the United States, especially from certain countries. Many countries followed suit, tightening their own immigration and entry policies. The introduction of biometric passports, increased background checks, and the requirement for more detailed travel histories became standard.
  • Heightened Border Security: Security measures at international borders were also reinforced. Passing through customs and immigration became lengthier, with more in-depth questioning and screenings for travelers entering or leaving the U.S.

5. Economic Impact on the Travel Industry

  • Airline Industry Losses: In the aftermath of 9/11, airlines suffered massive financial losses. Thousands of flights were grounded, and the entire airspace was closed for several days. The reduced demand for air travel led to layoffs in the airline industry and contributed to the bankruptcy of several major airlines over the years. Many smaller travel agencies also struggled to recover from the downturn.
  • Rise in Airfares and Travel Costs: As security and insurance costs increased, airlines began raising ticket prices to cover the added expenses. Fees for checked baggage, in-flight meals, and other services became more common, making travel more expensive.
  • Decrease in Leisure Travel: Many travelers, especially those for leisure, hesitated to fly in the months following the attacks. Fear of future incidents and the hassle of going through enhanced security discouraged some from traveling unless necessary. The travel industry had to work hard to regain public confidence.

6. Adaptation and Resilience

  • Return to Travel: Over time, people began to adjust to the “new normal” of air travel. Though the changes were significant, most travelers gradually accepted the heightened security as a necessary part of flying. By the mid-2000s, travel volumes primarily recovered, although the experience had permanently shifted.
  • Focus on Preparedness: For some travelers, the changes brought a heightened sense of preparedness. Many became more aware of emergency procedures, paid more attention during safety briefings, and learned to navigate airport security efficiently. Some even carried emergency supplies or developed mental strategies to cope with anxiety.

While the overall experience of traveling, especially by air, became more stressful and time-consuming, 9/11 also introduced a new sense of unity and responsibility among travelers. The shared experience of heightened security brought people closer, and many found ways to navigate the challenges with resilience and understanding.

We continue to pray for our country’s and its citizens’ safety in challenging times.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, September 11, 2014:

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On this date, Tom and I enjoyed dinner at Giovanni’s specialty restaurant, where we ate a fabulous meal aboard Royal Caribbean Brilliance of the Seas. For more photos, please click here.