Live/Nautica: Greece, Holy Lands, Egypt, Dubai; Terry/Pix’s

[Silver Spectre]

Hi Terry, looks like you caught me up with your visits to Sharm, Luxor and Petra. Great visuals and your usual excellent commentary.

[TLCOhio]

19 hours ago, Silver Spectre said:

Hi Terry, looks like you caught me up with your visits to Sharm, Luxor and Petra. Great visuals and your usual excellent commentary.

 

Appreciate Silver Spectre's nice follow-up and comments.  However, I have only posted just a very, very small sampling from Luxor and those nearby areas in Egypt.  As they say on TV in the USA . . . "But, wait, there's more!"  Sorry there are some many visuals to share.  There is so much to experience in and around Luxor.  That's why we did an overnight private tour there.  Given the required seven hours for logistics, only having a part of day there is hardly enough time to enjoy its many sights and such amazing history.  

 

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 242,890 views.

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1426474

 

Getting from our port city of Safaga on the Red Sea required some time and patience.  It is about a three and a half hour journey.  As shown below, we initially see mainly desert and mountains.  There are a number of security check-points along this four-lane highway.  The third picture shows an example of the mini-market set-ups as we are neared the greenbelt, more-populated areas and in approaching closer to Luxor.:

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

 

 

 

As we were getting closer to Luxor, we entered the "Green Valley" where they benefit from a canal from the Nile providing water to grow a wide variety of crops, fruits, grasses, etc., in this more-populated area.  First below shows one of the cute Tuk-Tuk's used for transportation among the various villages here.  Lots of grasses raised here.  This includes big sugar cane production.  Later you can see examples of this water-supplying canal, the colorful floral plants along the roadway, one of the many mule-powered vehicles we observed, etc., etc.  This was a good introduction for current life in this part of Egypt.:

 

 

 

As we enter Luxor, this visual shows more of the urban build-up and more congestion in this city area.:

 

Here is that view as we are seeing and crossing the Nile River for the first time.  The Nile is the world's longest river and fairly wide at this point in Luxor. At 4132 miles long, the Niles supports millions of people with its fresh water, transportation connections, food production, etc. Historically for thousands of years, the Nile has been the "life blood" of Egypt.:

[TLCOhio]

Now we start to explore the Valley of the Kings.  Located on the west bank of Luxor, this has been the site of royal burials since around 2100 BC.  However, it was the pharaohs of the New Kingdom period (1550–1069 BC) who chose this somewhat isolated valley dominated by the pyramid-shaped mountain peak of Al Qurn (The Horn). Once called the Great Necropolis of Millions of Years of Pharaoh, or the Place of Truth, the Valley of the Kings has 63 different royal tombs.  Don't worry, we did not visited ALL of them.   These tombs have suffered greatly from the treasure hunters (to be more blunt, grave robbers), floods and, in recent years, the challenges of mass tourism.  

 

We did not visit King Tut's tomb as it was so small as he died at a very young age.  They started digging a tomb once a person becomes king.  Short life?  Smaller tomb!    Plus, all of the "goodies" from King Tut's tomb were taken to the main Egypt Museum in Cairo.  King Tut is so famous as it not until the early 1920's when his tomb had been discovered by Howard Carter.  Most of the other tombs has been stripped clean by these grave robbers much earlier in history.   The three we visited gave us an excellent sample.  Hopefully these visuals will verify that we saw some amazing samples of history.  To do pictures inside these tombs involves an extra $20 permit.  Was it worth it?  You be the judge based on this sample here in this and other posts.    The colors and designs are amazing!!  Agree??

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Norway Coast/Fjords/Arctic Circle cruise from Copenhagen, July 2010, to the top of Europe. Wonderful scenic visuals with key tips. Live/blog at 232,650 views.

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

 

Here is the first view as we approach the "Valley of the Kings" on the west side ("sunset") of the Nile River opposite the main part of Luxor on the right or east bank.  Then we entered the first of three different tombs that we toured this morning.  Very unique, colorful and special art and designs.  Such great craftsmanship going back about 3300 years.:

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

 

 

 

This is the large area where the tomb of the King would have been placed.  But, all of the loose and moveable items were stolen many decades ago.:

 

 

 

 

 

Like this special three-headed snake that was not viewed as a positive sign?:

[Silver Spectre]

Which three tombs did you get to visit?

[TLCOhio]

Is that all that we experienced in Luxor's famed Valley of the Kings?  NO!!  Below are just a few more to finish up a small sampling the wonders there in these various tomb chambers.  One highlight in this second tomb was its large stone sarcophagus.  This carved container was used to house the wooden and decorated coffin.  This stone structure provided supplementary protection to the dead body.

 

As shown in the first picture, there were different opening for each of these 63 burial chambers.  Each tomb involved a decent number of steps, walking, etc.  

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Sydney to NZ/Auckland Adventure, live/blog 2014 sampling for "down under” wonders. Exciting visuals with key highlights.  On page 15, post #571, see a complete index for all of the pictures, postings.  Now at 216,072 views.

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

 

Inside of this second tomb that we visited in the Valley of Kings, one of the highlights was the large stone sarcophagus contained within the burial chamber.  Notice in the fourth picture as to how decorated were many of the ceiling in this chambers?:

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

 

 

 

[TLCOhio]

22 minutes ago, Silver Spectre said:

Which three tombs did you get to visit?

 

Great question from Silver Spectre.  As I re-call, two of the tombs we visited were for Ramesses III and IX.  But I need to double-check my memory/re-call, plus confirm on the third location visited.  As I understand, they rotate which tombs are open for each different day.  That helps make the staffing easier and helps to lessen the impacts on these fragile samples of history. 

 

Hatshepsut's Temple or Mortuary temple was dedicated to Amun and Hatshepsut and is situated next to the mortuary temple of Mentuhotep II.  The Polish Academy of Sciences from Warsaw is responsible for the study and restoration of the three levels of the temple.

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Venice: Loving It & Why??!!  Is one of your future desires or past favorites? See these many visual samples for its great history and architecture.  This posting is now at 79,551 views.

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

 

Near the Valley of the Kings, we did a "sales stop" as a location for a demonstration as to the various old stone carving and decorating methods used by the Egypt artists who families go back many centuries in these trades.  Yes, we bought a nice art sample to have at home as a memory from visiting Luxor.:

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

 

 

Here are a few more photographic samples from visiting Hatshepsut's Temple near the Valley of the Kings.  Most of this Temple to the famed Queen was destroyed by her somewhat unhappy (with good reason) stepson.  Something about a King being killed, etc.??!!  Much of what we see now has been re-built.  Not totally authentic, but the overall look is good, plus having a spectacular setting with the background of these mountains.  Like the perfect blue skies?:

 

 

 

 

 

[TLCOhio]

After the Valley of the Kings and other stops in the morning and early afternoon, we headed to the Nile River for a lunch on a boat as we sailed on this famed waterway.  FUN!!  Good food, too!  YES, the setting was totally wonderful, scenic and very relaxing.

 

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 62,072 views:

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

 

Here is the view from our boat, the Blue Peter, we prepared to enjoy lunch for just the four of us as we sailed on the famed Nile River.  Second is the view from the front of the boat. Third is the view of the Winter Palace sitting directly on the Nile.  It was build from use by the last of the Egypt Kings in the earlier 1900's.  It is a now a hotel and we stayed at this location.  We were in their newer addition, not the more pricy, older palace structure.  Beautiful grounds for this Sofitel hotel operation.:

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

 

 

 

In this picture is what I believe to be a felucca, similar to the traditional, wooden sailing boat used commonly on the Nile River.:

 

Here is super smiling Milt with our expert guide, Abdul, after our wonderful lunch on the Nile River.  Our guide shared so much on the history and background for this area and his country during our two days with him and the staff from Love Egypt Tours.:

[TLCOhio]

For our first evening in Luxor, we arranged to do a special evening light and sound program at Karnak.  This is a complex of sanctuaries, columns, pylons and obelisks dedicated to the  the glory of the Pharaohs. This site covers more than 2 sq km and contains about ten cathedrals. At its heart is the Temple of Amun.  It was built, added to, dismantled, restored, enlarged and decorated over nearly 1500 years.   Karnak was the most important place of worship in Egypt during the New Kingdom.  Among its highlights are a hypostyle hall and a  forest of giant papyrus-shaped columns.   There was a three km paved avenue of human-headed sphinxes that once linked the great Temple of Amun at Karnak with Luxor Temple. Most of what you can see was built by the Pharaohs of the 18th to 20th dynasties (1570–1090 BC).  The quality of the music, narration, etc., with this evening program was very special and worth the added cost in attending. 

 

Was this a pretty good first day for visiting Luxor?

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

SE Asia/Mekong River, Etc.!  Live/blog from early 2018, first adventure through SE Asia, stops in Hong Kong and Bangkok, before exploring all over Vietnam and Cambodia, seven days sailing on the Mekong River. Now at 39,332 views.

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

 

Here are some highlights from attending the night program at Karnak in Luxor.  Very impressive and well done!!:

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

 

 

 

 

[Silver Spectre]

2 hours ago, TLCOhio said:

 

Great question from Silver Spectre.  As I re-call, two of the tombs we visited were for Ramesses III and IX.  But I need to double-check my memory/re-call, plus confirm on the third location visited.  As I understand, they rotate which tombs are open for each different day.  That helps make the staffing easier and helps to lessen the impacts on these fragile samples of history. 

 

Hatshepsut's Temple or Mortuary temple was dedicated to Amun and Hatshepsut and is situated next to the mortuary temple of Mentuhotep II.  The Polish Academy of Sciences from Warsaw is responsible for the study and restoration of the three levels of the temple.

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Venice: Loving It & Why??!!  Is one of your future desires or past favorites? See these many visual samples for its great history and architecture.  This posting is now at 79,551 views.

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

 

Near the Valley of the Kings, we did a "sales stop" as a location for a demonstration as to the various old stone carving and decorating methods used by the Egypt artists who families go back many centuries in these trades.  Yes, we bought a nice art sample to have at home as a memory from visiting Luxor.:

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

 

 

Here are a few more photographic samples from visiting Hatshepsut's Temple near the Valley of the Kings.  Most of this Temple to the famed Queen was destroyed by her somewhat unhappy (with good reason) stepson.  Something about a King being killed, etc.??!!  Much of what we see now has been re-built.  Not totally authentic, but the overall look is good, plus having a spectacular setting with the background of these mountains.  Like the perfect blue skies?:

 

 

 

 

 

Hi Terry, you are right about the rotation, we did Rameses VII, IV and IX

[TLCOhio]

After a wonderful sunrise from our balcony overlooking the gardens at the Winter Palace Sofitel Hotel (pictured earlier), we would start our second day in Luxor by visiting Karmak.  But, this time, were there with fully sunlight under beautiful blue skies.  Like?

 

Construction at this complex began during the reign of Senusret I in the Middle Kingdom and continued into the Ptolemaic period.  Old stuff??!!

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Dubrovnik!  Nice visual samples, tips, details, etc., for this super scenic location. Over 44,379 views.    

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

 

First, here is the view of the Nile River as we traveled with our private guide to Karmak.   Second are the welcoming stone rams as we enter Karmak.  These are big, BIG columns with many design/decorative carving on this stone. Notice some of the design touches on the bottoms of certain upper stone pieces?  Penny is shown learning more details from guide Abdul.  :

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[TLCOhio]

These visuals finish up just a small sampling for ALL that we saw and experienced at Karnak.  Loved all about this site, both at night and during the daylight hours.  Karnak is considered as the second most visited historical site in Egypt; following only the Giza Pyramids near Cairo as receiving more visitors.  Yes, it is easy under why Karnak is so popular.  Per Wikipedia, the key difference between Karnak and most of the other temples and sites in Egypt is the length of time over which it was developed and used. Construction of these temples started in the Middle Kingdom and continued into Ptolemaic times. Approximately thirty pharaohs contributed to the buildings, enabling it to reach a size, complexity and diversity that is not seen elsewhere.   OTHER TRIVIA?:  Agatha Christie's Death on the Nile takes place mainly on the steamship S.S. Karnak, as well as using the temple itself in one of its scenes.  Karnak is featured in the James Bond movie The Spy Who Loved Me.   Yes, I remember those scenes with Roger Moor and Barbara Bach.  Lara Croft visited Karnak for three levels in Tomb Raider: The Last Revelation.  

 

Sorry, earlier, I got the spelling mixed up between Karnak and Karmak.  Pesky fingers doing the typing!!??  Also, apologize for any typos and other errors.  It can be challenging in doing live/blogs and being able to check properly all of the exact spelling and grammar details, etc.  Proofing your own writing, especially when on the run and being so busy, can be a difficult task.  

 

On the ship now, they are playing continuously, all day long, the movie Lawrence of Arabia.  Just now they have on scenes in the movie shot at Wadi Rum in Jordan.  Love the red sands and these great scenic locations!!  

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Kotor/Montenegro:  Exciting visual samples, tips, details, etc., for this scenic, historic location. Over 44,191 views.

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

 

Finishing up at Karnak, here are four more views and samples for our sights at this location.  Yes, we were smiling and impressed!!:

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

 

 

 

 

Next we visited a "Museum" for papyrus in Luxor.  It was mostly a "sales stop", but it was interesting to learn of its history and how this material was produced in ancient times. It was made from the pith of the papyrus plant.  Documents were written on sheets of such a material that is joined together side by side and rolled up into a scroll.  These were the early forms for books and documents.  Papyrus is first known to have been used in Egypt going back to the First Dynasty.  The papyrus plant was once abundant across the Nile Delta.:.:

 

Here is the Coptic Christian Church in Luxor that is among the largest in Egypt.:

[TLCOhio]

Now to finish our key highlights along the Nile River in this ancient city, we visited the Temple of Luxor.  This town was originally called Thebes and was founded around 1400 BC.  It is a UNESCO World Heritage site.  One of the top highlights at Luxor Temple is the granite statue of Ramses II. Per Wikipedia, to the rear of the temple has chapels built by Amenhotep III of the 18th Dynasty. Other parts of the temple were built by Tutankhamun and Ramesses II. During the Roman era, the temple and its surroundings were the home of the Roman government in the area.

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

AFRICA?!!?: Fun, interesting visuals, plus travel details from this early 2016 live/blog. At 43,651 views. Featuring Cape Town, South Africa’s coast, Mozambique, Victoria Falls/Zambia and Botswana's famed Okavango Delta.

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

 

Below are the long run of statutes as we approached the Temple of Luxor.  Second shows some sense of the "scale" as my wife stands next to the foot of the giant statue of Ramesses II.  Third is our guide, Abdul, explaining details for the carvings and the meanings on those statutes. Are these pretty big considering that they were constructed thousands of years ago before modern equipment and tools?:

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[TLCOhio]

To complete this sampling from the Temple of Luxor, below are my final seven visuals.  Have many more, but hopefully these either offer a good preview for those planning to visit here.  Or, to bring back nice memories for those who have visited in Luxor earlier.  

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Athens & Greece: Many visuals, details for a city with great history, culture and architecture.  Now at 28,114 views.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1101008

 

The Temple of Luxor is much more than just one structure.  It is a large complex of different artifacts, building columns, carvings, statues, etc.  At night, it is lighted in a spectacular manner.  Very impressive!!  Many of these columns suffered significant damage due to flooding before the New Aswan Dam was constructed and completed in the 1970's.  In the fourth pictures, part of the the Islamic structure building later within this complex is shown on the right-hand site.:

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

 

 

 

 

Here is a statue of King Tut and his wife within the Temple of Luxor.  As has happened in many locations, certain of these items were unfortunately damaged over the years by either later rulers and/or the many foreign invaders, etc.:

 

 

[TLCOhio]

Our Nautica ship would be departing at 6 pm and we needed to leave Luxor a little after noon.  We wanted to be back at the ship around 4 pm.  Do not seek to cut timing too close to risk missing our ship's sail-away.

 

Need more visual "eye-candy" from this part of Egypt??  Have many more pictures that can be shared and/or to be used to answer any questions.   

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Lisbon, NWSpain, Bordeaux/Brittany: Live/blog, June 2017 from Portugal to France along scenic Atlantic Coast.  Now at 26,447 views.  Many interesting pictures, details for history, food, culture, etc.:

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

 

Here are two samples of "city-life" within Luxor as were preparing to depart in returning to our ship on Red Sea.  It's a busy city!! Here, the horse-drawn carriage is used more for tourism purposes.  Lots of motorcycles, cars, etc., within this town.:

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

 

 

Along the green-belt area nearby to and north of Luxor, here are some samples as people carry on with their daily chores, including to deliver goods and services, etc.  Many carts and wagons are pulled by Donkeys. The fourth picture shows some of the various crops being grown on these private tracts of land that are supplied with water from the canal that runs north from the large Aswan Dam that now controls the flooding.:

 

 

 

 

These final two pictures give a sampling of transportation in this part of Egypt. First is one of the many trucks or vans that people would use to get around and move between various villages and locations. Doors would be left open in order to make it easier for people to jump on or exit from these privately-operated vehicles.  Notice the luggage on the top of the roof?  Cute having this guy on the back of the truck give me a "thumbs up!" signal.  Next, we passed through the town of Qena, north of Luxor. Here, we saw this example as to how one motorcycle could be used to transport a whole family.  They were nice and gave us friendly smiles and a positive thumbs up sign.:

 

[Tranquility Base]

Terry,

Was it mandatory to take your passports with you for Luxor ?

IE: Were they compulsory at any checkpoints or needed when checking in at the hotel ?

[TLCOhio]

10 hours ago, Tranquility Base said:

Terry,  Was it mandatory to take your passports with you for Luxor ?   IE: Were they compulsory at any checkpoints or needed when checking in at the hotel ?

 

Appreciate these two great questions and this follow-up.   The quick response is yes and maybe!!  Explain?  For both of our port stops in Egypt, we needed to have our passports with us and go (briefly and quickly) through checking by the Egypt officials.  This included for exiting the ship and going to Luxor.  At the various the check-points on our way to Luxor, our tour folks had a little "trick".  Apparently if you are Americans, the checking is more detailed and time-consuming if you are with USA passports.  More security by Egypt trying to be more protective!!  Kind of good, maybe.   BUT, our driver told them we were tourist from Canada.  That made each of those stops much easier and more simple.  Saved time!!  AND, since we were from Ohio, that's fairly close to Canada and we get lots of fresh, cold air from our neighbor to the north.  Right?  We in the car did not say anything.  We were in a mini-van with just the four of us, plus our guide and driver.  Not sure as to how things are handled on the larger tourist buses.  

 

Does this help?  Added questions?  Info needs?  Comments?

 

We are now safely out into the Gulf of Aden and way past the Somalia Coast.   Starting our fourth sea-day in a row.  Will have more details soon on our ship's Captain doing a question-and-answer session with passengers, his responses as to the security ramp-up in passing through through these areas near Yemen, etc.  

 

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 25,181 views.

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

 

Food?  Below are a few quick visual samplings to prove that we are being fed well.  More to come later, including for desserts.  First is an example for the breads served at our tables.  Yes, their baking has been excellent.  Too tasty!!  Maybe we are enjoying the breads too much??!!  Then a couple of starter/main dish examples.  Like?:

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

 

 

 

Then, a couple of samples for the main dining treats!!:

 

[TLCOhio]

On the previous question, I realized that I did not fully answer a part of that smart and good inquiry.  When checking in at the hotel in Luxor, YES, we did need to present our U.S. passports.  They made a copy of it as a part of the check-in process in Luxor.  Also at Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, when we paid a small amount to do a "beach experience", this location wanted to see our passports and make a copy.  Hope this offers more clarification.  

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Added food sampling and visuals?  First are a couple of first course options.  On Thanksgiving Day, did we get turkey?  YES!!  Third is a picture of that offering in the Grand Dining Room to celebrate our American

 

 

 

 

Here are a couple of additional main dining dishes, including the second picture featuring "surf and turf" at the Polo Grill speciality dining.:

 

[Tranquility Base]

15 minutes ago, TLCOhio said:

Hope this offers more clarification.  

Yes it did, many thanks.

[TLCOhio]

As mentioned earlier, our Captain did a Q&A program yesterday on the third sea-day while finishing our Red Sea sailing.  Maksym Melnikov is from Russia and has a super great sense of humor.  Very funny and cutting with his comments and style!!  He opened by saying that since departing Jordan, his number one questions have been about whether our ship was carrying weapons for our passage near Somalia and Yemen.  He was very tactful in saying “We have specialists on-board with some instruments.”   Another asked if these "specialists" were Navy Seals?   His response: “Well, they looked like Seals!"    Four of these people came on board while we were sailing south in the Red Sea.  Many on the ship what them approach and board our ship.  The Captain said these people will help cover the watches as we sail past Somalia and east-bound near Yemen.  The Captain noted that he had background earlier in Russia as a "Seal" before going to maritime school..  He kept using the term “instruments”, being careful not to call them as "weapons" or be too specifics.  These "specialists" will stay on ship until Dubai.  This timing for them to stay on the ship makes it easier to deal with their logistics.  It has been over a year since such an "incidents" with these pirates.  Plus, the pirates prefer to go after tankers, not cruise ships.  BUT, Oceania and the Captain were on top of this situation and being appropriately careful.  

 

The Captain also noted that this ship now uses electronic charts, not paper maps any more.

For staffing, he noted how much more competition exists now in this cruising field to attract and keep the best staff.  He detailed the extra steps they do they days for extensive training for senior staff as to how to work with, motivate and encourage the employees, at all levels, on the ship.   This Captain was very impressive and there is no doubt as to his confidence and skills.  He provided more background on the history of these "R-class" ship building in the late 1990's, etc.  

 

ADDED EGYPT NOTES:  While we were not able to see the pyramids or the Sphinx that were most built 2700 to 1700 BC, Luxor worked very well for us as an initial sampling in doing our first visit to Egypt.  The largest of the pyramids are at Giza.  These were mainly constructed of limestone.  As shared by one of our ship speakers, 135 of these pyramids exist in Egypt.  Most of pyramids are located west of the Nile as it connects with the “sunset” phase of life (or death).

 

Egypt had three different “Kingdoms” in Egypt during the 2650 to 1075 BC period.  Luxor was a key part of their history during these three Kingdoms.  Clearly, there is a massive amount of ancient history in this overall region.

 

Much of this Egyptology started with Napoleon’s invasion of Egypt in 1798-1801.  Many discoveries happened and were documented during this period.  But, sadly, many treasures were relocated to France during this period and process.  One of the finds was the Rosetta Stone, one of the first "multi-language dictionaries".

 

About King Tutankhamun, who died 1332 BC, there is the question as to . . . why was he so famous?   Simple!!   Since his burial chamber was so hidden and discovered so recently, the grave robbers did not find it and steal the treasures as happened with these other, earlier rulers.  His death mask is such a key icon for these period in Egypt.  It was found in 1922.  He had a small death chamber as he was so young when he died.   There are still many hidden chambers in these tombs in and around the Valley of the Kings.  They are now using some new technology to conduct added research and searching.   One ship speaker noted that Hollywood has done much in its movies about "mummies" and other related stories related to Egypt.  Some good movies.  Some bad!!  He noted one of the most famous movie was in 1932 with Boris Karloff.

 

Most of these massive structures in Egypt were built during these periods with a small number of tools, including saws.  How was much of the building accomplished?  Simple!!  Pile up the stones and then have carvers come in and carve down to create the finished column.  Most of these were done with sandstone.

 

To cut many of these large stones, they had to drill holes, put wood in the openings, pound it down, make the wood wet with water to cause it to expand, pound more, etc., etc.  Saws, hammers, wedges, picks, sleds and “man-power” were the key tools and techniques to accomplish such massive and unique building 3000 or so years ago.  

 

Below are some added "food porn" examples for those who like these kind of visuals.  Look good?
 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio
 

Here are a few visual samples from the "sweets" offered during this Oceania sailing.  Yes, it was tasting good and fun, too!!:

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

 

 

 

 

 

[TLCOhio]

56 minutes ago, Tranquility Base said:

Yes it did, many thanks.

 

Appreciate your above follow-up and that this information was helpful.  Keep it coming!!  Happy to answer any and all other questions.  Or, if you have an upcoming sailing on the Nautica or one of the sister R-Class ship, let me know your info needs and I will research more.  Maybe post some more pix's!!

 

Below is an update for our current ship positioning.   The Captain is on the P.A. now giving his noon update.  We have 395 nautical miles to go till we arrive at the next port of Salalah.  

 

Have been watching the cable news coverage about the passing of former President George H. W. Bush at age 94.  Much of the attention is about both the 41st President and his late wife, Barbara.  If I have time, I might post some personal experiences in meeting both of them.  As the last of the President who served in World War II, Tom Brokaw was calling him the last of the "Greatest Generation".  

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

For ship's video system minutes ago, here is the posting for our current ship position and our sailing plan as we head towards Oman.  Looking forward to these two stops in this country with some interesting history and key geo-political position in the Middle East.  Yes the temperatures today are much better and more comfortable than we experienced yesterday.  Nice smooth sailing waters now!!:

(Open your screen/viewer wider to see this picture larger/better!)

[TLCOhio]

We had to set our clocks ahead an hour last night, losing more time!!  We are now in the time zone for Oman and Dubai.  No more time clock changes to do. Good news!!   We are now and will continue to be at nine hours ahead of Eastern Standard time zone for the next eight days until we fly out early on the morning of Dec. 9 from Dubai to London Heathrow,/LHR then to Chicago/ORD and home to Columbus/CMH. 

 

We had two of the best main dishes in the Grand Dining Room last night.  See the visual evidence below.  Both excellent!!   

 

On my more recent photos from my Nikon D7200 camera, I have been having some challenges getting the SD cards to download digitally to my MacBook Pro computer.  Can easily move the most recent pictures from my iPhone to the laptop.  BUT, have been trying to work out these issues with images from my main camera during the past few days.  Might be delayed in posting a full range of pictures from the Nikon camera.  Will keep you posted!! 

 

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 242,950 views.

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1426474

 

Three at our table last night had the sea bass.  Notice the small clothes pin to hold the banana wrapping this fish?  My dish below was the Indian-style lamb with curry, etc.  We all super loved these dishes last night.:

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

 

[TLCOhio]

Next on the afternoon ship schedule as we are completing our fourth sea-day in a row will be a preview presentation as the various wonders and background on Oman.  Prior to considering this cruise, this country was not much on my radar.  Nor, does this nation get much publicity and attention.  Part of that is good as Oman has not been too caught up in the "tensions" happening with some of the other countries in this region.  

 

We had been schedule to arrive there at 10 am, but the Captain indicated that we would arrive at 9 am.  Our departure time from Salalah is 6 pm.  Then, another sea-day before arriving in their capital of Muscat.  As background, here is one of the descriptions for Salalah and its options:  lovely old city, its charming streets, museums and lively souks. Travel into a lush countryside of coconut and banana plantations, mountains and seascapes to Job's Tomb. Or explore a rugged landscape of desert, fishing villages and starkly beautiful mosques. Visit ancient Mirbat, the medieval capital of Dhofar and the starting point for camel caravans.

 

We are going to be taking a ship's tour of "Scenic Salalah Oceania Tour (SLL-003)"  It will run 10:30 am-2:30 pm for four and a half hours.  They say we will: "Explore the diverse beauty and historical sites of Salalah during this half-day visit to the Garden City. Depart the pier for the scenic drive through Salalah and its surrounding areas. Along the way, you will see the contrast between the lush vegetation of the Garden City and the barren, bleak landscape of the desert. Your first stop is the new Grand Mosque. His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said issued instructions for the building, making it the largest mosque. The invested patronage of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos, accompanied by his instructions to the team overseeing the project at the Diwan of the Royal Court, has endorsed the spiritual and architectural role of the Grand Mosque in marked tribute to Islamic heritage. From here, your drive will continue on to the Al Balid archaeological site. Upon arrival, you will visit the frankincense tree and learn how it is extracted. A visit will also be made to the museum located inside the archaeological site to view ancient paintings and writings from the Dhramut Dynasty, displays of old coins of Maria Theresa and ornaments of Bedouin tribes. Your tour will conclude with a visit to the Al Husn Souq, where some time will be made available to stroll among the vendors. The colorful stalls are heaped with mounds of frankincense, myrrh, incense, bottles of fragrant perfume oils, and a wide array of goods for sale. Please note: Due to Muslim traditions, conservative dress is required. Women must wear modest clothing that covers the body and head, including the hair. Legs must be covered to the ankle and arms covered to the wrist. A scarf should be brought to cover the head. Shorts, short skirts and skimpy outfits are deemed to be inappropriate. Men should also wear modest clothing and shorts are not allowed. Slip-on shoes are recommended as shoes must be removed before entering the mosque. Food, drink and smoking are strictly prohibited at the mosque."

 

Below is the weather forecast for tomorrow in Salalah.  Much warmer than the upcoming weather expected for when we return to the Midwest for January and February. 

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Norway Coast/Fjords/Arctic Circle cruise from Copenhagen, July 2010, to the top of Europe. Wonderful scenic visuals with key tips. Live/blog at 232,687 views.

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

 

Below is the graphic for what AccuWeather projects as the weather tomorrow in Salalah, Oman.  Look nice, warm and near perfect.:

(Open your screen/viewer wider to see this picture larger/better!)

Edited December 1, 2018 by TLCOhio

[TLCOhio]

About a week back, as we were preparing to transit the Suez Canal, I had finished sharing details and visuals from our first day in touring Jerusalem and Bethlehem.  BUT, there is still so much more needing to be shared.  From our second day in Israel, we focused 100% on Jerusalem and its four key quarters in the Old City.  Amazing!!  

 

Below starts some of the coverage, especially at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher.  This is clearly Christianity's holiest place.  It covers the traditional sites of the crucifixion, entombment, and resurrection of Jesus. Built about A.D. 330 as pushed by the mother of the Roman Emperor who made Christianity the official religion on this vast Roman empire.  Within this complex, duties and powers are divided among the Greek Orthodox, Roman Catholic, Armenian Orthodox, Coptic, Syrian, and Ethiopian churches.   That makes for unique "politics" and variations as to the design, decorations and religious styles present inside this location in Jerusalem. 

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Sydney to NZ/Auckland Adventure, live/blog 2014 sampling for "down under” wonders. Exciting visuals with key highlights.  On page 15, post #571, see a complete index for all of the pictures, postings.  Now at 216,172 views.

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

 

First is the view of  the Church of the Holy Sepulcher as we approached its way of entrance.  The key to this door is controlled, interestingly, by a Moslem family. Lines at this location can be long to extremely long.  We were fortunate that our waiting time to enter the most holy part of this site was not too lengthy.  It was worth the wait as were able to go inside the inner chamber of this church.  Second is more of an overall view inside this moving and impressive setting.  Third shows at the top of the outside worship segment at this inner chamber from which Christ was risen. This part of the site was designed in the style of the the Greek Orthodox church.:

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

 

 

 

Now we getting ready to enter this inner sanctum (The Aedicule) of the highest value connected to the life, death and resurrected of Jesus Christ. The third and fourth visuals show my wife inside this very small and intimate chamber.  In the center of this church rotunda is the chapel called the Aedicule, which contains the Holy Sepulchre itself.:

 

 

 

 

Nearby to The Aedicule, here was a priest lighting candles for others from religious orders visiting this location.:

 

[TLCOhio]

Also within the Church of the Holy Sepulcher are a number of key religious sites connected with the end of life on earth for Christ.  You can see more details below and the visuals representing what we saw and experienced.  It was a very, very moving time period when we were inside at this Jerusalem religious location.  

 

When Constantine converted to Christianity, he signed the Edict of Milan legalizing the religion, and made new plans for the Temple Mount.  The second room of the Aedicula, purportedly containing the tomb of Jesus,  This first Christian emperor ordered in about 326 that Hadrian's temple be replaced by a church.    After the old temple was torn down and its ruins removed, the soil was removed from the cave, revealing a rock-cut tomb that had been identified as the burial site of Jesus.

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Venice: Loving It & Why??!!  Is one of your future desires or past favorites? See these many visual samples for its great history and architecture.  This posting is now at 79,565 views.

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

 

Within this religious site is the Stone of Anointing, where Jesus' body is said to have been anointed before burial.  Fortunately, I was able to capture this image when the numbers of people here was not too large or overwhelming.:

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

 

These visuals show within this site the area where Christ was being prepared to be placed and nailed to the cross.  Then, the next pictures show what is called the Altar of the Crucifixion.  This is the most lavishly decorated part of the church. The raised Chapel of the Calvary, or Golgotha Chapel, contains the apex of the Rock of Calvary (12th Station of the Cross). It is split into two halves, one Greek Orthodox and one Catholic, each one with its own altar.:

 

 

 

 

[liptastic]

Terry as always your photographs are excellent. Really enjoying your blog. Its been a treat to read each day . Jean.