A view of Piazza San Marco in Venice.

Okay, okay, I did say that the 26th was the final post. Well, I just wanted to tell you about our farewell dinner in Athens!! We dined at 'Daphne's'; they have an outside garden and alley area for guests; we were seated in the alley area with a beautiful nighttime view of the Acropolis. What you don't know is that when you have a meal outside in the Plaka area you also play host to the stray cats that hang out around there!!! Of course, as soon as our first course was served, we had a little friend take his/her place at our feet!!! This was a very brazen cat; trying to ignore the plaintive meows did not work; he/she would just stand up with paws on the table!!! That did get our attention and we shooed the pesky critter away!!! One of the warnings in the guide book was: DO NOT FEED THE CATS; trust me, not everyone complied with this rule!!! Our plane trip back was uneventful but dreadfully looong!!! Didn't take much time to get through passport and customs control. Now we are in the Big Apple for two nights before heading back to our respective homes. This is the end for this trip!!!

Well folks, this is the final installment!! This is the last day; we head back to NYC tomorrow afternoon. Today we walked to the Acropolis; then we made the climb to the top -- we went in a side entrance and thought we had the place to ourselves; boy were we surprised when we reached the top to find about four thousand others up there!!! Seems that four cruise ships arrived this morning and they brought all their passengers to the Acropolis all at once!!! Anyway, the sights were beautiful; to be up close and personal with the Parthenon is something to behold!! The whole area is undergoing some serious restoration; the museum at the top is closed; all artifacts are being moved to the new museum which is in town. We made our way around and then back down again. Our route took us through the more seedier part of town but at least it was quiet!!! Had lunch at a little taverna in the Plaka; did our last bit of shopping and headed back to the hotel!!

Greetings from Athens!!! It's very interesting writing this today as all the instructions are in Greek!!! I wonder why!!! Awoke early this morning and we were already docked in Pireaus (pronounced Piros); disembarked the ship around 9:30am and boarded our bus for Athens which is about a twenty minute drive from Pireaus. Our tour consisted of a stop at the Acropolis where we viewed the Parthenon (which is in the process of being refurbished -- they are putting back pieces that were there originally; not rebuilding to make it look like it used to. Then we were taken for a ride along the waterfront to a hotel for a coffee break. Afterwards, we reboarded the bus for a city tour of downtown Athens -- saw roman baths that were unearthed during construction of the rail line; Hadrians gate; the Temple of Zeus; Kallimarmaro Stadium -- this was originally built in the 4th century B.C. and was restored for the first modern olympics in 1896; the Parliament Building; the Presidential Palace and Prime Minister's residence; the tomb of the unknown soldier. We checked into the Grand Bretagne; hotel is really beautiful, however, it took us 2 1/2 hours to get into our room. Decided to partake in Afternoon Tea!!! So very ladylike!!! Will rest up and take a walk to the Plaka -- this is in the older part of Athens and is also the main shopping area!!

Well everyone, this is the last day/night aboard ship. Where did the time go. We are anchored off the island of Santorini; had to tender in; the seas are really rough (had to hit the dramamine again!!). We bounced our way over to the island and boarded the bus for our tour. The island is an inactive volcano -- legend has it that Santorini is actually the lost island of Atlantis; even our guide laughed at this!! It is really a beautiful place; would look even better if the sun was out. Went to a small town called Oia; being Sunday, not too many people were out and about when we got there -- all kinds of shops, galleries and small churches!! All of the towns are built up high -- there are three ways to get up from the pier: one can walk (590 steps), ride a donkey or take the cable car; guess which method we chose!!! After leaving Oia, we were shown the monestary; again high on the hills; it was closed today but there was a great view looking down towards the water. Lunch was at a local winery where we tasted the wine and had a buffet lunch. The wine was so so; not worth sending home. The food also was so so; we had a better lunch on Mykonos!! We headed back to Fira, which is the capital, and strolled along the shop area on our way to the cable car (you knew all along we wouldn't take the donkey!) and our awaiting tender. Now it's time to finish with packing and prepare to disembark in Athens tomorrow morning. This has been a fun time; we've made some new friends and hope to keep in touch. Crystal cruise line has more than met our expectations. I would highly recommend this line to anyone who is considering a cruise. Will keep you up to date about Athens tomorrow.

This morning we were up bright and early; as usual!! When do we get to rest on this vacation??? Docked in Kusadasi (Turkey); took an 8 hour tour to the ruins at Aphrodisia. There is a very interesting story around this site. In 1952 there was a big earthquake in this area; the village was destroyed and what they found under all the destruction was the remains of an ancient Roman city!!! Even after more than 50 years they are still unearthing bits and pieces of an earlier time. They found remains of Aphrodite's Temple and have reconstructed as best they can; they unearthed a theater and a stadium -- all still intact. Also unearthed was the entry gate to the city which they have also reconstructed. There is also a museum on site where they have stored statues, coins, pottery and metalware that has been unearthed. Eight years after the ruins were found, what was left of the small village was rebuilt about two miles away. Following our tour of the dig, we stopped at a local restaurant and had lunch -- salad, a choice of chicken kabob, trout or meatballs -- we chose the meatballs (they were ok); someone asked if they were made with beef; we said some things are best left unknown!!! For dessert we had more choices -- we took yogurt with honey & candied (I think) pumpkin. Wasn't a bad meal. Tonight we begin the process of packing!!! At least we've been good about not doing much shopping so it won't be difficult getting the suitcases closed. Tomorrow we are in Santorini.

Good Morning All. Just a few thoughts about Istanbul, etc. As I said yesterday, this is a sea day -- at this moment, we are transitting the Dardanelle Straights; it is 36 miles long and at one point is only 4 miles wide; we have taken on a pilot to get us through the straight. There are two different currents running here; one runs east/west - where the Black Sea enters and the other runs north/south!! As you can imagine, there is a lot of sea traffic and each ship has to wait its turn to get through!! Istanbul is the only city that is on two continents; half is in Europe and the other is in Asia!! Our first night in Istanbul we had dinner at Silk Road; it is one of the restaurants aboard ship; it also is one of Nobu's restaurants -- has the same dishes as we get in NYC -- excellent food!!! Have to run -- massage time!!!! Will report again tomorrow!!

Istanbul -- Day Two. Today was our eight hour tour of Istanbul; two of those hours was spent waiting in line!!! They tell us that 40,000 people visit this city daily -- well, I'm here to tell you that they were all at the Blue Mosque the same time we were!!! It was a zoo; tho, by the time we made our way in (after having to take our shoes off), it was a magnificent sight!!! The color of the roof is what gives the Mosque its name; when the sun shines on it, it looks blue. After the Mosque, we ventured on to Topkapi Palace -- we were able to walk the grounds; and visit what used to be the kitchens but now they have on display many pieces of porcelein and another room that is filled with all kinds of silver!!! Another bit of info -- usually there were around five thousand people living at the palace -- that was a lot of people to cook for!!! Never went into the Treasury as the line was beyond long!!! We also went into the Sultan's garden -- he was the only male allowed into this particular garden!!! Following the palace, we were taken to a hotel,that was on the water, for lunch. We had a variety of turkish dishes -- all I can tell you is if the Turks eat as much as they served us, they should all be as big as blimps!!! After lunch, it was off to St. Sophia -- this particular building started out as a christian church but after Ahmet the Great took over it was turned into a Mosque (this was done by just putting in a niche that faces towards Mecca); today, tho, Sophia is a museum -- it is in the process of being restored to its original grandeur. Our final stop for sightseeing was going down into the Cistern -- three hundred columns hold up the roof of the cistern; this one is just used for tourists, however, there are many more throughout the city. It was very pretty -- it would be a perfect setting for the "Phantom"!!! Since we had done the Grand Bazaar yesterday, we left the tour and came back to the ship when our guide was taking everyone to shop. Sailed at 9:00pm; tomorrow is our last sea day. Will rest up for the next two stops.

Greetings from Istanbul (Day One); sailed into port around 11:45am -- passing on our way to the pier -- the 'Blue' Mosque, Haghia Sophia(Church of Holy Wisdom) and Topkapi Palace -- two other cruise ships here!! Had lunch before going ashore; took the shuttle to the 'Grand Bazaar' --it's like one giant flea market; did buy a couple of trinkets (even haggled; got three dollars off the price)!! Am told that the merchants are insulted if you don't try to bargain!!! Also purchased a small Turkish rug -- it'll fit nicely into my suitcase!!! Tomorrow we are taking an eight hour tour. Will let you know how it goes. After returning to the ship, we've been enjoying the sights from our verandah!! Water buses keep going back and forth all day long; of course, we could do without the diesel smell!!! Staying on board for dinner; trying the sushi restaurant!!

Greetings all. Yesterday was a sea day; a time to relax, get in a little reading and of course get ones nails done -- can't be at sea and not visit the spa. Did put some pictures on the computer!!! Will send them!! Last evening was quite interesting -- One of the passengers had a medical emergency and had to be taken off at some small island!!! Hopefully, all will be well! Docked in Mykonos early this morning. Mykonos is one of the Cyclades -- the Cyclades form a circle around the holy island of Delos. Mykonos is believed to have acquired its name from the mythological Greek hero Mykonos who was a descendent of Apollo. Today's tour took us to the sacred island of Delos -- there, according to legend, Lito (Zeus' paramour) gave birth to Artemis (Diana) and Apollo!!! Delos is a windswept whisper of her powerful past. As Apollo's birthplace, believing Greeks made pilgrimages seeking wisdon and miracles in exchange for gifts and gold. Others came here merely to purchase slaves for their armies and fields -- it has been recorded that on a normal day, 10,000 souls would be auctioned into slavery. Today, Delos is considered the "Pompeii of Greece"; we passed the 'Terrace of the Lions' where ancient marble statues once guarded what was called the 'Sacred Lake' (Artemis & Apollo, according to legend, were born in this lake!! There are ruins every where -- from statues to the amphitheater (which dates back to 250 BC); to what is left of homes and shops. Delos is still an active archealogical dig -- other countries besides Greece are working to unearth treasures still buried. There is a wonderful museum that stores the relics that are dug up. Our boat trip back to town was a wild ride -- the seas are rough and a lot of passengers were getting soaked from the spray!!! We took a walk through Mykonos; it is a labyrinth of winding streets which were designed to confuse pirates and invaders!! The present town dates back to the 14th century. They have their own 'Little Venice' where there are tiny houses standing side by side with their backs to the sea. Had lunch at the restaurant Alefkandra in 'Little Venice' -- the food was really delicious!! The pelican is the town's mascot -- however, the only one we saw was painted!!! They also have windmills here; and yes, we did get pictures. Did a little shopping; guide book, sponges, etc. We have now set sail -- will arrive in Istanbul at noon tomorrow; the ship will overnight there!!! Take care.

Today we docked in Corfu -- our first visit to this area!!! There was a beautiful sunrise. Corfu has been occupied by just about everyone -- the Corintheans colonized the island; the Romans, Normans, Sicilians, Venetians, Turks, French, Russians and British have all fought on the Island's rugged terrain!! Tradition tells us that Corfu is the island where Ulysses was washed ashore!!! We toured in a 4x4 today; I got to drive -- standard shift and we lived to tell the tale!!! The road reminded me of the Amalfi drive -- very narrow and cars had to practically move into the bushes to let others pass -- imagine going by the buses; which we had to do sometimes!!! Stopped in the quaint village of Sokraki -- being Sunday, not too many people were out and about; however, we did notice that the taverna opened at 7am and a few of the village gentlemen were already sitting around the tables!!! Our tour lasted about 4 hrs. - you will be proud to know that I only stalled the car once!!! We were treated to some local food for our snack break!! Once back in town, we walked the streets -- not too many stores open as it is election day also -- didn't do any damage with the credit card. Very beautiful place; just like the postcards show!!! As I write this, we are sailing away; tomorrow is a sea day; then we are in Mykonos. Til the next time!!!

Hola, amigos!! This is two days in one. Yesterday was a sea day -- as you can see from the greeting, we took a spanish lesson; also took a computer class on digital photography; then, since we worked sooo hard, we just had to have a massage!!! And you think all we do is eat on a cruise!!! Almost forgot, did manage a session in the fitness center!!

Today, was an early morning call. Sailed into Dubrovnik around 8am; headed out for a tour of the walled city (along with six million other tourists)!!! Visited the Franciscan and Dominican monestaries -- filled with art and relics; also visited the churches of St. Mary and St. Blaise (patron saint of the city) --- you can tell this was our religious day!!! Afterwards, we were treated to a show of folk music and dances. Dubrovnik is truly a beautiful city; directly on the Adriatic, there are some spectacular sights!!

After touring, we had lunch on the patio (gazing out over the serene Adriatic!!) at the restaurant Nautika; delicious seafood and wonderful company. When lunch was over, three of us headed back into old town and climbed the fortress wall and made a complete circle around the city (it reminded me of the Great Wall in China)!! Pretty soon will download some of the pix I've taken. Took the shuttle back to the ship; we sail for Corfu at 5pm. See Ya!

Spent the day touring Verona -- took one and a half hours by bus!! City much more crowded than I remembered from my last visit. Tons of people at Juliet's house!! Could barely move; did manage to get a picture of the balcony with no one standing there!!! Saw their version of the Coliseum (called the 'Arena') no gladiators there now; only opera in the summer time!! Had a wonderful lunch at Maffei -- they have a 7000 bottle wine cellar; beneath the cellar, are ruins from the roman times!!! After lunch, we boarded the bus for our return to Venice. Had a life boat muster before sailing -- we all looked soooo lovely in our lifevests!!! There was a private cocktail party for our group in the forward lounge; we could relax with wine, etc. and view Venice go by as we sailed out of port -- it was a beautiful picture!! Today was a birthday celebration for me -- received cards and a cake at dinner; serenaded with a hearty rendition of Happy Birthday from the waiters!!! Seas are calm; doesn't even feel like we are under way!! There was a show after dinner -- a very talented group of young singers and dancers!! Tomorrow is a sea day -- have to hit the fitness center then go for a massage!!!! Anchors aweigh!!

This morning we had our bags out by 8:00am; went to breakfast; headed out to St. Marks -- the line was already half way around the square; decided against standing in line to get into the church (we visited a church yesterday!) and went shopping instead!!! Bought a gift for 'older' sis who does not like to travel!!! Went back to the Danieli to await transfer to the ship!! Left the hotel around 11:30; traveled by water taxi to where the ship is docked; naturally, our luggage was not yet in the stateroom. Reconnoitered around the ship -- the Crystal Serenity is one of the most beautiful ships I have been on; from what I understand (and overheard) it is only four years old. Had lunch, then found our cabin -- it's a tight squeeze but we'll manage!! Lots of storage space, tho -- could have brought more clothing!!! Greeted our friends; then headed for the bar to have a cocktail; will head back into town for one last dinner in this grand city!!! Tomorrow we take a tour to Verona. Ciao all.

Restaurants from yesterday's blog: Ristorante Antico Pignolo, & Al Giardinetto. Never say we don't follow through!
Woke this morning bright and early. Hoped to catch sight of the ship arriving (Crystal Serenity). The large ships are pulled by tugboats into port, they go right past our window overlooking the lagoon. She must of come in while we were still asleep, and we wanted to get out and about early. We headed for the Rialto, and the markets. Imagine a very large farmer's market if you will. There are sections for fruits and veggies, dozens of fish mongers, butchers, and flower venders. We passed by a shop that sold horse parts and another where roosters hung upside down feathers and heads attached. The fish ranged from the sublime to the out and out weird, I guess nothing gets left unused! From there we wound our way around D'osordoro (not sure of spelling) district which lies across the Grand Canal from San Marco. We were on the hunt for two stores that sold masks. And no, we did not get lost just took the scenic route. Found the stores we were looking for and more to boot. Am amazed the credit card still works! It was a lovely day, and we were smart to get an early jump on the tourists. We visited the Basilica St. Mary Salut, walked across the Academie bridge and had lunch at Acqua Pazza. Ate outside under umbrellas, wonderful pasta. We then wandered through the narrow streets making our way back to Piazza San Marco, ran into Jim and Prudy in the hordes of the square. Got back home (Danieli) just in time for afternoon siesta. Just finished afternoon tea, and deciding what to do next. Tomorrow we board the ship. Tata for now

Arrived in Venice yesterday; naturally, I tripped and nearly fell while getting off the plane!!! So what else is new!! We were met by a Crystal rep and taken from the airport to the water taxi. All went without incident; and, surprise surprise, neither of us fell into the canal!!! That in itself is an accomplishment!!! Venice is as beautiful as ever; you can tell they are beginning the daunting task of cleaning the outsides of the buildings. First stop (while waiting for our room to be ready) was Harry's Bar -- birthplace of the 'Bilini' and beef Carpaccio -- of course we had both; and we were not disappointed!! When we finally hit our room, we were ready for an afternoon siesta!!! One of the things one is encouraged to do is go walk and get lost!! Well, we've done both while looking for restaurants -- not to worry, tho, when it comes to our stomachs, we don't stay lost for long!! Had lovely meals at two fine restaurants, in their gardens -- next time, will tell you the names as I don't have the cards with me. This afternoon was spent touring the Doge's Palace (the Doge was the leader in Venice; but in name only; had very little power; however, once appointed Doge, he held this job for life!!) -- very interesting and lots of stair climbing. The prison is also connected to the Palace; and yes, we did visit the cells and walked over the Bridge of Sighs (the prisoners crossed this bridge while being taken from the court to the cells and were heard to sigh while doing so. Thus the name of the bridge!!) This morning we also visited Murano; saw a demonstration of glass blowing and watched an artist working on a chandelier; then of course we went into the store!!! Tomorrow we head off towards the Rialto -- early morning market and in search of masks!!! Hopefully, we won't get lost; however, what else does one do in Venice but walk and get lost!!! By the way, the weather is absolutely wonderful!! Til next time.

Waiting for our Flight

Sitting here in the business lounge at Delta -- very pleasant way to spend the time waiting for departure!! Yesterday was a full day of Tennis -- exciting semi-final women's matches -- tho very hot; figure we get a head start on our tans!!! Then afterwards we walked across the subway platform to the Mets game -- they beat Houston 11-3 -- great seats (field level) behind the dugout!!! After taking the No.7 back to Manhattan; hit the 'King Cole' bar at the St. Regis for a nightcap!!!!

New York City

Our trip begins in the 'Big Apple'. Taking time to attend the U.S.Open and a couple of baseball games. We've enjoyed meals at Nobu and Bar Americain. After New York, we fly off to Venice, Italy to join a cruise of the Aegean and Greek Isles. Will keep everyone posted on our travels!!!