Solstice Live/First-Timer Reports/Pix’s: Italy/Croatian June 7-19

From the Wall Street Journal last week, they have this headline: "A Foodie Guide to Venice" with this subhead: "Sink your teeth into this ancient city—and avoid the tourist traps—on a cichetti crawl through back streets with Alle Testiere chef Bruno Gavagnin". Much of the story is a gastronomic tour with this famed chef in his native city.

Here are some of the story highlights: "You can easily get caught in the tourist traps of Venice, but you only need to dive a little deeper to find hidden treasures, and the sense of the ancient that pervades many of the back-street joints. Here, you come for the cichetti, or small plates, washed down with a glass of wine. Fish from the surrounding waters dominates the cuisine, and any culinary quest—even for the locals—means hopping around".

Here is another examples for the details during this tour as reflected in this WSJ profile: "Leaving the market, we puddle-hop through serpentine alleyways to Caffè del Doge on Calle dei Cinque at San Polo 609 ( caffedeldoge.com), where Mr. Gavagnin regularly stops in for a morning shot of house-roasted espresso. By the time we get there at 9 a.m., it’s packed out with local traders who’ve already finished half their working day. We join them with a signature short, dark Doge Rosso (€2.50) and a rich, flaky pastry with honey filling (€2), as the elegant grinders lining the wall of the small, standing-room-only cafe are put into overdrive, making the air fragrant with incredible aromas."

Historically, the chef notes: “In Venetian cuisine the focus is on saving what they cook,. In antique times there was no fridge or air conditioning [and] fishermen had to bring food that was already cooked so they could spend a long time at sea."

Full story at:

http://www.wsj.com/articles/a-foodie-guide-to-venice-1429818135

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

Enjoyed a 14-day, Jan. 20-Feb. 3, 2014, Sydney to Auckland adventure, getting a big sampling for the wonders of "down under” before and after this cruise. Go to:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1974139

for more info and many pictures of these amazing sights in this great part of the world. Now at 106,559 views for this posting.

From the Guardian newspaper in the UK today, they have this headline: "Cruise ship access to Venice at stake in mayoral election" with this subheadline: "Outcome of vote will have a big influence on the kinds of cruise liners allowed to dock and the route they can take to get there"

Among the story highlights are: "The years-long debate over cruise ships’ access to Venice is now nearing a decisive moment. Last year the Italian government moved to ban megaships from entering Venice or passing Piazza San Marco. But the ban was reversed in January and the transport minister who supported it, Maurizio Lupi, has since resigned in the wake of a corruption scandal. The resignation last year of the Venice mayor Giorgio Orsoni in another corruption scandal has meant the debate over cruise ships has largely been on hold. That is likely to end with the election of a new mayor, to be chosen in a runoff election on Sunday, which will have an enormous influence on the kinds of cruise liners that will be allowed to dock in Venice and the route they will be allowed to take to get there."

We will be watching with interest this election and where this moves for the future.

Full story at:

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/jun/11/cruise-ships-venice-mayoral-election

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

From our Jan. 25-Feb. 20, 2015, Amazon River-Caribbean combo sailing over 26 days that started in Barbados, here is the link below to that live/blog. Lots of great visuals from this amazing Brazil river and these various Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, etc.) that we experienced. Check it out at:

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2157696

Now at 23,986 views for these postings.

Appreciate that this posting has now gone over 200,000 views and that so many have dropped by to check out "things" for these many wonderful Med areas. Happy to answer any added questions on the Solstice, share more for these many wonderful ports, etc.

Now planning our next adventure for doing a ten-day cruise along the South Africa coast, plus doing safaris in Botswana, seeing Victoria Falls, etc.

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

For details and visuals, etc., from our July 1-16, 2010, Norway Coast/Fjords/Arctic Circle cruise experience from Copenhagen on the Silver Cloud, check out this posting. This posting is now at 179,150 views.

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1227923

You are really a master of cruise reporting!

You are really a master of cruise reporting!

Appreciate so much your kind and generous comments about my various live/blogs. Yes, it is exciting to be having that kind of fun and adventure. PLUS, to be able to share with others and get nice feed-back/comments. Am finalizing right now the late January 2016 start of our first visit to Africa. This includes a ten-day South Africa to Mozambique cruise, plus safari time and visits to Botswana and Victoria Falls. More interesting pictures will be coming early next year.

From the Telegraph in London/UK yesterday, they have this headline: "Secret Venice: guide to the city's best campi, or squares" with these highlights: "Venetian streets often seem overrun with tourists, but in the campi, or city squares, you will encounter alternative, secret worlds. Jonathan Glancey reveals 10 of his favourites"

Here are a few more details as to why this article might be worth checking out if Venice is on your upcoming to-do list and/or has been a past favorite to see and enjoy. Added story highlights: " Adventurous tourists can be seen ducking down alleys off the main tourist flow as if coming up for air in search of some alternative, secret Venice. This exists, but I think visitors might find it more easily by trying an altogether different tack. Instead of exploring the passages and alleyways, they might drop anchor in those much overlooked campi they have used as little more than empty spaces to overtake rival tourists impatient for San Marco and the Doge’s Palace. Bathed in sunlight and shadow, the city squares of Venice are a marvel in their own right. Irregularly planned for the most part, the campi vary from imposing, paved public bays, busy shopping ports and fashionable harbours awash with nightlife, to all but secret coves huddled between gnarled medieval buildings, leaning campanili and hump-backed bridges. Some are favoured by special restaurants or the kind of age-old cafés, delis, pasticceria and quotidian shops selling genuinely useful or wonderful things that have been disappearing from the city as quickly as giant cruise liners and no-frills jets have arrived."

Full story at:

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/europe/italy/venice/11906404/Guide-to-10-of-Venices-best-campi-or-city-squares.html

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

Enjoyed a 14-day, Jan. 20-Feb. 3, 2014, Sydney to Auckland adventure, getting a big sampling for the wonders of "down under” before and after this cruise. Go to:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1974139

for more info and many pictures of these amazing sights in this great part of the world. Now at 122,221 views for this posting.

From several major newspapers recently, there are some interesting developments/reporting on Venice. From the London/UK Guardian on March 30, they had this headline: "500 years of the Venetian ghetto: commemoration and history" with these highlights: "On 29 March 1516, the Venetian Republic created the first ghetto on a small island in the north-western sestiere of Cannaregio. The residents were removed and replaced within a week by Jews already in Venice. This was a period in which the city sought to keep a watchful eye on all foreigners: the French, English and Spanish embassies were also relegated to Cannaregio. Jews within Venice therefore found a secure place to live despite the restrictions imposed on them, and were soon joined by others fleeing persecution in central Europe. They built two synagogues in the ghetto: the Schola Grande Tedesca and the Schola Canton. There will be a public exhibition at the Doge’s Palace from 19 June to 13 November entitled Venice, the Jews and Europe 1516-2016."

The New York Times on March 9 had a major story headlined: "500 Years of Jewish Life in Venice" with this subhead: "A journey into one of the world’s oldest Jewish ghettos, where this year a long, rich history is commemorated." This comprehensive NY Times profile has many historic details, many pictures, etc. Very interesting background and historic connections for Venice!!

Also, Travel+Leisure had a good video/story combo titled: "Five Things to Do in Venice". Worth a look if you're a Venice lover and/or having an upcoming visit there.

Full stories at:

http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/mar/30/500-years-venetian-ghetto-jewish-italian-history

http://www.nytimes.com/2016/03/13/travel/venice-italy-jewish-ghetto.html?_r=0

http://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/video-things-to-do-in-venice

AFRICA?!!?: Lots of interesting and dramatic pictures can be seen from my latest live/blog at:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2310337

Now at 11,361 views for this reporting and visual sharing that includes Cape Town, all along the South Africa coast, Mozambique, Victoria Falls/Zambia and Botswana's famed Delta area.

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

From our Jan. 25-Feb. 20, 2015, Amazon River-Caribbean combo sailing over 26 days that started in Barbados, here is the link below to that live/blog. Lots of great visuals from this amazing Brazil river and these various Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, etc.) that we experienced. Check it out at:

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2157696

Now at 37,565 views for these postings.

From the New York Times Travel Section from late last month, they have this headline: "36 Hours on the Amalfi Coast" with this sub-head: "Seek out the less-heralded towns on this 30-mile stretch of Italian coast, and discover the untrammeled charm that drew the likes of John Steinbeck."

Here are some of their opening story/profile highlights: "In 1953, John Steinbeck drew back the curtain on Positano, most likely changing the course of history for the most picturesque town on the Amalfi Coast. This romanticized 30-mile stretch of Italian coast still impresses with cliffs towering above pebbled coves and villages hugging improbably steep slopes. And famed Positano, now oppressively overcrowded, continues to monopolize the attention of most travelers. But seek out less-heralded towns, including the hilltop hamlet of Ravello and the eastern fishing village of Cetara — to discover the untrammeled charm and enduring beauty that exist all along the Amalfi Coast.."

We super loved our June 2011 travels along this scenic Amalfi Coast. This story has lots of options and potentials to consider for dining, visiting, where to stay, etc., in this wonderful region.

Full story at:

http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2016/04/21/travel/what-to-do-36-hours-amalfi-coast.html?rref=collection%2Fcolumn%2F36-hours&action=click&contentCollection=travel&region=stream&module=stream_unit&version=latest&contentPlacement=3&pgtype=collection&_r=0

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

If Venice is one of your future desires or past favorites, look at this earlier posting for many options and visual samples this city that is so great for "walking around", personally seeing its great history and architecture. This posting is now at 59,515 views.

Venice: Loving It & Why??!!

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1278226

From the London/UK Telegraph in late July, they had this very interesting headline: "Why hapless tourists are driving Venetians mad (and blaming Google)" with these highlights: "here has been a simmering tension between Venetians and tourists, with the former blaming the latter for overcrowding and spoiling local life. Now relations between residents and holidaymakers have hit a nadir after a couple of hapless tourists attempted to drive through Venice, famously a car-free city. The tourists were travelling on British passports and nearly mowed a pedestrian down along the Grand Canal. 'We're just trying to reach our hotel which should be two kilometres from here,' one of the tourists told a local, according to La Nuova. 'Google Maps sent us this way.' "

Do you have the feeling as if this is something you could never dream of happening? Or, even claiming??

This article continues to note: "Automobiles are forbidden from Venice and there are many signs warning visitors to leave their cars on the outskirts of the city. That doesn’t stop a handful of halfwits from driving their hire cars into the historic centre each year. Little wonder, then, that the authorities are looking to restrict tourism, which campaigners say has turned Venice into a theme park. Some 30 million visitors arrive in the city annually and their mayo has signalled his intentions to impose restrictions on day-trippers, who are blamed for much of the overcrowding."

Full story at:

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/europe/italy/articles/why-hapless-tourists-are-driving-venetians-mad-and-blaming-google/

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

Super loved Dubrovnik!!! See more details and lots of great visual samples/examples at this link. Have had over 32,694 views on this posting and appreciate those who have tuned-in and dropped by.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1439227

From a New York Times op-ed column in the past week, they have this headline: "Can We Save Venice Before It’s Too Late?" with these highlights: "A rapacious tourist monoculture threatens Venice’s existence, turning the Queen of the Adriatic into a Disneyfied shopping mall. Millions of tourists pour into Venice’s streets and canals each year, profoundly altering the population and the economy. Tourism is tearing apart Venice’s social fabric, cohesion and civic culture, growing ever more predatory. The number of visitors to the city may rise even further now that international travelers are avoiding destinations like Turkey and Tunisia because of fears of terrorism and unrest. This means that the 2,400 hotels and other overnight accommodations the city now has no longer satisfy the travel industry’s appetites."

Lots of good and interesting questions and challenges are outlined in this opinion piece by the chairman of the Louvre Museum’s scientific advisory council and the author of the forthcoming book “If Venice Dies”.

Much of this column is focused on the Italian government and what the author says is when they "failed to stand up to the big money promised by the tourist companies". Big question and challenge . . . economics versus the environment?? BUT, if no cruise ships and tourists never, ever visited Venice in the future, would it mean that this historic town would stop sinking? Lots of good questions!! Is there one easy, quick solution? If no tourists visited there, there would be economic challenges that cause less maintenance for these aging structures needing lots of money and attention.

Full story at:

http://www.nytimes.com/2016/08/30/opinion/can-we-save-venice-before-its-too-late.html?ref=world&module=Slide&region=SlideShowTopBar&version=SlideCard-1&action=Click&contentCollection=Opinion&slideshowTitle=Our%20Endangered%20Heritage&currentSlide=1&entrySlide=1&pgtype=imageslideshow

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

AFRICA?!!?: Lots of interesting and dramatic pictures can be seen from my latest live/blog at:

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2310337

Now at 18,996 views for this reporting and visual sharing that includes Cape Town, all along the South Africa coast, Mozambique, Victoria Falls/Zambia and Botswana's famed Okavango Delta area.

From the New York Times Travel Section yesterday morning, they have this headline: "36 Hours in the Cinque Terre" with a sub-head of: "This wildly rugged slice of Ligurian coast with its five tiny towns is a delight for hikers, foodies and wine enthusiasts."

Among the story highlights are "A century ago the Cinque Terre were simply five fishing villages on an unforgiving stretch in northwestern Italy. With trains came tourism, and now throngs arrive daily to see it all: the startlingly vibrant color of the Mediterranean, the wildly rugged coastline sliced by scenic hiking trails, and the tiny towns tucked like puzzle pieces into the cliffs. The region has recovered from the mudslides and flooding of 2011. But another threat still looms: over-tourism. Possible remedies? Widen the scope of your itinerary to include neighboring towns (Levanto to the north and Portovenere to the south), seek out lesser-known trails and travel off-season when crowds are thinner."

This feature has an interactive map, lots of pictures and options to consider, etc. We had planned to visit Cinque Terre in June 2011, but the weather didn't cooperated that day and we had to adjust our plan/schedule. But, YES, for the future, it is still on our must-see, to-do priority listing for when next heading back to wonderful Italy.

Here was a good dining tip in this profile: "While most visitors are vying for seats at the same dozen restaurants touted by seemingly every guidebook, shake the crowds by dining at a worthy newcomer in Riomaggiore. Opened last summer, Rio Bistrot is a modern osteria nestled above the village’s minuscule harbor serving dishes that showcase the bounty of the local sea. At a table on the stone terrace, watch fishermen haul in the day’s catch while savoring buttered toasts topped with plump anchovies from Monterosso (13 euros) and paccheri with fresh mussels from Riomaggiore (15 euros). And book in advance; this spot won’t remain undiscovered for long."

From those who visited Cinque Terre, anything major missing or needing updating from the NY Times reported?

Full story at:

http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2016/09/01/travel/what-to-do-36-hours-in-the-cinque-terre-italy.html?rref=collection%2Fsectioncollection%2Ftravel&action=click&contentCollection=travel&region=rank&module=package&version=highlights&contentPlacement=3&pgtype=sectionfront

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

Wonderful Kotor and nearby Montenegro? Check these postings. Have had over 31,095 views on this posting and appreciate those who have tuned-in and commented.:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1439193

Here are just three of the interesting pictures shown in this NY Times profile. These visuals are really building up excitement for visiting this dramatic and scenic location.:

From the London/UK Telegraph yesterday, they have this headline: "20 greatest destinations in Italy - and the best time to visit" with this lead sentence: "From the splendour of Rome, the colour of Venice’s Carnevale, the art of Florence and the quaint trulli homes of Puglia, Italy is a country of year-long delights."

Lots of great details and visuals are included if you are considering your options for in and around Italy. While it might not work for cruise purposes, they cite this point for doing Venice in the winter: "Always beautiful, always alluring, always romantic and never disappointing: you can’t go wrong with Venice at almost any time of year. But, there is a special magic to the city in winter. On clear days, the canals sparkle in the sunlight, and you can see the snow-capped Dolomites on the horizon. In February you can also choose between crowd-free sights coupled with bargain prices, or the excitement and glamour of the Carnival (February 11-28, 2017)."

Another highlight was mentioning July for Siena. Here are some of their reasons why: "More compact than Florence, and arguably more beautiful, Siena is one of the most unspoilt towns in Europe – architecturally much still dates from its medieval heyday. And the reason to come in July is because of another survival from that era – the extraordinary and hugely exciting Palio horse race which takes over the main square twice a year (July 2 and also August 16)."

Full story at:

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/europe/italy/articles/best-italy-holidays-guide-advice/

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

If Venice is one of your future desires or past favorites, look at this earlier posting for many options and visual samples this city that is so great for "walking around", personally seeing its great history and architecture. This posting is now at 63,386 views.

Venice: Loving It & Why??!!

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1278226

What's not to love? Truly a unique city. We have enjoyed every visit and plan to return again.

Appreciate this above excellent summary on wonderful Venice by the experienced iancal on another CC Board thread. Yes!! Yes!!

From the Fairfax newspapers in New Zealand Feb. 1, they have this headline: "How to see to see Venice without the heat or the crowds" with these highlights: "I make my husband and children close their eyes as we exit Santa Lucia station. Their jaws drop, and they gaze in wonder at the scene before them, which has changed little over hundreds of years. It doesn't get better than arriving in Venice by train. One minute you're inside a Fascist era railway station, the next you feel like you've stepped into a Canaletto painting as you stand beside the Grand Canal watching gondolas, water taxis, barges and vaporetti float by."

Wonderful writing, details, ideas and style in this profile of Venice in the winter when the crowds and congestion are less challenge. My first visit to Venice was in December 1970 as a college student. It was like being a resident as we could walk around and soak up this great city, its unique history and architecture, etc., without feeling crowded out by mobs of tourists.

This writer makes many wonderful observations on Venice that bring back excellent memories from our four visits there. Here are more of her observations and sharing: "There's no denying Venice is expensive. If you don't walk everywhere getting around can be costly – a three-day pass for the network of vaporetti costs €40, a single one-way ticket is €7.50 – and gondola rides – the ultimate Venetian tourist cliche – are extortionate. In my years of visiting the city I've always avoided them, so I immediately dismiss my daughter's request. She eventually wears me down, finding a gondolier near our apartment who's willing to cut a deal. Cliches aside, it's a lovely thing to do as you quietly float through the water, although not especially comfortable and a bit scary when you end up in the middle of the Grand Canal with vaporetto bearing down on you from all directions. One of the wonders of Venice, at any time of year, but especially in winter, is that it's quiet. Blissfully quiet. There are no cars, no traffic."

Full story at:

http://www.stuff.co.nz/travel/destinations/europe/italy/88973442/travel-to-venice-in-winter-how-to-see-to-see-venice-without-the-heat-or-the-crowds

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

AFRICA?!!?: Lots of interesting and dramatic pictures can be seen from my latest live/blog at:

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2310337

Now at 29,332 views for this reporting and visual sharing that includes Cape Town, all along the South Africa coast, Mozambique, Victoria Falls/Zambia and Botswana's famed Okavango Delta area.

From USA Today on Feb. 4, they have this headline of a column by famed author/traveler/TV host Rick Steves: "What's new in Spain and Portugal for 2017".

Here are some of the story highlights: "Across Spain, neglected corners of many cities are now being made more inviting for visitors. Sevilla's Triana neighborhood, for example, long considered the 'wrong side of the river,' is soon to be the most colorful part of town. In Madrid, the formerly sleazy, no-go Chueca district, just north of the busy shopping street called Gran Vía, is now trendy and appealing. Eating here is especially fun, either at a table on the central Plaza de Chueca, at the San Anton market hall or at one of the creative eateries nearby. The exception to this upward trend is in Barcelona, where the iconic Ramblas boulevard has lost much of its charm. Once home to authentic markets, characteristic eateries and a thriving local ambience, it's now awash in tacky tourist trinkets and lousy restaurants. If you come to Barcelona, you've still got to ramble the Ramblas — just don't eat or shop there. With the opening of the Gaudí Exhibition Center, visitors finally have a central place to learn about his contributions to the city. Barcelona's main attractions are getting wise to the advantages of advance ticket sales. For instance, visitors can now save time at the line-plagued Picasso Museum by buying timed-entry tickets in advance. For last-minute types, another option is to buy an Articket BCN, which covers six top Barcelona museums and allows visitors to walk right in anytime at the Picasso Museum."

Sad to hear of this slide downward for the Ramblas. We loved that area from our two past visits to Barcelona. But, we were last there in June 2011. Have other recent visitors experienced a similar trend in Barcelona? Agree or disagree with Rick Steves?

Full story at:

http://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/destinations/2017/02/04/spain-portugal-new-attractions/97449548/

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

Enjoyed a 14-day, Jan. 20-Feb. 3, 2014, Sydney to Auckland adventure, getting a big sampling for the wonders of "down under” before and after this cruise. Go to:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1974139

for more info and many pictures of these amazing sights in this great part of the world. Now at 169,431 views for this posting.

From this USA Today Rick Steves column, here is one of the pictures featured. It is of a storefront in the Triana District of Seville. Looks like fun!! Anybody been to this colorful part of Spain?:

Terry,

Mr. B. and I are huge fans of Rick Steves. However, we wish he'd warned us of Las Ramblas when we first went! We wasted a lunch there. I agree it's fun to walk the entire distance, and look; but I agree with his don't-bother-to-buy-or-eat admonishment.

Our first visit there was June of 2012. Plus, our Rick Steves book DID tell us, that year, to make a timed reservation in advance for the Picasso Museum.

We have been so fortunate to have visited Barcelona twice, and would go again in a heartbeat.

We visited Venice in June of some other year (probably 2010) and I'd go back there in a heartbeat, too. Not so much Mr. B. Not sure why.

Thanks for all your very useful reporting, Terry!

--May B Muriel

Terry, Mr. B. and I are huge fans of Rick Steves. However, we wish he'd warned us of Las Ramblas when we first went! We wasted a lunch there. I agree it's fun to walk the entire distance, and look; but I agree with his don't-bother-to-buy-or-eat admonishment. We have been so fortunate to have visited Barcelona twice, and would go again in a heartbeat. We visited Venice in June of some other year (probably 2010) and I'd go back there in a heartbeat, too. Not so much Mr. B. Not sure why. Thanks for all your very useful reporting, Terry! --May B Muriel

Appreciate this very good follow-up and the kind comments from May. Very helpful and interesting!!

From the London/UK Guardian today, they have this headline: "Dubrovnik is just as magical as when I visited aged 10" with this sub-head: "The old Croatian city, which inspired Annabelle Thorpe’s first novel, weathered the war of the 1990s and has emerged as glamorous as before".

Here are some more of their story highlights by this well-known writer: "Dubrovnik is as eternal as Venice. There are those who say it has become a victim of its own success – flooded with cruise ships and Game of Thrones fans. To me, this misses the point: at different times it has been Roman, Byzantine and Venetian; it’s withstood wars and sieges, and emerged as glamorous and unbowed as ever. Ridiculously beautiful but still real, it remains as magical to me now as when I first visited in 1981, aged 10."

This profile has a large number of nice pictures and a wide variety of options to consider for potential activities in and around charming Dubrovnik. Nice writing that builds the excitement for an upcoming visit and/or brings back nice memories from this wonderful part of the Croatian coast.

If you are seeking more visuals and items on Dubrovnik, check out tmy thread connected below.

Full story at:

https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2017/feb/17/dubrovnik-croatia-dalmatian-coast-novelist-annabelle-thorpe

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

Super loved Dubrovnik!!! See more details and lots of great visual samples/examples at this link. Have had over 34,954 views on this posting and appreciate those who have tuned-in and dropped by.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1439227

Your post reminds me of a good friend who told us, "we finally got to Paris for a few hours and have now seen everything!" Must admit we are impressed that you have seen "all the sights that needed to be seen" in a few visits. We have been to Venice about 10 times (including several multi-night stays in various hotels and are still discovering new things (to be seen) on every visit :). A wise man (me) once said, "you only know what you have seen and done, but have no clue as to what you have missed." Hank

The above was posted by the wise CC Board expert from Pennsylvania on a board about Venice and its challenges. Italian officials are now trying to lessen this historic town from being over-run too much more by the massive hoards of tourists. Always having debates there about cruise ships impacting that history, the masses of day-trippers distracting from the great architecture and character, etc. But, if tourist are there to generate revenue, how can can the buildings and infrastructure be maintained and fixed?

We agree strongly for exploring some of the "other" streets and locations around and in Venice. That's excellent fun and very interesting to get away from the over-run places during the peak, day-tripper periods in Venice. Would like to get back to Italy, but have other places where we have never been able to experience for the first time. This includes for next month in doing our first visit to Portugal. That trip will push my total for the number Europe nations visited up to 23 countries. Looking forward to seeing Lisbon, Porto, Fatima, etc., plus first-time stops in NW Spain, Bordeaux, Brittany, etc.

From CNN News on May 10, they have this headline:“Venice bans cheap takeout joints to keep city beautiful” with these highlights: “Venetians are fed up with the subpar food being sold to tourists on their streets. So they're taking action: The city council has approved a rule that prohibits the opening of new takeout joints that sell meals such as kebabs or pizza by the slice. The move makes Venice the latest European city to fight back against the negative effects of increased tourism. The encroachment of cheap takeout joints in the city center is a major worry for local officials, who say the trend detracts from Venice's beauty and cultural heritage.”

Interesting move??!! How effective legally? Not sure "cheap" food is always bad. Or, that more costly food is consistently better. This is another "experiment" by Venice and other key cities to manage their tourism opportunities and challenges. Will be watching to see how all of these ideas actually work in real life. Bellow is a link from our recent trip through the Panama Canal, visiting Colombia, Costa Rica and Mexico for the first time, etc.

Now less than three weeks till we depart for Lisbon, Portugal.

Full story at:

http://money.cnn.com/2017/05/10/news/venice-italy-takeout-fast-food-tourism/

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

Panama Canal? Just completed Feb. 28-Mar. 15, 2017, Fort Lauderdale to San Francisco adventure through the Panama Canal with our first stops in Colombia, Central America and Mexico, plus added time in the great Golden Gate City. Lots of fun pictures!! Those pictures start on the second page, post #26. See more at:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2465580

Now less than three weeks till we depart for Lisbon, Portugal.

HOW WAS OUR LATEST ADVENTURE??!!: Just got back last month from three weeks in Europe doing five days in Lisbon, sailing from Portugal, seeing for the first time NW Spain, Bordeaux, Brittany, etc. Great sights and sites!

Below are a few "samples" to prove the value for exploring these wonderful areas on a nice ship. The central/connecting part was an eleven-day, very port-intensive cruise from Lisbon to Rouen/France on the highly-enjoyable Silversea Silver Spirit. For many more pictures and full details, check out this live/blog:

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2511358

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

From our Jan. 25-Feb. 20, 2015, Amazon River-Caribbean adventure that started in Barbados, here is the link for that live/blog. Many visuals from this amazing river and Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, etc.):

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2157696

Now at 51,883 views for these postings.

For Sintra north of Lisbon, here is one small visual sampling. Yes, as we told our grandsons, these are "Real Castles!". Really have learned lots on the unique history of Portugal.:

(Open your screen/viewer wider to see these pictures larger!)

From Porto, during our first trip to Portugal, we loved doing a small-craft sailing along their historic town areas near where Port wines are stored and sold.:

At the Guggenheim in Bilbao, the art is mostly about the building. Lighting and time of day when photo shooting allows for much creativity as to how you can capture this structure, its outdoor art, the inside drama, etc. Not your grandfather's museum! Like?:

Here is one quick visual sample from being in Bordeaux. If you love history and architecture, this is the super place to be!!. Like the little boy enjoying the water experience?:

During our Guernsey Island visit off of the French coast, we did our ship's "Powerboat Seascape Expedition". Great fun and sightings! Isn't this puffin cute?? Plus, lots of seal, beach, sea gull, etc., actions and activities.:

After the cruise concluded in Rouen, we finished with in-depth time in Brittany and to finish with a stop at Monet's Giverny before flying out from Paris' de Gaulle airport.:

From Travel+Leisure magazine this month, they have this headline: “Best Places to Travel in 2018” with their highlighting of Montenegro.

They featured these key details: "Move over, Croatia. Long overshadowed by its neighbor to the northwest, Montenegro is ready for the spotlight. The ancient city of Kotor is already attracting plenty of visitors, like the celebrities vacationing at luxurious boutique hotel Forza Terra, just outside the medieval walls, not to mention the hundreds of thousands of cruisers. The swank marina Porto Montenegro is thriving in the formerly sleepy coastal town of Tivat, and the complex’s Regent hotel unveiled an expansion in 2017. Further west on the Bay of Kotor’s jagged coastline is the site of the country’s most anticipated arrival, the One&Only Portonovi, which will be the brand’s first European outpost when it opens this summer.”

We loved our visit to Kotor and nearby. Very scenic and charming!! Would like to go back. BUT, in late January 2018, we will be doing our first visit to Southeast Asia. This will feature Hong Kong, Bangkok, Vietnam and Cambodia, including a seven-day Mekong River cruise, then Angkor Wat, Hanoi, Halong Bay and Hue/Danang. Then for late November, 2018, looking to do an Athens to Dubai, 20-day cruise with Oceania, including our first visits to the Holy Lands, Egypt, Middle East, etc.

Full story at:

http://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/best-places-to-travel-in-2018#nacujam-bay-croatia

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

AFRICA?!!?: Lots of interesting, dramatic pictures can be seen from this live/blog at:

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2310337

Now at 36,321 views for this visual sharing including Cape Town, along South Africa’s coast, Mozambique, Victoria Falls/Zambia and Botswana's famed Okavango Delta area.

To update, we are now back from our first river boat and for sampling Southeast Asia. It was for the Mekong River!! Plus, plus!!

Well-pleased with these countries, especially Cambodia, plus the ship, staff, food, tours, etc. On my live/blog, connected below, there are dozens of pictures and many details to document these fun adventures and travels. Happy on the live/blog to answer any and all questions, share more info/background, etc.

Now, we shift our focus and attention to mid November, 2018, for our Athens to Dubai, 20-day cruise with Oceania, including our first visits to the Holy Lands, Egypt, Middle East, etc. Many options to consider and logistics to research. Keep hearing great things from other travelers about Oceania, the staff, their food, etc. Look forward to comparing Oceania versus other cruise lines we have experienced, who has what plus and minus factors, etc.

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

SE Asia/Mekong River, Etc.! Just completed a Jan. 21-Feb. 20, 2018, first adventure through Southeast Asia with stops in Hong Kong and Bangkok, before traveling all over Vietnam and Cambodia. This includes seven days sailing on the Mekong River. Lots of fun, interesting pictures!! See more at:

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2591474

Here are just a few visuals samples from what we saw and did with Avalon while sailing along the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. Many, many more photos and details on the full live/blog.:

(Open your screen/viewer wider to see these pictures larger/better!)

We saw many temples, palaces, markets and samples of daily life/work, including at this below spectacular Royal structure in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.:

From the London/UK Daily Mail this past week, they have this headline: “Venice’s Rialto Bridge: How, when and why you should visit the city’s oldest bridge” with these highlights: “The oldest of the four bridges that arch over Venice’s Grand Canal, Rialto Bridge sits proudly in the busiest part of the Floating City. For eons it was the only way to cross the canal on foot, and to this day remains an essential crossing for Venetians. Visitors can enjoy its striking architecture, visit the souvenir stalls, and soak in Rialto’s vibrant atmosphere.”

Yes, this famed bridge is one of the key, unique highlights to experience in Venice. This story also shared these added tips/insights: "The best time to visit Rialto Bridge depends on whether you’d rather avoid the crowds or want to visit the surrounding markets. If you’re only seeking the Rialto Bridge, it’s best to avoid the crowds. The area is always busy, but early in the morning less so – or go late at night when the markets are shut. Sunset is a beautiful time to visit, with the southern side of the bridge offering a glorious view of the gondolas pulling up to the grand buildings lining the canal."

This profile has many other, interesting details on the Rialto Bridge, pictures, etc. Brings back nice memories!! Super love Venice with its amazing history, architecture, culture, charm, etc.

Full story at:

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/destinations/article-5687173/guide-visiting-rialto-bridge-venice.html

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

Panama Canal? Completed Feb. 28-Mar. 15, 2017, Fort Lauderdale to San Francisco adventure through the Panama Canal with our first stops in Colombia, Central America and Mexico, plus added time in the great Golden Gate City. Lots of fun, interesting pictures!! Those visuals start on the second page, post #26. Now at 20,307 views. See more at:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2465580

There are some cities that we have visited multiple times, usually for at least three days, that we always re visit. Sometimes with absolutely no agenda other than to walk about aimlessly or re-visit a museum. Venice is one of those cities, along with Paris, Rome, Istanbul, and London. Each time we go we see and/or experience something that we had previously missed. If you like walking, Venice is a great city to get lost in. Especially at the end of the day as the sun sets. Some of the residential areas are very interesting and have some unique bars and cafes.

Appreciate these above wise comments and this follow-up from iancal on another CC Board for the greatness of Venice as an excellent "walking around" city. Agree 100% for sampling this amazing city at different times of the day and year. Being there when the travel masses have left is such a much better and more spectacular experience. Thought I would share that posting here.

From the London/UK Guardian on May 1, they have this headline: “Venice poised to segregate tourists as city braces itself for May Day 'invasion' ” with this sub-head: "Metal barriers aimed at separating visitors and locals on key routes into Venice are expected to be put to use on 1 May despite protests by locals against the controversial measure".

Here are some more of the story highlights: “Venice’s controversial mayor, Luigi Brugnaro, announced that a radical solution to the city’s overcrowding problem would be trialled over the bank holiday: the setting up of metal tornelli (turnstiles) at two key entry points: the Calatrava Bridge at Piazzale Roma, where car and coaches arrive, and Lista di Spagna, outside the railway station. The decision was made after the Easter weekend when 125,000 visitors descended on the city on Easter Sunday. The intention is to segregate tourists from locals on the main routes into the city historic centre if incoming visitor numbers become uncontrollable.”

As noted in this article, there is more to come on this question as to how Venice can better handle and manage its popularity with a pressured and limited infrastructure. Stay tuned!!! More to come!!!

Full story at:

https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2018/may/01/venice-to-segregate-tourists-in-may-day-overcrowding

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

For details and visuals, etc., from our July 1-16, 2010, Norway Coast/Fjords/Arctic Circle cruise experience from Copenhagen on the Silver Cloud, check out this posting. This posting is now at 224,976 views.

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1227923

Some cities, we cannot get enough of. We love Venice and have stayed in multiple areas, last time we had a beautiful apartment in Cannaregio. It gives you an idea of what it is like to live as a Venetian, discovering the hidden local bakery, stores. Time for cicchetti and spritz o’clock. We love going during the Biennale and enjoying the amazing art. Mostly we love wandering!

On the Italy board, this excellent above post was shared. We would love to spend a week in Venice and live there "LIKE A LOCAL"!! How wonderful!!

From the London/UK Independent late last month, they have this headline: “35 Trips Every Couple Should Take in their Lifetime” with Venice being one of their top, highly-suggested cities in this desired must-see category.

Among the highlights for Venice, they noted: “It might be cheesy, but there's nothing like floating down Venice's many labyrinthine waterways on a gondola. The city has a mysterious aura, and is filled with secret passageways and stunning palaces."

In this region around and near Italy, they also suggested: "A picturesque city bordering the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik is a historical gem, featuring limestone streets and architecture ranging from baroque to renaissance to Gothic. The Old Town is surrounded by stone walls that date back to the 1500s." And, also: "With its rugged coastline and colorful fishing villages built right into cliffs that overlook the Mediterranean, the Amalfi Coast is an Italian gem. There are beaches to lounge on, stone streets to explore, and plenty of tasty seafood to eat."

Full story at:

https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/best-romantic-holidays-couples-a8328056.html

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

AFRICA?!!?: Lots of interesting, dramatic pictures can be seen from this live/blog at:

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2310337

Now at 38,525 views for this visual sharing including Cape Town, along South Africa’s coast, Mozambique, Victoria Falls/Zambia and Botswana's famed Okavango Delta area.

From this article and the many cities/areas cited, this is the picture from Venice used to illustrate this story about must-see locations for couples.:

(Open your screen/viewer wider to see these pictures larger/better!)

On the Italy board, this excellent above post was shared. We would love to spend a week in Venice and live there "LIKE A LOCAL"!! How wonderful!!

 

From the London/UK Independent late last month, they have this headline: “35 Trips Every Couple Should Take in their Lifetime” with Venice being one of their top, highly-suggested cities in this desired must-see category.

 

Among the highlights for Venice, they noted: “It might be cheesy, but there's nothing like floating down Venice's many labyrinthine waterways on a gondola. The city has a mysterious aura, and is filled with secret passageways and stunning palaces."

 

In this region around and near Italy, they also suggested: "A picturesque city bordering the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik is a historical gem, featuring limestone streets and architecture ranging from baroque to renaissance to Gothic. The Old Town is surrounded by stone walls that date back to the 1500s." And, also: "With its rugged coastline and colorful fishing villages built right into cliffs that overlook the Mediterranean, the Amalfi Coast is an Italian gem. There are beaches to lounge on, stone streets to explore, and plenty of tasty seafood to eat."

 

Full story at:

https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/best-romantic-holidays-couples-a8328056.html

 

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

Just want to THANK YOU one more time for sharing your experience together with all these great pictures with all of us :)

Just want to THANK YOU one more time for sharing your experience together with all these great pictures with all of us :)

Appreciate this above nice and kind follow-up. It's been fun sharing. More to come in the future. November will be Athens to Dubai with Oceania for our first visits to the Holy Lands, Egypt, Middle East, etc.

From the London/UK Sunday Times this morning, they have this headline: “Dubrovnik city guide: the Big Weekend” with these highlights: “Few can resist Dubrovnik’s movie-star looks: a jumble of baroque palaces, gleaming limestone streets and bell towers encircled by huge ramparts, basking in the Adriatic. Too few, in fact. Blame it on Game of Thrones, for which this is a key location, but in summer it can seem that everybody wants a slice of Croatia’s southernmost city. The mayor plans to halve the number of visitors in Stari Grad, the old town, by restricting the number of cruise ships calling here. But there’s no need to wait: if you know where to look, it’s surprisingly easy to avoid the crowds. And summer is a magical time in Dubrovnik, with festivals, escapes to wooded islands and wine to be drunk at pavement cafes.”

Lots of ideas, options, tips, etc., in this media profile. Brings back nice memories from his wonderful part of the world.

Full story at:

https://www.thetimes.co.uk/edition/travel/dubrovnik-city-guide-the-big-weekend-8wpd8885w

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

For details and visuals, etc., from our July 1-16, 2010, Norway Coast/Fjords/Arctic Circle cruise experience from Copenhagen on the Silver Cloud, check out this posting. This posting is now at 225,830 views.

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1227923

From the Wall Street Journal this weekend, they have this headline: “Guide to Croatia’s Island Hideouts” with these highlights: “With a thousand islands scattered along their country’s jade-green Adriatic coast, from deserted flyspecks to hipster outposts, there’s no shortage of places to lick one’s wounds—or bask in silver-medal glory (of their nation's World Cup team). The international jet set has long crowed about Hvar, where the main town features a postcard-perfect harbor and raucous nightlife, while more budget-minded beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts gravitate to Brac. History buffs tend to seek out Losinj, a favorite retreat in the days of the Habsburg Empire, and little-known Ciovo is starting to catch on with trendsetters. ”

In this profile are a number of great locations to consider if you want to expand your Croatian experiences beyond just wonderful Dubrovnik. Love to go back to this charming and scenic region. We only were able to enjoy Dubrovnik in 2011 (and nearby Kotor). Seeking to see and do more in the future, including sampling some of these locations mentioned in this WSJ article.

Full story at:

https://www.wsj.com/articles/a-guide-to-croatias-island-hideouts-1532024681

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

AFRICA?!!?: Lots of interesting, dramatic pictures can be seen from this live/blog at:

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2310337

Now at 40,344 views for this visual sharing including Cape Town, along South Africa’s coast, Mozambique, Victoria Falls/Zambia and Botswana's famed Okavango Delta area.