Exploring amazing cruise destinations around the world
Did I mention the 10 deer he photographed this morning in Rockwood Park? While Russ is an engaging guide, his focus on photography detracts from the historical insights that could enrich a tour. Our group had a more rewarding experience with Cher, who provided a well-rounded look at St. John’s history and landmarks.
The Asticou Terraces, crafted by Landscape Architect Joseph Henry Curtis, are a hidden gem that transform the rainy day into a photographer's paradise. With vibrant flowers and lush greenery, I experimented with light and angles to capture the beauty that unfolded before me. Our tour guide, Carli, added to the experience with her wealth of knowledge about the island's history, making this stop truly memorable.
On a rainy fall day in Acadia National Park, the waterfalls come alive, cascading down the granite due to the park's unique topography. Despite the lack of vibrant autumn colors, the rain brings its own beauty, transforming the landscape into a dynamic display of nature's power. And under the trees along the trails, the pace of a genrle rainfall on the leaves.
Tuscan Table exceeded my expectations, blending a homey, eclectic vibe with delicious food. The lobster bisque was a revelation—thick, rich, and brimming with lobster chunks. My server, Jennifer, was incredibly patient as I navigated my limited appetite post-surgery, allowing me to savor each course at my own pace. The grilled chicken Caesar salad was intriguingly sweet, providing a delightful twist on a classic. I left feeling satisfied and eager to return for more …
I'll be honest, I can't be sure my Pixel 11 is not enhancing this using AI, but I didn't generate a thing. These flowers were truly beautiful, and the camera captured them wonderfully.
A lot of beautiful sights seen in Acadia National Park today. Much more to come.
Nor'easter impacts nearly a dozen cruise ship departures on the east coast the weekend we sail. But not ours, in any appreciable way. However, the rocking and rolling does take some accomodation.
I've learned over the years not to pack the days full, and that I prefer small-group tours. We've left some open time purposefully -- I call it "serendipity time."
Aboard the Symphony of the Seas, I was surprised by how quickly I slipped back into ship mode, even after such a short stay. Disembarkation felt like a letdown, reminding me how much I love the cruise experience. With just 60 days to go, plans are shaping up for our upcoming trip, including a Cruise Critic Meet & Mingle onboard our first sea day and a perfect mix of excursions and relaxation …
Cabo San Lucas is where our “us” day truly began, away from tourist traps and filled with simple pleasures. The Sand Bar remains our go-to spot, and this time, our cats Charlie and Tippy even made an appearance via my t-shirt. There’s something special about enjoying time in the sun, even if I wished for a bit more breeze. The highlight of the day was definitely spotting the Carnival Firenze, which doesn’t sport the iconic whale tail funnel, a detail I found fascinating…
We waddled out of the restaurant, having left more than 30% of the food in the “boat,” un-tasted. The special we ordered included two items of everything they serve, and our drinks were a fun twist—one even balanced on the restaurant owner’s head! Although the extra charges for add-ons caught us off guard, the delicious meal and lively atmosphere made it worthwhile. David said we’d picked well, and locals seem to love this place.
The construction of the Catedral Mazatlan Basilica de la Inmaculada Concepcion faced significant delays due to financial issues, leading to its unique completion. Remarkably, a Jewish Synagogue stepped in to fund the remaining work, resulting in a church adorned with 28 stained glass windows featuring the Star of David, a rarity in Catholic architecture. This fascinating blend of cultures adds depth to the historical narrative of Mazatlan, making it a must-see on any tour.