Back to Black and the Med too.... Live from the Prinsendam

[K & S]

Jacqui, I am loving your blog although must admit I am WAYYY behind:(

Haven't even begun to pack and I am usually pretty much finished by now:(

 

So, OK, sunglasses?? I noticed you bought a new pair (from your blog).Did your previous pair "go missing" on the ship too?

 

PS...love your form of "natural" writing. Makes me feel like I am not only there ,but many times what your are feeling, too:))

[chrispb]

Ahh, Frappe. I totally forgot how much we loved them. I tried making them at home but they never tasted as good. ;)

 

 

Try using evaporated milk - makes a big difference ;)

[kazu]

I can't believe someone took your camera, that is very disturbing.

 

Please let us know if you get an update on the medi evac passenger. Hopefully they will recover.

 

Enjoy the Black Sea!

 

Of course I will keep you all informed. CaptainTim has assured us they are in good hands

 

Jacqui, I am loving your blog although must admit I am WAYYY behind:(

Haven't even begun to pack and I am usually pretty much finished by now:(

 

So, OK, sunglasses?? I noticed you bought a new pair (from your blog).Did your previous pair "go missing" on the ship too?

 

PS...love your form of "natural" writing. Makes me feel like I am not only there ,but many times what your are feeling, too:))

 

Yes, my sunglasses went missing too, at first I thought I had left them in the wifi spot, but I was told I was not wearing the there.

 

Thinking back, I realized I took them off so they would recognize me when I checked in, had a bunch of bags and put them down with them. Never picked them up and have never been seen since. That's ok, although DH was upset. He left his last time on this ship and they were there in literally hours at the lost ad found. Not lucky this cruise I guess

 

Thank you for the kind words. I wish I were more talented.

 

Don't worry about the packing. It will get done. The ship is in good shape:D. Well try to leave it that way

[K & S]

Of course I will keep you all informed. CaptainTim has assured us they are in good hands

 

 

 

Yes, my sunglasses went missing too, at first I thought I had left them in the wifi spot, but I was told I was not wearing the there.

 

Thinking back, I realized I took them off so they would recognize me when I checked in, had a bunch of bags and put them down with them. Never picked them up and have never been seen since. That's ok, although DH was upset. He left his last time on this ship and they were there in literally hours at the lost ad found. Not lucky this cruise I guess

 

Thank you for the kind words. I wish I were more talented.

 

Don't worry about the packing. It will get done. The ship is in good shape:D. Well try to leave it that way

 

Sorry about your sunglasses,but more sorry about your lost pictures:( I had my camera and all pictures from an extensive trip to Spain,years ago, stolen (it was our last ay there).All pics gone:( Not saying that is your case...still hoping your camera will show up:)

 

Jacqui,if you were any more talented you would HAVE to write for a travel magazine!

 

As for the packing...from your lips to God's ears.

 

Hugs, Sharron

[PathfinderEss]

Thanks for all the updates, sorry to hear about your camera and sunglasses.

[PSR]

Enjoying your cruise description very much. One question: are the men wearing tuxedos during formal nights in the MDR, or mostly suits or sport coats/ties?

 

Penny

 

P.S. to others: this is just a simple question to help us packing. Please do not start a clothing argument.:)

Edited October 13, 2014 by PSR

[kazu]

Enjoying your cruise description very much. One question: are the men wearing tuxedos during formal nights in the MDR, or mostly suits or sport coats/ties?

 

Penny

 

P.S. to others: this is just a simple question to help us packing. Please do not start a clothing argument.:)

 

 

In all honesty I have not seen a lot of tuxedos. I checked with Gigianne who has early dining and she has had the same experience. I would say maybe at the max about 19% in tuxedos. A deli tie shift from the other European cruises on the Prinsendam.

[ncgolferette]

Hi Jacqui

 

I'm really enjoying your reports from onboard the Prinsendam. Sounds like you are having a wonderful cruise. Sorry to read about Jose's camera. Have also been getting Georginia's trip reports. Sounds like you all had a blast in Istanbul. Did you buy anything in the Grand Bazaar?

 

Ruth Ann

[shrimpboat123]

Posting pictures for Kazu. The Acropolis.

 

 

 

[shrimpboat123]

More pics from Kazu.

 

Changing of the Guard.

 

 

[LindaM]

In all honesty I have not seen a lot of tuxedos. I checked with Gigianne who has early dining and she has had the same experience. I would say maybe at the max about 19% in tuxedos. A deli tie shift from the other European cruises on the Prinsendam.

 

I don't think we saw but a few on P on our Iceland trip. However, that cruise was at least 1/3 Dutch, and they seemed to dress very casual. And, of course Aussies don't want to lug that stuff around for the many weeks they are away from home.

[kazu]

First

Thanks to shrimpboat123 for posting the pics. Obviously, I have to send them one at a time, uggher.

 

The change of the guards at Athens is done hourly, but the special show is only on Sunday's and we were there. Thanks so munch Glen

 

Sorry, they are only Ipad pics as the camera is gone. I am seriously considering calling security as we saw the camera today coming off a shore excursion and followed them to their cabin. It may be theirs, who knows it we think the owners manual which we brought has the serial number as it has a scan code. Kazu is determined if nothing else. Just give us the dam memory card.

 

So, here is our day at sea after Istanbul, I will do the previous ports later if that's ok

After our hectic time in Istanbul no one is complaining about a sea day!

 

It's a formal night tonight and for those of you wondering, there are crabs legs on the menu tonight. I found them quite edible.

 

It's also the Mariners reception and luncheon today again. Yes, we get two of them

 

The medallion ceremony is always fun when you see some of your roll call members get theirs.

 

I am surprised to see that the luncheon menu is different again. Nice to see it not repeated.

 

They called it the Mediterranean Mariner's Luncheon and here's what we were offered

 

Mediterranean style fish salad (shrimp and calamari) or chicken and white bean soup.

 

The main course was a choice of Morrocan style baked Poussin on couscous or grilled trout with proven ale vegetables or Farfalle with basil-lemon pesto

 

Dessert was the fresh strawberry Mille Feuille

 

And of course, there were the petit fours.

 

Captain Tim gave a very interesting talk including about being invited by countries to visit. The Prinsendam never repeats an itinerary in a year, one of the things that makes her special along with her ability to go to some ports where others can't or would put too much stress on the eco structure. And yes, I can confirm, the Prinsendam, still has the highest repeat passenger ratio in the fleet.

 

Oh, and a hint from Linda, if you are a fan of this ship, tell HAL on your surveys whatever, that you hope there will always be a ship the size and style of the Prinsendam

 

 

Tina gave a talk on future cruises and although I arrived a tad late, she let the late comers enter the raffle and, Kazu won a HAL cookbook....appetizers. I am sure my friends will be delighted to see me make something new. I know, I know... More weight. Hopefully it's not any heavier than the meet and greet invites were.

 

Unfortunately, I wasn't as lucky at bingo. Oh well.

 

Somehow the rest of the day slipped away. I was trying to spot those Dolphins that Gigianne saw, but I had no luck.

 

The show was a bit different tonight....Red Hot and Blue. Old songs brought up to date with new musical arrangements. Didn't grab me but a lot seemed to enjoy it.

 

A nice day after some pretty port intensive stuff

[kazu]

Batumi, Georgia. I song know what I expected but it sure wasn't this! What a beautiful little spot. Batumi only gained freedom from Communism in 1991 and what they have done is simply amazing. This is a very popular spot in the summer time and this city has had the brains to hace a little cruise port rather than haVe you dock with the tankers and containers. They are in a separate spot.

 

There is a gorgeous sea front promenade that stretches forever with wonderful flowers, trees, statues, bamboo forest, etc. Wonderful spots for children. The water is still warm....around 23 degrees, but do watch out for the jelly fish.

 

The city is clean and bright and the government and city are working hard to eliminate the starkness that the So it's brought and modernizing with beautiful, different buildings. It is truly incredible.

 

Today we had a private tour that Pat (nanonano) had arranged with Batumi Travel. These people simply could not do enough for us and we're anxious to show us their city with they were very proud of as well as a good time. The history of the city is interesting as well and I can't help but admire the people's fortitude here.

 

We have arrived in the slow season when most of the tourists are gone and being the only ship in port we had the pleasure of enjoying the calm and quiet after the rush and the hub but of Istanbul. Amazingly, we visited ruins that have only been uncovered after Batumi gained its freedom, otherwise it would have most likely been destroyed. Found there was a grave which is thought to be the grave of the apostle Matthew.

The statue of Medea holding the Golden Fleece is incredible. This is said to be the original home of the fleece and Medea helped the Argonaults get it. The Greeks believe that the fleece belonged to them and Batumi believes it was stolen from them. It is intriguing to hear the different sides of the story and see the connection as we go from port to port.

 

After our wonderful tour (which by the way cost a whole $20 USD pp) 6 of us stopped at a restaurant recommended by Maia, our guide which was quite close to the port. We we win the only tourists in the restaurant as far as I could tell. We all ordered some Georgian food and YUMMY! Couldn't believe how much we got for the price. DH ordered a type of meat pie, but unlike what we would see at home. The pastry was light and flaky without falling apart. We all took a taste and gave it a huge thumbs up. Gigianne ordered some picked veggies for us all to share (DH got the hot peppers by a unanimous vote). I ordered curd but it was unlike curd at home, a bit sour, but it was delicious when I dipped my crab fajita type sandwich into it. Al and Marlane had these a salad and a type of stew. Both of them were served in a type of bowl ace out of bread. The bread was freshly baked and wonderful. It was a great meal for just a few lari.

 

Lari is Georgia's currency. We couldn't get it before coming and any you are left with cannot be cashed in, so we paid for a souvenir and our lunch with Visa. No problem at all. The little shop at the museum where the old garrison ruins were does take US$ and if you do go, take a look there. They had a couple of very unique things that most of our group liked and. Bought at a very reasonable price (a handcrafted bowl typical of Georgia) which you will not find anywhere else.

 

On our way back to the ship there was a vendor at the gangway selling a few souvenirs and wine! While on tour I have discovered that Georgia makes excellent wine. We're not here every day so.......corkage fee I paid.

 

Just as we were ready to pull up the gangplank, an ambulance and Van arrived and we saw another passenger disembark with their partner and their luggage. He seemed to be relatively mobile although in a wheel chair so hopefully it is nothing serious.

 

It is Canadian Thanksgiving today and a happy Thanksgiving greets us in our On Location and yes, the Canadian Thanksgiving is on the menu tonight.

 

We had to move our watches an hour forward last night so, it is good new indeed when I hear the captain announce that the clocks go back tonight. We have a VERY early start tomorrow for Trabzon, Turkey.

 

 

A reception is on the itinerary tonight so I had best go and get freshened up. I'd like to say make myself beautiful, but Why kid myself...LOL

 

 

So, if you are looking at an itinerary with Batumi on it, I hope you find it as enchanting as we all did.

 

I found out later that just 4 years ago after they were bombed in 2008, it looked pretty desolate. They have done a phenomenal job of recovering. Apparently the casinos help foot the tab.

 

Oh, and for you animal lovers, while they have strays, they are tagged

And taken care of by the Government. Gotta like that!

 

Live from the Prinsendam sailing on the Black Sea.

Edited October 13, 2014 by kazu

[kazu]

I don't think we saw but a few on P on our Iceland trip. However, that cruise was at least 1/3 Dutch, and they seemed to dress very casual. And, of course Aussies don't want to lug that stuff around for the many weeks they are away from home.

 

 

Intersting. I think there were more on the first segment but not by much. It's a big change from the other Prinsendam cruises we have been on. No biggie, DH didnt bring his.

 

as long as you feel good in what you are wearing, that's the main thing:D

[kazu]

Posting pictures for Kazu. The Acropolis.

 

 

 

 

Thanks so much my friend. I will try to do more tomorrow if I can find free wifi. Frustrating as I couldn't connect to apps to tap talk. Uggher.

 

We must be in the Black Sea ;)

 

I can't believe this cruise is nearly over.

 

Yup, it's glass half empty time . Just a few days left.

[shrimpboat123]

Thanks so much my friend. I will try to do more tomorrow if I can find free wifi. Frustrating as I couldn't connect to apps to tap talk. Uggher.

 

We must be in the Black Sea ;)

 

I can't believe this cruise is nearly over.

 

Yup, it's glass half empty time . Just a few days left.

 

You're welcome. I'll post whatever you send. I used Tapatalk on my iPad. It gave me a chance to practice.

[serendipity1499]

Jacqui & Jose just want to wish you both a Happy Thanksgiving..Put this on the Thanksgiving thread, but wanted you to know it's for you too..

 

Thanksgiving is a time

To say thank you to those we treasure,

Those people we hold close to our hearts,

Who give us so much pleasure.

Without you my dearest friend's

I cannot comprehend;

You have always been there for me,

May our friendship never end.

 

 

Every time I sit down to read your posts I've had interruptions, so just decided to take the time to sit for about an hour to catch up..

 

What a wonderful time you are having.. :)

 

Your posts are so interesting..Hopefully I'll catch up later tonight or tomorrow.. On my way to make John some dinner.. Wish we were going to the Pinnacle on the Prinsendam..LOL..

 

Have fun & stay well..

 

Betty

 

P.S..Will have a glass of Pinot Grigio with dinner & a toast to you.:D

Edited October 13, 2014 by serendipity1499

[TiogaCruiser]

Sure hope you have the serial number for your camera with you. (The thought never has occurred to me to carry it). Would there be any other way of identifying it (like a strap or marks on it)? Do you by chance have any pictures of Jose with you- maybe on your iPad- that could help?

 

Certainly OT but the new iOS is driving me bonkers with the not-so-improved spellchecker. I had to re type so much to make a coherent post.

[PSR]

In all honesty I have not seen a lot of tuxedos. I checked with Gigianne who has early dining and she has had the same experience. I would say maybe at the max about 19% in tuxedos. A deli tie shift from the other European cruises on the Prinsendam.

 

Thanks for the quick answer. Helps a lot!

 

Penny:)

[kazu]

You're welcome. I'll post whatever you send. I used Tapatalk on my iPad. It gave me a chance to practice.

 

I am trying to download the app here in Trabzon. Couldn't connect to the App Store in Batumi

[1of4]

I am really enjoying your trip Jacqui...more if I was sailing with you of course, but this isn't bad thanks to your thoroughness! so sorry about the sunglasses and camera and I hope you did report the cabin number to security so they could check the number on the camera. Good sleuthing.

 

Canadian Thanksgiving was wonderful...fantastic weather that turned to Scottish mist on Monday but I was inside cooking so didn't care. The day before it was too hot for October, believe it or not. Rob got out golfing!! Today (Tuesday) is supposed to be 24 feeling like 29) but the temps are going back down next week to the 12 - 14 range. I will get more specific as the dates get closer.

 

We are waiting to hear if someone in isolation in the Belleville hospital has ebola or not; confirmation should come later today and I will let you know.

 

Enjoy the rest of the journey!!!

[kazu]

Jacqui & Jose just want to wish you both a Happy Thanksgiving..Put this on the Thanksgiving thread, but wanted you to know it's for you too..

 

Thanksgiving is a time

To say thank you to those we treasure,

Those people we hold close to our hearts,

Who give us so much pleasure.

Without you my dearest friend's

I cannot comprehend;

You have always been there for me,

May our friendship never end.

 

 

Every time I sit down to read your posts I've had interruptions, so just decided to take the time to sit for about an hour to catch up..

 

What a wonderful time you are having.. :)

 

Your posts are so interesting..Hopefully I'll catch up later tonight or tomorrow.. On my way to make John some dinner.. Wish we were going to the Pinnacle on the Prinsendam..LOL..

 

Have fun & stay well..

 

Betty

 

P.S..Will have a glass of Pinot Grigio with dinner & a toast to you.:D

 

Thank you so much. Glad you had a glass and a drink for us

 

Sure hope you have the serial number for your camera with you. (The thought never has occurred to me to carry it). Would there be any other way of identifying it (like a strap or marks on it)? Do you by chance have any pictures of Jose with you- maybe on your iPad- that could help?

 

Certainly OT but the new iOS is driving me bonkers with the not-so-improved spellchecker. I had to re type so much to make a coherent post.

 

I hate auto correct too and it's really bad on the iPad. Oh well.

 

I think we do have it and their are pics of us on it and on the iPad bur if someone deleted/ reformatted the memory card, we're out of li puck there.

[kazu]

I am really enjoying your trip Jacqui...more if I was sailing with you of course, but this isn't bad thanks to your thoroughness! so sorry about the sunglasses and camera and I hope you did report the cabin number to security so they could check the number on the camera. Good sleuthing.

 

Canadian Thanksgiving was wonderful...fantastic weather that turned to Scottish mist on Monday but I was inside cooking so didn't care. The day before it was too hot for October, believe it or not. Rob got out golfing!! Today (Tuesday) is supposed to be 24 feeling like 29) but the temps are going back down next week to the 12 - 14 range. I will get more specific as the dates get closer.

 

We are waiting to hear if someone in isolation in the Belleville hospital has ebola or not; confirmation should come later today and I will let you know.

 

Enjoy the rest of the journey!!!

Wow, seriously? Ebola in my home town? Thanks if you have time and don't mind letting me know I would really appreciate it.

[kazu]

The forecasts is for rain so we must be going to a Monastery!

 

After our beautiful weather in Batumi yesterday even though they were calling for possible showers and the rainy weather we had in Volos when we went to Meteora monastery, we are really hoping that the weather for Trabzon will be good as today we are heading to the Sumela Monastery. Sadly, the On Location says rain. The skies are indeed dark in the morning so coat and umbrella are packed as we prepare for the worst.

 

The ship is scheduled to dock at 8:00 am,but based on past experience, I decided it was worth the gamble to ask our group to meet at 7:35 in the Ocean Bar in case we dock early. Batumi is very close to Trabzon so the ship was going very slowly in the night. I have a private tour booked with Eyce Tours And they have agreed to start at 7:45 (they would have been there anyways) if we can disembark early. We can see the lines are tied and the gangway is coming out so we head down to wait clearance and get off. A couple of minutes, we are off the ship and meeting our guide Sercen ( pronounced Sargay...or just call me Sergio if that's easier) precisely at 7:45. As we get on the van, we hear the ship announce clearance for the passengers to disembark :)

 

 

Trabzon is an old city, founded in 7th century AD. It actually gets its name from a small stone. We are now on the Asian side of the Black Sea and our trip to Sumela monastery actually takes us along the old Silk Road of centuries ago.

 

Sumela monastery or Meryemana is named for the Virgin Mary of the Black Mountain. Local people believe that the monastery was built for the Virgin Mary. It is about 1300 metres high, set in the mountain and with the mountain dug into to create caves. It is the most important place for the Christian Orthodox Church.

 

Before we start the climb to Sumela monastery, we discover that Trabzon's main products are hazelnuts and tea. They have huge plantations for both. People fromGeorgia come to harvest. The hazelnuts are harvested in August Abd the tea is harvested in May, June and September.

 

Sercen tells us that the ships tour buses cannot get to the drop off point for Sumela. They end up transferring to vans ( or mini buses as they are called here) in order to get to the drop off point.

 

I am glad I chose wisely with the right vehicle to start with as that saves time.

 

As we start the climb up the mountain we pass kiwi plantations and trout farms and oh, my heavens, the sun looks like it is trying to break through. I brought my jacket and umbrella, so if doing that brought us luck, I'll happily do it again if we have a bad forecast. We stop at a great look out point for a photo op. Way, way up still is Sumela perched in the cliffs. Where the sun That is trying to peak out, hits it the windows nearly look golden.

 

Back in the van and up, up, up. My ears pop twice. The road is very narrow and when another car coming the other way passes us there is less than a foot between us. Our driver, Adam is very skilled and we become accustomed to the steep curves, windy roads and tight spaces although some of us choose not to look down. :). At last we are at the drop off point for the monastery. I see the drop odd point as you must walk 300 metres and so 80 some steps. Someone needs to re- write the description. The pathway is part cobblestone, part earth, part tree branches and regular cobblestone. It is not an easy path and at the same time you are climbing. When you get to the monastery you must climb a lot of steps built 100's of years ago and it is steep. Not really caring for heights, I stick to the inner wall side and did not look down. When we arrive at the first level, we are at the old guard house protecting the monastery. Our guide gets our tickets and what do we find? Yup, you guessed it, more steps. But what a reward. The monastery is incredible. There are frescoes outside and when we do some more steps and make our way inside OMG. I cannot describe what awaits you. Frescoes centuries old that are still alive. Sadly some are gone, not by time but by people.

 

The monastery was an active one for centuries. Then as time passed, the protection Of the cliffs and the isolation were not needed and around 1921 it was abandoned. People still came though and they chiselled out pieces and faces of the lower frescoes to use as icons on their houses and pray to. Later, it became Unesco site so now it is protected from further destruction and graffiti. We were taken to the prayer room where the monks would stay for one, two or three months and pray (whatever their body allowed) and then to the library and the rest.

 

This monastery is a wonder. It dates back over 16 centuries (if I remember correctly, it might be older) and they literally chiselled into the mountain. Unbelievable. Was it worth the climb, the walk, fear of heights, etc? ABSOLUTELY

 

What was even nicer is that only our groups were there, so no crowds. As we headed back down the mountain the HAL buses were coming up. I waved to the people as we passed about six inches from each other. The looks on the faces od the HAL shore excursion passengers was so funny. They were mouth wide open how close we were and some were obviously nervous. We were used to it by now so of course we all had a chuckle.

 

The monastery is worth the work to get there but a warning to anyone looking at this tour whether it be with HAL or privately. HAL shows this with the three walking symbol. This is much more than that. The walking is difficult (our guide was fabulous at showing us where to step - I wouldn't have wanted to try this with a large group) and the steps are many and steep in many places.)

 

Heading back to Trabzon our next stop was the Hagia Sophia. I think there is one of these mosques in every city in Turkey. Exquisite. Next to it is a cemetery and our guide pointed out the difference between a Moslem woman's stone and a man's. As well there was the special spot where they dried corn and stored food. A peak at real life is always fantastic and the mosque itself is exquisite. Here you will find a tad of graffiti but it is from olden times. Fishermen would draw pictures of their boats for luck. Once a Church and allowed to be so for many years, around 1600 there were just too many Moslems so it was turned into a mosque. In the 1900's, it became a hospital and now it is just a place of wonder to visit.

 

After that, we visited the Ataturk Residence. OMG, the chandelier, the tiles, the gardens, the furniture. What a place. Everything original except for the rugs and curtains. Our guide is doing a fantastic job and now we are heading to the Akcaabat District to see the old wooden houses and get our lunch. This area is known for meatballs. Now, I am not a fan of meatballs, but these are not like the meatballs we get at home. In front of us is placed salads, plates to share of different breads, pickled types of vegetables, beans treated in some way, something I can't describe and then they bring a special bread which is really a type of omelet. YUMMY. Then come the meatballs with a type of rice. Water and soda provided of course and the followed by Turkish tea and Lazbori (sp?) our dessert. A pastry type thing with honey and I don't know what else but it was good! About that time we discover that they have wifi so the waiters sign us all in and I tried to download tap a talk. We'll see if it works tomorrow when we are in Sinop.

 

Lunch was delish. At $15 U.S. Per person, it was a bargain.

 

Then we were off to see the Gubaharhateen Mosque. Our guide explained about the cleanliness required to pray and we all entered appropriately with scarves on and shoes off. Exquisite. The off to the highest point for a gorgeous photo op.

 

Oh, and we did have a short shop visit, not to buy necessarily but to explain about the silver handiwork of Trabzon. Remember the Silk Road? Well, this people spin the silver like silk and creat the most exquisite things I have ever seen. Truly works of art. I couldn't resist. I know someone who I think would love this. I sure did!

 

Back on board in plenty of time and just in time. The clouds are hanging over us and it is going to pour. God was kind to us and I say thanks. A perfect day for the hard climb, a great guide and great company.

 

Apologies for the very long post. This was another substituted port when HAL cancelled the Ukraine and I for one was totally enchanted.

 

More later...live from the Prinsendam, as we cross the Black Sea to head back to the European side.

[kazu]

Batumi, Georgia. I song know what I expected but it sure wasn't this! What a beautiful little spot. Batumi only gained freedom from Communism in 1991 and what they have done is simply amazing. This is a very popular spot in the summer time and this city has had the brains to hace a little cruise port rather than haVe you dock with the tankers and containers. They are in a separate spot.

 

There is a gorgeous sea front promenade that stretches forever with wonderful flowers, trees, statues, bamboo forest, etc. Wonderful spots for children. The water is still warm....around 23 degrees, but do watch out for the jelly fish.

 

The city is clean and bright and the government and city are working hard to eliminate the starkness that the So it's brought and modernizing with beautiful, different buildings. It is truly incredible.

 

Today we had a private tour that Pat (nanonano) had arranged with Batumi Travel. These people simply could not do enough for us and we're anxious to show us their city with they were very proud of as well as a good time. The history of the city is interesting as well and I can't help but admire the people's fortitude here.

 

We have arrived in the slow season when most of the tourists are gone and being the only ship in port we had the pleasure of enjoying the calm and quiet after the rush and the hub but of Istanbul. Amazingly, we visited ruins that have only been uncovered after Batumi gained its freedom, otherwise it would have most likely been destroyed. Found there was a grave which is thought to be the grave of the apostle Matthew.

The statue of Medea holding the Golden Fleece is incredible. This is said to be the original home of the fleece and Medea helped the Argonaults get it. The Greeks believe that the fleece belonged to them and Batumi believes it was stolen from them. It is intriguing to hear the different sides of the story and see the connection as we go from port to port.

 

After our wonderful tour (which by the way cost a whole $20 USD pp) 6 of us stopped at a restaurant recommended by Maia, our guide which was quite close to the port. We we win the only tourists in the restaurant as far as I could tell. We all ordered some Georgian food and YUMMY! Couldn't believe how much we got for the price. DH ordered a type of meat pie, but unlike what we would see at home. The pastry was light and flaky without falling apart. We all took a taste and gave it a huge thumbs up. Gigianne ordered some picked veggies for us all to share (DH got the hot peppers by a unanimous vote). I ordered curd but it was unlike curd at home, a bit sour, but it was delicious when I dipped my crab fajita type sandwich into it. Al and Marlane had these a salad and a type of stew. Both of them were served in a type of bowl ace out of bread. The bread was freshly baked and wonderful. It was a great meal for just a few lari.

 

Lari is Georgia's currency. We couldn't get it before coming and any you are left with cannot be cashed in, so we paid for a souvenir and our lunch with Visa. No problem at all. The little shop at the museum where the old garrison ruins were does take US$ and if you do go, take a look there. They had a couple of very unique things that most of our group liked and. Bought at a very reasonable price (a handcrafted bowl typical of Georgia) which you will not find anywhere else.

 

On our way back to the ship there was a vendor at the gangway selling a few souvenirs and wine! While on tour I have discovered that Georgia makes excellent wine. We're not here every day so.......corkage fee I paid.

 

Just as we were ready to pull up the gangplank, an ambulance and Van arrived and we saw another passenger disembark with their partner and their luggage. He seemed to be relatively mobile although in a wheel chair so hopefully it is nothing serious.

 

It is Canadian Thanksgiving today and a happy Thanksgiving greets us in our On Location and yes, the Canadian Thanksgiving is on the menu tonight.

 

We had to move our watches an hour forward last night so, it is good new indeed when I hear the captain announce that the clocks go back tonight. We have a VERY early start tomorrow for Trabzon, Turkey.

 

 

A reception is on the itinerary tonight so I had best go and get freshened up. I'd like to say make myself beautiful, but Why kid myself...LOL

 

 

So, if you are looking at an itinerary with Batumi on it, I hope you find it as enchanting as we all did.

 

I found out later that just 4 years ago after they were bombed in 2008, it looked pretty desolate. They have done a phenomenal job of recovering. Apparently the casinos help foot the tab.

 

Oh, and for you animal lovers, while they have strays, they are tagged

And taken care of by the Government. Gotta like that!

 

Live from the Prinsendam sailing on the Black Sea.

 

Oops I forgot to mention that Batumi replaced our original port of call which was to be Odessa. I think HAL chose wisely:)

 

Also, we found out that this was the first time that Batumi Travel did a ship"s tour. Turns out the local TV station was there and our group would be on the local news that night! Our group pic was taken along with several otheR pics which apparently will become part of a new Batumi travel brochure. The guide has promised to send the pic to Pat who will share with us.

 

The guides made sure we were well taken care of with two on our mini van. When one couple wanted to walk back to the ship, the guide insisted on accompanying them. We were very close and could see the ship so there was no need nor did the couple need it but the guide insisted and went with them. Talk about care!