We’re back…Why didn’t we post?…

Most cruise ship passengers easily fall into a lounging mode, but we are always busy and rarely take a nap or lounge.

It’s been a rare occasion that I didn’t prepare a post unless it was a travel or tour day. When we first started posting, we only posted about three times a week, especially before officially beginning our travels on  October 31, 2012. But after the first year passed in a blur of delightful activity, we decided to write daily to stay on top of things, with many events, photos, and stories to share.

This past nine months, after my heart problems escalated in Ecuador in October 2023, we’ve been in the US since December 2023, figuring out our next move and eventually awaiting appointments at Cleveland Clinic, assuming I’d need open heart surgery. Three different cardiologists in three different countries misdiagnosed me with severe valve regurgitation requiring imminent surgery.

Once we arrived at Cleveland Clinic, after many months of waiting for appointments with one of the top valve surgeons in the world, it took no time at all to determine, after a comprehensive echocardiogram and numerous tests, that the problem with my heart wasn’t my valves. My heart’s plumbing (arteries) and electrical system (signals in the heart) have been causing the almost constant irregular heart rhythm.

It’s not a simple fix. I’ve already tried five drugs to control the situation while awaiting a more long-term plan, all of which have caused me unbearable side effects, most of which center around difficulty breathing and inability to walk.

This more recent drug, Multag, which I’ve been on for three weeks and was started while I spent three days in the hospital earlier in the month, has me “down for the count,” so they say. I can barely breathe, off and on, but especially when I move around, I can no longer make the bed, walk the corridors, and have difficulty typing when my arms are weak, and it takes everything I have to type.

This is the worst response I have had from any of the five drugs, and it worsens daily instead of diminishing as many side effects may do over time. It’s even worse than the last drug, Flecainide, which I’d be taking for many months. This drug, Multaq, causes my hands to shake and my arms to be painful and weak, making it challenging to type, cut vegetables, get dressed, let alone walk across the room.

I left a message for the doctor about these symptoms, but he left a message in My Chart to stay on this drug until my appointment tomorrow morning when we come up with an alternate plan. Without any such drug, my blood pressure spikes to a dangerous level, requiring a hospital stay, two of which I’ve had in the past two months.

Excuse me for reiterating this scenario once again. Many of our readers have written to ask for more details on how I’m doing. We greatly appreciate your concerns. However, it made more sense to write the response here rather than reply to each of your many queries individually. Thank you so much for your concern.

How is this impacting our state of mind? Based on the fact these symptoms are drug-induced, we are both very hopeful that tomorrow’s appointment will provide a comprehensive plan to enable us to continue with our lives. Our hotel here is booked until December 2, so we have plenty of time to implement a manageable strategy.

After all, we’ve only been here one month as of today, and we’d anticipated I’d be recovering from surgery for three months. Thus, if we can leave a month or more earlier than initially planned, it will be a bonus.

To sum this up, I didn’t write yesterday due to the above reasons, but I plan to continue to post, especially when I’m on a more manageable drug with fewer side effects.

Please keep in mind that many people are taking this drug without such horrible side effects and experiencing relief from heart rhythm problems. Please see the following, although I couldn’t find any current stats for usage of this drug:

“According to an FDA review, between July 2009 and October 2011, approximately 278,000 patients in the United States received prescriptions for Multaq (dronedarone) from outpatient retail pharmacies.” 

That’s it for today, folks.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, September 26, 2014:

Tom was happy as a clam on the ship, even in rough seas. For more photos, please click here.

Source of frustration since we arrived at this hotel…

A gorgeous sunset as we sailed from Vancouver to the Hawaiian Islands.

Since settling in at this Cleveland hotel, our frustration about housekeeping has been exacerbated daily. We’ve already reported the issues to a manager, but our concerns have fallen on deaf ears. We don’t want anyone fired from their job—that’s not the point.

Since the pandemic, there have been staff shortages in many businesses throughout the country, if not the world. We fully understand the need for every-other-day housekeeping in hotels with these shortages. That’s fine with us if we get enough towels, toilet paper, and miscellaneous supplies as needed, which isn’t often the case.

The housekeeper on this floor has told us to leave all our trash and dirty towels outside the door daily. We pay over $100 a night for three months and shouldn’t have to haul them outside the door daily. We’ve never heard such a thing.

This morning, I left a message for the general manager to return my call. I just heard back from him. He was shocked to hear that we were told to leave our trash and dirty towels outside the door and for the lack of service we’ve received in the almost month since we arrived at the end of August. He assured me that this is not their policy. I feel confident that he’ll follow through and things will improve.

Since COVID, many travelers have noticed a decline in the quality of hotel housekeeping services, and it’s hard to miss, especially for those who travel frequently, like us. The pandemic created a significant shift in how hotels operate. While some changes were implemented for health and safety reasons, others appear to be cost-saving measures disguised as necessities.

The immediate post-COVID landscape was about protecting guests and staff, with daily housekeeping services suspended in many hotels to minimize contact. At first, it seemed understandable. We were all adjusting to new norms, and fewer face-to-face interactions meant less risk. But as travel restrictions eased, many of us assumed that hotels would revert to their pre-pandemic standards. However, for many places, that hasn’t been the case.

Now, guests often have to request housekeeping services instead of receiving them automatically. Sometimes, this creates a lack of consistency, where rooms aren’t cleaned as thoroughly as they used to be. You might notice dust gathering in corners, bed linens not being refreshed, or bathrooms not being restocked meticulously. It’s not just about cleanliness and how this makes guests feel.

For many travelers, staying in a hotel is about comfort and care. You expect to walk into a clean, well-maintained space that feels like a retreat. When that sense of care is absent, it changes the whole experience. You feel less valued as a guest, almost like the hotel is cutting corners, affecting your emotional connection to the place. Hotels have long been a space of escape, and when that feeling is compromised, it leaves a lasting impression.

Perhaps it’s not only about cost-cutting but also a shift in what hotels prioritize post-pandemic. They may assume that guests have adjusted to these new standards, but for many of us, the inconsistency in housekeeping reflects a broader decline in service quality.

Have you noticed this, too, in your travels? Hopefully, after today’s conversation with the general manager, we’ll see an improvement in the quality of service we expect from a Marriott hotel.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, September 24, 2014:

Ten years ago, no images were posted on this date due to rough seas and poor WiFi.

What’s going on with us?…

Our first meal was in the ship’s dining room shortly after we boarded after we had missed breakfast. It was delightful to be on the ship.

When I realized we hadn’t updated our situation in a week and instead chose to post articles about travel and technology, I knew it was time for an update. In a way, I suppose I was avoiding the topic, especially since we are unsure of what the future holds.

With most testing completed by this Friday, we’ll meet with the electrophysiologist to develop a treatment plan. The new drug I am taking, Multaq, is only working at about 50% but is causing me side effects that significantly impact my quality of life. I am once again having trouble walking, experiencing breathing issues, and having a feeling of general malaise, such as weakness and feeling tired. It’s been almost three weeks since I started the drug, and by now, some of the side effects should have begun to diminish.

Instead, the side effects worsen each day as I struggle to perform even simple tasks. I’ve forced myself to walk three times a day, but before the drug, once I was off the last drug, I could walk five times a day. Now, the shortest distances are a struggle.

The test results came in from the Holter monitor and indicated I have an excess of irregular heartbeats that require further treatment. This drug, Multaq, is not solving the issue. Plan B must be established, which we’ll learn about during Friday’s doctor’s appointment.

Once we know what will transpire, we can consider the options. In any case, we look forward to being able to leave Cleveland sooner than later. But, at this point, we don’t know.

We are doing alright in this hotel room day after day, night after night. It’s certainly not our first time “stuck” in a hotel room. Since this is more like an apartment than a hotel with a separate bedroom, large bathroom, living room, dining area, and fully equipped kitchen, it’s not bad.

Since we don’t have a car, since parking is $60 per day plus the rental car expense, we don’t go anywhere. Also, with my difficulty walking, how I feel, and the need to use the wheelchair, sightseeing isn’t on our radar while in Cleveland. Once a week, we treat ourselves to Grubhub-delivered meals, enough to last for two nights’ dinner.

I prepare meals for the remainder of the week, and Tom happily helps as needed. I try to be independent and not pester him to help me with everything, but he often “beats me to the punch” and jumps in to help. This morning, he did the week’s laundry. When it was dry, we each folded our own items, and now we’re set for another week.

We are by no means feeling low. We talk and laugh and make the best of the situation, as we always do. Hopefully, soon, we’ll know more about the future, which will surely provide both of us with a much-anticipated burst of enthusiasm.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, September 23, 2014:

Vancouver is often a starting point (usually an ending point) for many cruises to Alaska. For more photos, please click here.

Shocking event in the cruise business…Frustration for travelers..

The view from our condo in Vancouver before we sailed to Hawaii.

Traveling is a tricky business. We are subject to changes, cancellations, and longer-than-expected waiting periods, often at our own expense, due to situations entirely beyond our control. The following story popped up today that clearly illustrates one of those frustrations, in this case, for a more extended period than usual.

From this site:

Passengers bought berths on a 3-year cruise. Months later, the ship is still stuck in Belfast.

By  JILL LAWLESS and PETER MORRISON

BELFAST, Northern Ireland (AP) — Lanette Canen and Johan Bodin gave up life on land to become seaborne nomads on a years-long cruise.

Months later, the couple has yet to spend a night at sea. Their ship, the Odyssey, is stuck in Belfast undergoing repair work that has postponed its scheduled May departure for a 3½-year round-the-world voyage.

Bodin said Friday that they have enjoyed their pit stop in the Northern Ireland capital, but “when we’d visited every pub and tried and every fish and chips place and listened to all the places that have Irish music, then we were ready to go elsewhere.”

“We’re ready to set sail, for sure,” added Canen.

Villa Vie Residences’ Odyssey is the latest venture in the tempest-tossed world of continuous cruising.

It allows travelers to buy a cabin and live at sea on a ship circumnavigating the globe. On its maiden voyage, it will visit 425 ports in 147 countries on seven continents. Cabins – billed as “villas” — start at $99,999, plus a monthly fee, for the vessel’s operational life, at least 15 years. Passengers can also sign up for voyage segments lasting weeks or months.

Marketing material, aimed at adventurous retirees and restless digital nomads, touts “the incredible opportunity to own a home on a floating paradise,” complete with a gym, spa, putting green, entertainment facilities, a business center, and an “experiential culinary center.”

But first, the Odyssey has to get out of the dock. It’s now at Belfast’s Harland & Wolff shipyard, where the doomed RMS Titanic was built over a century ago.

Villa Vie Residences’ marketing manager, Sebastian Stokkendal, said the company had been “humbled by the scale of what it takes to reactivate a 30-year-old vessel from a four-year layup.”

He said that the ship was almost ready to depart after work on the rudder shafts, steel work, and engine overhauls.”

Calling itself the first perpetual world cruise, Odyssey has a busy 425-port itinerary across 147 countries through 2028. Its cabins, renamed “villas” by Florida-based Villa Vie Residences, start at $99,999 and run to $899,000, with monthly fees that vary according to the cabin type and number of occupants. Non-resident passengers can also sign up for segments that last weeks or months.

As of today, the Odyssey has yet to set sail. We can only imagine the frustration of the waiting passengers who have upended their lives for this extended journey.

Photo from ten years ago today, September 22, 2014:

A lonely-looking boxer was waiting outside the restaurant for his family, where we dined on our final night in Vancouver. For more photos, please click here.

Warning for all senior citizens (and others) regarding online scams…

Al Bacio Cafe on the cruise ship offered a complimentary slice of delicious-looking cake. Tempting? Yes, but we both resisted.

Yesterday, we watched The Beekeeper, a free movie on Amazon Prime Video starring Jason Stratham. The fight scenes were unrealistic and ridiculous, but the movie’s message was profound about scams perpetrated on seniors and others that wipe out all of their bank accounts, investments, and savings in one fell swoop.

This occurred when a message popped up on the victim’s devices warning that a severe virus had infected them and that they needed to call a specific number to correct this problem. When the perpetrators gained access by the victims providing passwords and access (or even without passwords), the accounts on the device were immediately wiped out to $0.

For this reason, I’d suggest everyone watch this movie. Yes, it’s bloody and gory with Jason Stratham, as is typical for his films, but the message is imperative for each of us to grasp fully. Even if you have to pay a streaming service to watch this movie, it will be money well spent. If you find the movie offensive with its violence, you’ll have seen the most critical part once you get through the first 40 minutes.

Don’t follow the instructions if a similar screen pops up on your PC, laptop, phone, iPad, or other device! Do not click on any of the links or call the phone number on the screen.

If you receive a virus scam message on your device’s screen, the most important thing is not to panic. These messages are designed to scare you into taking hasty actions that could compromise your device. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do:

1. Don’t Click on Anything

Avoid interacting with the message. Don’t click on any links, pop-ups, or buttons, and don’t call any phone numbers listed. These actions can lead to more severe issues like malware downloads or scams.

2. Close the Browser or App

If the message appears in a browser or app, try closing it immediately. If the app or browser is unresponsive, force quit the app. On mobile:

  • For iPhone: Swipe up from the bottom of the screen and hold, then swipe up the app.
  • For Android: Tap the recent apps button and swipe the app away.
  • For PC/Mac: Close the browser using Task Manager or force quit the app.

3. Clear Browser Cache

Sometimes, closing the browser alone doesn’t remove the scam message. Clear the cache to get rid of any remnants:

  • On Chrome (Desktop): Go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Clear Browsing Data.
  • On iPhone/Android: Go to Settings > Apps > Select your browser > Clear Cache.

4. Run a Virus/Malware Scan

Run a scan with trusted antivirus or anti-malware software to make sure your device is not infected:

  • For Mobile: Use trusted apps like Avast, Malwarebytes, or Bitdefender.
  • For PC/Mac: Use antivirus software such as Windows Defender, Malwarebytes, or other reputable solutions.

5. Reboot Your Device

Restarting your device can sometimes help reset it and stop any suspicious activity.

6. Stay Calm and Don’t Call “Tech Support” Numbers on the screen!

These scams often include fake phone numbers to trick you into providing sensitive information. Ignore them. If you’re unsure, contact the official support channels for your device or operating system.

7. Change Important Passwords

If you’ve accidentally interacted with the scam (clicked on a link or downloaded something), immediately change your passwords for important accounts (email, banking, etc.) as a precaution.

8. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

For extra security, enable two-factor authentication on your key accounts. This adds an extra layer of protection even if your password is compromised. Most importantly, trust your instincts. If something feels off about a pop-up or message, it probably is. Keeping calm and following these steps will help keep your device and personal information safe.

If these instructions intimidate you, your next best option is to contact the manufacturer for help by phone (verify that the phone number is a valid number, not one you’ve seen on the screen!) or visit a manufacturer’s authorized service center with your device.

Although it’s frustrating to incur costs for removing the malware, they are nothing compared to what you could have lost.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, September 21, 2014:

Tom, deep in thought in the Member’s Lounge, listening to his favorite Minnesota radio podcast, Garage Logic. For more photos, please click here.

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

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.

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

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…

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…

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…

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.