mstadleraz

Wow! What a fantastic two days with Xuan. We saw the Mekong Delta from a local's perspective stopping with a family who weaves mats, saw how coconuts are processed and used...even how coconut candy made by the family. The food was fresh and delicious. Our day in HCMC-Saigon involved a trishaw trip through Saigon's markets (and fresh local fruit), Chinatown and temple. Had vietnamese style coffee and tea, ate lunch at a fantastic restaurant and experienced the sky deck. Xuan provided an all around perspective of the region. Pickup and drop off at the port. I cannot say enough good comments to truly described the experience. Xuan even helped secure tickets for the AO show at the Opera house for us. You will not go wrong with Xuan.

Agreed unlike some people...

Not sure the apps are needed. We never used those at all. Viking provided the information aboard and we used a different site for Bali. Sometimes they checked the Viking documentation and sometimes they did not. Never checked covid information; possibly getting it from the ship since everyone has to have been vaccinated.

Varies from 2 to 3 mb

Photos from Indonesia...

During COVID, Indonesia developed the site on Rinca and is fully controlled tour with guides and security. The Komodo option, from my understanding is no longer available for any tours. You cannot go off on your own no matter who/ what tour company used. This is for the health of the wildlife and the individual.

From the photos I have posted directly onto Cruise Critic, they have downloaded directly from my phone. As for internet, there have been spotty coverage areas such as leaving Thursday Island enroute to Komodo and Bali. However, Samerang reception was very good.

We will be on Rinca and not Komodo. According to Viking, no one can depart the raised wooden walkway and there did not appear to be very many vendors based on Vikings initial port stop in December.

Concur. Hope the Viking team does this again!

We enjoyed this excursion as well. I took the guided snorkeling and the guide explained the various coral and sea life. We were able to feel/touch a sea cucumber and a hard coral which were the only creatures we could touch. I would recommend as well.

Photos entering Sydney, Blue Mountains and city. We did the Sydney Bridge Climb. Was very doable as the guide goes at an easy pace...still pending the photos. The views were spectacular of the entire Sydney area!

They had an electric golf cart type transport for those who needed assistance the the venue. It was very accommodating. However, they would have been at the very top of the high school type seating viewing area.

Plenty of opportunity to dance. Not as much ballroom; there are a few opportunities with a string duo or solo piano playing.

This morning was particularly heavy pitch. We passed Milford Sound and traveled to Doubtful sound then headed back to Milford. Departed Milford and seas became rougher immediately.

Some scenes from New Zealand; a beautiful country and very friendly, helpful people.

We took out time and stopped for a lumch. If you want, 3.5 to 4.5 hours. We took a little longer as we were having conversations and missed a turn or two :-). We took the transit bus back.

That is correct. It a City of Auckland walking tour from one coast to the other. There are markers sgowing the path; however, we made some slight adjustments.

A group of us completed the Auckland Coast to Coast walk yesterday! The highligbt was One Tree Hill. We passed through several parks and neighborhoods. We thoroughly enjoyed the company during this adventure.

Thank you.

Yes, I had already been on the site but the disclaimer is very vague (government speak is never very clear and full of ambiguity). You would think a package granola bar would not be an issue. However, I do not know what the Kiwis have encountered which has caused the ambiguity. I also understand about declaring as Viking has been very clear about this fact.

To the Aussies and Kiwis on board the cruise. I purchased granola bars in Hawaii when in port. Are these allowed in both or either country when disembarking? I have read conflicting information online. Nature Valley Sweet and Salty Nut and Fruit-Nut.

Sunset over the Pacific

Well, I am here to have fun. The internet is not my primary goal. When in port we will be able to communicate. Sometimes away from technology is the best way to enjoying life!

It is a pleasure to see the crew without masks. Makes the experience more personable.

Sunrise in Honolulu and a view from Diamond Head. We hiked from Waikiki to Diamond Head and back. Well worth the 12 miles!