TLCOhio

From the New York Times late this morning, they had this headline: “Red Sea Attacks Add Another Snarl to Global Shipping" with this sub-headline: "Already hampered by problems at the Panama Canal, shipping companies are now steering clear of the Suez Canal to avoid being attacked in the Red Sea.” Here are some of their reporting highlights: “The war between Israel and Hamas has so far not had a major impact on the global economy. But a wave of attacks against merchant ships in the Red Sea could change that in a big way. The Houthis have been using drones and missiles to target ships. That has forced some shipping giants and oil companies to avoid the Suez Canal, a development that could hamper global trade and push up the cost of imported goods. The Suez is a vital artery for container ships and fuel tankers. Goods and fuel from Asia and the Middle East have made their way to Europe and the United States through the passage since it opened in 1869.” Additionally in this story of interest: "U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III on Monday announced a new multinational force that would seek 'to jointly address security challenges in the southern Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, with the goal of ensuring freedom of navigation for all countries and bolstering regional security and prosperity.' The joint effort, which will include the armed forces of the United States, Britain, Bahrain, Canada and France, was announced after a U.S. warship on Saturday brought down 14 drones launched from Houthi-controlled territory. Maersk said on Tuesday that all of its ships bound for the Red Sea would be rerouted around Africa via the Cape of Good Hope 'to ensure the safety of our crew, vessels and customers’ cargo onboard.' " Maersk is among the biggest of the BIG shippers. If it is not safe for their cargo ships, how would passengers on a cruise ship value their own safety during this challenging period through this zone? Per Wikipedia, Maersk is one of the largest shipping companies with the world's largest fleet capacity, handling 18% of worldwide capacity. Full story at: https://www.nytimes.com/2023/12/19/business/red-sea-suez-canal-shipping.html THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Norway Coast/Fjords/Arctic Circle cruise from Copenhagen, July 2010, to the top of Europe. Scenic visuals with key tips. Live/blog at 249,711 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1172051-livesilver-cloud-norway-coastfjords-july-1-16-reports/

Appreciate these great details and updates from your current Silver Moon sailing. Loved it that the Silver Note worked out so well, including with the lobster tail treat. We are on the Silver Moon in February, Mumbai to Singapore. If handy when in contact with the top officers, hotel director, etc., on your current sailing, you might ask if and how they are going to sail the Silver Moon January 11-12, 2024, through the southern end of the Red Sea as they need go through that narrow passageway near Yemen and into the Gulf of Aden. That's where the rebels are using armed drones and missiles to attack shipping. Most of the major ships have ceased attempting that dangerous passage way. Keep up the great sharing! THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio From late 2018, see “Holy Lands, Egypt, Jordan, Oman, Dubai, Greece, etc.”, with many visuals, details and ideas for the historic and scenic Middle East. Now at 22,277 views. Connect at: www.boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2607054-livenautica-greece-holy-lands-egypt-dubai-terrypix’s/

Yes, YES, agree with the smart and savvy Fletcher that this is a highly "interesting situation". Given that most other cruise ships have exited the eastern Med raises important questions. As I have posted on other threads, the Suez Canal is not quite as risky right now. Maybe OK there? It is the upcoming Silver Moon Aqaba to Dubai segment that is most challenging and risky now. The southern part of the Red Sea as ships navigate around Yemen on the way to the Gulf of Aden is the "live-fire" zone for rockets and armed drones. That's why BP and most of the major shipping companies have stopped any attempts to navigate through that narrow passage and danger zone. What do cruise lines, especially with the Silver Moon, attempt in early January for sailing through this danger zone? THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

Appreciate these follow-ups and the agreed wisdom that fortunately we do not have to make these challenging choices as are now facing cruise lines and shipping companies. From the AFP/Agence France-Presse newswire and Barron's business publication earlier today, they had this headline: “Red Sea Attacks Disrupt Sea Shipping” with these highlights: “Following attacks by Yemeni rebels, several shipping firms have said they will avoid the key Red Sea shipping route, which is likely to disrupt global trade by increasing delays and increasing costs. In recent weeks, Yemen's Iran-backed Huthi rebels have launched numerous drone and missile attacks on ships passing through the Red Sea's strategic Bab al-Mandab strait, a narrow passage at the southern tip of the Red Sea that they must navigate when travelling to or from the Suez Canal. Five of the world's six top shipping companies have announced they will not send ships through the Red Sea -- MSC, Maersk, CMA CGM, Hapag-Lloyd and Evergreen. On Monday, Britain's BP said it would suspend transit of oil through the Red Sea. Cosco, the world's fourth-largest shipping firm, has yet to announce its plans.” If five of the six largest shipping firms are now saying "NO!", what are the others to do? Or not?? Full story at: https://www.barrons.com/news/red-sea-attacks-disrupt-sea-shipping-cff31580 THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Canada 2022/2023: Scenic visuals, details from Canada Maritimes (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Cape Breton Island). Plus, new from Aug. 2023, exploring historic/charming Quebec City. Visual/Info Summaries: www.flickr.com/photos/196555480@N08/albums

YES, agree that these decisions need to be made very soon. My speculation is that Silversea will need to cut short the upcoming Silver Moon cruise, Athens to Aqaba, Dec. 22-Jan. 6. Maybe shorten it to Dec. 30, disembarking in Athens to allow more flight out options for the passengers. As a distance of approximately 10,000 miles from a Med passenger drop-off location such as Athens, to then sail west and down around to South Africa and go up to Muscat or Dubai would take about 22 days at roughly 16 knots or 19 mph in speed?? Maybe a little more time? And then have passengers start their return or boarding to the ship on Jan. 26 from Dubai in the scheduled sailings to Doha and Muscat. Then, they complete the rest of the Middle East sailings before arriving on Feb. 11 in Mumbai. Reactions? This would be terrible for those who have booked earlier, made various air and ground schedules, etc. But, what are the alternatives to avoid the highly-dangerous area near to Yemen? THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Early 2020, many visuals and details from New Zealand/South Pacific in going from Auckland to French Polynesia. This includes Bora Bora, Fiji, NZ experiences, etc: Live/blog: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2735732-live-terryohio-“new”-regatta-south-pacificnz-pix’s/

From the Associated Press/AP newswire late yesterday, they had this headline: “US and Britain say their navies shot down 15 attack drones over the Red Sea” with these highlights: “A U.S. warship shot down 14 suspected attack drones over the Red Sea on Saturday, and a Royal Navy destroyer downed another drone that was targeting commercial ships, the British and American militaries said. Houthi rebels in Yemen have launched a series of attacks on vessels in the Red Sea, one of the world’s busiest shipping routes. The threat to trade has grown as container ships and oil tankers flagged to countries like Norway and Liberia have been attacked or drawn missile fire while traversing the waterway between Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.” From the DC-based publication Politico late yesterday, they had this headline: “US weighs strike options to deter Houthis from more Red Sea attacks" with this sub-headline: "The Biden administration has been reluctant to respond militarily against the Houthi attacks on commercial shipping in recent weeks for fear of provoking Iran.” Here are some of their story highlights: “Top Biden administration officials are actively weighing options to strike back at Houthis in Yemen after the Iran-backed group launched new attacks on naval and commercial ships in the Red Sea on Saturday. The Pentagon has in recent days moved the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group from the Persian Gulf into the Gulf of Aden, off the coast of Yemen, to support a potential U.S. response to attacks.” There are reports that Oman is trying to work out a "deal" in order better limit what attacks against ships will be done by these Yemen rebels in this critical shipping/sailing area. Clearly, this narrow passage way is a "hot button" that is making decisions very challenging for cruise ship executives such as at Silversea. How do you decide now as to how the Silver Moon gets from the Mediterranean to the Arabian Sea in early to mid January? Full stories at: https://apnews.com/article/royal-navy-shot-down-drone-red-sea-38940c6d0f653f7a6a53920c47b19097 https://www.politico.com/news/2023/12/16/us-strike-options-houthi-red-sea-00132160 THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Summer 2019 Calgary, Jasper/Banff National Parks, Western Canada Rocky Mountaineer rail adventure, Vancouver, sailing up to Alaska on Silver Muse, post-cruise excursion to Denali, etc. Many visuals, Our firsts in these scenic areas! Now at 20,329 views. Live/blog: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2682584-live-terryohio-silver-muse-alaska-canadarockies-pix’s/

Super appreciate ALL of these great comments, info details and follow-ups, especially from JimChar and Dobby36. All very interesting and helpful!! Keep it coming. Good reminder as to bringing the right electrical connectors, etc. From MSN News today, they had this headline: “Travel Guide: Discovering the Magic of Singapore" on a story by John Guanzon with these highlights: “Singapore, a vibrant and dynamic city-state in Southeast Asia, offers an enchanting blend of modernity and tradition. Whether you’re a food enthusiast, an architecture admirer, or a nature lover, Singapore has something to offer everyone. From the clean and seamlessly functional infrastructure to the surreal and captivating cultural attraction, my time in Singapore almost felt like a dream. I can see why the city’s becoming a melting pot of cultures, filled with migrants, expats, and generations of locals, choosing to call the city home.” On weather, the author shared: "Singapore’s climate is typically hot and humid year-round with an average humidity of over 80%. However, it’s essential to note that from November to January, the city experiences its rainy season, which brings cooler temperatures but more precipitation. The best time to travel for pleasant weather is between February and October." Glad that our timing for Singapore will be Feb. 28-March 2, 2024. There are a wide range of food, drink and dining options outlined in this profile. The excitement is building for our visit there in a little over two months. Full story at: https://www.msn.com/en-us/travel/tripideas/travel-guide-discovering-the-magic-of-singapore/ar-AA1lCGgZ THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Amazon River-Caribbean 2015 adventure live/blog starting in Barbados. Many visuals from this amazing river and Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, San Juan, etc.). Now at 73,612 views: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2076101-live-amazon-river-caribbean-many-pix’s-terryohio/

Appreciate this great follow-up question from our travel friend in Australia. So far nothing has come up as to Silversea or any other cruise ship lines stopping their sailing in the southern part of the Red Sea and around in the Gulf of Aden near Yemen. The good news is that "things" seem relatively stable for the Suez Canal passages. BUT, conditions appear to be getting much more challenges farther south near where the rebels in Yemen are creating real danger and risk. From the BBC and MSN News late yesterday, they had this headline: “More shipping firms stop Red Sea routes over Houthi attacks” with these highlights: “The world's largest shipping group, Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), has announced it is diverting its ships away from the Read Sea after an increased threat of attacks. French company CMA CGM took a similar step a day after Danish shipping giant Maersk and German transport company Hapag-Lloyd suspended Red Sea journeys.” This report also detailed: "The Red Sea is one the world's most important routes for oil and fuel shipments. But the Houthis have been stepping up their attacks, using drones and rockets against foreign-owned vessels. Avoiding it means vessels must take much longer routes, for example navigating around southern Africa. About 17,000 ships and 10% of global trade pass through it every year. " For the Silver Moon, if this cruise ship and others would have to be re-routed around the Cape of Good Hope at the southern tip of Africa, it would cause major scheduling challenges and disruptions. If all of these major shipping companies are now taking this step to avoid this location, when does Silversea make such a decision and notify scheduled passengers? The clock is ticketing!!! Right or wrong? Full story at: https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/more-shipping-firms-stop-red-sea-routes-over-houthi-attacks/ar-AA1lBumW THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio From late 2018, see “Holy Lands, Egypt, Jordan, Oman, Dubai, Greece, etc.”, with many visuals, details and ideas for the historic and scenic Middle East. Now at 22,277 views. Connect at: www.boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2607054-livenautica-greece-holy-lands-egypt-dubai-terrypix’s/

Appreciate these above comments and follow-ups. Agree that when folks start too early to celebrate "Mission Accomplished" that things do not always work out perfectly as they spin and have hoped. Later this week, the head of the NY Fed indicated that the potential 2024 rate cuts might not be a total certainty. Many if's and uncertainties in this current U.S. and world economy. From the Wall Street Journal, below are their charts for the three cruise lines during the past week's trading. Clearly the interest rate announcement from the Feds help bump things up, UP even more in the later part of the recent week. From Barron's, a sister publication to the Wall Street Journal Wednesday, they had this headline: “These 4 Stocks Cut Their Dividends. Now Is the Time to Bring Them Back.” with these highlights: “The New Year is almost here, and that means it’s time for four of the last dividend cutters of 2020—Boeing, American Airlines Group, Royal Caribbean Group, and Carnival—to bring back their payouts to shareholders.” Full story at: https://www.barrons.com/articles/american-airlines-carnival-should-reinstate-dividends-now-ec90097e THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio From late 2018, see “Holy Lands, Egypt, Jordan, Oman, Dubai, Greece, etc.”, with many visuals, details and ideas for the historic and scenic Middle East. Now at 22,277 views. Connect at: www.boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2607054-livenautica-greece-holy-lands-egypt-dubai-terrypix’s/ Here are the Wall Street Journal charts to reflect the past five days of trading for the three major cruise lines. Plus, at the bottom, is the WSJ chart for Royal Caribbean during the past three years. As you see, RCL is not just at a one-year high, but this is now their best level in the three years since Covid caused the negative slide financially.: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) Royal Caribbean Chart from WSJ for the past three years:

From the Wall Street Journal for this weekend, they have this headline: “A Traveler’s Walking Guide to Sydney’s Buzzing City Center" with this sub-headline: "Sydney’s Central Business District is no longer just a place for work meetings and conferences. It’s hopping with genre-bending restaurants, an absorbing art museum complex and happening hotels that await the wandering tourist, too.” Here are some of their reporting highlights: “The area’s diversions—including a new museum, a bustling Chinatown and a rambling botanical garden—are all tucked into a compact, thoroughly walkable footprint.” A number of options for what to see, where to stay, what to eat, etc., are detailed. Also included was this colorful map graphic: Here were some specifics detailed, including: "Art Gallery of NSW North Building: This new stand-alone annex—nicknamed the Sydney Modern—opened in 2022 as part of a $344 million expansion of the Art Gallery of New South Wales (AGNSW). A swooping glass atrium in the entrance teases what’s inside. The expansion nearly doubles AGNSW’s exhibition space, and brings First Nations art front and center." Full story at: https://www.wsj.com/lifestyle/travel/travelers-walking-guide-sydney-central-business-district-be399b88?mod=lifestyle_lead_story THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Panama Canal? Early 2017, Fort Lauderdale to San Francisco adventure through Panama Canal. Our first stops in Colombia, Central America and Mexico, plus added time in the great Golden Gate City. Now at 32,524 views. http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2465580

From the Wall Street Journal for this weekend, they have this headline: “A Traveler’s Walking Guide to Sydney’s Buzzing City Center" with this sub-headline: "Sydney’s Central Business District is no longer just a place for work meetings and conferences. It’s hopping with genre-bending restaurants, an absorbing art museum complex and happening hotels that await the wandering tourist, too.” Here are some of their reporting highlights: “The area’s diversions—including a new museum, a bustling Chinatown and a rambling botanical garden—are all tucked into a compact, thoroughly walkable footprint.” Is this summary and hype merited? A number of options for what to see, where to stay, what to eat, etc., are detailed. Also included was this colorful map graphic: Here were some specifics detailed, including: "Art Gallery of NSW North Building: This new stand-alone annex—nicknamed the Sydney Modern—opened in 2022 as part of a $344 million expansion of the Art Gallery of New South Wales (AGNSW). A swooping glass atrium in the entrance teases what’s inside. The expansion nearly doubles AGNSW’s exhibition space, and brings First Nations art front and center." Full story at: https://www.wsj.com/lifestyle/travel/travelers-walking-guide-sydney-central-business-district-be399b88?mod=lifestyle_lead_story THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Sydney to NZ/Auckland Adventure, live/blog 2014 sampling/details with many exciting visuals and key highlights. On page 23, post #571, see a complete index for all of the pictures, postings. Now at 247,027 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1896175-solstice-live-australianzhawaii-many-pix’s-jan-20-feb-3/

Appreciate the follow-ups from R&T and highplanesdrifters. Keep it coming!! Lots happening in the world financial markets, government actions, etc., etc. Here is the S&P 500 chart for the past 52-weeks as of this am from the Wall Street Journal. Things are moving up an UP, higher and HIGHER!! Overall, good news? Short-term and/or long-term? Yes, it's the holiday season and the best to everyone. THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

From the Miami Herald and MSN News yesterday, they had this headline: “How the cruise capital of the world came back from COVID-19. What it means for Miami port” with these highlights: “The cruise capital of the world is showing no signs of relinquishing that distinction. PortMiami, Florida’s largest port, set a record for passengers served in one year, according to new data on Monday. The port said that 7.3 million passengers traveled in and out during the 12-month fiscal year 2023, which for the cruise industry began October 1, 2022, and ended September 30, 2023. That was nearly twice the four million passengers seen the prior fiscal year. Port travel exceeded by 7% its previous record of 6.8 million passengers set in fiscal year 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted one of the most popular vacation industries.” Also of interest that was shared in this reporting: "PortMiami’s growth is consistent with global numbers. The Cruise Lines International Association’s 'State of the Cruise Industry' report, released in September, projected 31.5 million passengers will sail in 2023, a 54% increase from 2022. That would beat the previous record of 29.7 million passengers in 2019. The growth is expected to continue through next year, with 36 million travelers anticipated aboard cruise ships." Full story at: https://www.msn.com/en-us/travel/news/how-the-cruise-capital-of-the-world-came-back-from-covid-19-what-it-means-for-miami-port/ar-AA1lnO3b THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Barcelona/Med: June 2011, with stops in Villefranche, ports near Pisa and Rome, Naples, Kotor, Venice and Dubrovnik. Great visuals with key highlights, tips, etc. Live/blog now at 257,281 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1362155-solstice-livefirst-timer-reportspix’s-italycroatian-june-7-19/

From the South China Morning Post this morning, they had this headline: “A first for the UAE: brewery to make and sell beer in Abu Dhabi, a big change from when locally produced alcohol was illegal” with these highlights: “Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates has granted a licence to restaurant Craft by Side Hustle to sell on tap beer that has been brewed on site. Legal production of alcohol is a big step for the Gulf, a region where several countries still ban outright the sale, consumption and possession of alcohol. It is the latest in a series of moves to loosen socially conservative laws in the UAE and the surrounding Gulf region, as countries open up their economies and focus on industries other than oil.” Full story at: https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/travel-leisure/article/3244768/first-uae-brewery-make-and-sell-beer-abu-dhabi-big-change-when-locally-produced-alcohol-was-illegal?module=latest&pgtype=homepage THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Sydney to NZ/Auckland Adventure, live/blog 2014 sampling/details with many exciting visuals and key highlights. On page 23, post #571, see a complete index for all of the pictures, postings. Now at 247,027 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1896175-solstice-live-australianzhawaii-many-pix’s-jan-20-feb-3/

From the Bloomberg financial news website yesterday, they had this headline: “Abu Dhabi Is the World’s Newest Wealth Haven for Billionaires” with these highlights: “For decades, many of the world’s richest people chose to safeguard their assets in overseas locales ranging from the Cayman Islands to Switzerland and the British Virgin Islands. But a new wealth hub is becoming wildly popular with billionaires — the skyscraper-studded emirate of Abu Dhabi. The richest man in crypto Changpeng “CZ” Zhao, India’s Adani family, hedge fund billionaire Ray Dalio and Russian steel magnate Vladimir Lisin are among the dozens of high net worth individuals who’ve set up special purpose vehicles in Abu Dhabi’s international financial center this year. More than 5,000 SPVs now exist in Abu Dhabi Global Market compared with just 46 in 2016, according to data compiled by M/HQ.” Any here on Cruise Critic who are billionaires with such plans for putting your wealth in Abu Dhabi? When I achieve billionaire status, that's my plan and hope!! Full story at: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-12-11/world-s-newest-haven-for-billionaires-is-a-skyscraper-studded-emirate?utm_campaign=bn&utm_medium=distro&utm_source=yahooUS&leadSource=uverify wall THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Norway Coast/Fjords/Arctic Circle cruise from Copenhagen, July 2010, to the top of Europe. Scenic visuals with key tips. Live/blog at 249,559 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1172051-livesilver-cloud-norway-coastfjords-july-1-16-reports/

Here is another interesting "twist" as to how the cruise lines attempt to return back to "normal". Marijuana provides another, somewhat new "detail" to consider for ship executives and passengers. From the Wall Street Journal yesterday, they had this headline: “Cruise Ships Are Kicking Off Passengers With Pot" with this sub-headline: "As state drug laws loosen, travelers run into restrictions on board, as well as drug-sniffing dogs and possible lifetime bans.” Here are some of their reporting highlights: “Cruise travelers wanting to smoke pot or chew gummies are running into a problem: cruise lines trying to eradicate all types of cannabis products on board. Cruise lines say they are simply following federal law, and that marijuana is illegal in many countries they sail to. They say that they also want to create a comfortable experience for nonusers. The companies are warning passengers not to sail with cannabis products and ratcheting up efforts to identify people flouting their rules as their ships swell with travelers.” This includes Carnival using drug-sniffing dogs to search for prohibited po during the boarding processt. What's next? Full story at: https://www.wsj.com/lifestyle/travel/cruise-ships-marijuana-policies-pot-0efa83c7 THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Canada 2022/2023: Scenic visuals, details from Canada Maritimes (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Cape Breton Island). Plus, new from Aug. 2023, exploring historic/charming Quebec City. Visual/Info Summaries: www.flickr.com/photos/196555480@N08/albums

As a follow-up on your Silver Cloud Cruise Director, I did a quick search and think I have found him. Right person? Adam Illsley from the UK and Wales? Starting July 2023 with Silversea as an Assistant CD and for seventeen years prior worked as a professional singer, events manager, etc. Started as a SS CD in October 2023. Some of his earlier time included with the touring show of Starlight Express. From Middlesex University, he has a Master of Arts in Dance Professional Practice. Good, interesting background!! Any other feed-back from those on the ship now who have interacted with Adam? And confirming that his current plan is to be on the Silver Moon through the end of February 2024? THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

Super appreciate from our UK friend all of this background and details from your current Silver Moon sailing. Sorry to hear as to your challenged leg. Hope things improve and that you better enjoy some of these upcoming locations. Interesting about the high number of UK residents on board for this sailing and their love of formal nights. Will check more about Adam as your CD. Glad to know he will be on the ship for our February Mumbai to Singapore sailing. Yes, let us know as the name of the new ship Captain. Keep it coming!! Fun and exciting to learn more. Great added info from nav1027, etc. THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio From late 2018, see “Holy Lands, Egypt, Jordan, Oman, Dubai, Greece, etc.”, with many visuals, details and ideas for the historic and scenic Middle East. Now at 22,219 views. Connect at: www.boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2607054-livenautica-greece-holy-lands-egypt-dubai-terrypix’s/

Yes, glad you asked. Been there in 2014, including up the scenic sounds and fjords, walking through the South Island rainforests, visiting in and around Queenstown, doing a wine tour, shopping in the gold-mining town of Arrowtown, riding on a train to Arthur's Pass, etc. Need proof? Below is some visual evidence that we super enjoyed so much our experiences on the South Island. While on our cruise ship from Tasmania to Auckland, they offered us an opportunity to get off of the ship and do an overnight stay in Queenstown. This including riding the coal-fired historic ship used at one time by Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip when they toured in this region. THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Canada 2022/2023: Scenic visuals, details from Canada Maritimes (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Cape Breton Island). Plus, new from Aug. 2023, exploring historic/charming Quebec City. Visual/Info Summaries: www.flickr.com/photos/196555480@N08/albums Near Queenstown, here is the historic stone bridge where bungee jumping was invented. Could have done that jump, but didn't. Was I chicken or smart?: (Open your screen/viewer wider to see these visuals larger/better!) On the dramatic lake near Queenstown, we took a scenic ride on the historic, coal-fire ship to lavish buffet dinner and also saw a sheep-shearing demonstration.: Here are some of our group at this historic train station dating back to the wealthy days of this region's gold-rush days.: A top highlight was doing a Jet Boat adventure through the narrow canyons of the NZ South Island. As pictured, my wife was super thrilled by this white-knuckle ride.:

Super great tips and insights, as always, from cruisemom42. Being popular is kind of "good", but it does create other issues and questions. Maybe a need to escape from busy Athens and go out to the scenic, nearby islands? From Condé Nast Traveler magazine last month, they had this headline: “24 Best Places to Go in 2024” with these highlights for Greece's Cyclades by writer Ali Wunderman: “Is there anywhere more popular than the Greek islands right now? This past summer, the Cyclades—an island group that includes Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, Milos, and Ios—dominated social-media feeds with beautiful blue and white backdrops, thrilling beach clubs and nightclubs, and unparalleled shopping. With more smart stays being unveiled in 2024, as well as new flights, plus the 2022 launch of Cycladic, the first inter-island airline, means it’s easier than ever to get there. Hotel business is booming. Plush hotels are rare on these islands, expanding the options for luxury stays in the Cyclades." Bring back great memories? Need to go back for more? Lots to see and enjoy there. Right? Full story at: https://www.cntraveler.com/story/best-places-to-go-in-2024#intcid=_conde-nast-traveler-verso-hp-trending_80991bd1-1d14-4b9f-965a-7f9ff1e971d6_popular4-1 THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Amazon River-Caribbean 2015 adventure live/blog starting in Barbados. Many visuals from this amazing river and Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, San Juan, etc.). Now at 73,449 views: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2076101-live-amazon-river-caribbean-many-pix’s-terryohio/

From Condé Nast Traveler magazine last month, they had this headline: “24 Best Places to Go in 2024” with these highlights for South Island, New Zealand by writer Jessica Wynne Lockhart: “With its lush rainforests and aquamarine lakes framed by snowcapped peaks, New Zealand’s South Island is steeped in superlatives. In Queenstown, the nine-mile Wharehuanui Trail—set to open in late 2024—will connect the 19th-century gold-mining town of Arrowtown to the suburb of Arthurs Point. At the end of 2024, Flockhill, the ultra-luxury lodge in Arthur’s Pass, will expand on its offerings with 14 new villas and an on-site restaurant with acclaimed Kiwi chef Taylor Cullen at the helm." Bring back great memories? Yes, loved our time exploring around Queenstown and the other fascinating locations on the NZ South island. In 2020 right before the Covid shut-down, we got to explore the NZ North Island for a week before a sail-away for Bora Bora and Tahiti, etc. Need to go back for more on the South Island. Lots to see and enjoy there. Right? Full story at: https://www.cntraveler.com/story/best-places-to-go-in-2024#intcid=_conde-nast-traveler-verso-hp-trending_80991bd1-1d14-4b9f-965a-7f9ff1e971d6_popular4-1 THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Sydney to NZ/Auckland Adventure, live/blog 2014 sampling/details with many exciting visuals and key highlights. On page 23, post #571, see a complete index for all of the pictures, postings. Now at 247,027 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1896175-solstice-live-australianzhawaii-many-pix’s-jan-20-feb-3/

From Condé Nast Traveler magazine last month, they had this headline: “24 Best Places to Go in 2024” with these highlights for South & Central Sri Lanka by writer Zinara Rathnayake: “Rising from economic uncertainty, Sri Lanka’s tourism industry is in the midst of a luxury and wellness boom—from its tea-filled highlands to its palm-fringed shores. In January, the Galle Literary Festival will return after a five-year hiatus, with appearances by literary figures such as Shehan Karunatilaka and Alexander McCall Smith, while Gourmet Galle, the country’s new food festival, will spotlight 12 chefs in 12 venues, ranging from beaches to paddy fields, over a 12-week period from January to March. Inland, development of the Pekoe Trail continues. Traversing historic tea plantations, colonial estates, local villages, holy shrines, and forests brimming with biodiversity, it’s a novel way to experience Sri Lanka’s lush hill country." Sound exciting and interesting? Yes, looking forward to being there in February 2024 to explore for the first time in this unique part of the world. Full story at: https://www.cntraveler.com/story/best-places-to-go-in-2024#intcid=_conde-nast-traveler-verso-hp-trending_80991bd1-1d14-4b9f-965a-7f9ff1e971d6_popular4-1 THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Sydney to NZ/Auckland Adventure, live/blog 2014 sampling/details with many exciting visuals and key highlights. On page 23, post #571, see a complete index for all of the pictures, postings. Now at 247,027 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1896175-solstice-live-australianzhawaii-many-pix’s-jan-20-feb-3/

From Condé Nast Traveler magazine last month, they had this headline: “24 Best Places to Go in 2024” with these highlights for Red Sea, Saudi Arabia by writer Nicola Chilton: “Saudi Arabia's Red Sea has both untouched desert and vibrant coral reefs. Creating a completely new tourism destination in an area of pristine natural beauty—including coral reefs that are home to critically endangered species, unspoiled desert, and dormant volcanoes—is a fine tightrope to walk. New mangrove parks will be populated with trees currently being grown in a mangrove nursery (the project aims to plant 50 million by 2030). The first phase of the destination, which includes 16 luxury hotels, is powered by 760,000 solar panels, and the world’s first zero-carbon 5G network has already been installed. Transport within the destination will be by e-vehicles, and hydrogen-powered seaplanes will eventually transport visitors between the islands. Whether a luxury tourist destination can ever truly be sustainable remains to be seen, but the efforts being made in the Red Sea are certainly testing the hypothesis." Sound exciting and interesting? And different? Yes, there are many questions about the Saudi wealth and government model. What will be the future there? Be interested to read future reviews and talk with those visiting there during the coming months on the various cruise ship itineraries scheduled. Full story at: https://www.cntraveler.com/story/best-places-to-go-in-2024#intcid=_conde-nast-traveler-verso-hp-trending_80991bd1-1d14-4b9f-965a-7f9ff1e971d6_popular4-1 THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Sydney to NZ/Auckland Adventure, live/blog 2014 sampling/details with many exciting visuals and key highlights. On page 23, post #571, see a complete index for all of the pictures, postings. Now at 247,027 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1896175-solstice-live-australianzhawaii-many-pix’s-jan-20-feb-3/

From Condé Nast Traveler magazine last month, they had this headline: “24 Best Places to Go in 2024” with these highlights for Quito, Ecuador by writer Adam Graham: “Quito is finally getting its due. The city’s mile-high skyline got a lot higher thanks to the work of architects like Bjarke Ingels Group, whose 32-story IQON tower (completed in 2022) is now the city’s tallest. It's just one of several projects to come from Ecuadorian development firm Uribe Schwarzkopf, in its ongoing effort to mature the ancient Andean city into an unlikely new hub of contemporary architecture. That’s no small feat considering that Quito stands atop both the ruins of a pre-Columbian settlement and an earthquake-prone high plateau and is anchored by an untouchable colonial center with UNESCO status. But a new generation of Ecuadorian and international creatives are pushing the city toward the future—and not just for the sake of visitors. Quito’s dining scene is finally catching up to culinary neighbor Lima.” Sound exciting and interesting? Maybe a good reason to head back to South America? Full story at: https://www.cntraveler.com/story/best-places-to-go-in-2024#intcid=_conde-nast-traveler-verso-hp-trending_80991bd1-1d14-4b9f-965a-7f9ff1e971d6_popular4-1 THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio Sydney to NZ/Auckland Adventure, live/blog 2014 sampling/details with many exciting visuals and key highlights. On page 23, post #571, see a complete index for all of the pictures, postings. Now at 247,027 views. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1896175-solstice-live-australianzhawaii-many-pix’s-jan-20-feb-3/