Decisions, decisions

The crisp chill of fall is in the air, and it's one of my favorite times to work in my garden. The days are getting shorter and I won't be able to sit outside after the workday to watch the grass grow....well, come to think about it, the grass will be too cold to grow, and I'd rather have a glass of wine in my hand than a flashlight anyway. So, it's really a fantasy to say I watch the grass grow, because DH knows if he keeps busy with me on the weekend, then I will pull out the little electric lawnmower and quickly sweep over our tiny yard during the week. So, he's off the hook for this chore once again, because today I gathered up an entire bag of clippings, proof positive the lawn was much overdue for its trimming.


Last night I gave my "First Impressions" workshop to a group of Mary Kay consultants and their leaders all who were eager students..... so it was a ton of fun for me too, and isn't that just the best kind of work? I give "homework" at these sessions and next week during Part Deux will be the chance for me to see my "students" strut their stuff as they bring or wear a professional outfit found from their closet by way of a new outlook on fashion styles linked to their personality: dramatic, classic, sporty/natural, or feminine. We'll see how they do.


Jewelry always brings a smile to the faces of women, and when they get to choose their own pieces at 50% off, the smile is even broader. No more so than these days when the stock market is in turmoil, and the big decision on who to pick for the nation's leader is just weeks ahead of us. Decisions, decisions. So, now the debates are over for the evening, the wine glass is almost empty, and all this points to the end of another evening of multi-tasking, and time to jump into my plush Serta pillowtop.....I missed this bed even while I was on my wonderful journey to new and exotic ports. I smile each night as my head hits the pillow and for a moment, yes, just a tiny moment, all is right with the world....my world.

Kiko

Malaga, Spain

A day at sea followed our visit to Lisbon; then as evening approached we passed the Rock of Gibraltor and I snapped lots of photos, mostly shrouded in a misty gray background. The next morning we were in Malaga, Spain. A small fee, 5 euros if I remember correctly, provided a roundtrip shuttle bus from the ship's berth to the entry gate at the heart of the city. It was worth the expense, since walking would have been on the side of the road in an area of still developing port upgrades without sidewalks or pedestrian paths.

Immediately left of the gates was the marker post for the Malaga Hop-on, Hop-off bus, and although advertised to stop every 20 minutes starting at 9am, it was closer to 10am when the first bus arrived, and already some had given up waiting to venture into the city. The delay gave a couple of our friends time to walk across the street to ATMs so they could replenish their euros. We climbed up to the open air second level and plugged the headsets into a connection on the sidewall and tuned to channel 2 for an English explantion. This being much better than hearing the same commentary in several languages.

Our plan was to ride the entire 90 minute loop, and then repeat the tour getting off at the most enticing or tempting sights. Along the way I made a mental note to hop-off at Gibralfaro Castle, the Alcazaba, and the Cathedral near Picasso's museum. But as we started the tour, just rounding the first park, I noticed to the left a wide pedestrian street already busy with traffic. So, as the noon hour approached, and the bus finished our first circuit, we hopped-off to enjoy a picnic lunch carried from the ship, to one of the many benches inside the garden of the first park. Then I innocently suggested to DH that we should stroll thru the pedestrian streets of the city and hop-on later, and that was our folly. Bye-bye "hop-on" bus.....we never made it back on.

We did enjoy window shopping and later DH sipped a caffe con leche and for me the most delectable Snow Queen green tea (Sans & Sans) at a sidewalk bakery. Alas, it wasn't until I returned home I discovered this tea is made and sold in Barcelona, so I missed my opportunity for picking up a decade's worth of this sumptuous tea infused with vanilla and almond flavoring. Anyone going to Barcelona want to run a teeny-weeny little errand for me?

I saw the Penelope and Monica Cruz collection at Mango, after first spotting Penelope's photo on the bus stop shelters. DH bought a cap as the sun was quite bright today. And I ducked in a shop to find a large pair of tortoiseshell design fashion sunglasses for less than the fake brand ripoffs I had seen on the streets in Vigo.

I love the fashion shops with fall merchandise completely coordinated on each rack from shoes, to skirt, to blouse, sweater, gloves, and handbag. Subliminal meaning.....you need it all to make it work! I saw a dress almost identical to the $3000 gold color Oscar de la Renta one worn by Cindy McCain at the Republican convention. You know, the one that got all the buzz, because the ensemble cost $300,000 (note: her 3 carat diamond studs were $280K....so what's mere $20K between fashionistas?.....I could do that number in so much less buckaroos....Lia Sophia 3 carat studs are only $32) Except this one was purple, and a bargain at only 148 euros. Same sheen, same collar, same full skirt. 'Would I like to try it on, asked the clerk?' Durn right I would if I were 6 inches taller and 20 pounds lighter, but instead I said "no gracias". Cindy is Barbie doll, me...well, let's just say I am not.

Last stop before heading back to the shuttle at the port was a quick walk over the bridge to El Ingles Cortez in search of Sans & Sans tea. Like most European department stores we found the gourmet foods market in the basement, but my mission was not successful. I did however find BlingH2O, and for this 98 euro per bottle of water I share this photo. No doubt, like me, you will Google this water to find it at the bargain price of ONLY $40 U.S. per bottle in Beverly Hills, CA. Well, back to P&G teabags on board the ship, with tap water!! Adios! Kiko

Tick Tock the Body Clock

Going East was quite easy, or was it the excitement of being in London again ?
Coming home, the journey was long heading West, even though it was a perfect Delta flight, and it's now one week since touchdown and still I am feeling not quite up to par. At the grocery store yesterday I didn't have my little swipey card, so the clerk told me to just enter my phone number...simple, right? Except all I knew was the area code and the last 4 digits....where were those other 3 numbers? I could have opened my Blackberry and said "home" or I could have scrolled to home, but the idea never crossed my mind. Luckily, after the second try, I came up with my cell phone prefix which then prompted my mind to remember my home prefix. She didn't think it was funny, and perhaps she thought I just lucked out with a number on record.

I wrote and shared my blog address as blingbling, which is my cruise critic online name and not this blog name at all. I put two earring backings on ONE earring, and didn't discover it until the free earring popped off later in the day when I was wrestling with wrinkle-face (dear dog). I keep starting to place things in my pantry which really go in the refrigerator.....duh, like milk!

And the nightmares! Oh, my, my! I'll have to blog "dream analysis" but at this point it's between DH and myself (he laughed hilariously!). It has to do with orange and purple striped lizards, and the only association I have at this point is getting a chance sneak peek at the Swiss guard uniform inside the Vatican when a door cracked open for a second and our guide said 'quick look!'. The Pope must have a sense of humor, as my first free association thought was court jester, see what I mean? Take a look for yourself at www.vatican.va/roman_curia/swiss_guard. At any rate, I know Armani is not influenced by this historical garb. Maybe Pucci? I do love/amore Pucci!

Well it was 6 hours of time change, and I have heard "one day for each hour of time difference"....so I'm on my way outdoors for a dose of melatonin in the sunshine! Ciao!

Kiko

Last Night in Rome

Check-in is exhausting! (Terminal 5) just opened 3 May this year, and I did hear lots of passengers comment while we were in line to go thru the various check-points that this was so much better than previous years. But let me take you back to the evening before my flight and my walks via the moving sidewalks from the Hilton Airport Hotel to terminals A, B, and C around midnight.

I discovered the Hilton had no airline check-in kiosk, something I have grown accustomed to using....the Executive lounge closed at 11pm, and it cost 3.50 euro per minute to use any of the Hilton computer terminals, no matter that both DH and I are gold members with supposedly free Internet privileges. It's Rome after all. Based on my shipboard computer time used, I estimated it could easily take 10 minutes to check-in online. So, rather than shell out potentially 35 euros/$50 US dollars to just to check in online, I decided to take advantage of being physically connected to airport. I patted myself on my back for using my hotel reward points on such a clever location.

It was a little spooky to be the only person on the moving sidewalks, and as I looked at the monitors, I noticed Delta used all the terminals for departures: A, B, C, and 5. 5? But the monitors listed early morning flights until 9:20am.....and my flight is at 10:45am. Interesting that one terminal is named a number instead of a the next letter of the alphabet....I suspected the International flights might be at this odd "5". So, first stop: terminal A. I found no Delta desk at terminal A. Back to the the corridor with moving sidewalks to terminal B.....no Delta desk or check-in kiosk at terminal B. Did see 2 security guards, who obviously did not consider me a threat, and a few persons camped out on chairs for their overnight wait. Saw British Airways, Air France, and KLM check-in kiosks. Still cold, am I getting warmer? Okay, to terminal C....by this time 30 minutes had gone by and I wondered if DH would miss me. Answer: no. Then, the information stand appeared to me looking like the oasis in the desert. "Good evening (tall, kind Italian) sir, could you tell me where to find Delta check-in?" Not here, take shuttle to Terminal 5. Aha, terminal 5? Shuttle?
Had I forgotten to revisit the airport website and print out pertinent info? (yes). By the way, find it at www.adr.it for your planning. Here's the info directly from the FCO site:

Rome Fiumicino Airport: the new T5
Terminal 5 has been built for departing passengers of American Airlines, Continental Airlines, Delta, United Airlines, US Airways and for those going to Israel with EL AL. It has been designed with the aim to increase the capacity of Fiumicino airport intercontinental area. In the past years overcrowding at Terminal C has caused quite many problems to passengers. The new building is just at a short distance from the airport terminals, it extends over a total surface area of approximately 14,000 sqm and it is subdivided into three main areas: an area dedicated to profiling activities, a check-in area and a security/passport control area that also includes the gates to the shuttle bus service, which transports passengers to the West Satellite for boarding operations, covering a short-distance journey of 800 m only. The security check area also provides a Fast Track service for frequent flyers and business class passengers. Services available to passengers are a pharmacy selling OTC products, a coffee shop, soft drink vending machines, a baby-changing unit and a special assistance lounge available to disabled passengers located in the profiling area.

By now it was well past 12:30am and I was by no means leaving my safety net of moving sidewalks which would transport me slowly but surely back to the Hilton. Urrrr.....shuttle, I would have to push my luggage which would feel like 2 tons at 8am in the morning across 6 moving sidewalks to Terminal C only to be shuttled to Terminal 5. But then, even in my tired weary condition, it struck me.....Hilton shuttle direct to terminal 5. Fantastico! Don't you love my Italian?

Back at the lobby desk I asked about shuttle service to terminal 5. "Not possible" said the desk clerk....how can she look so lovely at 1am? I digress. "The shuttle is for flight crews only." I confess to her that I booked the Airport Hilton based on the fact that it was connected to the terminal and I had no idea I would need to push my luggage all the way to Terminal C and then take a shuttle....couldn't a shuttle take us directly to T-5? "No" she said, "but call the bellman in the morning and perhaps...." I think she has heard this request before.

In the morning DH rang the bellman but no answer. We prepared for check-out with the hopes of convincing, or perhaps even pleading if need be, for a shuttle to T-5. As we arrived in the lobby, it was filled with Americans filling first one shuttle van than another all going to T-5 like it was as natural as olive oil on bread. At this point I was filled with glee and very thankful Bonnie had left me her coin euros so we had a tip for the driver. The chatter in the shuttle van was the same as what I felt.....grazie Dio we did not need to push luggage to the next citta!

If you've stayed overnight at the London Gatwick Airport Hilton, the rooms at the Rome Airport Hilton are exactly the same. There isn't a moving sidewalk at Gatwick but the walk is definitely shorter than getting to Rome's international terminal.

Once at the terminal, we went thru the 3 steps to take a shuttle bus to our gate. Oh yes, one suitcase was 10 pounds overweight, but we were able to remove DH shoes and some clothing into our smallest check-in bag and we were on our way with no excess weight charge. My own checked bag was 1 kg overweight, but it was kindly granted amnesty. At the gate, I was thankful for the extra euros (thanks Bonnie!) for purchasing a latte to sip now, and sandwich for eating later during the flight. Note to self: plan for 10 euros on day of departure.

Here's the way the terminal cafe works: order and pay at the cash register, but keep your receipt...you give the receipt to the barrista at the coffee counter (not Italian....switching to Starbucks lingo here) to pick up your coffee made to order. Sip it fast....perhaps they faced a similar situation as McDonald's with a scalding issue, because even though I witnessed the process, the latte was lukewarm. Still it was nice to browse the extremely expensive duty-free shops with latte in hand.

Kiko

Sailing the Seas - 22 September

I have yet to fill you in life onboard this splendid Carnival ship, but I assure you I will. For one thing, there is not a lot of free time if you, like me, are interested in participating in some of the many activities. I by no means was a social butterfly, flitting to and fro the various decks…..after all, the sea days are fundamental to me for recuperation from the long days in port…. yet I found some venues that at least piqued interest. Enough there was little time to read more than one chapter in book #1 “Ghosts of Spain” recommended by the Nurse Practioner who gave the Tdap vaccination a month ago. And paperback book #2 never left the bookshelf. So look for future notes on the ports of Malaga and Barcelona, as well as from our venture out of Livorno today to Florence.

For now it’s time to pack and bid farewell to shipboard life. Even popping the corks on our bottles of champagne with friends after dinner doesn’t diminish the twinge of sadness this necessary task signals. Our hotel afloat provided a marvelous mode of transportation to historic cities. One more land destination tomorrow as Rome approaches.
Kiko

Lisbon - 16 September

Thanks to Paula from Oklahoma on CruiseCritic, I found this tour when she and others on it raved how they enjoyed Lisbon, Sintra, Estoril, and Cascais. It was easy to fill a small bus for 27 with the itinerary AND great reviews from the pre-inaugural Splendor 02 July 2008 sailing. What I had not counted on were even more bloggers asking to join the tour as we approached embarkation, first Jan with her friends, and then Kris with her party of 8. Jan agreed to collect for a second mini-bus and we quickly filled it with 15 passengers. Kris booked her own mini-van. All of us with www.alliance4drive.com.


Again, internet correspondence was prompt and professional from Oxana and we were greeted by 3 vehicles and 3 drivers at the pier in Lisbon. Antonio greeted us and gave us the option of combining the small bus and mini-bus passengers, since he arrived with a new large Mercedes bus for 50…..so, why not?....let’s go all together now!!

We were soon to experience this would not be a drive by, here’s the name, isn’t that beautiful type of tour. Antonio’s (yes, and reminiscent of A. Banderas) love for country, history, and explanations of tiny details…..those we would have skimmed over in architectural overload….appeared evident at each and every stop with narration to set the scene along the way. His goal was to help us understand the people to understand the culture, thus understanding their architectural inspiration. All this with a soft touch of humor.
Henry the Navigator, not only led the way as depicted on a monument, but brought back his riches of the new world to Portugal which were recorded and shared with all countryman as evidenced in the décor of governmental buildings, monasteries, and cathedrals. Ceiling embellishments include carved maritime knots, columns shaped as palm trees, while crypts are held high and proud by African marble elephants, and everywhere the symbol of the financiers, the Christ cross, appearing square with flanged corners.

In Sintra, named in the “1000 Places to See book” we walked along narrow cobblestoned streets, looking upward to the Moorish fortress. Wine, port, lace, and shawls were the most prevalent commodities, and cheesecake the preferred dessert from many luscious Portuguese sweets. As many delectable sweets as scenic venues from this country only about the size of Ohio in the U.S. yet creating the best corks in the world too.

Then onward to the most western point of continental Europe, Cabo du Roca, en route to Cascais with its many lobster boats, traps, and limestone tile sidewalks, then Estoril with beaches, mansions, and gambling casino. Back to Lisbon and down “the spine” then a welcomed stop in the pedestrian streets off the black horse square. A sunny day, a pleasant stroll, and playful picks for each of our favorite homes…..a nice place to return for future days of leisure.
Kiko

Vigo - 14 September

After our first day at sea, we arrive early the next morning at Vigo, Spain. It’s a delight to watch the bright orange fireboats greet our arrival, blast sprays of water, and turn alongside the ship to escort us to the dock. In Vigo we choose to walk around the old town as a small group. We eat a leisurely breakfast, are handed a complimentary town map as we disembark, and then proceeded to get more detailed walking information from the TI directly across from the port. To our surprise Vigo is hosting the final day of the World Cup P1 Powerboat races, so tents of sponsors line the deck making for a fine Sunday outing. The speedboats themselves are James Bond futuristic looking, lightening fast works of art, and deafening as they roar out to sea.

As the cathedral chimes announce 11:30am and the end of mass, from within the sanctuary emerge more of our group, who join us for a somewhat challenging hike up the hill to Castro Park (Parque do Castro) and a rewarding view of the town and seaport from the fort. Stopping to capture the view in photos is beneficial for catching my breath as well.
At the top we discover the city’s tour bus, 2 decks with open top, but it appears to only run 1 all-day circuit with 30 minutes or so at each stop. Not a hop-on/hop-off. Note to planners of future cruises, this might have provided a broader view of Vigo, but less of an excuse to have dessert again tonight after dinner.

We split up as we traverse down the hill, some stopping at the sidewalk cafes just off Carral Street: a narrow alley of pedestrians looking for paella and fresh-shucked oysters on the half shell. Others looking for the elusive bar and tapas open on a Sunday. I head back with DH and friends to the cruise ship for lunch onboard and to plop DH down for a nappy to rest his achy knee.

After lunch I went out to bask in the sunlight, hobble over cobblestone streets, and as I looked around it is obvious most of us wandering the streets are from the Splendor. After a while I go back to rouse DH, and head back to the wine store in the dockside mall “A Laxe” to pick up a Spanish red named Primi. Albarino is the famous white wine recommended, but one bottle of red is enough for us. One of the few shops open on Sunday, by the way, is this wine shop and a chocolate shop across from it. Outside, during a leisurely walk alongside the pier and marinas, we spot a SharPei walking her owners, and I snapped a photo wishing our Peiby could have joined us in Spain too.

The time in this northern seaport is about to end, and we enjoy another delicious dinner in the Gold Pearl as we sail away.

Landing Beaches of Normandy - 12Sept

DH’s small private tour was also picked up at the ship, with tour guide/driver Michael. I also booked this tour with Philippe from the website www.best-of-france.com, and paid in advance via a faxed credit card authorization. Here at La Havre the forecast included rain, yet most of the day was sunny with clear skies and a refreshing breeze. Five on this van were friends, and the other three are new friends Mike, Jen, and Jerry, who we invited at our roll call on www.cruisecritic.com.

It’s 17 Sept as I write this account, and we are at sea. The Splendor has bow to stern wireless, but I am offline at the present time, sitting at the cushy banquettes along the 5th deck promenade. Unfortunately I have not found any ready electrical outlets here, so on battery the screen is dimmer but perched on my lap I am able to position my laptop so I can view the length of the promenade while typing away! The good news is I am aDble to see those in our group as well as our blogger friends who I now recognize as they stroll by en route to one of the many ship’s activities. The bad news is this blog will need to be continued at another time, as I stop to chat with them about the current shipboard news.

It’s great to have your own private guide which gives you the flexibility to stay at a sight longer or move on as finished. The visits on this tour included several small museums, as well as sites and promontories overlooking the D-day beaches as well as the US cemetery. The sights, especially at Point Duhoc, made the stories of author Steven Ambrose come alive. DH had read two books of this era prior to the trip. Seeing remains of the bunkers and foxholes as well as the fields of fire overlooking the beaches was simultaneously inspiring and horrifying. The group was moved beyond words as they saw remnants of the war still remaining, though aged thru the passing of many decades.

Only the cemetery was groomed as a pristine, peaceful paradise for the final resting place of so many soldiers, sailors, and airmen. It was an experience they will long remember.

Viva La France - 12 Sept

After departing Dover our ship’s first stop the next morning is Le Havre. We found our two driver/guides waiting, and I was oh so very glad we asked for their arrivals at 9:30am rather than an earlier time…..first, we had set our clocks ahead one hour, so the extra hour of sleep we gained by leaving a bit later than other scheduled tours was precious; and second, Carnival’s own bevy of buses had scampered off to Paris, Rouen, and to other parts of France, so we had the vast parking lot to ourselves; and third, it was a delight to disembark without crowds. And we all had time to begin our day with a hearty breakfast to boot.

Driver Michael took off with DH and 7 others to the Landing Beaches of D-Day. While we headed to the monumental abbey at Mont St. Michel, a 2.5 hour drive made pleasant by our knowledgeable driver/guide Jack’s commentary as well as the beautiful countryside. I had found www.best-of-france.com via a google search, and Philippe provided prompt communications both by phone calls and e-mail. I felt we would be in good hands and we were.

As we drove west to the border of Normandy and Brittany, the sky became darker and a light rain fell presenting us with a small rainbow as a good omen for the day. And suddenly we saw in the distance the fairy-tale like structure, its silhouette a familiar memory from my Epcot France pavilion visits. It was surreal to climb the stairs and meander through the cloisters, the levels of the abbey, and to envision centuries of others following the same paths before us. The personal audio guide brought forth the details of former uses: abbey, fortress, prison. All this built without machinery, let alone computers. Who’s the wiser now?

Mme. Poulard’s is world renown for omelets, but we stopped at Terrasses Poulard half-way to the top for mussels, steak frites, and kabobs, ensuring that we need not feast on the ship that night. Okay, we did so anyway. In fact, our full tummies were yet led astray again by the temptation of butter, sugar and the resulting galettes and bretonnes at the nearby cookie factory on the route to Honfleur en route back to Splendor docked in Le Havre.
More about Honfleur plus tard. Kiko

Take Me To Your Queen

We’re celebrating our first day at sea after long hours of touring yesterday. But before moving on, it should be noted that I have fixture –envy from my short stay in Britain. I’ve noticed it before, but with memories refreshed, I am lusting for…..bathroom plumbing fixtures like those at the Hilton Park Lane.

I’m sure anyone can have these imported if you trade your firstborn, or perhaps were lucky enough to have recently signed a Hollywood movie contract. But I don’t find these anywhere in sight at my favorite Lowes or Home Depot. We may have Issac at Target and Martha at the Big K, but bring me a wall hung soap dish with a teeny-tiny hole in the tray so the water gently drips out eliminating that soggy, mushy soap bar. Or how about an answer to that springy, tight-fitting roller for you know which has been known to go flying outta ‘ya hand and break a nail to boot? Simple, not genius, one bracket, one short bar: pointed sideways for rolling, another pointed up for storage….no manual required.

Then there is the S-shaped grab bar for grabbing whether standing or sitting, gently whispering “artistic” rather than screaming “handicapped.” And the piece d ‘resistance….the tub faucet! A handle for water intensity; a separate one for temperatures: you can ONLY change the temp by pressing a button….”stay”….good dog….no scorching, no unnecessary surprises. I’m looking for a countertop pocket temperature conversion chart now!

Kiko

A Quickie

Well, it is 12:24am French time, so this is a quick moment to say first day on board went all too fast and we are looking forward to our day in France tomorrow. Half of us are going to Mont-St-Michel while the others tour the Landing Beaches of Normandy.

I can tell you the boat is swaying, and we are mid-decks at level 6. Going up to Deck 11 to the Spa convinced me that the length of cruise SPA pass wasn't for me after all....there are plenty of beautiful areas available for the day users of the free gym, including a nice sauna. But I could hardly relax in the beautiful areas designated for such with this rolling...and I came promptly back to our cabin to take a dramamine.

So, it's off to bed....DH is gently snoring already....and more later.
Kiko
P.S. We are so lucky to have our Croatian team serve us in the Gold Pearl upper Dining Room: love Natasa (pronounced Not-a-shah) and Irena (roll that "r" please). Every thing was wonderful!
Goodnight! Kiko

Queens and Kings

Yesterday we had an easy transfer on the Picadilly tube almost right to our hotel door, but we took the long way around town trying to cross the streets.....alas our large rolling luggage was not going down the short route.....using the pedestrian subway (crossing under the busy streets) without the likes of someone with much more muscle than me. But our efforts were rewarded after an early check-in to the hotel and a nice long shower. We headed straight away (notice I am picking up some English accent already?) to inspect the state apartments at Buckingham Palace. Indeed it was a pleasure for the Queen to share her home/offices with so many commoners like us. With over 400 rooms in the Palace, the tour was only a fraction of these, but oh the silks and tapestries, and plasterwork. My, my now I know where the saying "fit for a Queen" comes from.

Today after a mostly a peaceful sleep, DH and I were off to Hampton Court Palace which was an easy enough to handle journey from Waterloo tube to Southwestern train; and just like the movies, the whistle blew, and the doors closed and off we went right on the dot! A 32 minute ride, Hampton Court is the end of the line, and a simple 10 minute walk over the bridge and thru the gates to tour a tudor castle started by Carninal Woolsey then taken over by King Henry VIII, then added on in a Georgian style by King William and his Queen Mary. Now, you might think we are full of our over-the-top extravagances from such lush architectural details, and yes, if we had another day in London, I might have to just go window shopping at Harrods, but luckily for the slim wallet of British pound Sterlings, tomorrow it is off for the ship!

Goodnight all, Kiko

Happy trails!

Our flight from Dulles to Paris was wonderful....even our pre-flight transportation via a town car set the mood for a pleasant start as we left the driving to Beltway Sedans...then, it's great to breeze thru security with a Clear card....if you are travelling several or more flights a year I definitely recommend it...Air France personnel were very, very hospitable and we were able to both take aisles seats across from each other as the plane was only about half filled. Five and a half hours later, me with a nice nap, DH who is unable to sleep on planes definitely in a daze, we changed planes in Paris at the beautiful CDG terminal 2E. I snapped a couple of photos and look forward to posting those sometime soon.

I SAID, I don't need souveniers...right? But of course I just had to see the pricing of the duty-free shops during our 2 hour layover. Anyway, it does make the time fly, as who can shop in less than 2 hours? And, I didn't pick up any trinkets, but I did NEED a fragrance, as I have memories of travelling with my favorite perfume some years ago only to arrive and discover all my clothes now reeked of the scent. Needless to say, this was not the way I wanted to turn heads as I passed by!! Unlike Ms. Elizabeth Taylor, I don't have a single signature fragrance, but I do tend to be drawn to Givenchy. Aha, the 5 mini-pack assortment was just too tempting....DH saw the sealed duty-free bag as I approached him at the gate...."you paid 35 dollars for that he said?" Uh-huh, I said. Who was I to tell him in his jet-lag state of mind we were in FRANCE, for heavens sake, and that is EUROs! This is just between you and me, okay?

I'm taking a moment in the Executive Lounge, so I am hopping off lest I monopolize the computer. Cheerio! Kiko

D-lite

First, I'm delighted to report DH took Blackberry to Verizon and they successfully jammed dear SIM card even tighter INTO THE MEMORY slot. Now, why would a company make two slots so close together, so nearly identical.....for someone like me to choose the wrong one? At any rate, my memory slot is filled, never to see action, and at this point, who cares? I never had used it anyway. Good news....Verizon graciously provided a second SIM card which is nicely embedded in its perfect home. Not without stress a daily dose of stress for me, I might add. Oddly enough the second SIM card even came with a Global Support Card and a wallet guide, unlike the first one. Hmmm.

Second, dear car is inspected and ready for another 2 years, just need to order the license tag stickers tomorrow. Is it my imagination, or when it rains, does it pour....so much to do, and so little time.

Third, we are checked in on Air France! I can hardly believe after so many months the day is but hours away. Paper stopped, mail stopped, DD to kennel tomorrow morning. She knows the suitcases sitting out are not a good omen. But I think the fact that they have been in a state of unfinished packing for a few weeks now, has thrown her for a loop. In fact, let me pause for a moment and give her a big smooch. .....XOXO.....

My one big fat folder with bulging papers is now neatly sorted into four pocket folders: one with flight and airport transfer information, one with hotel confirmations and "the booklet", the third for shore excursions, and finally the cruise folder with our ship & sail cards, Carnival cruise ticket contract, luggage tags, and trip insurance documents. Whew! And that was the easy part. The booklet is our comprehensive collection of info on flights, hotels, and cabins for our gaggle of travellers.

Now, it's early morning in London and I should be thinking about morning, so I've broken one of the anti-jetlag rules, early to bed and early to rise. I'm going back to my zip-lock bags with the goal of eliminating one tonight. Instead of 54 pounds, I know I can be under 50 with a little fine-tuning. Bonnie said Rick Steves recommends taking only what you can wear at least 3 times. Oh boy, am I in trouble!

I think a shot of brandy will aid my efforts, don't you. Sweet dreams! Kiko

SIM Card

All was going well today...suitcases are packed but not zippered...and I decided to take out a few things and re-examine what I had packed. A stuffed suitcase on the way "to" the destination means no room to bring anything home. Even considering those items which will stay on the ship: a few gifts, a few Lia Sophia jewelry catalogs, some travel size tolietries....there really wouldn't be any space to spare. So, one more time! DH packing is finished....but lest you think DH could do without "moi," think again.

Then I started the Blackberry updates download. And three times I became distracted and closed the download in process. This is very aggravating as you might know the time estimated started at well over an hour....three times as I multi-tasked, I goofed and closed all windows. Let me tell you why I am waiting until tomorrow to try again: I put my SIM card where the sun doesn't shine.....and why would RIM make a crevice in the phone that is the same shape and size as the SIM card if it didn't belong there? I followed the instructions....push until it stops. Okay, then I saw another crevice to the side of the center locking device. So, as DH takes my vehicle for its 2 year state sanctioned check-up in the morning, I will shamefully walk into Verizon for technical support. Shall I say DH did it? I hope I am not the first to shove it and then realize...well it does seem an odd place for a SIM card! I've gingerly tried to pry out the sliver of a card....."come on baby, you can do it!" But no go. Tweezers didn't work, in fact I think I wedged it tighter.

Tomorrow will be a better day. Hurricane Hanna rain storms are subsiding and in just 2 days I will be on the jet plane!
Kiko

Info is Power

FLIGHTS
A friend traveled abroad earlier this summer, along with friends from various cities. Some of them had flight delays and airline errors when re-booking…..so…..her suggestion, print out the airline itinerary/flight schedule for the dates of your travel as a reference for options. Thanks Chris!

I printed 14 pages for Delta’s flights from Dulles on both its own planes and those of its partners. Some of these flights go thru Atlanta, Cincinnati, JFK, which of course I would prefer not to do…..but in case of a plane malfunction or schedule change, I will have the info to speak with an agent. By the way, you may already know this tip too….if there is a delay head to a phone to call for your rescheduling rather than wait in a mile long line for an airport agent. Do jot down the 1-800 number of your airline now. I have sped thru the system more than once to grab one of a few remaining seats on a next flight by calling rather than standing....to think of it, I have called while in that line, and then trotted off to my gate leaving the others behind.
Four pages covered the Rome to IAD schedules for my return. Again, be sure any change in schedule does not cancel a connecting or return flight by mistake. It happens!

SEATS
You can also go to www.seatguru.com and print out the seating configuration for your particular plane. Now sometimes there may be more than one version of the same aircraft, but in general, you will have an idea of the layout. This is helpful in case your seat assignments are changed or upgraded at the gate. Is a business upgrade worth it if it is the last row of the section, which doesn’t fully recline and is adjacent to the lavatory? Depends on your satisfaction level with your current location and anticipated service in the new section.

WEATHER
Current weather in London and LeHavre is nice and balmy, but there is a front arriving next week and this is the www.weatherbug.com forecast:
· London – Monday will be high 64, low 55 degrees, with rain, but sunny WED & Thursday
· Le Havre – Friday will be high 73, low 62 degrees, rain on Thursday, too early to tell about Friday
· Vigo – by the end of next week high 75, low 64, but let’s hope the cool front goes thru and returns to current temps which are warmer
· Lisbon - also warmer now, but by next week the report is high 70, low 65
Then we round the continent and into the Med Sea where weather will be warmer. It’s too far to predict for our dates, but a week from now Malaga high 84, low 71 degrees, while Rome will be high 89, low 71. The rest of the Med cities will be about the same.

FISH & CHIPS, BANGERS & MASH
Hope to see those who can join us at The Audley pub the night before the cruise. Yum! Yum!

Meet our Cruise Director John Heald….. www.johnhealdsblog.com
We're getting close now!
Kiko

Duty Calls

Today was all about work, appointments and a quick stop at our CVS drugstore. It really is a small world, because as I met with a fellow businesswoman who is an area real estate agent, I discovered a fellow agent who she wants me to meet is currently on a "new" cruise ship, touring the Baltics.....and you guessed it, her friend and colleague Margaret is sailing aboard the Splendor. She'll be leaving the same day we are arriving!

Check a couple more items off the "to do" list. I prefer online work when the process works smoothly and two websites always deliver: the Washington Post subscriber services for newspaper vacation hold and the US postal service for hold mail service. Love em!

I added a new item to list, which I have never implemented previously in our travels: compression socks. Actually they only had "his" XL size at CVS, but I found a 2-pack of No-Nonsense ladies knee-high compression hosiery at Wegmans' so mission accomplished. I am hoping for the results as per the packing promise: invigorating legs and prevention of embolism. I'll let you know how I feel Tuesday morning.

My gal-pal Kristyn opened a quaint shop two weeks ago, Polka Dot Divas, and I attempted to stop in during her grand opening week, but the village had a minor traffic snarl the day I tried, and since the road is a one-way option only, after 15 minutes of sitting, I opted to follow the car in front of me and cut through a parking lot to trek down an alley. Who has alleys these days? Today I stopped in to congratulate her, found the store very busy, and I must say it is adorable. Lots of great gifts, and I picked up what I think may be the perfect carry-on for this trip. All without breaking the bank. Who opens a new shop in this economy? She's a brave one indeed.

Tonight I started a trial packing with my one LARGE zip-lock of emergency clothes inside; later I'll check to be sure my jewelry travel bag, laptop, documents, and a paperback all fit inside and weigh less than 30 pounds. It may be the perfect cure: "doctor's bag" in style it clashes with my green tapestry luggage, but I adore it anyway. The one negative is it has no outside pocket, but if everything fits inside and I can still have room to insert a trinket or two, it will be ideal to tote on my large roll-around piece. Please don't tell the Glamour magazine fashion police about my polka dots with tapestry combo.

Tomorrow is another busy work day, but I'll be calling for a car and driver service to pick us up on Monday.
Have a grand day! Kiko

It's in the Bag

Okay, not yet packed....yes, missed yesterday's self-imposed deadline....will return when finished. Must do right away, as I do have my regular work to do too! Be back later! Kiko

Yes, it's much later and I LUV the Ziploc Big Bags....find these in the aisle with your trash bags. I bought the Large size, and there are two sizes even bigger....those must be for the steamer trunks! I was able to pack 5 bags: one for dressy wear, one for London/France clothing, another for ship wear at sea, one for Spain ports, and the last for France/Italy ports. I'll be buying two more boxes of these, one box of 5 for DH's clothes, and the second box we will split. I personally need two more zip-lock bags: one for my carry-on clothing (you know, the what you will see me in if the other luggage takes its own trip to parts unknown), and the other for odds and ends.

If the Shoe Fits

Even though I love to travel, and usually take 4 or more short leisure trips a year, packing for this cruise is mind-boggling. The big factors for deciding what to include are: comfort, versatility, style, bulk, color, climate, and resistance to wrinkles and stains. I am not one of those folks who is already scheduling a laundry room slot into my sea days, nor my early morning or late night routine after shore excursions.

I do like the Splendor offering of a $15 laundry charge for an "undies" bag that they provide mid-way into the itinerary. If for no other reason than not to have my clothing return with "eau de odor!" Have noticed on Cruise Critic that many believe this to be for ANY laundry items that fit in the bag, and indeed in my excitement, I also misread the laundry ticket so kindly posted by Zydecocruiser on his three back-to-back cruises. DH who is quite a tickler for details, referred me back to the post and yes, it is for the unmentionables and not for those items viewed by the public at large. Too bad.

It's great to share with you my success with the Cruise Diva method of packing for a cruise, though unlike her I will not be travelling with only a carry-on bag. Ms. Diva suggests pairing each top and bottom to make an outfit and determine how many outfits you need for each day. So, yesterday morning, I took all the clothes out of the suitcase, placed them on hangers, and hung them on my shower curtain rod. Then I removed more clothes from my guest room bed, and hung those alongside the others on the bar.

At this point you may want to sing along with the childhood song of "London Bridge is Falling Down" because that's the tune that popped into my head as I heard the shower curtain bar slip 3 inches, only caught from falling by the tile surround of the bathtub. But I was not deterred and approached my new found packing pleasure with some logic. Jackets to the left, sweaters next, followed by pants with coordinating tops. Then I did the "organize your space" project and moved everything around by color. Lest you think I have too much time on my hands, let me remind you of the extra weight, extra luggage airline charges!

It soon became apparent to me, I still had too many items, but now I was able to eliminate items, hmmmm, even had to try on a few pieces to make sure they looked good together. So, here I was going from the bathroom to the full length mirror in the next room, feeling like a runway model....but unfortunately at 5 foot 3 inches, not looking like one. It was then that I noticed an emergency evacuation plan was needed....no, not for our friends in Pensacola, they have their Gustav plans in order. I was in dire consequences of having my very bowed, formerly straight, shower curtain rod collapsing. So, how much weight can a shower bar hold? Answer: not enough. I would have taken a photo of it, but I was afraid it might be too incriminating....guilty....does not know how to pack for 12 days London to Rome, shore and ship.

So, in ending my packing session, I moved all the clothing to my guest room closet and today I will edit again, because as you know my goal is to be packed today as we depart in only one week. By the way, did you know a sagging shower bar returns to its normal straight self after relieved from its burden?

And I didn't even mention shoes. But yes, underneath that drooping shower rod, I placed the walking shoes (one pair Clarks, one pair Naturalizer), the canvas sports shoes (Ralph Lauren), the flip-flops (Ann Taylor loft), and the dressier but oh so comfortable sandal (DSW). I'm not sure if I have my shoe repertoire complete yet, but I find the shoe choices so much easier for me.

Enjoy your day....you know what I'll be doing!
Kiko

Downsizing

Happy Weekend and the countdown begins with single digit days until the departure. Yippee! Did I mention our friends are from the north, west, and south, along with a bunch of us here on the east coast? Well, the downside is the looming hurricane for the Gulf Coast....so everyone all together now........fixate on blowing the storm away from the US coastline! We want Bill and Pam to make their flights and join us on the trip of a lifetime on board the new Carnival Splendor! Okay, continue those positive thoughts and let's get on with our planning!

Now, I bet you were thinking, aha, did she or did she not fit the 3 tons of clothing into her one large suitcase on wheels, and the still to be determined tote aboard suitcase with non-checkable items: ipod, cell phone, a change of clothing and shoes, and prescriptions. Well, that's for tomorrow's task, and I probably will need a day or two to decide on how to best describe the struggle....especially if the suitcases win the battle of the bulge.

Today I am aware we have 8.5 days until lift-off and my refrigerate definitely needs to be empty or as near to empty as possible. Strange smells are quite unappetizing and the last thing I want to come back to are fuzzy, green, or black objects, let alone any disgusting smells. Needless to say we will be eating weird food group combinations this week, and most certainly cereal for dinner more than once, as I look to minimize the need for any new groceries. But one thing you can be sure of, I will place a bottle of bubbly in the frig so we can celebrate a trip well travelled and our good fortune to have friends with whom we shared this time together.

I can hardly wait! Kiko

Hello "no worries"

If you think I'm going to tell you how I attacked my looming luggage issues, na-na, not here, not today! My early luggage preps have stalled, but I have the Cruise Diva method before me, so I'll let you know how that works for me.

Yesterday I spent a little more than an hour with my friends at the local Verizon store. And I don't say that in jest: I had superb attention from manager Jack (born in London) and manager Moe (with the gorgeous titanium-type wedding band....natch I am attracted to bling, I appreciate even great manly bling!). Now I was there while commuters were on their way home after a rainy, dreary day at work, so needless to say it was packed with others like me who thought "it's on the way, I'll just drop by." But I had a mission and wasn't deterred by the hustle and bustle, which by the way the staff seemed to handle with aplomb. Sometime after my check-in but before being called by customer service, Jack intervened and handed me the store phone to speak directly with Verizon International Global support (1-800-711-8300). Tiffany talked me thru examining my version, and determined I needed a back-up before the upgrade anyway. So, I jotted down notes to upload the newest software and that's what I'll be doing in a few minutes from now. My SIM card is on its way for use in Europe, as the store was temporarily out of stock.

Here's what I learned at Verizon, for using my World Phone blackberry in Europe. I have 3 primary options: 1. use my Blackberry on our ship Carnival Splendor at any time to any place for $2.49 per minute. Nothing to do with current plan. Before you gasp, let me remind you the cabin to shore phone service is via satellite and would cost 10 times more than using my own phone. Anyway, I don't plan on using that option; 2. use my blackberry ("red" aka raspberry) to call to or from England, France, Spain, Portugal or Italy for $1.29 per minute (other countries are $1.99 per minute); or 3. order the $4.99 per month, or in my case pro-rated service for less than a month, and make or receive calls for 99 cents per minute. I am choosing option 3. However, note to self, using the phone on the ship while at sea will result in the ship fee per minute regardless. Tiffany also gave me a lesson on turning my e-mail feature on and off, as those charges are separate from the voice options.

Certainly some considerations for using your own Blackberry versus basically a disposable Telestial or Mobal phone made especially for travellers are worth noting. Foremost is 'pick-pocketers" and the resulting loss of the equipment, loss of personal information and data, and loss of monies resulting from phone calls not made by you. Our group travelling to Europe is split about three ways: those who vow "kahuna matata", the crackberries like me, and the global rental.

Have a grand day! Kiko

Hakuna Matata! What a wonderful phrase
Hakuna Matata! Ain't no passing craze
It means no worries for the rest of your days
It's our problem-free philosophy
Hakuna Matata!

Champagne Tastes

Lest you fear I have been "drinking" I must explain I do enjoy my wine....red wines preferably....except I'll never turn down a light, bright bubbly any day of the week, specifically Veuve-Cliquot Champagne or the affordable Italian Prosecco. They are not just for celebrations anymore! You don't have to travel to Italy for a taste of Limoncello with its sweet and tart surprise, or to Portugal to savor the richness of tawny Port, but the thought of sipping champagne in France, port in Portugal, and Limoncello in Italy conjures visions of the good life!

I love fashion, exquisite design, quality workmanship, and great value......oh yes, lest I forget, I have champagne tastes with a beer budget. Can you relate? I ponder my boat-load of clothes (yes, pun) still awaiting my decision on what to pack and what not to pack......hmmm, variation on a theme for the next Stacy London special? Will it all fit in the suitcase, and will I be under the luggage weight restrictions for flights....I have to give equal consideration to fashion and practicality. It's a left brain - right brain dilemma. Love it or leave it. I don't want to bring home clean, untouched clothing either. My goal..... make the decisions and be done with it this weekend and NOT the last weekend before departure.

Cruise Diva recommends a tactic I've employed before on short getaways: coordinate each outfit for each day, and only pack those combinations including accessories like jewelry and shoes. But I wonder how many gals actually are that organized? Looking at my 12 ship days and 4 land days, plus 2 travel days boggles my mind....yet, like brushing my teeth, it's not hard to do, but for best effectiveness must be done often! But I haven't been away on an extended vacation like this in 7 years, so I am a bit out of practice.

As I always said in my interior design career, when in doubt go back to "the books!" Fundamentals of design or fashion will never let you down. So, for my own mind-jogging assistance as well as yours, I re-visit my favorite fashion tips for travel:

• Dress for the occasion, and on vacation it's your own time so dress for fun & personality
• Don't be too trendy
• Know your best colors/season
• Wear classic trousers
• Accessories make all the difference (scarves, belts) & Jewelry finishes the look
• Don't pack an heirloom, or something you can't afford to lose (emotionally as well as financially)
• Pick your neutrals (black, gray, brown, navy, or cream) and add a splash of color occassionally
• Define your style - for me it's Classic for shore excursions, more Sporty for onboard days at sea, and slightly Dramatic for evening wear
• Consider items you can mix & match
• Every trip should include a bathing suit (and if you are me, this includes a cover-up) and a sweater no matter where you go
• A jean jacket can be dressed up or down (not necessarily in blue denim either....mine is yellow)
• A white shirt is a must
• When in doubt, kick it up a notch!

Now, your homework for packing: close your eyes, imagine yourself at your destination, it's a great day, the weather is perfect....what are you wearing? What are the colours, the accessories? There you go....pack it!

Have a grand day! Kiko

Squeaky Wheel

It occurs to me that a blog is a great past-time for jetlag attacks. I've just spoken to Nanc about her lack of jetlag from transatlantic flying and am passing on her words of wisdom: ONE> on the plane drink heavily (alcohol....you bet she said it) and TWO> use the on-board entertainment system including at least 4 movies and various games. THREE> Arrive and never slow down, so that when you finally crash at night, you sleep soundly, with nary a hint of jetlag. I am jealous of her remedy, but hmmmmm, don't know if I can pull that off! Okay, here's another option from Elaine: simply arrive in the morning, hope for an early check-in, take a few hours nap and get back on states time, then head out to your adventure. And if there isn't an early check-in....do you crash on a park bench? Given Nanc or Elaine's suggestions, I would choose to adopt the sound conservative advice for the travels to the destination and Nanc's for the return trip home! Except, this year I am giving a jewelry party the night after we arrive home so maybe getting sloshed is not a great idea....well, it is my business you know, and the "bling must go on!"

I'm flying Air France and am looking forward to "un peu vin," and will try to sleep tout suite (6pm is 11pm in U.K. after all) and then wake for a movie about 5am Paris time, so that I am alert enough to navigate the plane transfer at Charles de Gaulle upon arrival. And taking a few strolls around the plane might be a great idea for my legs, shall we say sleep-walking anyone?

I'm sure your mother said what mine did, 'if you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all' right? So, that's my excuse for silence yesterday and I'm sticking to it. The truth is I met two very interesting women to chat about our businesses, one I met early..... the other at lunch, and invariably the topics touched on travel. What can I say, I'm excited!! And when you share your life, be prepared to be amazed, as others share theirs. My first gal pal Mary, who is tops in my book, also is a world traveler and a person to be envied for her achievements and generosity in sharing her wisdom. She gushed about her favorite places, and my pleasure meter peaked to hear her speak of Spain, Egypt, Coco Island, and Italy....with special thoughts for her fav city Florence. Then, who would think, double the pleasure all in one day with Diane, who's motto must be "have work will travel" and thru her big smile shared her many worldwide travels as well! Wow, lucky me!

About 6pm last night, knowing that the TA is in Central time, I called....but not for him, but rather any other TA but him. I explained my plight, and per Carnival's instructions, asked for a 3-way conference call. Dear Ling did not comply, but rather called CCL herself while I was on hold, and yes reported the lesser of the cabin credits. I read to Ling my e-mails from her colleague verifying the higher cruise credits, and asked to speak to someone else, anyone else who could help me. After another short hold, I heard the familiar voice, but this time it was not angry, indeed it was very helpful and reassuring. The root cause had been found, and hopefully CCL will bill the TA's firm, the TA's firm will return the portion of the paid commission, and CCL will then release our cabin credits. Hooray. Can this be done in 11 days....we'll see. I hope CCL realizes that monies posted to Sign & Sail will be monies spent onboard.

Lesson learned, keep good notes, hold their feet to the fire and the squeaky wheel does indeed get the grease....or in this case, the dollars.....weak though they be! I'm happy, TA is happy, and life goes sweetly on!
Kiko

Last Dance

Having a cabin credit from our travel agency is great, but getting more credits when the cabin rates were reduced a few months back is absolutely "the bomb" because it means we can now splurge using on-board facilities such as the length of cruise spa admittance (me) and the casino (DH)! So, not seeing those credits on the cruise documents, is most distressing. Worse yet is the TA who wants nothing more to do with it.....the credits came in two stages: the first showed online immediately, the second discount resulting in more Carnival credits has yet to materialize.

The last thing I want to do is show up in Dover with these documents, and the purser says, uh huh, uh huh, I'm sorry, you didn't use the Carnival reservation system. Yes, I've heard this already from the Carnival 24 hour "ask me a question" customer service line. So, Carnival suggests getting the TA, in fact ANY TA, on the phone and asking them to do a 3 way conference call whereby I can hear Carnival confirm the cabin credits.

Not wanting to offend my TA by making this call, I have written him to ask for a cabin credit update. I'll keep you posted on whether he replies or not. A month ago he said to me (in writing no less) "you are not the only person on this cruise, the credits are coming." I waited 2 weeks, realized he probably had a bad day, and asked again hoping for a better day......after all I expect Carnival is using computers and not pencils to pen in the credits. So, on 11 Aug I tried again, and he wrote me a message that said "for the last time" he has told me the credits are coming and I should see them in a "couple of days". So, here it is two weeks later. Is 4 weeks enough time to wait? I THINK SO!

Here's what's going on in my head: 1. maybe he forgot to call Carnival and the credits are vamoose; 2. maybe the credits don't go to the online documents after I have electronically "signed" them but they are indeed lingering there; or, 3. maybe with the average age on the current sailing being 55, they are hoping I am one of those above and beyond that age with a slight case of aged grey matter and thus probably won't notice.

My mother recently made cruise reservations for a 2009 departure, buying, as an informed consumer, the trip insurance. Alas, when booking she was told there were no early dinner seatings available....and after quite a couple of months when it was obvious a large group had swooped up those early seatings, she cancelled the cruise, not wanting to eat dinner in her PJs which would have been the case as she is probably pleasantly snoozing at 9pm rather than nibbling on dessert! But guess what, the cruise insurance was not refunded....caveat emptor, should the TA have told her of this possibility? Is educating the customer part of the job description.

For both of us, it's been the last dance with these partners. So from Donna, we sing-a-long:
Last dance
Last dance for love
Yes, its my last chance
For romance tonight
I need you,
by me,
Beside me,
to guide me,
To hold me,
to scold me,......now just wait a MINUTE....do NOT scold me. Sorry, Donna.

I'm holding my breath for a positive return of info today!
Kiko

Sunday's Posting is found after Small World

Yet again I am discovering blog idiosyncrasies....if you start a blog before you finish it, and just save it for later, it will appear dated at the original start date and not the Publish date. So, please scroll down to see today/Sunday's blog about Money!
Kiko

It's A Small, Small World

One beauty of planning a cruise is for its convenience: unpack once, and enjoy a variety of ports always knowing where your head will rest at night. Your food is plentiful and of course, included in the "one price covers most" expenses. The worry of transportation is pretty simple too, since the embarkation ports, by necessity, are in areas large masses of people will need to be able to navigate.

Our port is Dover, and we're taking the direct Southeastern train from Victoria Station to Dover Priory on the GroupSave4 plan. With this plan 4 persons travel for the price of 2 via second class after peak hours (plan available beginning 10am), as long as they travel together. Though there are no children in our group, two kids can tag along for just 1GPD each additional. We will reach our destination in one hour 41 minutes, and be less than a mile to the port: taxis are the common method of transport to the cruise terminal. A shuttle bus goes to the ferry terminal, but unfortunately not to docks of the cruise ships.

Since we are coming from all portions of the United States, it was suggested we meet for dinner the night before the train departure. I checked my 2004 photos and we decided on one of two pubs for our "fish and chips" (mine) or "bangers and mash" (his) fix along with a pint of ale or cream bitters. Both are walking distance from four of the assorted hotels we chose for our pre-cruise lodging. The first, a well-known gothic pub called Marlborough's Head, and the second, the second, well, I have extensive photos inside.....but how could I forget the name. I can almost envision the exterior. Great plastic ceiling rich in ruby red colour (note my English spelling) and adorned mouldings; fabulous chandeliers, deep earthy wood paneling on the walls. It was the stuff movies would pine for as quintessentially English. I remember the corner we shared, and even have shots of the menu board photos which makes me salivate with the memories. But, after an exhaustive google search....no luck on the name. Not far from the US Embassy, not far from our hotel on eastern edge of Hyde Park. Oh well, we'll just have to check out the area in advance and then decide on which one to take our friends. The plan: meet in one of our hotel lobbies at a pre-appointed time and stroll to the chosen pub.

Meanwhile the plans continue and we share how each of us will be spending their one or two days in London. Hop-on, Hop-off bus, Buckingham Palace, Hampton Court, Tower of London, London Eye....and what was the name of that pub? I want to find that jewel of a pub! At any rate, friend in Wisconsin is staying with friends in London, thus saving the need for a hotel, lucky gal, and she reads my dilemma and asks dear Colleen for a recommendation. Now, what's better than a local's favorite haunt, right? So, just yesterday I decided I would google The Audley and jot down the address, and now we have 3 choices: the gothic pub for a quirky place, the place of my memories, and The Audley. So, here's what I found:

This immaculate late Victorian pub fits perfectly into classy Mayfair. The exterior is clad in pretty pale pink terracotta tiles. Large arched windows, in turned hardwood frames, are decorated with boxes of flowers and tumbling ivy. Inside is just as smart, more like a gentlemen's club than a pub. Dark wooden panelling covers most of the walls. There is some intricate carving and glazed tiles. Original crystal chandeliers hang beneath an ornate plaster ceiling. A long hardwood bar counter serves the two bar areas; one provides ample seating and tables for diners. The other has a series of U-shaped leather benches which run along the exterior wall. The screens that separate them once extended to the bar, dividing it into several small booths. If lager's your tipple, there's Leffe, Hoegaarden, Budvar and Hurliman on draught. There is a good selection of bar meals, including many traditional English dishes.

Have you read The Secret, or seen it on video? I didn't make this up...my favorite pub of desire was and is The Audley. So, thank you Adele for picking up on my brainwaves of desire and asking your friend Colleen to share her favorite pub with us! See you there in two weeks!

Have a great weekend! Kiko

money, MoNeY, M-O-N-E-Y

It's amazing that with a single phone call you can order and have in hand within a few days money of any currency. Or, at any rate (no pun intended), Euros and GBP. I made my call late Friday to Bank of America, and lickety-split the money will be at my branch on Wednesday. Deciding on how much money was the harder consideration. I certainly don't want to pay to change it back into dollars. I also never use my credit cards in ATM machines, so I called to "reset" my pins, so that in case of emergency, or if my estimate of required currencies is inadequate, we can use ATMs. Luckily my friend Susan who works at PNC, told me her bank doesn't charge a foreign currency fee, so I also stopped by to get a debit card for that account.

So today is one for making lists and I recently read an article that one of the best purchases you can make for long distance flying is for compression socks. Arrive to your destination with well-rested legs.....never mind that your head is splitting or your back cramped from coach seats. Hmmmm, but happy legs sound good to me. Now, I happened to see some compression socks either in Target's or Wegman's, I can't really remember which store exactly, but others must have read the article too and grabbed the normal sizes, because all that was left were men's small socks. I searched high and low to see if someone had perhaps missed racked the socks, or hid the last pair of ladies M or gents L. No luck. I have the latest TravelSmith catalog, but you have to search the online catalog, to women's shoes, then travel socks, and here's the description you'll find:

Prevent Legs and Feet from Swelling in TransitCramped cabin conditions and long flights can result in swollen feet and legs. The cause? Decreased blood flow, which in extreme cases can lead to blood clots and a potentially life-threatening condition called deep-vein thrombosis. Developed with the guidance of doctors, Compression Stockings stimulate circulation through gradual compression to stop swelling and help guard against DVT. Nylon microfiber and Lycra.® Imported.

Now if I can find the coupon they recently sent (obviously they spoke to Carnival about my cruise needs), I will be very happy....I should have placed it immediately in my trip folder....you know how slips of paper disappear in my presence! So, I'll look thru my stacks of magazines, then the junk mail I still need to sort and toss, and hopefully order his and hers tonight!

I found an old pair of sunglasses so that I will have a spare, a tiny plastic USCG emblazoned travel alarm clock, and a highlighter all of which I will place in "the box" tonight. Oh, and I forgot to mention the small hotel sewing kit too!

Two weeks from tomorrow and we fly out to London.
Yippppeeee! Kiko

Semper Paratus

Everywhere I go I am asking for advice on how to make our 12 day cruise from London to Rome perfect. We started with a mailing list of over 300 classmates, a summer of 2007 D.C. area pot-luck dinner, an ice-breaker of "guess your spouse's favorite vacation location".....wow, a surprise here as almost everyone guessed correctly....Mars and Venus in harmony, leading to talk of a class reunion cruise, lots of destination suggestions and itineraries becoming highly influenced by "military discounts", high hopes for the Greek Isles but as fate would have it a change of direction, ...... life gets in the way.......I thought we might be just 3 couples, and now we are sharing the ship with 16 other friends....or "soon-to-be-friends" of friends, plus a few dozen new chat-mates spanning the globe worldwide from Malta to Australia, here in the states from cities Seattle to New York, all commonly bonded via the Coast Guard, Cruise Critic, the love of travel, and the anticipation of new cultural discoveries. Splendid!

Most received words of wisdom: 1st - don't take too much luggage, 2nd - leave room for what you want to bring back. Okay, okay I got the message about the luggage, but REALLY, add on 3 days to each side of the trip, consider the changing climates from probably cool, maybe rainy London to mediterranean warmth of Barcelona and Cannes and everything in between....urghhhhh. Be comfortable, don't be a target, look like a native, no "I'm Not Really Just a Waitress" red toes, hide your valuables, beware of pick-pocketers. Got it! But back to #1 and #2......do you realize I have a box of must take-alongs for quality of life essentials that is now taking on a life of its own....another suitcase, eh? So the only way to have room for #2 is to first...and most important....buy a winning lotto ticket given the unfavorable exchange rate, and already spent budget, and second, use up the box of "essentials" to have space for the yet unknown gotta-haves. The flip side of emptying the box contents means: I have had the runs, been constipated, been bitten, bloated, cut, or seasick; exposed to a norovirus, had a headache, sprained an ankle, couldn't breathe, gotten wet, or just had to dab out those darn spots or wrinkles.

So, in the interest of sharing the collective wisdom, and as per the Coast Guard motto "Always Prepared," here is the list of contents, most of which I hope I won't use on the journey:
1. EarPlanes, recycled JetBlue eye-mask for snoozing
2. Dramamine - bonine less drowsy formula
3. Quick cover poncho in a teeny plastic bag (his orange, hers yellow)
4. Aspirin, Aleve, Benadryl, other?
5. Band-aids, Muscinex, and a Z-Pak script from Jennifer (the Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious PA at my doctor's office)....google it...yes it's spelled correctly!
6. Travel corkscrew.....okay....I admit it, I'll enjoy using this one!
7. Downey Wrinkle releaser travel size
8. Bath & Body Cinnamon & Cloves fragrance spray (after all the cabins are small)
9. Shout! portable wipes
10. Repel insect spray travel size
11. Opera glasses (pocket size for balcony use or even to better see ceiling frescoes)
12. Iron-on hem tape
13. Ace bandaid - wondering, just wondering....maybe 2 for his and her?
14. Theraflu Daytime Severe cold single dose packs
15. Mini-flashlight
16. Tiny post-em pads
17. Highlighter - mark those not-to-be-missed items in Capers news
18. Clear plastic over the door shoe hanger (mine from Target)...they're not just for shoes anymore!
19. Bungee cord.....hold balcony door open, or hold back curtain
20. $1 bills for tips (not really in the box, but a note to remind me)
21. roll of quarters for tips (ditto above)
22. small surge protector strip (only one plug in stateroom at desk)
23. coil keychain for wrist
24. lanyard for Sail & Sign pass
25. ziplock bag for sneaking a snack ashore
26. Bacitracin ointment
27. Anti-diarrheal caplets
28. Tucks (for opposite treatment of #27)
29. Duck tape mini-roll ----okay it's not in the box yet, but I am told it should be just in case the airlines do a number on my baggage!
30. Tdap - done! no space needed in box!
31. Sunscreen
32. extra Hangars - recycled from dry cleaners

Okay, all this and I didn't even check CruiseDiva to be sure I included items from her list! Yikes, the box needs a diet. Gotta go check the AirFrance carry-on bag sizes to see what I will check, what I will bring along! But for now, I'm off to the garden to pull some weeds, order Euros later on today, print off travel insurance docs, and get ready for the jewelry party tonight! After all, "bling's my thing!"

Have a great day! Kiko

Trafalgar Square - London

Hello everyone....now don't think for a moment that I am being lazy; and I say this in case you stopped by earlier before today's post. I'm sorry! I was up early as usual, but instead of blogging first, I rushed off to a BNI meeting. Then a doctor's appt (check-up....more about that another time) and the monthly American Business Woman's Association (ABWA) luncheon meeting. All before 11:30am. Ah, now back to work.

But before I prepare for my Lia Sophia party tomorrow evening, I have to say it is just two weeks from Monday before we leave on the big trip! That means, pull out the checklist, and see what else needs to be accomplished this week. The countdown continues:

>Haircut - check - done 3 weeks ago, so I probably need to schedule a pre-trip trim. Got it down! Will call for an appointment when this blog is done.

>Pedicure - check - done last week. It was a valuable lesson for me when several years ago I was on my way to my favorite winter getaway (Coconut Grove), and I looked at my small white, winterized toes and said: these just won't do! Now time was running short, and I'm sure I didn't skip lunch, but I probably did forfeit sorting the mail or something else fun like that to fit in a stop to the salon. As luck would have it, all was going well, until the foot gal nicked my toe as she was triming my nails. It bled and bled, and she didn't even apologize. I paid for the service and never went back. The worse of it was I hobbled in Miami, not to mention I had a band-aid on my toe and couldn't even hide my foot in closed-toe shoes since it became a little puffy! Now, whenever I need to plan for pretty toes, I always put the pedicure on a 3 week advance priority.

By the way, here's a blurb I found about Trafalgar Square at the website for Film London (you wanna-be directors take note):

Film London : London Landmarks: "Trafalgar Square

Named after Admiral Nelson's famous naval victory, Trafalgar Square is one of the largest pedestrianised areas in the centre of London. Once famous for numerous pigeons, the feeding of birds is now prohibited and the pigeons have largely gone.

The square is home to the impressively tall Nelsons column, with bronze lions at it's base and two large decorative fountains. The surrounding buildings include The National Gallery to the north and a view down Whitehall to The Houses of Parliament to the south."

You might say, been there, done that, big deal, this blog is getting boring....I didn't ask for a history lesson. Wait a minute....did you know that if you want to "blend in" with European lasses, you can wear your flip-flops.... but if you show your tootsies adorned with red polish you will definitely scream "American, American".....it must be true, I read it on Cruise Critic! Which brings me to my quest in selecting a neutral, natural color as the finishing touch for my pedicure last week. Now, color is one thing, but names, they are the icing on the toes, sort of speak. So, when I picked up the third bottle, shook it, and then turned it over to see the name (I was hoping it wouldn't say, "white as a ghost") I am sure fate intervened to say THIS IS THE ONE. You see, the name of my Opi toe polish is Trafalgar Square.

So, if you run into me wearing flip-flops, you won't even notice my toes, as they are now safely very British indeed.

Have a great day!
Kiko

LOVE-R-LY

I love my weather gadget! Just type in the city at "setting", pick from the correct state or country, and voila! there you will see the current temperature along with highs and lows for the day.

Speaking of weather....it's going to be a delightful 82 degrees as the high today here in the nation's capital; after a smothering high of 92 yesterday, I might add. Asthma sufferers rejoice! I'm so happy, I've opened my windows to flush my home with fresh air! DD is happy as she can feel a little bit closer to any wandering cats who might venture into our yard. Her nose is working overtime. And she needs this positive stimulation since the past few days she has still been a wee bit under the weather. So as of this morning she is the sentry in the breakfast room where the windows go almost from floor to ceiling.

DH will be happy too, because just as our dear Dominion Power promised, their rates increased as predicted in their warning letter earlier in the summer. We had our highest bill ever, even after advance preparation by adjusting the programmable thermostat. There hasn't been the same comfort level as in past years, but I felt we adapted very well....until the bill came this week. Back to fine-tuning the levels. Perhaps we need a 3 week getaway with only the security lights coming off and on at various times during the evening hours to keep this bill in check. Aha, spend a dollar to save a dime!

Now 3 weeks away from the big boarding day and anything could happen with the weather in our nine ports of call: an unusual spike for the day or for the season won't catch me off-guard, because you know I will be ready, have heavy suitcases will travel! But for now the Hi/Lo temps are ideal in the "triple L" cities of choice: London 68/57, Lisbon 75/62, Livorno 86/62.

It's a grand day.....go savor a walk! Kiko